JP6822674B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, in a gaming machine represented by a pachinko gaming machine, a big hit lottery is performed based on a prize at the start port of the game ball, and by winning the big hit, the game state shifts to a player-favorable gaming state, and the winning ball is used as a prize ball. It is configured so that a large number of game balls can be acquired. Furthermore, in recent years, pachinko gaming machines have prepared multiple effects with different expectations for jackpots, and by performing various effects before displaying the lottery results of jackpots, players are given a sense of expectation for jackpots. It is configured (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2009-195541

However, there are already many pachinko gaming machines capable of performing a plurality of effects as conventional models. Therefore, in order to differentiate from the conventional model, it is required to improve the fun of the game by directing, and there is room for improvement.

The present invention has been made to solve the problems of the above-mentioned conventional techniques. That is, the problem is to provide a game machine capable of executing a plurality of effects, and to provide a technique for improving the enjoyment of the game by the effects.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machines disclosed in this specification are
Lottery means to draw big hits and
A special symbol display means that displays the special symbol indicating the lottery result by the lottery means in a variable manner, and stops and displays the special symbol after a variable time has elapsed from the start of the variable display.
An image display means for displaying images of a plurality of options during the variable display of the special symbol, and
An operating means located below the image display means and
With
Each option displayed by the image display means corresponds to a special effect.
The image display means
When one of the plurality of options is selected, the effect execution suggestion that the image is different depending on whether the special effect corresponding to the selected option is executed during the variable display of the special symbol or not. Display the image ,
The second option, which is one of the plurality of options, suggests a downward direction.
The second option corresponds to a second special effect that accepts an operation by the operating means.
It is characterized by that.

According to the present invention, a game machine capable of executing a plurality of effects, and a technique for improving the interest of the game by the effects is realized.

It is a perspective view of the pachinko gaming machine which concerns on embodiment. It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the game board of the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the display in the frame A of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of the game control board of a pachinko game machine and peripheral equipment. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of the production control board of a pachinko gaming machine and peripheral equipment. It is a jackpot type judgment table. It is a table showing the opening mode of the big winning opening. (A) is a jackpot determination table, (B) is a reach determination table, (C) is an ordinary symbol hit determination table, and (D) is an ordinary symbol variation pattern selection table. It is a fluctuation pattern judgment table. It is an open pattern determination table of the electric chew. Start winning command specific table. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 3D button display effect included in SP reach. It is a figure which shows the flow of the movable body rotation effect included in SP reach. It is a figure which shows the flow of the pair character production included in SP reach. It is a selection table of the production scenario of SP reach. It is a figure which shows the flow of the variation effect including the effect execution suggestion effect at the time of right select button operation. It is a figure which shows the effect execution suggestion effect at the time of operating the left select button. It is a figure which shows the effect execution suggestion effect at the time of operating the upper select button. It is a figure which shows the effect execution suggestion effect at the time of operating the lower select button. It is a figure which shows the effect image which performs operation suggestion. It is a figure which shows the effect execution suggestion image which performs the effect title display. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game side start processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game side timer interrupt processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sensor detection processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the normal operation processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special operation processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special symbol standby processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure 2 big hit determination process (special figure 1 big hit determination process) in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process during special symbol change in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special symbol determination processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state management process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state reset process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot game processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the round processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the jackpot end processing in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game state setting process in a game control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the production side start processing in the production control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the production side 1ms timer interrupt processing in the effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the effect side 10ms timer interrupt processing in the effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the received command analysis processing in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the variation effect start processing in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the switch processing in an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the button validity period processing in an effect control board.

1. 1. Structure of Game Machine A pachinko game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the vertical direction and the horizontal direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine as an example of the gaming machine will be described so as to coincide with the vertical direction and the horizontal direction as seen from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine. Further, the front direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as a direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine, and the rear direction of each part of the pachinko gaming machine will be described as a direction away from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the embodiment includes a gaming machine frame 2 that constitutes an outer shell of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. The game machine frame 2 includes an outer frame 22 and a front door (front frame) 23. The outer frame 22 is a vertically rectangular frame that forms the outer shell of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. The front door 23 is arranged on the front side of the outer frame 22 and has a vertically rectangular shape that protects the game board 1. The front door 23 is a portion facing the player and is decorated in various ways.

The center of the front door 23 is open, and a transparent transparent plate 23t is attached to the opening. The transparent plate 23t is a glass plate in this embodiment, but may be a transparent synthetic resin plate. Further, the front door 23 includes an upper decorative unit 200, a left decorative unit 210, a right decorative unit 220, and an operation mechanism unit 230.

The operation mechanism unit 230 is arranged below the opening portion of the front door 23. The operation mechanism unit 230 is provided with a handle 72k at the lower right portion for launching a game ball with a firing intensity according to a rotation angle. Further, the operation mechanism unit 230 is provided with an upper plate 34 for storing game balls (rental balls and prize balls), and the player can operate the operation mechanism unit 230 at the time of production, which is executed as the game progresses. An effect button 40k and a select button 42k are provided. Further, on the lower side of the operation mechanism unit 230, a lower plate 35 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the upper plate 34 is provided.

The left side decoration unit 210 is arranged on the left side of the opening portion in the front door 23. The left side decoration unit 210 includes a left side frame lamp 53L. The right side decoration unit 220 is arranged on the right side of the opening portion in the front door 23. The right side decoration unit 220 includes a right side frame lamp 53R. The left frame lamp 53L and the right frame lamp 53R are collectively referred to as "frame lamp 53".

The upper decorative unit 200 is arranged above the opening portion in the front door 23, and projects forward from the left decorative unit 210, the right decorative unit 220, and the operation mechanism unit 230. Further, the upper decorative unit 200 includes a central upper unit 400 arranged in the center in the left-right direction, a left speaker 52L arranged on the left side of the central upper unit 400, and a right speaker 52R arranged on the right side of the central upper unit 400. And have. The left side speaker 52L and the right side speaker 52R are collectively referred to as "speaker 52". Further, in the center of the upper decorative unit 200, a decorative movable body 58k that can rotate is provided.

Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is provided with a gaming board 1 as shown in FIG. The game board 1 is attached to the inside of the game machine frame 2 and is housed in the game machine frame 2. On the game board 1, a game area 6 into which a game ball launched by operating the handle 72k flows down is formed by being surrounded by an outer rail 62 or an inner rail 63. Further, in the game area 6, a plurality of game nails for guiding the game ball are projected.

Further, an image display device 50 including a liquid crystal panel is provided near the center of the game area 6. Further, a center decorative body 61 is arranged near the center of the game area 6 and in front of the image display device 50. At the lower part of the center decoration body 61, a stage 61s is formed which can guide a game ball rolling on the upper surface to the first starting port 11. Further, on the left side of the center decorative body 61, a warp portion 61w is provided to allow the game ball to flow in from the entrance and to flow out the game ball from the exit to the stage 61s.

Below the image display device 50 in the game area 6, a first start winning device 11D provided with a first start port 11 in which the ease of entering the game ball does not always change is provided. The first starting opening 11 is also referred to as a first starting winning opening or a fixed ball entry opening. The winning of the game ball to the first starting port 11 triggers the lottery of the first special symbol (big hit lottery, that is, acquisition and determination of a big hit random number or the like).

Further, below the first starting port 11, a second starting winning device (so-called electric chew) 12D provided with the second starting port 12 is provided. The second starting opening 12 is also referred to as a second starting winning opening or a variable ball entry opening. The winning of the game ball to the second starting port 12 triggers a lottery for the second special symbol (big hit lottery, that is, acquisition and determination of a big hit random number or the like). In the following description, the first starting port 11 and the second starting port 12 may be collectively referred to as a "starting port".

The electric chew 12D includes an electric chew opening / closing member (movable member) 12k that can move forward and backward, and opens / closes the second starting port 12 by the operation of the electric chew opening / closing member 12k. The second starting port 12 allows the game ball to enter only when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the advanced position (that is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the open state). That is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the retracted position (that is, when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state), the game ball cannot enter. The second starting port 12 may have a variable ease of entering the game ball, and when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state, it is more difficult for the game ball to enter than when it is in the open state. If it is, it does not have to be completely impossible to enter the ball when the electric chew opening / closing member 12k is in the closed state.

Further, on the right side of the first starting port 11 in the game area 6, a large winning device (attacker, AT) 14D provided with the large winning opening 14 is provided. The grand prize device 14D includes an AT opening / closing member 14k that changes between an open state and a closed state, and opens and closes the grand prize opening 14 by operating the AT opening / closing member 14k. The large winning opening 14 allows a game ball to enter only when the AT opening / closing member 14k is in the open position (that is, in the open state).

Further, on the right side of the center decoration body 61 in the game area 6, a gate 13 through which the game ball can pass is provided. The passage of the game ball to the gate 13 triggers a normal symbol lottery (that is, acquisition and determination of a normal symbol random number (winning random number)) that determines whether or not to open the electric chew 12D.

Further, the game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning openings 10. Further, at the lowermost portion of the game area 6, an out port 19 is provided to discharge a game ball that has been driven into the game area 6 but has not won any of the winning openings to the outside of the game area 6.

The game area 6 in which various winning openings and the like are arranged includes a left game area 6L on the left side of the center in the left-right direction and a right game area 6R on the right side. A method of launching a game ball so that the game ball flows down the left game area 6L is called left-handed hitting. On the other hand, a method of firing a game ball so that the game ball flows down the right game area 6R is called right-handed hitting. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment, the flow path through which the game ball can flow down when playing left-handed is called the first flow path R1, and the flow path through which the game ball can flow down when playing right-handed. The road is referred to as a second flow path R2.

A first starting port 11, an electric chew 12D, a general winning port 10, and an out port 19 are provided on the first flow path R1. The player aims to win a prize in the first starting port 11 and the general winning opening 10 by driving the game ball so as to flow down the first flow path R1.

On the other hand, a gate 13, a large winning device 14D, an electric chew 12D, a general winning opening 10, and an out opening 19 are provided on the second flow path R2. The first starting port 11 is arranged substantially in the center of the game area 6, but a game nail or the like is arranged so that the game ball does not face the first starting port 11 in the case of a right-handed hit. Therefore, the player hits the game ball so as to flow down the second flow path R2 to pass through the gate 13, win a prize in the second starting port 12 related to the electric chew 12D, or enter the large winning port 14. Aim for a prize.

In addition, indicators 8 are arranged at the lower right of the game board 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the indicators 8 include a first special symbol display 81a for variably displaying the first special symbol (special diagram 1) and a second special symbol for variably displaying the second special symbol (special diagram 2). A special figure display 81b and a normal figure display 82 that variably displays a normal pattern (normal figure) are included. In addition, the indicators 8 include the first special figure hold indicator 83a and the second special figure display that display the number of stored operations of the first special figure display 81a (first special figure hold, special figure 1 hold). The second special figure hold indicator 83b, which displays the number of stored operations of the device 81b (second special figure hold, special figure 2 hold), and the normal figure display 82, which displays the number of stored operation hold of the normal figure display 82. A hold indicator 84 is included.

The variable display of the first special symbol is performed with the winning of the game ball to the first starting port 11. The variable display of the second special symbol is performed with the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 12. In the following description, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are collectively referred to as "special symbol". Further, the first special figure display 81a and the second special figure display 81b are collectively referred to as "special figure display 81". Further, the first special figure holding indicator 83a and the second special figure holding indicator 83b are collectively referred to as "special figure holding indicator 83".

The special symbol display 81 notifies the result of the lottery (special symbol lottery, jackpot lottery) based on the winning of the starting port by variably displaying (variably displaying) the special symbol (identification information) and then displaying the stop. The stop-displayed special symbol (stop symbol, special symbol derived and displayed as a display result of variable display) is one special symbol selected from a plurality of types of special symbols by a special symbol lottery. When the stop symbol is a special symbol (big hit symbol) in a predetermined jackpot stop mode, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 opens the jackpot 14 with an opening pattern according to the type of jackpot symbol displayed as stopped. (Special game) is performed. The opening pattern of the big winning opening in the big hit game will be described later.

The first special figure display 81a and the second special figure display 81b are each composed of, for example, eight LEDs arranged side by side, and display a special symbol according to the result of the jackpot lottery depending on the lighting mode. .. For example, if you win a jackpot (one of multiple types of jackpot symbols), you will see "○○ ●● ○○ ●●" (○: lit, ●: off) from the left, 1, 2, 5 , The 6th LED is lit to display the jackpot symbol. If there is a loss, a lost pattern such as "●●●●●●● ○" is displayed, in which only the LED on the far right is lit. A mode in which all the LEDs are turned off may be adopted as a lost symbol. Further, before the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the special symbol is variablely displayed (variable display) over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the variation display mode is, for example, so that light repeatedly flows from left to right. The mode is that the LED is turned on. The variable display mode may be any mode such that all the LEDs blink at the same time unless each LED is stopped and displayed (displayed in a specific mode).

When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 wins a game ball at the starting port, it acquires various random numbers such as a jackpot random number for the winning and temporarily stores the values (determination information) of the various random numbers. The storage area for storing various random numbers is referred to as a special figure reservation storage unit 105. Specifically, if a prize is won in the first start port 11, it is stored in the first special figure hold storage unit 105a as a first special figure hold (hold of special figure 1), and if it is a prize in the second start port 12. For example, it is stored in the second special figure reservation storage unit 105b as the second special figure hold (hold of special figure 2). There is an upper limit to the number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage unit 105, and the upper limit number (also referred to as the upper limit) in this embodiment is "4" for the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a and the second. The special figure reservation storage unit 105b is also set to "4".

The special figure hold stored in the special figure hold storage unit 105 is digested when the special symbol can be variably displayed based on the special figure hold. The digestion of the special figure hold means that the jackpot random number or the like corresponding to the special figure hold is determined, and the variable display of the special symbol for showing the determination result is executed. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, when the variable display of the special symbol based on the winning of the game ball to the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12 cannot be performed immediately after the winning, that is, the special based on other jackpot random numbers. Even if there is a prize during the execution of the variable display of the symbol or the special game (big hit game or small hit game), the right to the big hit lottery for the prize can be reserved up to the predetermined number. You can do it.

Then, the number of such special figure hold is displayed on the special figure hold indicator 83. Specifically, the first special figure holding indicator 83a is composed of four LEDs, and the second special figure holding indicator 83b is also composed of four LEDs. Each special figure hold indicator 83 displays the number of special figure hold by turning on the LEDs for the number of special figure hold.

The variable display of the normal symbol is performed when the game ball passes through the gate 13. The normal symbol display 82 notifies the result of the normal symbol lottery based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 13 by displaying the normal symbol in a variable manner (variable display) and then stopping the display. The normal symbol that is stopped and displayed (normal symbol, normal symbol that is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display) is one ordinary symbol selected from a plurality of types of ordinary symbols by the ordinary symbol lottery. When the stop-displayed normal symbol is a predetermined specific normal symbol (normal symbol in a predetermined stop mode, that is, a normal hit symbol), the opening according to the type of the stop-displayed normal symbol and the current gaming state. An auxiliary game is performed in which the second starting port 12 is opened (the electric chew 12D is operated) in the pattern. The opening pattern of the second starting port 12 will be described later.

The normal symbol display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs, and displays a normal symbol according to the result of a normal symbol lottery depending on the lighting mode thereof. For example, if the lottery result is a win, a normal hit symbol is displayed. There are a plurality of types of ordinary hit symbols in this form. For example, when a hit (one of multiple types of hit symbols) is won, the first and second LEDs from the left are lit, such as "○ ●" (○: on, ●: off). Display the winning symbol. If the lottery result is a loss, a normal loss pattern in which both LEDs are turned off is displayed, such as "●●". Before the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the fluctuation display (variable display) of the normal symbol is performed for a predetermined fluctuation time, and the mode of the fluctuation display is, for example, that both LEDs are turned on alternately. The variable display mode may be any mode such that all the LEDs blink at the same time unless each LED is stopped and displayed (displayed in a specific mode).

When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 passes the game ball to the gate 13, it acquires a normal symbol random number or the like for the passage, and temporarily stores the values of these various random numbers (judgment information) as a normal figure hold. .. The storage area for storing various random numbers is referred to as a normal figure holding storage unit 106. There is an upper limit to the number of normal figure reservations that can be stored in the normal figure reservation storage unit 106, and the upper limit number (also referred to as an upper limit) in this embodiment is "4".

The normal figure hold stored in the normal figure hold storage unit 106 is digested when the variable display of the normal symbol based on the normal figure hold becomes possible. The digestion of the normal figure hold means to determine the normal hit random number corresponding to the normal figure hold and execute the variable display of the normal symbol to show the judgment result. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, when the variable display of the normal symbol based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 13 cannot be performed immediately after the passage, that is, during the execution of the variable display of the normal symbol based on another normal hit random number. Even if the game ball passes through the gate 13 during the execution of the auxiliary game, the right of the ordinary winning lottery for the passage can be reserved up to a predetermined number.

Then, the number of such a normal figure hold is displayed on the normal figure hold indicator 84. The normal figure hold indicator 84 is composed of four LEDs. The normal figure hold indicator 84 displays the number of normal figure hold by turning on the LEDs for the number of normal figure hold.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 has a variation of decorative symbols (effect symbols) EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 synchronized with a variable display (variable display) of a special symbol. There is an effect symbol display area for display. The effect symbol display area includes, for example, three symbol display areas of "left", "middle", and "right". The left effect symbol EZ1 is displayed in the left symbol display area, the middle effect symbol EZ2 is displayed in the middle symbol display area, and the right effect symbol EZ3 is displayed in the right symbol display area. Each of the production symbols consists of a plurality of symbols representing numbers from "1" to "9", for example. The image display device 50 displays the result of variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol (that is, the result of the jackpot lottery) in an easy-to-understand manner by combining the left, middle, and right effect symbols. In the following description, the left effect symbol EZ1, the middle effect symbol EZ2, and the right effect symbol EZ3 are collectively referred to as "effect symbol EZ".

For example, when a big hit is won, the effect symbol EZ is stopped and displayed with doublet such as "777". In addition, if it is out of alignment, the effect symbol EZ is stopped and displayed at a random number such as "263". This makes it easier for the player to grasp the progress of the game. That is, the player generally does not grasp the result of the jackpot lottery by the first special figure display 81a or the second special figure display 81b, but by the image display device 50. The position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed. Further, as a mode of variable display of the effect symbol EZ, for example, there is a mode of scrolling in the vertical direction. In addition, it is possible to arbitrarily change what kind of combination of effect symbols EZ is stopped and displayed according to each lottery result.

The image display device 50 displays, in addition to the effect symbol variation effect (also referred to as variation effect) using the effect symbol EZ as described above, a jackpot effect performed in parallel with the jackpot game, a demonstration effect for waiting for customers, and the like. It is displayed on the part 50a. In the effect symbol variation effect, in addition to the effect symbols such as numbers, the effect images other than the effect symbols such as the background image and the character image are also displayed.

Further, the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 has a hold icon display area for displaying the hold icon HA according to the number of stored special figure holds. By displaying the hold icon HA, it is possible to show the player the number of stored special figure holds in an easy-to-understand manner.

2. 2. Electrical Configuration of Pachinko Gaming Machine PY1 Subsequently, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 includes a game control board 100, an effect control board 120, and a payout control board 170. The game control board 100 mainly controls game profits such as various lottery such as big hits and transition of game states. The effect control board 120 controls the display of the image display device 50, the lighting of various lamps, the sound output, and the like, which are mainly performed with the progress of the game. The payout control board 170 controls the payout of the game ball.

Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 includes a power supply board 190. The power supply board 190 controls the supply of electric power to the game control board 100, the effect control board 120, the image control board 140, and the payout control board 170, and supplies necessary power to other devices via these boards. To do.

The power supply board 190 is provided with a backup power supply circuit 192. The backup power supply circuit 192 is necessary for holding information to the game control board 100 when power is not supplied to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the outside, that is, when the main power supply is off or a power failure occurs. Power supply. Therefore, the information stored in the game control board 100 is temporarily held while the power can be supplied from the backup power supply circuit 192 even when the pachinko game machine PY1 is not supplied with power from the outside. A dedicated backup power supply circuit for each control board may be provided. A power switch 191 is connected to the power supply board 190. By operating the power switch 191, the main power supply can be switched on and off.

As shown in FIG. 5, the game control board 100 is equipped with a game control one-chip microcomputer that controls the progress of the game of the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. Hereinafter, the game control one-chip microcomputer will be referred to as a game control microcomputer 101. The game control microcomputer 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores a program for controlling the progress of the game, a game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 that is used as a work memory, and a game ROM 103. A gaming CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102, which executes a program stored in the above, is included. The game control microcomputer 101 transmits or receives data from another board or the like via the game I / O (Input / Output) port 118. The game I / O port 118 may be built in the game control microcomputer 101. Further, the gaming ROM 103 may be externally attached.

The gaming RAM 104 is provided with a special figure holding storage unit 105 for storing various random numbers related to the special figure holding, and a normal figure holding storage unit 106 for storing various random numbers related to the normal figure holding. Further, the special figure holding storage unit 105 has a first special figure holding storage unit 105a for storing various random numbers related to the special figure holding of the special figure 1 and a second special figure storing various random numbers related to the special figure holding of the special figure 2. Figure Hold storage unit 105b is provided.

Various sensors and solenoids are electrically connected to the game control board 100 via a relay board 172. Therefore, signals from each sensor are input to the game control board 100, and signals are output from the game control board 100 to each solenoid. Specifically, the sensors include a first starting port sensor 11a, a second starting port sensor 12a, a gate sensor 13a, a large winning opening sensor 14a, and a general winning opening sensor 10a.

The first start port sensor 11a is provided directly below the first start port 11, and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, when the game ball passes through the first start port 11, the output value is increased. Output a changing signal. The second starting port sensor 12a is provided directly below the second starting port 12, and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, when the game ball passes through the second starting port 12, the output value is increased. Output a changing signal. The gate sensor 13a is provided in the passing region directly below the gate 13 and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, outputs a signal whose output value changes when the game ball passes through the gate 13. To do.

The large winning opening sensor 14a is provided directly below the large winning opening 14, and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, a signal whose output value changes when the game ball passes through the large winning opening 14. Is output. The general winning opening sensor 10a is provided directly below each general winning opening 10, and outputs a signal for detecting the passage of the game ball, that is, the output value changes when the game ball passes through each general winning opening 10. Output the signal to

Further, as solenoids, there are an electric chew solenoid 12s and an AT solenoid 14s. The electric chew solenoid 12s drives the electric chew opening / closing member 12k of the electric chew 12D. The AT solenoid 14s drives the AT opening / closing member 14k of the grand prize device 14D.

Further, on the game control board 100, the first special figure display 81a, the second special figure display 81b, the normal figure display 82, the first special figure hold display 83a, the second special figure hold display 83b, and The normal figure hold indicator 84 is electrically connected. That is, the display control of these indicators 8 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

Further, the game control board 100 transmits various commands to the payout control board 170, and receives various signals from the payout control board 170 for payout monitoring. Specifically, the payout device 73 and the card unit CU are electrically connected to the payout control board 170. The card unit CU is a device that is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 and enables ball lending based on information such as an inserted prepaid card. Further, the launching device 72 is electrically connected to the payout control board 170 via the launch control board 175.

The payout control board 170 drives the payout motor 73 m of the payout device 73 based on the signal from the game control microcomputer 101 and the signal from the card unit CU electrically connected to the pachinko gaming machine PY1 to drive the payout device 73. Have the 73 pay out the prize balls, or have the payout device 73 pay out the rental balls. The prize balls or rental balls to be paid out are controlled by a signal from the payout sensor 73a for counting.

In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the number of prize balls paid out by winning the first starting port 11 is three, and the number of winning balls paid out by winning the second starting port 12 is two. In addition, the number of prize balls paid out by winning the large winning opening 14 is 13, and the number of winning balls paid out by winning the general winning opening 10 is 3. The number of these prize balls is an example and may be appropriately selected.

In addition to the handle 72k, the launching device 72 includes a firing solenoid 72s, a touch switch 72a, and a firing volume 72b. When the player operates the handle 72k of the launching device 72, a signal indicating that the touch switch 72a has touched the handle 72k is output to the launch control board 175, and the amount of rotation of the handle 72k from the launch volume 72b. The signal corresponding to the above is output to the launch control board 175. The launch control board 175 drives the launch solenoid 72s, and the launch device is used so that the game ball is launched with an appropriate strength or the game ball is not launched based on various signals input from the launch device 72. 72 is controlled.

Further, a RAM clear switch 119 is connected to the game control board 100. The RAM clear switch 119 is attached to the game control board 100 and is arranged on the rear surface of the pachinko gaming machine PY1. That is, the RAM clear switch 119 is usually in a position where it cannot be visually recognized by the player on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 and cannot be operated by the player. Therefore, the RAM clear switch 119 is usually operated by the hall staff. When the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is started with the RAM clear switch 119 pressed, the gaming RAM 104 is initialized. As a result, the information stored in the gaming RAM 104 is lost.

Further, the game control board 100 transmits various commands to the effect control board 120. The communication between the game control board 100 and the effect control board 120 is unidirectional communication in which only commands can be transmitted from the game control board 100 to the effect control board 120. That is, a unidirectional control circuit using, for example, a diode is interposed between the game control board 100 and the effect control board 120 as a communication direction regulating means.

Further, an external output terminal board 173 is connected to the game control board 100. The external output terminal plate 173 outputs various signals based on the signals received from the game control microcomputer 101 to an external device arranged outside the pachinko game machine PY1 such as a data display DH and a hall computer HC. Specifically, the external output terminal plate 173 is provided with a plurality of channels (CN) for external output. Then, the connector corresponding to each channel (CN) and the connector on the data display DH side are connected by a cable. One signal is output from each connector to the outside. In the external output terminal plate 173, for example, a jackpot count signal indicating that a jackpot has been won, a signal indicating the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine PY1, a frame opening signal indicating that the gaming machine frame 2 is open, and a predetermined number of frames A signal indicating that a prize ball has been made and a security signal indicating that an unexpected prize has been won are output from different channels.

As shown in FIG. 6, the effect control board 120 is mounted with an effect control one-chip microcomputer that controls the effect of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to a program. Hereinafter, the one-chip microcomputer for effect control will be referred to as the effect control microcomputer 121. The effect control microcomputer 121 executes a program stored in the effect ROM 123 that stores a program for controlling the effect as the game progresses, the effect RAM 124 used as the work memory, and the effect ROM 123. The effect CPU 122 is included. The effect control microcomputer 121 transmits or receives data from another board or the like via the effect I / O port 138. The effect I / O port 138 may be built in the effect control microcomputer 121. Further, the effect ROM 123 may be externally attached.

The effect RAM 124 is provided with a start winning command hold storage unit 125 that stores a start winning command including hold lottery information. The hold lottery information includes information based on each random number stored in the special figure hold storage unit 105 of the game control board 100. The start winning command hold storage unit 125 further stores the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a that stores the first start winning command based on the first special figure hold, and the second start winning command based on the second special figure hold. A second start winning command holding storage unit 125b is provided. In addition, the effect RAM 124 may be provided with a storage unit for storing commands including information on holding the normal drawing.

Specifically, the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a and the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b are each provided with storage areas corresponding to the upper limit number of special figure reservations. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, four storage areas are provided in the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a and four storage areas in the second start winning command hold storage unit 125b according to the upper limit of the special figure hold. Is provided. Further, each storage area is provided with a plurality of small areas. Specifically, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1, the start winning command specified based on the winning of the starting opening, the data indicating the display mode of the hold icon HA, and the reception counter value that is counted up every time the starting winning command is received. And are stored in each small area. The reception counter is used to manage the winning order.

Further, the image control board 140, the accessory lamp control board 162, and the voice control circuit 161 are electrically connected to the effect control board 120. The effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120 causes the image CPU 142 of the image control board 140 to perform display control of the image display device 50 based on the command received from the game control board 100. The image RAM 144 of the image control board 140 is a memory in which image data is expanded. The image ROM 143 of the image control board 140 contains still image data and moving image data displayed on the image display device 50, more specifically, characters, items, figures, characters, numbers, symbols, background images, and effect symbols EZ. Image data such as hold icon HA is stored. The image CPU 142 of the image control board 140 reads image data from the image ROM 143 based on a command from the effect control microcomputer 121. Then, the read image data is displayed on the image display device 50.

Further, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs voice control for outputting voice, music, sound effects, and the like to the speaker 52 via the voice control circuit 161 based on the command received from the game control board 100. Specifically, acoustic data such as voice output from the speaker 52 is stored in the effect ROM 123 of the effect control board 120. The voice control circuit 161 may store acoustic data. Further, the image control board 140 may be electrically connected to the speaker 52 or the voice control circuit 161 so that the image control board 140 performs voice control. In this case, the image control board 140 may store acoustic data.

Further, the effect control microcomputer 121 controls the lighting of each lamp such as the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 via the accessory lamp control board 162 based on the command received from the game control board 100. Specifically, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates light emission pattern data that determines the light emission mode of each lamp using the data stored in the effect ROM 123, and transfers the light emission pattern data to the accessory lamp control board 162. Send. The accessory lamp control board 162 that has received the light emission pattern data controls the light emission of each lamp according to the light emission pattern data.

Further, the effect control microcomputer 121 operates the decorative movable body 58k electrically connected to the accessory lamp control board 162 via the movable body relay board 163 based on the command received from the game control board 100. .. Specifically, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates operation pattern data that determines the operation mode of the decorative movable body 58k using the data stored in the effect ROM 123, and uses the operation pattern data as the accessory lamp control board. Send to 162. The accessory lamp control board 162 that has received the operation pattern data controls the operation of the decorative movable body 58k according to the operation pattern data.

The CPU may be mounted on the accessory lamp control board 162. In that case, the CPU may be made to execute lighting control of each lamp such as the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 and operation control of the decorative movable body 58k. Further, in that case, a ROM may be mounted on the accessory lamp control board 162, and the ROM may store data used for creating light emission pattern data and data used for creating operation pattern data.

Further, the effect button detection sensor 40a, the effect button vibration motor 40 m, the effect button lamp 40La, and the select button detection sensor 42a are electrically connected to the effect control board 120. The effect button detection sensor 40a is a detection sensor corresponding to the effect button 40k. Therefore, when the effect button 40k is pressed, the effect button detection sensor 40a outputs a signal related to the effect button 40k to the effect control board 120. Based on the signal output from the effect button detection sensor 40a, the effect control board 120 can determine whether or not the effect button 40k has been pressed.

The select button 42k is composed of four direction buttons up, down, left and right, and the select button detection sensor 42a is a detection sensor corresponding to each of the four direction buttons, that is, an upward button detection sensor 42Ua and a downward button detection sensor. It is composed of 42Da, a right direction button detection sensor 42Ra, and a left direction button detection sensor 42La. Therefore, the effect control board 120 can distinguish which direction button is pressed.

The effect button vibration motor 40 m is a motor built in the effect button 40k to vibrate the effect button 40k. The effect button lamp 40La is a lamp built in the effect button 40k in order to illuminate the effect button 40k. Further, the select button detection sensor 42a is a detection sensor corresponding to the select button 42k. Based on the signal output from the select button detection sensor 42a, the effect control board 120 can determine whether or not the select button 42k has been pressed, similarly to the effect button 40k.

3. 3. Explanation of jackpot and the like Next, the jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. When a game ball wins a prize at the start port (first start port 11 or second start port 12), the pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires at least four random numbers: a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number. ..

In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, a jackpot lottery is performed by determining the acquired jackpot random numbers. The results of the big hit lottery (special symbol lottery) include "big hit" and "missing". The jackpot type random number is a random number for determining the jackpot type when the result of the jackpot lottery is "big hit". The jackpot random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535. The jackpot type random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 99.

The reach random number is a random number that determines whether or not to generate reach in the effect symbol variation effect indicating the result when the result of the jackpot lottery is “missing”. Reach is a state in which there is only one effect symbol that is variablely displayed out of a plurality of effect symbols (decorative symbols), and it depends on which symbol the variable display effect symbol is stopped and displayed. It is a state (for example, a state of "7 ↓ 7") in which a combination of production symbols indicating a big hit is won. The effect symbol that is stopped and displayed in the reach state may be displayed as if it is slightly shaken in the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, or may be displayed so as to be repeatedly enlarged and reduced. This reach random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 255.

The fluctuation pattern random number is a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern including the fluctuation time of the special symbol. The fluctuation pattern random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 99. By determining the variation pattern, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 selects an effect pattern suitable for the variation time, including whether or not to perform the SP reach effect or the normal reach effect. The SP reach (super reach) is a production that suggests that the expectation of a big hit is higher than that of the normal reach, and the production time is longer than that of the normal reach. The SP reach in this embodiment is usually carried out progressively through the reach.

Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 acquires at least a normal hit random number when the gaming ball passes through the gate 13. The ordinary hit random number is a random number for a lottery (ordinary symbol lottery, ordinary symbol lottery) as to whether or not to perform an auxiliary game for operating the electric chew 12D. The normal hit random number takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535.

Further, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present embodiment, when the result of the big hit lottery is "big hit", the "big hit symbol" is stopped and displayed on the special figure display 81. On the other hand, when the result of the big hit lottery is "missing", the special figure display 81 is made to stop and display the "missing symbol". When the jackpot is won, a "special game" is executed in which the jackpot 14 is opened in an opening pattern according to the type of the special symbol (the type of the jackpot) that is stopped and displayed. A special game that is executed by winning a big hit is also called a "big hit game". A "small hit" may be provided in the result of the big hit lottery, and in that case, the "small hit symbol" is stopped and displayed on the special figure display 81. Furthermore, if a small hit is won, a special game for small hits (small hit game) is executed.

In this embodiment, the jackpot game consists of a plurality of round games, an opening before the first round game is started (also referred to as OP), and an ending after the final round game is completed (also referred to as ED). ) And is included. Each round game begins with the end of the OP or the end of the previous round game and ends with the start of the next round game or the start of the ED. The closing time of the grand prize opening between round games (inter-round interval) is included in the open round game before the closing.

Further, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment, there are a plurality of types of jackpots. The types of jackpots are as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, there are roughly two types of jackpots. Probability change jackpot (8R probability variation jackpot symbol and 16 probability variation jackpot symbol) and normal jackpot (8R normal jackpot symbol and 16R normal jackpot symbol). The probabilistic jackpot is a jackpot in which the gaming state after the jackpot game shifts to a high probability state. On the other hand, the normal jackpot is a jackpot in which the gaming state during the jackpot game does not shift to the high probability state, that is, the jackpot remains in the low probability state. That is, the probabilistic jackpot is a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than the normal jackpot. The details of the game state will be described later. The types of jackpots are distributed to probabilistic jackpots at a rate of 65% when the jackpots are won, and are distributed to normal jackpots at a rate of the remaining 35%.

Each jackpot symbol has the same number of rounds (R), which is the number of round games, but the opening time of the jackpot 14 in each round is different. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, any jackpot is 16R, but in the case of the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol and the 8R normal jackpot symbol, 1 to 8R is a maximum of 25 seconds, which is a long opening time. , 9 to 16R have an extremely short opening time of 0.1 seconds at the maximum. Therefore, the possibility of winning a prize is extremely low in 9 to 16R, which is substantially 8R. On the other hand, in the case of the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol and the 16R normal jackpot symbol, since all of 1 to 16R have a long opening time of 25 seconds at the maximum, there is a high possibility of winning in all rounds.

In addition, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is in a state in which so-called electric support control (control to support winning of the second starting port 12 by the electric chew 12D) is executed after the big hit game, but the type of the winning big hit symbol The number of lottery (the number of time reductions) after the jackpot game, which is a condition for terminating the electric support control, differs depending on the above. Specifically, in the case of a probabilistic jackpot, the number of time reductions is until the next jackpot is won, and in the case of a normal jackpot, the number of time reductions is 100 times. Therefore, even with this difference in the number of time reductions, it can be said that the probabilistic jackpot is a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than the normal jackpot. Regardless of the type of jackpot symbol, even if the jackpot is won before the number of time reductions reaches 100, the end condition of the electric support control is satisfied. The details of the electric support control will be described later.

4. Description of the gaming state Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present embodiment will be described. The special figure display 81 and the normal figure display 82 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 each have a probability fluctuation function and a fluctuation time shortening function. The state in which the probability fluctuation function of the special figure display 81 is operating is referred to as a "high probability state", and the state in which the probability fluctuation function is not operating is referred to as a "normal probability state (non-high probability state)". In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the normal probability state.

Specifically, in the high probability state, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 uses a jackpot determination table in which the value of the jackpot random number determined to be a jackpot is larger than the jackpot determination table used in the normal probability state, as shown in FIG. 9A. Use to make a big hit lottery. That is, when the probability fluctuation function of the special symbol display 81 is activated, the probability that the display result (that is, the stop symbol) of the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display 81 becomes a jackpot symbol as compared with the case where it is not activated. Will be higher.

Further, the state in which the fluctuation time shortening function of the special figure display 81 is operating is referred to as a "time saving state", and the state in which the function is not operating is referred to as a "non-time saving state". In the time-saving state, the fluctuation time of the special symbol (time from the start of the fluctuation display to the derivation display of the display result) is shorter than in the non-time-saving state. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, the fluctuation pattern is determined by using the fluctuation pattern table in which the fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time is selected more often than in the non-time reduction state. Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, when the lottery result of the big hit is out of order, it is more difficult to select the reach in the time saving state than in the non-time saving state. This is to speed up the digestion speed of the special figure hold by making it easier to select the non-reach loss with a short fluctuation time in the time saving state. When the number of reserved balls of the special symbol is "3" or "4", a fluctuation pattern having a shorter fluctuation time than when the number of reserved balls of the special symbol is "0" to "2" is selected. It is supposed to be done. That is, in the time saving state, as will be described later, the electric chew 12D is likely to be released and the hold of the special figure 2 is likely to be accumulated. Therefore, it becomes easy to select a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time. As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace of digestion of the special figure hold becomes faster, and an effective prize (a prize that can be memorized as the special figure hold) to the starting port is likely to occur. Therefore, the game can proceed smoothly.

The probability fluctuation function and the fluctuation time shortening function of the special figure display 81 may be operated at the same time, or only one of them may be operated. Further, the probability fluctuation function and the fluctuation time shortening function of the normal figure display 82 are operated in synchronization with the fluctuation time shortening function of the special figure display 81. That is, the probability fluctuation function and the fluctuation time shortening function of the normal figure display 82 operate in the time saving state and do not operate in the non-time saving state. Therefore, in the time saving state, the winning probability in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the non-time saving state. That is, as shown in FIG. 9C, a hit determination (ordinary symbol) is performed using an ordinary symbol hit determination table in which the value of the ordinary hit random number determined to be a hit is larger than that of the ordinary symbol hit determination table used in the non-time saving state. Judgment) is performed. That is, when the probability fluctuation function of the normal symbol display 82 is activated, the probability that the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display 82 will be a normal hit symbol is higher than when it is not activated. ..

Further, in the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter than in the non-time saving state. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9D, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 10 seconds in the non-time saving state, but 1 second in the time saving state. Further, in the time saving state, as shown in FIG. 11, the opening time of the electric chew 12D in the auxiliary game is longer than that in the non-time saving state. That is, the opening time extension function of the electric chew 12D is operating. In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the electric chew 12D is opened in the auxiliary game is larger than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the function of increasing the number of times the electric chew 12D is opened is operating.

In the situation where the probability fluctuation function and the fluctuation time shortening function of the normal figure display 82, and the opening time extending function and the opening number increasing function of the electric chew 12D are operating, compared with the case where these functions are not operating. As a result, the electric chew 12D is frequently opened, and the game ball frequently wins a prize at the second starting port 12. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of launched balls, becomes high. Therefore, the state in which these functions are operating is referred to as a "high base state", and the state in which these functions are not operating is referred to as a "low base state". In the high base state, you can aim for a big hit without significantly reducing the number of game balls you have. The high base state is a state in which so-called electric support control (control for supporting winning of the second starting port 12 by the electric chew 12D) is being executed. Therefore, the high base state is also referred to as an electric support control state or a ball entry support state. On the other hand, the low base state is also called a non-electric support control state or a non-ball entry support state.

The high base state does not have to activate all of the above functions. That is, the operation of one or more of the probability fluctuation function of the normal figure display 82, the fluctuation time shortening function of the normal figure display 82, the opening time extension function of the electric chew 12D, and the opening frequency increasing function of the electric chew 12D. It suffices if the electric chew 12D is opened more easily than when the function is not operating. Further, the high base state may be controlled independently without being accompanied by the time saving state.

When playing the pachinko gaming machine PY1 for the first time, the gaming state after the power is turned on is a normal probability state, a non-time saving state, and a low base state. This gaming state is particularly referred to as a "low probability low base state". The low probability low base state may be referred to as a "normal game state". In addition, the state in which the special game (big hit game) is being executed is referred to as a "special game state (big hit game state)". Further, a state controlled by at least one of a high probability state and a high base state is referred to as a "privilege gaming state".

In a high base state such as a high accuracy high base state or a low accuracy high base state, it is advantageous to allow the game ball to enter the right game area 6R by hitting right. This is because the electric support control makes it easier to open the electric chew 12D than in the low base state, and it is easier to win the second starting port 12 than to win the first starting port 11. .. Therefore, while passing the game ball through the gate 13 which is the trigger of the normal symbol lottery, the game ball is hit right to win the second starting port 12. As a result, a large number of starting prizes (winning to the starting port) can be obtained rather than hitting left. In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, the game is played by right-handed even during the jackpot game.

On the other hand, in the low base state, it is more advantageous to allow the game ball to enter the left game area 6L by hitting the left side. Since the electric support control is not executed, it is difficult to open the electric chew 12D compared to the high base state, and it is easier to win the first starting port 11 than to win the second starting port 12. Because it has become. Therefore, a left-handed hit is made so that the game ball is won in the first starting port 11. This allows you to get a lot of starting prizes rather than hitting right.

5. Start winning command The pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment can execute a so-called look-ahead effect. Look-ahead is a special figure fluctuation (variation display of a special symbol) based on the start prize by using the start prize command specified based on the numerical information (random number value such as jackpot random number) acquired by the start prize. It is a process of determining whether or not the jackpot is successful for the start winning prize before the start, and the look-ahead effect is an effect that suggests the degree of expectation of the jackpot based on the look-ahead result. Specifically, it includes a notice effect and an effect of changing the display mode of the hold icon HA.

As shown in FIG. 12, the start winning command generated in this embodiment includes the winning / failing information of whether or not it is a big hit. Further, the start winning command of this embodiment includes information on the type of jackpot, starting port information on which starting port of the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12 has won, and a non-time saving state and a time saving state. It includes information on the game status of which game state the player has won, and information on the presence or absence of reach in the case of a loss. The start winning command may include at least information on whether or not it is a big hit, and what kind of information is included in the start winning command can be changed as appropriate. For example, information on whether or not it is in a high probability state and information on the fluctuation time may be included.

The start winning command is generated by the game control microcomputer 101 and input to the effect control microcomputer 121. The look-ahead and look-ahead effect are performed by the effect control microcomputer 121 to which the start winning command is input.

6. Special effect during SP reach Next, the special effect during SP reach executed by the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment will be described. In the pachinko gaming machine PY1, a plurality of types of special effects can be executed during SP reach. Specifically, in this embodiment, as a feasible special effect, a 3D button display effect (3D button chance) that displays an image of the three-dimensional effect button 40k and accepts the operation of the effect button 40k, and a decorative movable body 58k are rotated. There are three types of effects: a movable body rotation effect (movable body chance), and a pair character effect (W logo viewing chance) in which two main characters appear in the left and right areas of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

In an effect scenario including a 3D button display effect, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 starts a variable effect, executes various effects, and then displays a title image showing SP reach as shown in FIG. 13A. Is displayed on the display unit 50a of the above, and the effect is developed into SP reach. At this stage, the effect button 40k arranged below the image display device 50 is in a normal mode (a mode in which neither the effect button lamp 40La is lit nor the effect button vibration motor 40 m is vibrated). In addition, the effect period is not set.

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 performs an effect of inciting the operation of the effect button 40k and then operates the effect button 40k at the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed after the development of the SP reach and before notifying the winner of the jackpot. Set the validity period of the effect button for accepting. Then, along with the setting of the effect button validity period, as shown in FIG. 13 (B), the effect button 40k is used as a motif, and the 3D button effect image EG11 in which the effect button 40k is drawn three-dimensionally is displayed on the display unit of the image display device 50. Display on 50a. At this stage, the effect button 40k is in a special mode (a mode in which the effect button lamp 40La is turned on and vibration is performed by the effect button vibration motor 40 m). Therefore, the effect button 40k in which the effect button lamp 40La is lit is drawn on the 3D button effect image EG11.

After that, when the operation of the effect button 40k is accepted during the effect button validity period, or when the effect button validity period elapses, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is a combination of the effect symbol EZ indicating the success or failure of the jackpot as shown in FIG. 13 (C). Is displayed. In this embodiment, when the jackpot is won, the left effect symbol EZ1, the middle effect symbol EZ2, and the right effect symbol EZ3 are all displayed with the same effect symbol EZ. In the case of deviation, at least one of those effect symbols EZ is displayed with a different effect symbol EZ.

Further, in the present embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned 3D button display effect, for example, an effect that does not change to a special mode is prepared as a button effect that accepts the operation of the effect button 40k before the winning branch. Then, in the effect that does not change to a special aspect, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a 2D button effect image (not shown) in which the effect button 40k is drawn in a plane instead of the 3D button effect image EG11 on the display unit of the image display device 50. Display on 50a. Further, the image size of the 2D button effect image is reduced as compared with the 3D button effect image EG11. This button effect is referred to as a 2D button display effect (2D button chance).

The button effect is not limited to the effect of accepting the operation of the effect button 40k. For example, the operation of the select button 42k may be accepted instead of the effect button 40k. In this case, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a button effect image with the select button 42k as a motif. Further, the content of the operation of the effect button 40k is not limited to accepting one operation, and may accept repeated hits or long presses.

In a production scenario including a movable body rotation effect, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a title image showing SP reach on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 as shown in FIG. 14A, and develops the effect into SP reach. Let me. At this stage, the decorative movable body 58k arranged above the image display device 50 is in a normal mode (a mode in which the rotation operation is not performed).

The pachinko gaming machine PY1 fuels the start of operation of the decorative movable body 58k as shown in FIG. 14 (B) at the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed after the development of the SP reach and before notifying the winning of the jackpot. Perform a fanning effect. Specifically, the upward guidance image EG21 that guides the player's line of sight above the image display device 50 is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. The upward guidance image EG21 includes, for example, an image displaying a mark or a message indicating upward. It should be noted that an image in which the appearing character points upward or moves upward may be included. This fanning effect makes it easier for the player's attention to be focused on the decorative movable body 58k. Then, after performing this fanning effect, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 changes the decorative movable body 58k into a special mode (a mode in which a rotating motion is performed).

After that, when the timing of notifying the success or failure of the jackpot is reached, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a combination of the effect symbols EZ indicating the success or failure of the jackpot as shown in FIG. 14 (C). The content of the movable body rotation effect is not limited to the above-mentioned content. For example, if the decorative movable body 58k can be displaced upward or forward in addition to the rotational motion, it may be combined with such an motion. Further, for example, when the decorative movable body 58k has a light source, it may be combined with the operation of turning on the light source. Further, the types of effects may be further increased by combining these operations.

In the production scenario including the pair character production, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a title image showing SP reach on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 as shown in FIG. 15A, and develops the production into SP reach. ..

As shown in FIG. 15 (B), the pachinko game machine PY1 has an image of two different hero characters at the timing when a predetermined time has passed after the development of the SP reach and before the notification of the winning of the jackpot. Is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Specifically, in the display unit 50a, the first hero image EG31 showing the first hero character is displayed in the left side area 50aL, and the second hero image EG32 showing the second hero character is displayed in the right side area 50aR. ..

After that, as shown in FIGS. 15C and 15D, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 continues to display the first main character image EG31 in the left side region 50aL of the display unit 50a, and the second main character image EG32 is displayed on the display unit 50a. Continue to display in the right area 50aR. In this embodiment, an image in which the first hero character and the second hero character operate substantially symmetrically with the center of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 in the left-right direction is displayed is displayed.

After that, when the timing of notifying the success or failure of the jackpot is reached, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a combination of the effect symbols EZ indicating the success or failure of the jackpot as shown in FIG. 15 (E). The content of the pair character effect is not limited to the above-mentioned content. For example, a board movable body imitating the first hero character and the second hero character are arranged on the game board 1, and instead of displaying the image of the hero character, the board movable bodies are viewed from the player as an image. The display device 50 may be moved from a position that does not overlap with the display unit 50a to a position in front of the left side region 50aL and the right side region 50aR of the display unit 50a. Further, by arranging structures imitating the first hero character and the second hero character on the back surface of the image display device 50 and transparently displaying the display unit 50a, those structures are on the left side of the display unit 50a. It may be made visible behind each of the region 50aL and the right region 50aR. Further, in the pair character effect, the frame lamps 53 arranged in the left-right direction of the image display device 50 may be appropriately turned on.

As shown in FIG. 16, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 prepares a plurality of scenarios of the effect after developing into SP reach, and selects the scenario of the entire variation effect when starting the variation effect. The selection of the scenario for the entire variation effect is determined based on the variation pattern, and the presence or absence of SP reach is also determined. Specifically, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 prepares a table for selecting a production scenario for each variation pattern. Then, a random number for selecting the effect scenario is acquired, and one effect scenario is selected by referring to a table suitable for the fluctuation pattern. By selecting the scenario for the entire variation effect, the presence or absence of SP reach and the scenario during SP reach when SP reach is present are also determined. That is, whether or not each special effect is executed is determined by the scenario selected as the scenario for the entire variable effect. The selection ratio of each production scenario of SP reach differs between the time of big hit and the time of loss, and the selection ratio is set so as to match the expectation of the big hit.

In this embodiment, the expectation of the jackpot differs depending on the character appearing in the SP reach. Specifically, when a pair character production (“W logo appearance” in FIG. 16) is performed, it is generally expected more than the production performed by other characters (“logo appearance” and “monkey appearance” in FIG. 16). The degree is high. Further, when the button effect is performed, the degree of expectation is higher than when the button effect is not performed. Further, among the button effects, when the 3D button display effect is performed, the degree of expectation is higher than when the 2D button display effect is executed. Further, when the movable body rotation effect is performed, the degree of expectation is higher than when the movable body rotation effect is not performed. Furthermore, the movable body rotation effect has higher expectations than the 3D button display effect.

The scenario during SP reach is not limited to the scenario shown in FIG. 16, and various other effects and scenarios are prepared for the pachinko gaming machine PY1. However, the above-mentioned special effects (3D button display effect, movable body rotation effect, pair character effect) have higher expectations for big hits than other effects, and an effect scenario that includes these special effects is selected. By executing the special effect, it is possible to give the player a high expectation for the big hit.

7. Production Execution Suggestion Production Next, a production execution suggestion production (production look-ahead chance production) that suggests whether or not to execute a special production, which is performed prior to the development to SP reach, will be described. In the production look-ahead chance production, multiple options are displayed. A special effect (in this embodiment, a 3D button display effect, a movable body rotation effect, and a pair character effect) is assigned to each option. Then, when one of the options is selected, different images (to the selected option) depending on whether the special effect corresponding to the selected option is executed during the variable display of the special symbol or not. An effect execution suggestion image (an image suggesting whether or not the corresponding special effect is executed) is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. That is, the effect look-ahead chance effect is executed by the effect control board 120 and the image control board 140. It should be noted that whether or not the effect look-ahead chance effect is executed is also determined by the scenario of the entire variable effect.

FIG. 17 shows the flow of the variable effect when the effect look-ahead chance effect is performed. When the variation effect is started, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays the left effect symbol EZ1, the middle effect symbol EZ2, and the right effect symbol EZ3 on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, respectively, as shown in FIG. 17 (A). Then, the variable display of these effect symbols EZ is started. “↓” in FIG. 17 indicates that the effect symbol EZ is being displayed in a variable manner. The pachinko gaming machine PY1 lights the frame lamp 53 or the board lamp 54 according to a predetermined lighting pattern during the execution of the variation effect. Further, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 outputs a predetermined music and sound effect from the speaker 52 during the execution of the variation effect.

After that, as shown in FIG. 17B, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a title image announcing the start of the effect look-ahead chance effect at a predetermined timing before the development of the SP reach, in the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Is displayed on the screen, and the production look-ahead chance production is started.

When the production look-ahead chance production is started, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 sets the select button validity period for accepting the operation of the select button 42k. This select button validity period is set so as to be a period that ends before the development of SP reach when the select button 42k is not operated. Then, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 sets the select button validity period, and displays the operation reception image EGC prompting the operation of the select button 42k on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 as shown in FIG. 17 (C). ..

Specifically, among the select buttons 42k, the operation reception image EGC includes an upward button image BGU with an upward button 42 kU as a motif, a downward button image BGD with a downward button 42 kD as a motif, and a left button 42 kL. A left-direction button image BGL as a motif and a right-direction button image BGR with a right-direction button 42kR as a motif are included, respectively. The upward button image BGU is on the upper side of the display unit 50a, the downward button image BGD is on the lower side of the display unit 50a, the left button image BGL is on the left side of the display unit 50a, and the right button image BGR is on the display unit. It is displayed on the right side of 50a. That is, in the effect look-ahead chance effect, each direction button 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, 42 kR of the select button 42 k is an option, and the button images BGU, BGD, BGL, BGR corresponding to each direction button 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, 42 kR are displayed. Will be done.

Each option in the production look-ahead chance production corresponds to one of the special productions. In this embodiment, the upward button 42 kU corresponds to the movable body rotation effect, the downward button 42 kD corresponds to the 3D button display effect, and the left direction button 42 kL and the right direction button 42 kR correspond to the pair character effect. ing. Then, when the select button 42k is operated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not a special effect corresponding to the operated direction button is executed, and displays an effect execution suggestion image showing the determination result on the image display device 50. Is displayed on the display unit 50a of.

For example, when the right direction button 42kR is operated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not to execute the pair character effect in the effect during SP reach, and indicates whether or not the pair character effect is executed. Is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. The production scenario during SP reach is selected at the start of the variable production. Therefore, even before the start of SP reach, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 can determine whether or not the pair character effect can be executed.

Specifically, when executing the pair character effect during SP reach, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 shifts the operation reception image EGC to the left as shown in FIG. 17 (D1), and the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 The right side effect suggestion image EGR1 is displayed in the right side area 50aR, and the right side effect suggestion image EGR1 includes an image of a character displayed in the right side area 50aR of the display unit 50a in the pair character effect. This right-side effect suggestion image EGR1 is an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the pair character effect is executed. At this time, the frame lamp 53 to be turned on during the pair character effect may be temporarily turned on.

On the other hand, when the pair character effect is not executed during SP reach, as shown in FIG. 17 (D2), the operation reception image EGC is shifted to the left side, and the right side effect is suggested in the right area 50aR of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Although the image EGR2 is displayed, the right side effect suggestion image EGR2 does not include the image of the character displayed in the right side area 50aR of the display unit 50a in the pair character effect. This right-side effect suggestion image EGR2 is an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the pair character effect is not executed. In the present specification, the right side effect suggestion image EGR1 and the right side effect suggestion image EGR2 are collectively referred to as “right side effect suggestion image EGR”. The difference between the right-side effect suggestion images EGR1 and EGR2 suggests whether or not the pair character effect during SP reach can be executed. In particular, since the image of the character appearing in the pair character effect is displayed as the right side effect suggestion image EGR1, it is easy for the player to understand that the pair character effect is executed.

After displaying the right-side effect suggestion image EGR, when the timing for further development to SP reach is reached, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 displays a title image showing SP reach on the image display device 50 as shown in FIG. 17 (E). It is displayed in part 50a and the production is developed into SP reach. After that, when the pair character effect is included as the SP reach effect scenario, the pair character effect is executed as shown in FIG. 17 (F1), and the pair character effect is included as the SP reach effect scenario. If not, as shown in FIG. 17 (F2), an effect other than the pair character effect is executed.

In addition, for example, when the left direction button 42 kL is operated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not to perform the pair character effect in the effect during the SP reach, as in the case where the right direction button 42 kR is operated. , The effect execution suggestion image suggesting whether or not the pair character effect can be executed is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

Specifically, when executing the pair character effect during SP reach, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 shifts the operation reception image EGC to the right side as shown in FIG. 18 (D1), and the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 The left side effect suggestion image EGL1 is displayed in the left side area 50aL, and the left side effect suggestion image EGL1 includes an image of a character displayed in the left side area 50aL of the display unit 50a in the pair character effect. This left side effect suggestion image EGL1 is an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the pair character effect is executed. At this time, the frame lamp 53 to be turned on during the pair character effect may be temporarily turned on.

On the other hand, when the pair character effect is not executed during SP reach, as shown in FIG. 18 (D2), the operation reception image EGC is shifted to the right, and the left side effect is suggested in the left side area 50aL of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Although the image EGL2 is displayed, the left side effect suggestion image EGL2 does not include the image of the character displayed in the left side area 50aL of the display unit 50a in the pair character effect. This left side effect suggestion image EGL2 is an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the pair character effect is not executed. In the present specification, the left side effect suggestion image EGL1 and the left side effect suggestion image EGL2 are collectively referred to as “left side effect suggestion image EGL”. The difference between the left side effect suggestion images EGL1 and EGL2 suggests whether or not the pair character effect during SP reach can be executed, as in the case of the right side effect suggestion image EGR. In particular, since the image of the character appearing in the pair character effect is displayed as the left side effect suggestion image EGL1, it is easy for the player to understand that the pair character effect is executed.

Further, for example, when the upward button 42 kU is operated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not to perform the movable body rotation effect in the effect during SP reach, and executes the effect suggesting whether or not the movable body rotation effect can be executed. The suggested image is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

Specifically, when the movable body rotation effect is executed during the SP reach, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 shifts the operation reception image EGC downward and displays the image display device 50 as shown in FIG. 19 (D1). An effect of displaying the upper effect suggestion image EGU1 is performed in the upper area 50aU of the portion 50a, and the upper effect suggestion image EGU1 includes an image with the decorative movable body 58k as a motif. This upper effect suggestion image EGU1 becomes an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the movable body rotation effect is executed. At this time, the decorative movable body 58k may be temporarily rotated.

On the other hand, when the movable body rotation effect is not executed during the SP reach, the operation reception image EGC is shifted downward and above the upper region 50aU of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, as shown in FIG. 19 (D2). The effect suggestion image EGU2 is displayed, but the upper effect suggestion image EGU2 does not include an image with the decorative movable body 58k as a motif. This upper effect suggestion image EGU2 becomes an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the movable body rotation effect is not executed. In the present specification, the upper effect suggestion image EGU1 and the upper effect suggestion image EGU2 are collectively referred to as "upper effect suggestion image EGU". The difference between the upper effect suggestion images EGU1 and EGU2 suggests whether or not the movable body rotation effect during SP reach can be executed. In particular, since an image with the decorative movable body 58k as a motif is displayed as the upper effect suggestion image EGU1, it is easy for the player to understand that the movable body rotation effect is executed.

Further, for example, when the downward button 42 kD is operated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 determines whether or not to perform the 3D button display effect in the effect during SP reach, and executes the effect suggesting whether or not the 3D button display effect can be executed. The suggested image is displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

Specifically, when executing the 3D button display effect during SP reach, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 shifts the operation reception image EGC upward as shown in FIG. 20 (D1), and the display unit of the image display device 50. An effect of displaying the lower effect suggestion image EGD1 in the lower region 50aD of 50a is performed, and the lower effect suggestion image EGD1 includes an image with the effect button 40k as a motif. Furthermore, the effect button 40k is made into a three-dimensional image. This lower effect suggestion image EGD1 becomes an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the 3D button display effect is executed. At this time, the effect button 40k may be temporarily set to a special mode.

On the other hand, when the 3D button display effect is not executed during the SP reach, the operation reception image EGC is shifted upward and lowered to the lower region 50aD of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, as shown in FIG. 20 (D2). The side effect suggestion image EGD2 is displayed, but the lower effect suggestion image EGD2 does not include an image with the effect button 40k as a motif. This lower effect suggestion image EGD2 becomes an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the 3D button display effect is not executed. In the present specification, the lower effect suggestion image EGD1 and the lower effect suggestion image EGD2 are collectively referred to as “lower effect suggestion image EGD”. The difference between the lower effect suggestion images EGD1 and EGD2 suggests whether or not the 3D button display effect during SP reach can be executed. In particular, since an image with the effect button 40k as a motif is displayed as the lower effect suggestion image EGD1, it is easy for the player to understand that the 3D button display effect is executed.

That is, according to the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, whether or not a special effect with a high expectation for a big hit is executed is suggested by the effect execution suggestion image for each special effect before developing into SP reach. Therefore, the player can predict the development of the effect in the subsequent SP reach, and the pachinko gaming machine PY1 can give the player a sense of expectation even before the special effect is executed.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect, a special effect is assigned to each direction button 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, 42 kR of the select button 42 k, and the direction indicated by each direction button 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, 42 kR is special. It suggests the content of the production. For example, the upward button 42kU is assigned a movable body rotation effect for operating the decorative movable body 58k located above the image display device 50, and the downward button 42kD is assigned to the lower side of the image display device 50. A 3D button display effect for operating the position effect button 40k is assigned. Further, the left direction button 42kL and the right direction button 42kR are assigned a pair character effect in which characters appear in the left and right areas 50aL and 50aR of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, respectively. Therefore, it is easy for the player to predict what kind of effect will be executed for each option.

It should be noted that since the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment is performed before the SP reach is developed, it is also suggested that the SP reach is developed when the execution of the special effect is suggested. However, the execution timing of the effect look-ahead chance effect of this form is not limited to before the development to the SP reach, for example, immediately after the development to the SP reach, that is, after the development to the SP reach and before the special effect is executed. You may go to. Directing look-ahead chance By performing the directing after developing into SP reach, it is possible to prevent the development of SP reach from being exposed to the player before developing into SP reach. On the other hand, it is easy to secure a longer execution time of the production look-ahead chance production by performing the production look-ahead chance production before developing into SP reach.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, when the special effect is executed, the effect execution suggestion image suggesting the execution of the special effect is always displayed, but it is not always necessary to display 100%. For example, when one option is selected, the content of the effect execution suggestion image corresponding to that option may be determined by lottery. In this case, when executing the special effect corresponding to the option, a table in which the effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the special effect is executed is easily displayed (for example, 80% of the effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the special effect is executed is selected. (A table in which an effect execution suggestion image suggesting no execution is selected) is used, and when the special effect corresponding to the option is not executed, an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the special effect is executed is displayed. A lottery is performed using a table that is difficult to display (for example, a table in which 10% selects an effect execution suggestion image suggesting that execution is present and 90% selects an effect execution suggestion image suggesting no execution). As a result, even if the effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the special effect is executed is not displayed, the player's expectation can be maintained even slightly.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, there is no difference in the image between the case where the special effect is executed and the case where the special effect is not executed in the operation reception image EGC (see FIG. 17 (C)), but the special effect is performed. The image may be different depending on whether it is executed or not. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, when the special effect is executed, the size of the selected image may be increased as compared with the case where the special effect is not executed. FIG. 21 shows a case where the movable body rotation effect is executed and the pair character effect and the 3D button display effect are not executed, and the size of the upward button image BGU is larger than that of other images. As a result, the player can operate the select button 42k with a higher expectation. As a method of providing a difference in the image between the case where the special effect is executed and the case where the special effect is not executed, the image may be different in color as well as the difference in image size, and the image of the option when executing the special effect May swing.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, the select button validity period is canceled when the select button 42k is operated. Therefore, there is only one chance to select, and only suggestion of whether or not to execute one type of special effect (pre-reading display of the special effect) is possible. However, if the select button validity period is not canceled even if the select button 42k is operated, and the select button validity period remains after displaying the effect execution suggestion image corresponding to the previously selected option, The operation reception image EGC may be returned to the original position, the operation of the select button 42k may be received again, and the effect execution suggestion image corresponding to the selected option may be displayed. That is, the look-ahead display of the special effect may be performed a plurality of times during the valid period of the select button. By enabling the look-ahead display of the special effect multiple times, the player can predict whether or not more special effects will be executed. On the other hand, by setting the look-ahead of the special effect only once, the player can enjoy selecting which special effect the look-ahead display is to be performed.

Further, in the production look-ahead chance production of this embodiment, the choices correspond to the direction buttons 42kU, 42kD, 42kL, and 42kR of the select button 42k, and the direction and the special production correspond to each other. It does not have to be. For example, the effect may be such that the main character is displayed on the entire display unit 50a of the image display device 50.

In addition, the effect look-ahead chance effect of this form includes an image of a character appearing in the special effect and an image with a structure used for the special effect as a motif in the effect execution suggestion image suggesting that the special effect is executed. The type of special effect is suggested to the player, but the image suggesting the type of special effect is not limited to this. For example, in order to convey the type of special effect to the player in an easy-to-understand manner, an image that directly suggests the type of special effect to the player, such as the title image of the special effect as shown in FIG. 22, may be included.

In addition, the effect look-ahead chance effect of this form is not always executed before the development to SP reach, and whether or not it is executed is determined by the scenario of the variable effect. That is, even in the scenario that develops into SP reach, there are some that include the production look-ahead chance production and some that do not, and when the production scenario including the production look-ahead chance production is selected, the production look-ahead chance production is executed. To.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, when the select button 42k is operated, the operation reception image EGC is shifted, and the effect execution suggestion image is displayed in a part of the display area of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. However, the effect suggestion image may be cut-in-displayed in the entire display area of the display unit 50a. However, by displaying the effect execution suggestion image in the area related to the direction of the select button 42k, the player can easily predict the type of the special effect.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect of this embodiment, the options and the select buttons 42k in each direction buttons 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, and 42 kR correspond to each other, and the operations of the direction buttons 42 kU, 42 kD, 42 kL, and 42 kR are the options as they are. Although it is a decision, the method of determining options and the number of options are not limited to this. For example, one option may be selected by operating the select button 42k, and the option may be determined by operating the effect button 40k. Further, the option may be determined by another input device such as a joystick. In these cases, the number of choices is not limited to the number of direction buttons of the select button 42k, and may be any number.

8. Operation of the Game Control Microcomputer 101 Next, the operation of the game control microcomputer 101 on the game control board 100 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. As a specific process executed by the game control microcomputer 101, there is a game side activation process. The counter, timer, flag, status, buffer, etc. that appear in the operation description of the game control microcomputer 101 are provided in the game RAM 104.

[Game side activation process]
The game-side activation process executed by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the game control microcomputer 101, when the main power supply of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 was turned on from off, that is, the power switch 191 was turned on, and power supply from the outside was started via the power supply board 190. Taking this as an opportunity, the program of the game side activation process is read from the game ROM 103 and executed.

In the game side activation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first performs an initial operation (S001). Specifically, in S001, the game control microcomputer 101 permits access to the game RAM 104. Further, when the RAM clear switch 119 is pressed or when the main power supply is not normally turned off, the game RAM 104 is initialized. As a result, various flags and statuses become initial values, and various information stored in the game RAM 104 is lost. Further, a RAM initialization command for initializing the effect RAM 124 and the like on the effect control board 120 side is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104. In addition, in S001, for example, stack setting, constant setting, interrupt time setting, game CPU 102 setting, SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time) and the like are set. The initial operation of S001 is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

After S001, the game control microcomputer 101 disables interrupts (S002). Next, the game control microcomputer 101 updates the values of various random numbers (S003). Specifically, in S003, the game control microcomputer 101 updates the values of various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, a fluctuation pattern random number, and a normal hit random number. As a method of updating the random number, for example, a predetermined number of values are added at the time of one update. The predetermined number may be common to all random numbers or may be different for each random number. The value of the random number returns to 0 when the upper limit is reached. Further, the initial value of the random number may be 0 or a value other than 0, and the initial value of the random number may be common to all random numbers or may be different for each random number. .. Further, each random number may be generated by using a known random number generation circuit including a counter IC or the like. In that case, S003 may be omitted. Further, the random number generation circuit may be built in the game control microcomputer 101.

After S003, the game control microcomputer 101 allows interrupts (S004). After that, S002 to S004 are repeated. While the interrupt is permitted, the game side timer interrupt process (S005) can be executed. The game side timer interrupt process is executed based on, for example, an interrupt pulse repeatedly input to the game CPU 102 at a cycle of 4 ms. Then, when the game side timer interrupt process is executed, the processes S002 to S004 are repeated between the end of the game side timer interrupt process and the start of the next game side timer interrupt process. .. If an interrupt pulse is input to the game CPU 102 in the interrupt disabled state, the execution of the game side timer interrupt process is not started immediately, but is started after waiting for the interrupt enabled state.

[Game side timer interrupt processing]
Next, the game side timer interrupt processing of S005 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The game side timer interrupt process is executed by the game control microcomputer 101 every time an interrupt pulse having a cycle of 4 ms is input.

In the game side timer interrupt processing, the game control microcomputer 101 first sends a command set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 to a command other than the game control board 100 in the pachinko game machine PY1 such as the effect control board 120 and the payout control board 170. Output to the device of (S101). Commands are appropriately set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 by various processes described later.

After S101, the game control microcomputer 101 stores the input information (S102). Specifically, in S102, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs from various sensors such as the first start port sensor 11a, the second start port sensor 12a, the gate sensor 13a, the large winning opening sensor 14a, and the general winning opening sensor 10a. Read the signal. Then, it is determined whether or not there is a prize based on those signals, and a payout command instructing the payout of the prize ball according to the type of the winning opening is set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104.

After S102, the game control microcomputer 101 updates the values of various random numbers (S103). The processing of S103 is the same as that of S003. That is, the game control microcomputer 101 updates the values of various random numbers both during the execution period of the game side timer interrupt process and during other periods. The random number value may be updated only in one of the periods.

After S103, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a sensor detection process for detecting the passage of the game ball to a predetermined area such as a start port based on signals output from various sensors (S111). Details of S111 will be described later.

After S111, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a normal operation process, which is an operation related to a normal symbol (S121). Specifically, in S121, when the game control microcomputer 101 satisfies the lottery condition for a normal hit, whether or not the normal hit random number stored in the normal figure reservation storage unit 106 is used to win the normal hit. To judge. Then, the normal symbol stop symbol data according to the determination result and the fluctuation pattern according to the game state are determined, and the normal symbol display 82 is made to display the normal symbol. Further, when a normal hit is won, the opening pattern of the electric chew 12D is determined according to the gaming state, and the electric chew 12D is operated. The details of the normal operation processing will be described later.

After S121, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a special operation process which is an operation related to the special symbol (S131). Specifically, in S131, when the game control microcomputer 101 satisfies the jackpot lottery condition, it determines whether or not the jackpot has been won by using the jackpot random number stored in the special figure reservation storage unit 105. .. Then, a special symbol according to the determination result and a variation pattern according to the game state are determined, and the special symbol display 81 is made to display the special symbol. If the jackpot is won, the jackpot game is executed. The order of S121 and S131 may be reversed. Details of the special operation processing will be described later.

After S131, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs drive data for controlling various solenoids (S151). For example, the AT solenoid 14s is controlled to drive the AT opening / closing member 14k to open / close the large winning opening 14. After S151, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special figure hold indicator 83 and the normal figure hold indicator based on each hold number of the normal figure hold number, the first special figure hold number, and the second special figure hold number. The display of 84 is updated (S161).

After S161, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs various signals via the external output terminal plate 173 based on the command set in the external output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S171). For example, when a jackpot is won in a jackpot lottery, the game control microcomputer 101 outputs a jackpot signal to an external device.

After S171, the game control microcomputer 101 executes a power supply cutoff monitoring process for normally turning off the main power supply (S181). Specifically, in S181, the game control microcomputer 101 stores, for example, information indicating that the main power supply has been normally turned off in the game RAM 104 when the power switch 191 is detected to be turned off. Then, access to the gaming RAM 104 is restricted.

After S181, the game control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S191). Other processes include, for example, updating the timer during operation, processing for paying out the prize ball according to the winning of the game ball, detection and notification of fraud, and the like. After S191, the game side timer interrupt processing is terminated.

After that, the game control microcomputer 101 repeats the processing of S002 to S004 of the game side activation process until the next interrupt pulse is input to the game CPU 102, and when the interrupt pulse is input, the game side timer interrupt is performed again. Execute the process. In S101 of the game side timer interrupt process executed again, the command set in the output buffer of the game side RAM 104 in the previous game side timer interrupt process is output.

[Sensor detection processing]
Next, the sensor detection process of S111 of FIG. 24 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 25.

In the sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 13 based on the signal output from the gate sensor 13a (S201). When the game ball has passed through the gate 13 (YES in S201), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of normal drawing reservations is less than 4 (S202).

If the number of normal figure reservations is less than 4 (YES in S202), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the number of normal figure reservations (S203), and further acquires and acquires the value of the random number per ordinary figure. The value of the normal hit random number is stored in the general figure holding storage unit 106 (S204).

After S204, or when the number of reserved figures is not less than 4 (NO in S202), or when the game ball has not passed through the gate 13 (NO in S201), the game control microcomputer 101 is the first Based on the signal output from the start port sensor 11a, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the first start port 11 (S211). When the game ball has passed through the first starting port 11 (YES in S211), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of the first special figure reservations is less than 4 (S212).

If the number of the first special figure hold is less than 4 (YES in S212), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the number of the first special figure hold (S213), and further, the jackpot random number, the jackpot type random number, The value of each random number related to the jackpot of the reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number is acquired, and the value of each acquired random number is stored in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a (S214).

After S214, the game control microcomputer 101 identifies the first start winning command based on the value of each random number acquired in S214, and sets the first start winning command in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S215). ). The first start winning command is used for a look-ahead effect, etc., in addition to the effect when the fluctuation occurs. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the first start winning command includes information on whether or not it is a big hit.

The first start winning command set in the output buffer is transmitted to the effect control board 120 in S101 of the game side timer interrupt process. That is, even before the variation display of the special symbol corresponding to the random number acquired in S214 is started, the command including the information related to the random number is output to the effect control board 120. The effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120 executes the process corresponding to the command in response to the input of the command.

After S215, when the number of first special figure reservations is 4 or more (NO in S212), or when the game ball has not passed through the first starting port 11 (NO in S211), the game control microcomputer 101 Determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the second starting port 12 based on the signal output from the second starting port sensor 12a (S221). When the game ball has passed through the second starting port 12 (YES in S221), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of the second special figure pending is less than 4 (S222).

If the number of the second special figure hold is less than 4 (YES in S222), the game control microcomputer 101 adds 1 to the number of the second special figure hold (S223), and further, like S214, regarding the jackpot. The value of each random number is acquired, and the value of each acquired random number is stored in the second special figure reservation storage unit 105b (S224).

After S224, the game control microcomputer 101 identifies the second start winning command based on the value of each random number acquired in S224, and sets the second start winning command in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S225). ). As a result, similarly to S215, a command including information related to the random number is output to the effect control board 120 before the variation display of the special symbol corresponding to the random number acquired in S224 is started.

After S225, when the number of the second special figure hold is 4 or more (NO in S222), or when the game ball has not passed through the second starting port 12 (NO in S221), the large winning opening sensor 14a After performing the process corresponding to the above and the process corresponding to the general winning opening sensor 10a, the game control microcomputer 101 ends the sensor detection process.

[Normal operation processing]
Next, the normal operation process of S121 of FIG. 24 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the normal operation process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the electric chew 12D is operating (S401). If the electric chew 12D is not in operation (NO in S401), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the stop display of the normal symbol is in progress (S402). Unless the stop display of the normal symbol is being displayed (NO in S402), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is being displayed (S403). Unless the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is being displayed (NO in S403), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is "0" (S404). If the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is "0" (YES in S404), the normal operation process ends.

On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is not "0" (NO in S404), the game control microcomputer 101 determines the normal hit (S405). Specifically, in S405, the value of the normal symbol random number stored in the normal symbol hold storage unit 106 is read out, and whether or not it is a hit is determined based on the normal symbol hit determination table shown in FIG. 9 (C). Then, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the normal drawing stop symbol according to the result of the hit determination (S406). Specifically, in S406, the normal figure stop symbol data according to the result of the hit determination is set in a predetermined storage area of the game RAM 104. That is, if it is "lost", the data corresponding to the "normal lost symbol" is set, and if it is "hit", the data corresponding to the "normal hit symbol" is set.

After S406, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (S407). Specifically, in S407, referring to the normal symbol variation pattern selection table shown in FIG. 9 (D), if the game state is the time saving state, the normal symbol variation pattern having a variation time of 1 second is selected. If the gaming state is a non-time saving state, a normal symbol variation pattern with a normal symbol variation time of 10 seconds is selected.

After S407, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts 1 from the number of normally symbol reserved balls (S408). Then, the storage location (storage area) of each normal figure hold in the normal figure hold storage unit 106 is shifted by one to the side read from the current position, and the storage corresponding to the fourth hold in the normal figure hold storage unit 106 is performed. The area (the storage area farthest from the read side) is cleared (S409). In this way, the general map hold is digested in the order in which it was held. After that, the game control microcomputer 101 starts the variation display of the normal symbol in the normal symbol variation pattern selected in S407 (S410). Along with this, in order to notify the effect control board 120 of the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol, a command for starting the fluctuation of the normal symbol is set.

Further, if the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is being displayed (YES in S403), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the fluctuation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (S411), and if it has not elapsed (NO in S411). ), Ends normal operation processing. On the other hand, if it has passed (YES in S411), the game control microcomputer 101 stops the variable display of the normal symbol at the display result (normal hit symbol or normal out-of-order symbol) according to the determination result of the normal symbol random number. (S412). Then, the normal symbol fluctuation stop command for notifying the fluctuation stop of the normal symbol is set on the effect control board 120 (S413), the stop time of the normal symbol is set (S414), and the normal operation process is terminated.

If the stop display of the normal symbol is being displayed (YES in S402), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the stop time of the normal symbol set in S414 has elapsed (S415), and if not. (NO in S415), the normal operation process is terminated. On the other hand, if it has passed (YES in S415), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol data of the normal hit symbol is set (S416), and must be the data of the normal hit symbol. If (that is, if it is not a hit (NO in S416)), the normal operation process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is the data of the normal hit symbol (that is, if it is a hit (YES in S416)), the game control microcomputer 101 sets the opening pattern of the electric chew 12D (S417). Specifically, in S417, if the time is shortened, the opening pattern in the time saving state is set as the opening pattern of the electric chew 12D. On the other hand, in the non-time saving state, the opening pattern in the non-time saving state is set as the opening pattern of the electric chew 12D. Then, the game control microcomputer 101 operates the electric chew 12D according to the set opening pattern (S418).

Further, if the electric chew 12D is operating (YES in S401), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the operating time of the electric chew 12D has elapsed (S419), and if not (S419). NO), the normal operation process ends. On the other hand, if it has passed (YES in S419), the game control microcomputer 101 ends the operation of the electric chew 12D (S420), and ends the normal operation process.

[Special operation processing]
Next, the special operation process of S131 of FIG. 24 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 27. In the special operation processing, the processing related to the special figure display 81 and the grand prize device 14D is divided into four stages, and "special operation status" is assigned to 1 to 4 in each of these stages. The initial value of the special operation status is "1".

In the special operation processing, the game control microcomputer 101 first reads the value of the special operation status (S1002), and executes one of the processes (any of S1003 to S1006) according to this value.

Specifically, when the value of the special operation status is "1", the special symbol standby process (S1003) is performed. Further, when the value of the special operation status is "2", the special symbol change processing (S1004) is performed. If the value of the special operation status is "3", the special symbol determination process (S1005) is performed. Further, when the value of the special operation status is "4", the jackpot game process (S1006) is performed. Each of these processes (S1003 to S1006) will be described later.

[Special symbol standby processing]
Next, the special symbol standby process of S1003 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 28.

In the special symbol standby process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the number of reserved balls in the second starting port 12 (that is, the number of reserved balls in special figure 2) is “0” (S1401). Special Figure 2 When the number of reserved balls is "0" (YES in S1401), that is, when there is no memory of the random number acquired due to the winning of the second starting port 12, the game control microcomputer 101 is the first It is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls in the 1 starting port 11 (that is, the number of reserved balls in the special figure 1) is “0” (S1411).

Special Figure 1 When the number of reserved balls is also "0" (YES in S1411), that is, when there is no memory of the random number acquired due to the winning of the first starting port 11, the game control microcomputer 101 has already been used. It is determined whether or not the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 is set as the standby screen (demo screen for waiting for customers) (S1421), and if it is set as the standby screen (YES in S1421), the special symbol standby process is terminated. If the standby screen is not set (NO in S1421), a customer waiting standby command for displaying the standby screen is set after waiting for the elapse of a predetermined waiting time (S1422), and the special symbol standby process is terminated.

Special figure 2 When the number of reserved balls is not "0" (NO in S1401), that is, there is one or more memory of random numbers (holding information of special figure 2) acquired due to winning a prize in the second starting port 12. In this case, the game control microcomputer 101 performs the special figure 2 jackpot determination process (S1402). Special Figure 2 Details of the jackpot determination process will be described later.

After S1402, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the variation pattern of the special figure 2 based on the determination result of the special figure 2 in S1402 (S1403). Specifically, the fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number with reference to the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Once the fluctuation pattern is decided, the fluctuation time is also decided.

After S1403, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one from the number of reserved balls in FIG. 2 (S1404). Then, the storage location (storage area) of various random numbers in the second special figure reservation storage unit 105b is shifted by one to the side read from the current position, and the first hold in the second special figure reservation storage unit 105b is performed. Clears the storage area corresponding to (S1405).

After S1405, the game control microcomputer 101 starts the variation display of the special figure 2 by the second special figure display 81b (S1406), and sets the variation start command of the special figure 2 in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S1406). S1407). The fluctuation start command (also referred to as the special figure 2 fluctuation start command) set in the special figure 2 fluctuation start process includes information and fluctuations of the special figure stop symbol data set in the special figure 2 jackpot determination process (S1402). It contains pattern information (information including fluctuation time information) and information on jackpot lottery (big hit success / failure and jackpot type). Further, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to "2" (S1408).

Further, when the number of reserved balls in special figure 2 is "0" but the number of reserved balls in special figure 1 is not "0" (YES in S1401 and NO in S1411), that is, there is no reserved information in special figure 2, but the number When there is one or more memories of the random number group (holding information of the special figure 1) acquired due to the winning of the 1 starting port 11, the game control microcomputer 101 performs the special figure 1 jackpot determination process (S1412). I do. Special Figure 1 Details of the jackpot determination process will be described later.

After S1412, the game control microcomputer 101 selects the variation pattern of the special figure 1 based on the determination result of the special figure 1 in S1412 (S1413). Specifically, the fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number with reference to the fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Once the fluctuation pattern is decided, the fluctuation time is also decided.

After S1413, the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one number of reserved balls in FIG. 1 (S1414). Then, the storage location (storage area) of various random numbers in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a is shifted by one to the side read from the current position, and the fourth hold in the first special figure reservation storage unit 105a is performed. (S1415) clears the storage area corresponding to (the storage area farthest from the read side). In this way, the first special figure hold is digested in the order in which it was held.

After S1415, the game control microcomputer 101 starts the variation display of the special figure 1 by the first special figure display 81a (S1416), and sets the variation start command of the special figure 1 in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 (S1416). S1417). The fluctuation start command (also referred to as the special figure 1 fluctuation start command) set in the special figure 1 fluctuation start process includes information and fluctuations of the special figure stop symbol data set in the special figure 1 jackpot determination process (S1412). It contains pattern information (information including fluctuation time information) and information on jackpot lottery (big hit success / failure and jackpot type). Further, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to "2" (S1408). After S1408, the special symbol standby process is terminated.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol based on the first special figure hold is performed only when the second special figure hold is "0". That is, the digestion of the second special figure hold is executed in preference to the digestion of the first special figure hold. In addition, you may digest the special figure hold in the order of memory without giving priority to the digestion of the second special figure hold. Further, in the present embodiment, one of the first special figure hold and the second special figure hold cannot be digested while the other is being digested, but the other is configured to be digestable even during the digestion of one. May be good.

[Special Figure 2 Big Hit Judgment Process (Special Figure 1 Big Hit Judgment Process)]
Next, the special figure 2 jackpot determination process of S1402 of FIG. 28 and the special figure 1 jackpot determination process of S1412 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 29. Since the processing flow of the special figure 2 jackpot determination process and the special figure 1 jackpot determination process is the same, both processes will be described together.

In the special figure 2 big hit determination process or the special figure 1 big hit determination process, the game control microcomputer 101 first reads a big hit random number from the game RAM 104 as a determination value (S1501). Specifically, in the special figure 2 jackpot determination process, it is stored in the first storage area (that is, the storage area corresponding to the first storage area of the second special figure hold) of the second special figure hold storage unit 105b of the gaming RAM 104. Read the jackpot random number. Further, in the special figure 1 jackpot determination process, the jackpot random number stored in the first storage area (that is, the storage area corresponding to the first storage area of the first special figure hold) of the first special figure hold storage unit 105a of the gaming RAM 104 Is read.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 sets a jackpot determination table (see FIG. 9A) (S1502). Then, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit (S1504). Specifically, if the game control microcomputer 101 is in a normal probability state (non-high probability state), it determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the table for the non-high probability state in the jackpot determination table, and in the high probability state. If there is, it is determined whether or not it is a jackpot based on the table for the high probability state in the jackpot determination table.

If the result of the jackpot determination is "big hit" (YES in S1504), the game control microcomputer 101 reads out the jackpot type random number and determines the type of the jackpot symbol based on the jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. (S1506). After S1506, the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the jackpot flag (S1507), and sets the special symbol stop symbol data according to the type of the jackpot symbol in the special symbol buffer provided in the game RAM 104 (S1507). S1508), this process is completed. On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot determination is "missing" (NO in S1504), the special symbol stop symbol data corresponding to the lost symbol is set in the special symbol buffer (S1508), and this process is completed.

[Processing during special symbol change]
Next, the process during special symbol change in S1004 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the special symbol changing process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the fluctuation time of the special symbol (the fluctuation time determined according to the fluctuation pattern) has elapsed (S1701). If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (NO in S1701), the processing during special symbol fluctuation is immediately terminated. As a result, the variable display of the special symbol is continued.

On the other hand, if the fluctuation time has elapsed (YES in S1701), the game control microcomputer 101 sets the fluctuation stop command (S1702) and sets the special operation status to "3" (S1703). Then, the variation display of the special symbol is stopped at the symbol (big hit symbol or missed symbol) corresponding to the set special symbol stop symbol data (S1704), and the processing during the special symbol variation is terminated.

[Special symbol confirmation process]
Next, the special symbol determination process of S1005 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the special symbol determination process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the stop time of the special symbol (stop time determined according to the fluctuation pattern selected in S1403 or S1413) has elapsed (S1801). If the stop time has not elapsed (NO in S1801), this process is immediately terminated. As a result, the stop display of the special symbol is continued. On the other hand, if the stop time has elapsed (YES in S1801), the game control microcomputer 101 performs the game state management process (S1802). Details of the game state management process will be described later.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the jackpot flag is ON (S1803). If the jackpot flag is ON (YES in S1803), the game control microcomputer 101 performs the game state reset process (S1804). The details of the game state reset process will be described later. After that, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to "4" (S1805). Then, in order to start the jackpot game, the jackpot opening setting is set (S1806), and the jackpot opening command is set (S1807). In the opening setting, the opening time of the jackpot game is set to a predetermined timer.

After S1807, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the value of the open counter to a value corresponding to the number of rounds of the jackpot game (S1808), and ends this process. The open counter is a counter that indicates the remaining number of round games in the jackpot game. This counter is also called the remaining round count counter.

Further, if the jackpot flag is not ON (NO in S1803), the jackpot game is not started. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 101 sets the special operation status to "1" (S1809) and ends this process.

[Game status management process]
Next, the game state management process of S1802 of FIG. 31 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 32.

In the game state management process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the time saving flag is ON (S2005). If the time saving flag is ON (YES in S2005), the game control microcomputer 101 subtracts one value of the time saving counter that counts the number of executions of the variation display of the special symbol executed in the time saving state by the subtractive method (YES). S2006), it is determined whether or not the value of the time reduction counter is "0" (S2007). If the value of the time saving counter is "0" (YES in S2007), the time saving flag is turned off (S2008). In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, the value of the time saving counter is set to "10000" if the probability variation jackpot is won at the time of transition to the time saving state, and the value of the time saving counter is set to "10000" if the normal jackpot is won. It is set to "100".

After S2008, or if the determination result of S2005 or S2007 is NO, this process ends.

[Game state reset process]
Next, the game state reset process of S1804 in FIG. 31 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 33.

In the game state reset process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the probability change flag is ON (S2101). If the probability change flag is ON (YES in S2101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns off the probability change flag (S2102). After S2102, or if the probability change flag is not ON (NO in S2101), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the time reduction flag is ON (S2103). If the time saving flag is ON (YES in S2103), the game control microcomputer 101 turns off the time saving flag (S2104). That is, during the execution of the jackpot game, it is controlled to a non-high probability state and a non-time saving state. After S2104, or if the time saving flag is not ON (NO in S2103), this process ends.

In this embodiment, since the low base state is always in the non-time saving state, the low base state is also controlled during the execution of the jackpot game. The low base state in this embodiment is a low base state in the sense that there is no winning support due to the frequent opening of the electric chew 12D, and the base up based on the operation of the large winning device is not taken into consideration. Absent.

[Big hit game processing]
Next, the jackpot game process of S1006 of FIG. 27 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 34.

In the jackpot game process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the opening time of the jackpot game has elapsed (S2301). If the opening time has not elapsed (NO in S2301), this process is immediately terminated. If the opening time has elapsed (YES in S2301), the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the ending of the jackpot game has started (S2302).

If the ending has not been started (NO in S2302), the game control microcomputer 101 executes round processing (S2303). On the other hand, if the ending has been started (YES in S2302), the game control microcomputer 101 executes the jackpot end process (S2304). Details of the round processing and the jackpot end processing will be described later. After S2303 to S2304, this process is completed.

[Round processing]
Next, the round processing of S2303 of FIG. 34 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 35.

In the round processing, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the large winning opening 14 is open (S2501). If the large winning opening 14 is not open (NO in S2501), it is determined whether or not it is time to open the large winning opening 14 (S2502).

When it is time to open the big winning opening 14 (YES in S2502), the game control microcomputer 101 opens the big winning opening 14 according to the selected opening pattern (S2503), and further includes information on the number of rounds. The round designation command is set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 (S2504). After S2504, or if it is not the time to open the large winning opening 14 (NO in S2502), this process ends.

On the other hand, if the large winning opening 14 is open (YES in S2501), the game control microcomputer 101 has a maximum number of winnings (9 in this embodiment) in which the number of winnings in the large winning opening 14 in the unit open game is specified. ) Is determined (S2521). If the specified number of winnings has not been reached (NO in S2521), whether it is time to close the opening large winning opening 14 (that is, whether the predetermined opening time has elapsed since the opening of the large winning opening 14). Is determined (S2522). Then, if the opening time of the large winning opening 14 has not elapsed (NO in S2522), this process ends.

On the other hand, when the specified number of winnings has been reached (YES in S2521) or when the opening time of the large winning opening 14 has elapsed (YES in S2522), that is, either of the two conditions for ending the opening of the large winning opening. When the above is satisfied, the game control microcomputer 101 closes the open winning opening 14 (S2523). Then, one value of the open counter is subtracted (S2524).

After S2524, the game control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not the value of the open counter is 0 (S2525). If the value of the release counter is not 0 (S2525: NO), this process is terminated as it is in order to start the next release. If the value of the open counter is 0 (YES in S2525), the jackpot ending setting is set (S2526) and the jackpot ending command is set (S2527) in order to end the jackpot game. In the ending setting, the ending time of the jackpot game is set to a predetermined timer. After S2527, this process ends.

[Big hit end processing]
Next, the jackpot end processing of S2304 of FIG. 34 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the jackpot end process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the ending time of the jackpot game has elapsed (S3001), and if the ending time has not elapsed (NO in S3001), the present process is immediately performed. Finish. On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (YES in S3001), the game control microcomputer 101 turns off the jackpot flag (S3002) and sets the special operation status to "1" (S3003). As a result, in the next game-side timer interrupt process, the special symbol standby process (S1003) is executed again as the special operation process. After that, the game control microcomputer 101 performs a game state setting process (S3004) to complete the process.

[Game status setting process]
Next, the game state setting process of S3004 of FIG. 36 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 37.

In the game state setting process, the game control microcomputer 101 first determines whether or not the type of jackpot that triggered the execution of the jackpot game is a probabilistic jackpot (S3101). If it is not a probabilistic jackpot, that is, if it is a normal jackpot (NO in S3101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the time reduction flag (S3102) and sets "100" in the time reduction counter (S3103). As a result, the game state after the big hit game this time becomes a non-high probability state, a time saving state, and a high base state (that is, a low probability high base state). This low-accuracy high-base state ends when either the condition that the variable display of the special symbol is performed 100 times or that the next big hit is won is satisfied.

On the other hand, in the case of a probability change jackpot (YES in S3101), the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the probability change flag (S3104) and sets "10000" in the probability change counter (S3105). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 101 turns on the time saving flag (S3107) and sets "10000" in the time saving counter (S3108). As a result, the game state after the big hit game this time becomes a high probability state, a short time state, and a high base state (that is, a high probability high base state). This high-accuracy high-base state ends when either the condition that the variable display of the special symbol is performed 10,000 times or that the next big hit is won is satisfied. In this pachinko gaming machine PY1, the jackpot is won at about 1/80 in a high probability state. Therefore, the next big hit is won before the lottery is substantially performed 10,000 times.

After S3108 or S3103, the game control microcomputer 101 finishes the game state setting process.

9. Operation of the effect control microcomputer 121 Next, the operation of the effect control microcomputer 121 on the effect control board 120 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. As a specific process executed by the effect control microcomputer 121, there is an effect side activation process. The counter, timer, flag, status, buffer, etc. that appear in the operation description of the effect control microcomputer 121 are provided in the effect RAM 124.

[Starting process on the production side]
The effect side activation process executed by the effect control microcomputer 121 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 38. In the effect control microcomputer 121, when the main power supply of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 was turned on from off, that is, the power switch 191 was turned on, and power supply from the outside was started via the power supply board 190. Taking this as an opportunity, the program for the production side activation process is read from the production ROM 123 and executed.

In the effect side activation process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first performs the CPU initialization process (S4001). In the CPU initialization process (S4001), stack setting, constant setting, CPU 92 setting, SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time) and the like are set.

Subsequently, the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the power supply cutoff signal is ON and the contents of the effect RAM 124 are normal (S4002). If it is not normal (NO in S4002), the effect control microcomputer 121 initializes the effect RAM 124 (S4003). On the other hand, if it is normal (YES in S4002), the effect control microcomputer 121 proceeds to S4004 without initializing the effect RAM 124. That is, if the power off signal is not ON, or if the contents of the effect RAM 124 are not normal even if the power off signal is ON (NO in S4002), the effect RAM 124 is initialized, but the power is turned off due to a power failure or the like. If the signal is turned on but the contents of the effect RAM 124 are kept normal (YES in S4002), the effect RAM 124 is not initialized. If the effect RAM 124 is initialized, the values of various flags, statuses, counters, and the like are reset. Further, S4001 to S4003 are executed only once after the power is turned on, and are not executed thereafter.

In S4004, the effect control microcomputer 121 disables interrupts (S4004). Next, the random number seed update process is executed (S4005). In the random number seed update process, the random number values required for determining various effects are updated. The random number for determining the effect includes a random number for determining the variable effect pattern for determining the variable effect pattern, a random number for determining various advance notice effects, a continuous effect random number for executing the continuous effect, and the like. The random number update method can be the same as the random number update process performed by the game control board 100 described above. The random number update method may be the same as or different from that of the game control microcomputer 101. Further, each random number may be generated by using a known random number generation circuit including a counter IC or the like. In that case, S4005 may be omitted. Further, the random number generation circuit may be built in the effect control microcomputer 121.

After S4005, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes a command transmission process (S4006). In the command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the effect RAM 124 of the effect control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140. The image control board 140 that has received the command executes various effects (effect symbol variation effect, jackpot effect (opening effect, round effect, ending effect, etc.) associated with the jackpot game) using the image display device 50 according to the command. It should be noted that the effect control board 120 outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 as the image control board 140 executes various effects, and the board lamp 54 or the board lamp 54 via the accessory lamp control board 162. The frame lamp 53 is made to emit light, and the decorative movable body 58k is driven. The effect control microcomputer 121 subsequently enables an interrupt (S4007). After that, S4004 to S4007 are looped. It is possible to execute the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4009) on the effect side and the 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4010) on the effect side.

The effect control microcomputer 121 also executes interrupt processing other than S4009 and S4010. For example, the effect control microcomputer 121 is a game control that stores a command sent from the main control board 80 in the effect RAM 124 when the command is input to the effect I / O port 138 of the effect control microcomputer 121. Executes command interrupt processing. The game control command interrupt process is executed in preference to other interrupt processes (S4009, S4010).

[Production side 1ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the effect side 1 ms timer interrupt process of S4009 of FIG. 38 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 39. The effect side 1 ms timer interrupt process is executed by the effect control microcomputer 121 each time an interrupt pulse having a 1 ms cycle is input.

In the effect side 1 ms timer interrupt process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first performs input process (S4201). In the input process, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates switch data (edge data and level data) based on the detection signals from the effect button detection sensor 40a and the select button detection sensor 42a.

After S4201, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs lamp data output processing (S4202). In the lamp data output processing, the lamp data created by the lamp processing in the 10ms timer interrupt processing on the effect side, which will be described later, or other processing is output to the accessory lamp control board 162 in order to make the frame lamp 53 or the like emit light at a timing suitable for the effect. .. That is, the frame lamp 53 and the like are made to emit light in a predetermined light emitting mode according to the lamp data.

After S4202, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a drive control process (S4203). In the drive control process, drive data (data for driving the decorative movable body 58k) is created or output in order to drive the decorative movable body 58k at a timing suitable for the effect. That is, the decorative movable body 58k is driven in a predetermined operation mode according to the driving data.

After S4203, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs other processing such as resetting the watchdog timer (S4204). After S4204, the 1ms timer interrupt processing on the production side is completed.

[Production side 10ms timer interrupt processing]
Next, the effect side 10 ms timer interrupt process of S4010 of FIG. 38 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 40. The effect side 10 ms timer interrupt process is executed by the effect control microcomputer 121 every time an interrupt pulse having a cycle of 10 ms is input.

In the effect side 10 ms timer interrupt process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first performs a receive command analysis process (S4301). The details of the received command analysis process will be described later. Next, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a switch state acquisition process of storing the switch data created by the effect side 1 ms timer interrupt process as the switch data for the effect side 10 ms timer interrupt process in the effect RAM 124 (S4302). Subsequently, a switch process for setting the display contents and the like of the display unit 50a is performed based on the switch data stored in the switch state acquisition process (S4303). The details of the switch processing will be described later.

After S4303, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs lamp processing (S4304). In the lamp processing, the effect control microcomputer 121 creates lamp data (data that controls the light emission of the frame lamp 53 and the like), manages the time of the light emission effect, and the like. Subsequently, voice control processing is performed (S4305). In the voice control process, voice data (data for controlling the output of voice from the speaker 52) is created, output to the voice control circuit 161 and time management of voice production is performed. As a result, the sound that matches the effect to be executed is output from the speaker 52. After S4305, button validity period processing for setting the validity period of various buttons is executed (S4306). The details of the button validity period processing will be described later. Then, the effect control microcomputer 121 executes other processes such as updating the effect determination random number (S4399), and ends this process.

[Received command analysis processing]
Next, the reception command analysis process of S4301 of FIG. 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 41.

In the reception command analysis process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first determines whether or not a start winning command (first start winning command or second starting winning command) has been received from the game control board 100 (S4411), and the start winning command (YES in S4411), the start winning command is stored in the start winning command hold storage unit 125, and the start winning process for pre-reading and the hold icon HA is performed (S4412).

After S4412, or if the start winning command has not been received (NO in S4411), the effect control microcomputer 121 receives a fluctuation start command from the game control board 100 (special figure 1 change start command or special figure 2 change start command). Is received (S4413), and if the variation start command is received (YES in S4413), the variation effect start process for selecting and starting the variation effect is performed (S4414). The details of the variable effect start processing will be described later.

After S4414, or if the fluctuation start command has not been received (NO in S4413), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the fluctuation stop command has been received from the main control board 80 (S4415), and the fluctuation stop command is received. (YES in S4415), the variation effect end processing is performed (S4416). In the variation effect end process, the variation effect being executed is terminated.

After S4416, or if the fluctuation end command is not received (NO in S4415), the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a process based on a received command other than the above command (for example, an opening command) as another process (S4419). , Round designation command, ending command, big winning opening winning command, normal symbol fluctuation start command, normal symbol fluctuation stop command, customer waiting standby command, etc.) to finish the reception command analysis process.

[Variation production start processing]
Next, the variation effect start processing of S4414 of FIG. 41 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 42.

In the variation effect start process, the effect control microcomputer 121 first analyzes the variation start command (S5401). The fluctuation start command includes information on the fluctuation pattern including the success or failure of the jackpot.

After S5401, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts the data stored in the start winning command hold storage unit 125 (first start winning command hold storage unit 125a or second start winning command hold storage unit 125b) ( S5403).

In the shift process of S5403, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts each data such as the start winning command stored in the first storage area to the fourth storage area to the previous storage area, and shifts the data to the previous storage area. To clear. For example, the data stored in the fourth storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a is shifted to the third storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a, and the fourth storage area is cleared. .. Further, the data stored in the first storage area of the first start winning command hold storage unit 125a is common to the first start prize command hold storage unit 125a and the second start prize command hold storage unit 125b for the fluctuation. It is shifted to the effect storage unit, and the data previously stored in the effect storage unit for the change is overwritten.

After S5403, the effect control microcomputer 121 shifts the hold icon HA (S5404). For example, the first hold icon HA is the variable icon, the second hold icon HA is the first hold icon HA, and the third hold icon HA is the second hold icon HA. Further, the mode of the hold icon HA is changed as needed according to the hold icon scenario.

After S5404, the effect control microcomputer 121 selects a combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 to be finally stopped and displayed in the variation effect (S5411). For example, if the jackpot is won, a combination of doublet effect symbols such as "777" is selected. If there is a loss, a combination of staggered patterns such as "123" is selected.

After S5411, the effect control microcomputer 121 performs a variation effect pattern selection process (S5412). In the variation effect pattern selection process, a variation effect pattern is selected by acquiring a random number for determining the variation effect pattern and determining the acquired random number value using a table for variation effect. The effect pattern is determined by the selection of the variable effect pattern, and whether or not there is SP reach, whether or not the effect look-ahead chance effect is executed when there is SP reach, and whether or not each special effect is executed is determined. Furthermore, if the execution of the special production is decided, the scenario of the special production will also be decided.

After S5412, the effect control microcomputer 121 sets a variation effect start command for starting the variation effect in the variation effect pattern selected in S5412 in the output buffer of the effect RAM 124 (S5413). When the variation effect start command set in S5413 is transmitted to the image control board 140 by the command transmission process (S4006), the image control board 140 of the image display device 50 based on the received variation effect start command. A variable effect is performed on the display unit 50a. After S5413, the effect control microcomputer 121 ends the variation effect start process.

[Switch processing]
Next, the switch processing of S4303 of FIG. 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 43.

In the switch processing, the effect control microcomputer 121 first analyzes the switch data acquired in S4302 and determines whether or not the effect button 40k is pressed (S6001). When the effect button 40k is pressed (YES in S6001), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the effect button validity period is set, that is, whether or not it is the timing to accept the press of the effect button 40k (YES). S6002).

When the effect button validity period is set (YES in S6002), the effect control microcomputer 121 executes the effect button process that performs the process associated with the operation of the effect button 40k (S6003). The processing associated with the operation of the effect button 40k includes, for example, display of a preview image by the image display device 50, display of a lottery result of a big hit, displacement of the decorative movable body 58k, and vibration of the effect button 40k by the effect button vibration motor 40 m. Applicable. In addition, acceptance and determination of various settings such as volume setting are applicable. For example, when the 3D button display effect of this embodiment is executed, a command for the image display device 50 for temporarily stopping and displaying a combination of effect symbols EZ indicating the winning result of the jackpot is set, and the effect button is further set. The sound effect associated with the 40k operation is output from the speaker 52.

After S6003, when the effect button validity period is not set (NO in S6002), or when the effect button 40k is not pressed (NO in S6001), the effect control microcomputer 121 is a switch acquired in S4302. The data is analyzed and it is determined whether or not the select button 42k is pressed (S6021). When the select button 42k is pressed (YES in S6021), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button validity period is set, that is, whether or not it is the timing to accept the press of the select button 42k (YES). S6022).

When the select button validity period is set (YES in S6022), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets a select button reception command indicating that the operation of the select button 42k has been accepted, and processes associated with the operation of the select button 42k. Is executed (S6023). The select button reception command includes information on which direction button of the select buttons 42k is operated. As the processing associated with the operation of the select button 42k, for example, when the direction button is operated during the effect look-ahead chance effect, the process of setting the display command of the effect suggestion image corresponding to the direction button and matching the effect scenario. Applies to. In addition, changes in various setting contents displayed on the image display device 50 are applicable.

After S6023, when the select button validity period is not set (NO in S6022), or when the select button 42k is not pressed (NO in S6021), the effect control microcomputer 121 ends the switch process.

In the switch processing of the present embodiment, the button operation (S6001, S6021) and the valid period (S6002, S6022) are determined in this order, but the order is not limited to this and may be the reverse order. That is, the validity period may be determined first.

[Button validity period processing]
Next, the button validity period processing of S4306 of FIG. 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the button validity period processing, the effect control microcomputer 121 first determines whether or not the effect button validity period, which is the effect period of the effect button 40k, has been set (S6101).

If the effect button validity period has already been set (YES in S6101), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the end condition of the effect button validity period is satisfied (S6102). As the end condition, for example, the time set as the effect button validity period has elapsed. Alternatively, it corresponds to the release of the standby state. When the end condition of the effect button validity period is satisfied (YES in S6102), the effect control microcomputer 121 cancels the setting of the effect button validity period (S6103). When the effect button expiration date is canceled, the effect button expiration date release command is set in order to notify the image control board 140 of the release.

If the effect button validity period has not been set (NO in S6101), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the effect button validity period setting condition is satisfied (S6111). The setting condition corresponds to, for example, reaching a predetermined timing determined by the production scenario. Alternatively, it corresponds to the standby state. When the effect button valid period setting condition is satisfied (YES in S6111), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets the effect button valid period (S6112). At the start of the effect period valid period, a valid period start command is set in order to notify the image control board 140 of the start.

After S6103, or when the end condition of the effect button validity period is not satisfied (NO in S6102), or after S6112, or when the setting condition of the effect button validity period is not satisfied (NO in S6111), for effect control. The microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the select button valid period, which is the valid period of the select button 42k, has been set (S6121).

If the select button valid period has already been set (YES in S6121), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the end condition of the select button valid period is satisfied (S6122). As the end condition, for example, the time set as the select button validity period has elapsed. Alternatively, it corresponds to the release of the standby state. When the end condition of the select button valid period is satisfied (YES in S6122), the effect control microcomputer 121 cancels the setting of the select button valid period (S6123). When canceling the setting of the select button expiration date, a select expiration date cancellation command is set in order to notify the image control board 140 of the cancellation.

If the select button valid period has not been set (NO in S6121), the effect control microcomputer 121 determines whether or not the setting condition of the select button valid period is satisfied (S6131). The setting condition corresponds to, for example, reaching a predetermined timing determined by the production scenario. Alternatively, it corresponds to the standby state. When the setting condition of the select button valid period is satisfied (YES in S6131), the effect control microcomputer 121 sets the select button valid period (S6132). When the select button validity period starts, a select button validity period start command is set in order to notify the image control board 140 of the start.

After S6123, or when the end condition of the select button validity period is not satisfied (NO in S6122), or after S6132, or when the setting condition of the select button validity period is not satisfied (NO in S6131), for effect control. The microcomputer 121 ends the button validity period processing.

10. Effect of the embodiment In the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the present embodiment, as an effect look-ahead chance effect, a special effect (3D button display effect, movable body rotation effect, pair character effect) corresponding to the option is selected according to the selection of the option. Since the effect execution suggestion image that suggests the execution presence / absence is displayed, it is possible to know in advance whether or not the special effect is executed in the SP reach. The special production suggests the expectation of a big hit, and when executed, the player can be given a feeling of expectation of a big hit. Therefore, by enabling the player to predict the development of the subsequent production by the production look-ahead chance production, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation even before the special production is executed.

Further, in the effect look-ahead chance effect, a special effect is assigned to each direction button of the select button 42k, and each direction suggests the content of the effect. For example, the upward button 42kU is assigned a movable body rotation effect for operating the decorative movable body 58k located above the image display device 50, and the downward button 42kD is assigned to the lower side of the image display device 50. A 3D button display effect for operating the position effect button 40k is assigned. Further, the left direction button 42 kL and the right direction button 42 kR are assigned a pair character effect in which a character appears in each of the left and right areas of the display unit 50a of the image display device 50. Therefore, it is easy for the player to predict what kind of effect will be executed for each option.

It should be noted that the present embodiment is merely an example and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, as a matter of course, the present invention can be improved and modified in various ways without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the numerical values (number of lottery numbers, set values of various tables, upper limit of various holding numbers, etc.) described in the present embodiment are examples and may be appropriately selected.

Further, in the embodiment, one gate 13 and one large winning opening 14 are provided on the right side of the center decoration body 61, but these are not limited to one and may be plural. Further, the gate 13 and the grand prize opening 14 are not limited to the right side of the center decoration body 61, and may be provided on the left side of the center decoration body 61.

Further, in the embodiment, the gaming machine is controlled to a high probability state based on the type of jackpot (type of stop symbol of special symbol), but a specific area is provided on the game board 1 and a game to the specific area is provided. It may be a gaming machine (so-called V probability machine) that is controlled to a high probability state based on the passage of a ball. Further, in the embodiment, a big hit is won by a lottery of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the entry of the game ball into the starting port (first starting port 11 or second starting port 12). It is a game machine equipped with a so-called type 1 jackpot, but it may be a gaming machine equipped with a so-called type 2 jackpot that wins a jackpot by passing a game ball through a specific area provided on the game board 1. ..

Further, in the embodiment, the process related to the second special figure hold is prioritized over the process related to the first special figure hold, but the process related to the first special figure hold may be prioritized. In addition, the process related to the special figure reservation that is stored first may be prioritized. Further, the process related to the first special figure hold and the process related to the second special figure hold may be performed in parallel. That is, the special figure 1 and the special figure 2 may be changed at the same time. In this case, when a special symbol indicating a big hit or a small hit is stopped and displayed on one of them, the variable display of the other special symbol is forcibly stopped and displayed as a lost symbol.

Further, in the embodiment, the display unit for performing the variation effect is configured by the display screen of one display device (display unit 50a of the image display device 50), but is configured by each display unit of two or more display devices. You may. For example, in a configuration including a sub display device in addition to the image display device 50 as the main display device, the effect symbol EZ is varied on the display screen of the main display device, and the display screen of the sub display device is used. It may be configured to perform a variation effect of a small symbol. Further, the normal drawing effect may be configured to be performed on the display screen of the sub display device. A touch panel including a touch sensor and a liquid crystal display device may be mounted on the game machine frame 2, and the liquid crystal display device on the touch panel may be used as a sub display device.

Further, the rules regarding the generation of the start winning command (see FIG. 12) may be changed as appropriate. For example, the start winning command may include information on the number of special figure reservations, information on the game state, information on fluctuation patterns, and the like.

Further, in the embodiment, the game area 6 is divided into a left game area 6L on the left side and a right game area 6R on the right side with respect to the left-right direction in the game area 6, for example, in the vertical direction. It may be configured to distinguish against. In this case, only the flow down due to the weight of the game ball is considered, but for example, it may be considered to move the game ball upward by using a mechanism for moving the game ball in the vertical direction. Further, the configuration may be such that the left and right regions are not distinguished. That is, the so-called gauge configuration is not limited to the arrangement of the embodiment.

Further, in the embodiment, four random numbers such as a jackpot random number are acquired as random numbers (judgment information) acquired based on the winning of the starting port, but one random number is acquired and used as the random number. Based on this, it may be decided whether or not it is a big hit or a small hit, the type of the big hit or the small hit, the presence or absence of reach, and the type of the fluctuation pattern. That is, the number of random numbers to be acquired based on the starting prize and what is to be determined for each random number can be arbitrarily set.

Further, in the embodiment, there is only one type of winning of the ordinary symbol lottery, but a type may be provided for the winning of the ordinary symbol lottery. In this case, as the random numbers to be acquired based on the passage of the gate, in addition to the ordinary symbol random numbers, the type random numbers per symbol may be acquired. Alternatively, one random number may be acquired, and based on the random number, whether or not it is a hit and the type of the normal hit symbol may be determined.

Further, the processes disclosed in the embodiments are mainly the game CPU 102 of the game control microcomputer 101 of the game control board 100, the effect CPU 122 of the effect control microcomputer 121 of the effect control board 120, and the image control board 140. It is executed by the image CPU 142, but may be executed by a single or a plurality of CPUs by, for example, a single control board. Further, the process disclosed in the embodiment may be executed by a plurality of CPUs in at least one of the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121. Further, the process disclosed in the embodiment may be executed in combination with other hardware in addition to the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121. Further, among the processes disclosed in the embodiment, a part of the processes of the game control microcomputer 101 and the effect control microcomputer 121 may be executed by another microcomputer. That is, it is an example of a means for executing various kinds of processing by combining the game control microcomputer 101, the effect control microcomputer 121, one microcomputer including these, and other hardware. In addition, the process disclosed in the embodiment can be realized in various aspects such as a recording medium or a method in which a program for executing the process is recorded.

A control method for realizing the functions of the game machine, a computer program, and a computer-readable storage medium for storing the computer program are also new and useful.

11. Inventions Shown in the Above Embodiments The inventions shown in the following embodiments are shown in the above-described embodiments. In the description of the means described below, the corresponding configuration names and expressions in the above-described embodiment and the reference numerals used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the components of the invention are not limited to this appendix.

The gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine PY1) according to the configuration of the first invention changes the lottery means (game control microcomputers 101, S1402, S1412) for drawing a big hit and a special symbol showing the lottery result by the lottery means. A special symbol display means (special symbol display 81) that displays and stops and displays the special symbol after the variation time has elapsed from the start of the variation display, and an image of a plurality of options during the variation display of the special symbol ( An image display means (image display device 50) for displaying an upward button image BGU, a downward button image BGD, a left button image BGL, and a right button image BGR) is provided, and each displayed by the image display means. Each of the options corresponds to a special effect (3D button display effect, movable body rotation effect, pair character effect), and the image display means is selected when one of the plurality of options is selected. The effect execution suggestion image (upper effect suggestion image EGU, lower effect suggestion image EGD, left side effect) is different depending on whether the special effect corresponding to the selected option is executed or not during the variable display of the special symbol. It is characterized in that the suggestion image EGL and the right side effect suggestion image EGR) are displayed.

There are already many conventional pachinko machines that can perform multiple effects. Therefore, in order to differentiate from the conventional model, it is required to improve the fun of the game by directing. Therefore, according to the configuration of the first invention, during the variable display of the special symbol, an image including a plurality of options corresponding to the special effect is displayed, and when one of the plurality of options is selected, the image is selected. The effect execution suggestion image, which is different depending on whether or not the special effect is executed corresponding to the selected option, is displayed. As a result, the player can predict the development of the subsequent production, and can give the player a sense of expectation even before the special production is executed.

In addition, the effect execution suggestion image displayed when the special effect corresponding to the selected option is executed includes an image (decorative movable body 58k, effect) suggesting the type of special effect corresponding to the selected option. The effect execution suggestion image that includes the button 40k (image of the main character, the effect title, etc.) and is displayed when the special effect corresponding to the selected option is not executed includes the special effect corresponding to the selected option. It is good that the image suggesting the type of is not included. By displaying an image suggesting the type of special effect, it is easy for the player to grasp the type of special effect to be executed.

Further, the plurality of options each suggest a direction, and the special effect corresponding to each option is an effect (pair) of displaying a specific image in the area of the display unit of the image display means in the direction suggested by the option. Character effect), or an effect in which the first structure appears in front of the area in the direction suggested by the option in the display unit of the image display means (application example of the pair character effect), or the option suggests from the image display means. It is preferable that the effect uses the second structure in the direction of movement (movable body rotation effect, 3D button display effect). According to this configuration, the player's attention can easily be focused in the direction suggested by the options, and the possibility of overlooking the special effect can be reduced.

Further, the gaming machine according to the configuration of the first invention includes an upper structure (decorative movable body 58k) which is a structure located above the image display means, and is one of the plurality of options. A first option suggests an upward direction, and it is preferable that the first option corresponds to a first special effect (movable body rotation effect) for operating the upper structure. According to this configuration, the player's attention is likely to be focused on the upper side, and the possibility of overlooking the special effect can be reduced.

Further, when the first special effect is executed, the image display means displays the effect execution suggestion image including an image with the upper structure as a motif, and when the first special effect is not executed, the image display means said. It is preferable to display the effect execution suggestion image that does not include an image with the upper structure as a motif. According to this configuration, it is easy to understand that the effect suggested to be executed is an effect related to the movable body.

Further, the gaming machine according to the configuration of the first invention includes an operation means (effect button 40k) located below the image display means, and the second option, which is one of the plurality of options, is It suggests a downward direction, and it is preferable that the second option corresponds to a second special effect (3D button display effect) that accepts an operation by the operation means. According to this configuration, the player's attention can be easily focused on the operating means, and the possibility of overlooking the special effect can be reduced.

Further, when the second special effect is executed, the image display means displays the effect execution suggestion image including an image with the operation means as a motif, and when the second special effect is not executed, the operation is performed. It is preferable to display the effect execution suggestion image that does not include an image with the means as a motif. According to this configuration, it is easy to understand that the effect suggested to be executed is an effect related to the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine according to the configuration of the first invention includes four direction buttons (select buttons 42k) corresponding to each of the up, down, left, and right directions, and the plurality of options correspond to the four direction buttons, respectively. The special effect corresponding to each option is suggested by the effect of displaying a specific image in the area of the direction indicated by the direction button corresponding to the selected option (pair character effect), or by the direction button corresponding to the selected option. It is preferable that the effect uses a structure in the direction (movable body rotation effect, 3D button display effect). According to this configuration, the player's attention can easily be focused in the direction suggested by the options, and the possibility of overlooking the special effect can be reduced.

1 Game board 40k Production button 40La Production button lamp 40m Production button Vibration motor 50 Image display device EZ Production design PY1 Pachinko game machine

Claims (1)

Lottery means to draw big hits and
A special symbol display means that displays the special symbol indicating the lottery result by the lottery means in a variable manner, and stops and displays the special symbol after a variable time has elapsed from the start of the variable display.
An image display means for displaying images of a plurality of options during the variable display of the special symbol, and
An operating means located below the image display means and
With
Each option displayed by the image display means corresponds to a special effect.
The image display means
When one of the plurality of options is selected, the effect execution suggestion that the image is different depending on whether the special effect corresponding to the selected option is executed during the variable display of the special symbol or not. Display the image ,
The second option, which is one of the plurality of options, suggests a downward direction.
The second option corresponds to a second special effect that accepts an operation by the operating means.
A game machine characterized by that.