JP6853106B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes a game.

Conventionally, as this type of game machine, a game machine capable of preventing a sniper shot after winning a small hit by providing a delay route as a flow path of a game ball has been disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-178806

In the technique of Patent Document 1, a first starting winning opening, a second starting winning opening, and a general winning opening are arranged between the delayed route and the large winning opening.

Therefore, in the technique of Patent Document 1, even if the large winning opening shifts to the open state and the player tries to insert the game ball into the large winning opening, the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening, There is a concern that the game ball will enter the general winning opening, etc., and the game ball will not easily reach the large winning opening, and the interest of the game will be diminished.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of suppressing the loss of interest in a game.

The present invention employs the following solutions to solve the above problems. The wording in parentheses below is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, the present invention can be an invention including at least one specific matter for each invention shown in the following solutions. Further, each invention specifying matter shown in the following solution can be made into a subordinate concept by adding an element limiting the invention specifying matter, and can be made into a higher concept by deleting the element limiting the invention specifying matter. ..

Solution 1: The game machine of the present solution means a game area in which the game ball flows down, a first winning opening in the game area where the game ball can enter, and a first winning opening in the game area. A passage through which a game ball that has not entered the first winning opening passes, and a passage that is arranged downstream of the passage in the game area, and the game ball enters in a special gaming state. It is a game machine equipped with a possible second winning opening.

The present solution has the following configurations.
(1) A game area is provided in which the game ball flows down. The game area is, for example, a left-handed area formed on the left half of the game board surface or a right-handed area formed on the right half of the game board surface.

(2) In the game area of (1) above, a first winning opening (a starting winning opening of a second special symbol) into which a game ball can enter is arranged. The first winning opening may be a winning opening (starting winning opening or ordinary winning opening) in which a game ball can be entered regardless of the gaming state, and a predetermined gaming state (winning state in a normal symbol lottery, special). It may be a winning opening in which a game ball can enter in the case of a big hit state or a small hit state in a symbol lottery.

(3) A passage through which a game ball that has not entered the first winning opening of the above (2) passes is arranged downstream of the first winning opening of the above (2) in the game area of the above (1). There is. The passage guides the game ball to the downstream side.

(4) A game ball can enter the downstream of the passage of the above (3) in the game area of the above (1) when it is in a special game state (a big hit state or a small hit state in a special symbol lottery). The second winning opening (second major winning opening) is arranged.

It is preferable that only a passage is formed between the first winning opening and the second winning opening, and no other winning opening or out opening is formed. By doing so, many game balls can be guided to the second winning opening.

According to this solution, since the first winning opening is arranged upstream of the passage, the arrangement relationship is set as "first winning opening → passage → second winning opening" from the upstream to the downstream in the game area. The distance between the first winning opening and the second winning opening can be increased by the amount of the passage.

As a result, the first winning opening does not exist near the second winning opening, and even though the game ball can enter the second winning opening (even though the second winning opening is open). Regardless of this), it is possible to avoid a situation in which it becomes difficult for the game ball to enter the second winning opening, and it is possible to suppress the loss of interest in the game.

Solution 2: In any of the above-mentioned solutions, the gaming machine of the present solution determines that the passage is a passage for reducing the speed of the game ball and the special gaming state is started. It is a deceleration passage that secures at least a part of the second time, which is longer than the first time until the special gaming state ends, and the second time is a ball launching device that launches a game ball. The game machine is characterized in that it is the time from when the game ball is launched by the player to when the game ball reaches the second winning opening.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The passage is a deceleration passage that reduces the speed of the game ball.
(2) The passage is the second winning opening after it is confirmed that the special game state is started (for example, after the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode and the small hit game is started). Is longer than the first time (for example, 5 seconds) until the end of the special game state (for example, until the end of the small hit game, until the second winning opening is closed, etc.) It is a deceleration passage that secures at least a part of time (for example, 3 seconds) of 2 hours (for example, 6 seconds).
(3) The second time is the time from when the game ball is launched by the ball launching device that launches the game ball until the game ball reaches the second winning opening.

A part of the second time is secured by the passage, and the remaining time of the second time is the time from the launch of the game ball to the arrival at the passage, and the time after the game ball crosses the passage. 2 Secured by the time it takes to reach the winning opening.

According to the present solution, since a deceleration passage for securing at least a part of the second time, which is longer than the first time, is provided, the game ball can be allowed to stay in the deceleration passage for a long time, and a special gaming state can be provided. It is possible to avoid aiming at the game ball by launching the game ball after the start of the game and letting the game ball enter the second winning opening.

Further, according to the present solution, since the game ball can be allowed to stay in the deceleration passage for a long period of time, the game ball enters the first winning opening and flows down the game area upstream of the deceleration passage. Even if the total amount decreases, the length of stay in the deceleration passage can give the illusion that the total amount of game balls has increased, and the length of stay makes the game balls appear. The fact that the ball has entered the first winning opening can be forgotten, and the game ball that has passed through the deceleration passage can be slowly directed toward the second winning opening at the speed after deceleration, and as a result of these. It is possible to give the player the feeling that more game balls are entering the second winning opening.

Further, according to the present solution, since the second time is the time from when the game ball is launched by the ball launching device that launches the game ball until the game ball reaches the second winning opening, the deceleration passage. It is possible to easily secure the second time by using, and it is possible to surely avoid the aiming shot such as launching the game ball after the special game state is started and letting the game ball enter the second winning opening. it can.

Other Solution: In any of the above-mentioned solutions, the game machine of the present solution uses the passage to all the game balls that have entered the passage without entering the first winning opening. It is a game machine characterized by being a passage that guides the winning opening.

According to the present solution, since the passage is a passage that guides all the game balls that have entered the passage without entering the first winning opening to the second winning opening, all the game balls that have entered the passage are not leaked. It is possible to direct the player to the second winning opening, and it is possible to improve the feeling of winning the second winning opening (the feeling that many game balls are winning without waste).

According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the loss of interest in the game.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows the game board unit alone. It is a front view which shows the part of the game board unit enlarged. It is a block diagram which shows various electronic devices equipped in a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of an interrupt management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a switch input event processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special symbol memory update processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 2nd special symbol memory update processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect determination processing at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special symbol game processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 2nd special symbol game processing. It is a figure which shows the opening operation pattern of a variable winning apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol change preprocessing. It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol deviation time variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol deviation time variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol deviation time variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows the structural example of the 1st special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the 2nd special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 1st special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows the 2nd special symbol small hit time variation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time shortening, low-probability time shortening state). The second special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state). It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of an internal lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the count cut counter value management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process during special symbol change. It is a timing chart which shows the change of the variation display of the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process during the special symbol stop display. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the display output management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening pattern setting processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the opening and closing operation process of a big winning opening at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening closing process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the large prize opening opening pattern setting processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the opening and closing operation process of a large winning opening at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening closing process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end processing at the time of a small hit. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in a normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "16 round probability variation symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in fireworks rush. It is a continuous figure which shows the production example in the fireworks rush of embodiment (1/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example in the fireworks rush of embodiment (2/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example in the fireworks rush of the comparative example. It is a figure explaining the arrangement of the right start winning opening 27 etc. of an embodiment and the arrangement of the right starting winning opening 27 etc. of a comparative example in comparison with each other. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect symbol management processing.

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

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

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

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

A unified lock unit 9 is provided inside the right edge portion (left edge portion in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. 1. Correspondingly, locking tools (not shown) are also provided on the right side edges (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, with the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 closed to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side thereof together with the locking tool is the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly. It makes it impossible to open 7.

A cylinder lock 6a with a keyhole is provided on the right edge of the saucer unit 6. For example, when the manager of the amusement park inserts the dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. .. When all of these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

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

Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes the above-mentioned game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 above behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. A vertically elongated circular window 4a is formed in the central portion of the integrated door unit 4, and a glass unit (without reference numeral) is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut according to the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface so that the game ball can flow down.

The saucer unit 6 has a shape that protrudes from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to the player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. Further, in the saucer unit 6, a lower plate 6c is formed at a lower position of the upper plate 6b. In the lower plate 6c, a game ball further paid out with the upper plate 6b full is stored. The pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (a model connected to the CR unit), and the game ball borrowed by the player is a saucer unit 6 (upper) from the payout device unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize ball. It is paid out to the plate 6b or the lower plate 6c).

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

Further, on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6, an upper plate ball removing button 6d is installed in front of the upper plate 6b at the upper stage position, and a lower plate ball removing lever 6e is installed in the center thereof in front of the lower plate 6c. Is installed. The player can push the upper plate ball removal button 6d, for example, to cause the game ball stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c. Further, the player can slide the lower plate ball removing lever 6e to the left, for example, to drop the game ball stored in the lower plate 6c downward and discharge it. The discharged game ball is received in, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

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

[Structure on the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for directing. Of these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decorative lamp 48, and the upper right lighting unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decorative lamp 50. In addition, the integrated door unit 4 is provided with left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 so as to be connected below the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the saucer unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46, the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, etc. are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

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

Further, in the center of the saucer unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The player can switch the effect content (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pressing the effect switching button 45, for example, while the symbol is changing, the jackpot is confirmed, or the jackpot is being played. It is possible to generate some kind of production (notice production, probabilistic promotion production, promotion production during a major role, etc.).

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

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

The payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (without a reference symbol), of which the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In the state, the game balls replenished from the replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout device unit 172 toward the saucer unit 6 on the front side.

Further, the above-mentioned external terminal plate 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.), and from the external terminal plate 160, a game of the pachinko machine 1 is performed. Various external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation count information, jackpot information, starting port information, etc.) indicating the progress status, maintenance status, etc. are output to external electronic devices. ing.

The power cord 164 secures the power supply (electric power) required for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power supply device (for example, AC24V) installed in the island equipment of the amusement park. Further, the ground wire 166 is connected to the ground terminal also installed in the island equipment to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate, and the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit in a state where the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7. On the front surface of the game plate 8b, the above-mentioned game area 8a is formed inside a launch rail (without reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position thereof, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left side portion, a right side portion, and a lower portion centering on the effect unit 40. The left side portion of the game area 8a is used in the first gaming state (for example, low-probability non-time shortening state, low-probability time-shortening state, jackpot state in which the first variable winning device 30 operates, left-handed state, etc.). 1 game area (left-handed area), and the right side portion of the game area 8a is a second game state (for example, a big hit game state in which the second variable winning device 31 operates, and a small hit in which the second variable winning device 31 operates. It is a second game area (right-handed area, game area) used in a game state, a high-probability non-time shortened state, a right-handed state, etc. Further, in the game area 8a, the upper start winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 27 (first winning opening), the starting gate 20, the normal winning opening 22, the variable starting winning device 28, and the first one are around the production unit 40. The variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31 (second winning opening), the deceleration passage 200, and the like are distributed and installed.

Of these, the upper start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning device 28 are arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a, and the first variable starting winning device 30 is arranged below the variable starting winning device 28. .. On the other hand, the right start winning opening 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31 are arranged in this order from the top on the right side portion of the game area 8a. Further, the starting gate 20 is arranged on the upper left side of the game area 8a, and the three ordinary winning openings 22 are arranged on the lower left side of the game area 8a.

The deceleration passage 200 is arranged between the right-starting winning opening 27 and the second variable winning device 31, and is a passage through which a game ball that has not entered the right-starting winning opening 27 passes. The deceleration passage 200 has two entrances and one exit, and the passage in the middle is a passage for turning the game ball left and right (meandering left and right).

The deceleration passage 200 is a passage for decelerating the speed of the game ball, and is the first time (for example, 5 seconds at the maximum) from the stop display of the second special symbol in the small hit mode to the end of the small hit game. ), Which is a passage that secures at least a part of the second time (for example, 6 seconds) (for example, 3 seconds). A part of the second time is secured by the deceleration passage 200, and the remaining time of the second time is the time from the launch of the game ball to the arrival at the deceleration passage 200, and the time when the game ball reaches the deceleration passage 200. It is secured by the time from exceeding 200 to reaching the second prize opening 31b.
Here, the time for the game ball to pass through the deceleration passage 200 (the time required for the game ball to pass through the deceleration passage 200) is the second time in order to ensure that most of the second time is secured by the structure. It is preferable that the time is half (half) or more.

The deceleration passage 200 is a passage that guides substantially all the game balls that have entered the deceleration passage 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27 to the second major winning opening 31b.

Further, inside the passage of the deceleration passage 200, a plurality of protrusions 21 for decelerating the moving speed of the game ball are arranged. The plurality of protrusions 21 are alternately arranged on the front side and the rear side with respect to the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the game board unit.

For example, the protrusion on the front side is arranged on the front side of the game board unit (for example, the back surface of the cover of the front transparent member constituting the deceleration passage 200), and the protrusion on the rear side is the rear side of the game board unit. It is arranged on the side (for example, the front side surface of the cover of the back side transparent member constituting the deceleration passage 200).

In this way, since the plurality of protrusions 21 are alternately arranged in the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the game board unit 8, the game balls that randomly flow down can be advanced in a zigzag manner, and the game balls can be advanced. The deceleration effect of can be improved.
The plurality of protrusions 21 are appropriately arranged not only inside the deceleration passage 200 but also at places where the game ball needs to be decelerated (for example, the upper part of the opening / closing member 31a of the second variable winning device 31). ..

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of its flow down, enters the normal winning opening 22, the upper starting winning opening 26, and the right starting winning opening 27, or during the opening operation. The ball enters the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation.

The game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a mainly passes through the start gate 20, enters the normal winning opening 22, enters the upper starting winning opening 26, or is variable-started at the time of opening operation. There is a possibility of entering the winning device 28 or entering the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a may mainly enter the right starting winning opening 27 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of opening operation.

The game ball that has passed through the start gate 20 continuously flows down in the game area 8a, but the upper start winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 27, the normal winning opening 22, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, The game ball entered in the second variable winning device 31 is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in the game board 8b (a plywood material, a transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a hit manner), and accordingly, the lower start winning opening 28b is entered. Allows you to enter the ball (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 28a, and these opening / closing members 28a reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface, for example, by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). .. That is, as shown in the drawing, the left and right opening / closing members 28a are in the closed position with the tips facing upward, and at this time, it is difficult (impossible) to enter the lower start winning opening 28b. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right opening / closing members 28a are displaced (expanded) from the closed position to the open position, respectively, and the opening width of the variable start winning device 28 is expanded to the left and right. During this period, the game ball can easily flow into the lower start winning opening 28b. The variable start winning device 28 is a tongue piece type device that moves from a position where the opening / closing member is retracted to the back from the board surface to a position where the opening / closing member protrudes toward the front side, or a tongue piece type device that moves forward using the lower end edge of the opening / closing member as a hinge. It may be a device that is displaced so as to collapse.

The first variable winning device 30 operates when the specified conditions are satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the 9-round normal symbol and the 9-round probabilistic symbol), and the first large winning opening 30b is entered. Enables ball entry (special electric accessory, first special ball entry event generating means).

The first variable winning device 30 is a device arranged below the upper starting winning opening 26 and has one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is difficult to enter the ball into the first large winning opening 30b. When the first variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced by using the lower end edge portion as a hinge so as to fall forward, and the first large winning opening 30b is opened (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state in which the inflow of the game ball is not difficult (easy or possible), and the event of winning a prize in the first large winning opening 30b can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball into the first winning opening 30b.

The second variable winning device 31 operates in a special gaming state (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 16-round probability variation symbol, or when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit). Then, it is possible to enter the ball into the second special winning opening 31b (special electric accessory, second special winning event generating means).

The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged below the deceleration passage 200 and has one opening / closing member 31a. The second variable winning device 31 is a type of device in which the opening / closing member 31a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). Then, the opening / closing member 31a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. The opening / closing member 31a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a. It is difficult to enter the ball (the second big winning opening 31b is closed). Then, when the second variable winning device 31 is activated, the opening / closing member 31a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the second large winning opening 31b is opened (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is not difficult, and the event of entering the second large winning opening 31b can be generated.

Further, inside the second variable winning device 31, a guidance passage 31c for guiding the game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 to the inside is arranged. The guide passage 31c is branched into two routes, and a second count switch 85 is arranged on each route.
The game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 is detected by any of the second count switches 85, and is finally guided to the discharge port 31f and collected inside.

The above-mentioned effect unit 40 is installed in the center position of the game board unit 8. The effect unit 40 is provided with various decorative parts 40b, 40c and the like (including those not shown) inside the effect unit 40, in addition to the upper edge portion 40a functioning as a guide member for changing the flow direction of the game ball. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by its three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light by, for example, a built-in light emitting device (LED or the like). .. In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to a special symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. .. As described above, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the structure of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40.

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

Further, a ball guide passage 40d is formed on the left edge portion of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed on the lower edge portion thereof. The ball guide passage 40d opens diagonally upward to the left in the game area 8a, and when a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide passage 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. It is released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface, where the game ball can roll freely in the left-right direction. The game ball rolled on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down into the lower game area 8a. A ball release path 40k is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e, and the game ball guided from the rolling stage 40e to the ball release path 40k easily flows into the upper start winning opening 26 directly below the ball release path 40e. ..

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

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

Of these, the ordinary symbol display device 33, for example, alternately lights two lamps (LEDs) to display the ordinary symbol in a variable manner, and turns on or off the lamps to stop and display the ordinary symbol. The normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 storage numbers by, for example, a combination of turning off, turning on, and blinking two lamps (LEDs). For example, in the display mode in which both of the two lamps are turned off, the number of stored items is 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the number of stored items is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memorized numbers are displayed, three memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is lit in addition to the blinking one lamp, and four memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which the two lamps are blinked together. The individual is displayed, and so on. Although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, four lamps (LEDs) may be used to form the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a. In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps that are lit.

The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after increasing one by one in the sense that each time the game ball passes through the start gate 20, the passage that triggers the operation lottery occurs. Then (up to 4), each time the fluctuation of the normal symbol is started with the passage as a trigger, the display mode is changed by 1 each. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of storages (up to 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a represents the number of passages in which the fluctuation of the normal symbol has not yet started at that time.

Further, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 each display, for example, a variable state and a stopped state of the corresponding first special symbol or the second special symbol by a 7-segment LED (with dots). (1st symbol display means, 2nd symbol display means). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

Further, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a are each 0 to 4 depending on the display mode composed of, for example, a combination of turning off or lighting the two lamps (LEDs) and blinking. (Memory number display means). For example, in the display mode in which both of the two lamps are turned off, the number of stored items is 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the number of stored items is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memorized numbers are displayed, three memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is lit in addition to the blinking one lamp, and four memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which the two lamps are blinked together. The individual is displayed, and so on.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is used every time a game ball enters the upper start winning opening 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28b), the upper starting winning opening 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (the lower starting winning opening 26b). In the sense that it remembers that a game ball has entered the lower starting winning opening 28b), it changes to the display mode after increasing one by one (up to 4), and the special symbol changes with the entry. Each time is started, the display mode is changed by one. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is increased by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the right start winning opening 27, the game ball enters the right starting winning opening 27. (Up to 4), and each time the special symbol starts to change with the ball entering, the display mode changes to the display mode after decreasing by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the upper start winning opening 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start fluctuating (when the stop is displayed). Alternatively, the display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning opening 28b). In addition, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the game ball enters the right start winning opening 27 in a state where the second special symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). The display mode does not change even if the ball is used. That is, the number of storages (maximum of 4) represented by the display modes of the special symbol operation memory lamps 34a and 35a is that of the incoming ball for which the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started to change. It represents the number of times.

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

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

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

The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of the game ball. Further, the game board unit 8 corresponds to the upper start winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28b), the right starting winning opening 27, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. The upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, the right starting winning opening switch 83, the first count switch 84 and the second count switch 85 are provided. The starting winning opening switches 80, 82, and 83 are for detecting the entry of a game ball into the upper starting winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28b), and the right starting winning opening 27. is there. Further, the first count switch 84 is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the first variable winning device 30 (first large winning opening) and counting the number of balls. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the entry of the game ball into the second variable winning device 31 (second large winning opening 31b) and counting the number of the game balls. Regarding the two second count switches 85, a configuration in which a common switch is used is given as an example, but two switches may be installed to individually detect the entry of the game ball.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the entry of a game ball into the normal winning opening 22. Regarding the three ordinary winning openings 22, a configuration in which a common winning opening switch 86 is used is given as an example. For example, three winning opening switches are installed to enter a game ball into each ordinary winning opening 22. May be detected individually.

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

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

Further, in the game board unit 8, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first large winning opening solenoid 90, and the first large winning opening solenoid 90 correspond to the upstream of the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. The second large winning opening solenoid 97 is provided. These solenoids 88, 90, and 97 operate (excite) based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72, and open / close (operate) the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. Let me. The solenoids 88, 90, and 97 are also relayed by the panel relay terminal plate 87, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

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

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

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

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

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

Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with a firing control board 108. Further, a ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the saucer unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above. Among them, the launch control board 108 is provided with a drive circuit for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Of these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of feeding the game balls stored in the saucer unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Further, the launch solenoid 110 strikes the game balls sent to the launch position, and continuously (intermittently) launches the game balls one by one toward the game area 8a as described above. The firing interval of the game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 balls in 1 minute).

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

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

Further, the saucer unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a lending / returning switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display (7-segment LED for 3 digits) of the frequency display unit. Further, a switch module connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 is mounted on the lending / returning switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lent out. And, it is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. Further, from the CR unit, a frequency signal representing the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball or the like lending device connection terminal plate 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display based on the frequency signal and numerically displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. Further, when the valuable medium is not loaded into the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the loaded valuable medium becomes 0, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display to display a demo (valuable medium). It is also possible to perform a display prompting the input of.

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

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

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

The lamp drive circuit 132 includes switching elements such as PWM (pulse width modulation) ICs and MOSFETs (not shown), and the lamp drive circuit 132 switches (or duty switches) the drive voltage applied to various lamps including LEDs. ), And manage the operation such as light emission and blinking. In addition to the above-mentioned glass frame top lamp 46 and glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, the various lamps include a board surface lamp 53 for decoration and production installed in the game board unit 8. The board lamp 53 corresponds to an LED built in the above-mentioned effect unit, an LED built in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the like. Here, an example in which the glass frame decorative lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame illumination substrate 136 is given, but the saucer illumination substrate is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the glass frame decoration lamp 52 is attached to the saucer illumination. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp drive circuit 132 via a substrate.

Further, the acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator incorporating a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, etc. (not shown), and the acoustic drive circuit 134 drives speakers 54, 55, 56 to output acoustics.

In the present embodiment, the glass frame illuminated substrate 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and the drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame illuminated substrate 136 and various lamps 46. It is applied to ~ 52 and speakers 54, 55, 56. Further, the above-mentioned effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is transmitted to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated board 136. Entered. Further, the above-mentioned jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame illuminated substrate 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated substrate 136. .. Here, an example in which the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136 is given, but when the above-mentioned saucer illumination board is installed, the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are used for the saucer illumination. It may be connected to the board.

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

The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and its display screen can be visually recognized through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power supply applied to the backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146, which is a general-purpose central processing unit, and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a display processor VDP152 is mounted. Of these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as ROM 148 and RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). Further, the VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 are integrated together with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of its storage area as a frame buffer.

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

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

In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit, and when external power (for example, AC24V, etc.) is taken from the island equipment through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V, etc.) can be generated from the external power. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Further, electric power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and electric power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball or the like rental device connection terminal plate 120. The low-voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded (grounded) to the island equipment through the ground wire 166.

The above-mentioned external terminal board 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) are transmitted to the external terminal board 160 via the payout control device 92. It is output to the outside from. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal plate 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are aggregated by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in the amusement park. Although the configuration via the payout control device 92 is given as an example here, the configuration may be such that the external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal plate 160.

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

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the main control CPU 72 starts the reset start process. The reset start process prepares the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 by restoring the game state (so-called power recovery) based on the backup information saved when the power was cut off last time, or by clearing the backup information. It is a process for. Further, the reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

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

Step S101: The main control CPU 72 first sets the start address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector interrupt mode (mode 2), and modifies the default RST interrupt mode (mode 0). As a result, after that, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute the designated interrupt handler.

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

Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, after that, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

Step S105: Further, the mask register is initially set in order to set the main control CPU 72 and the interrupt mask. Specifically, the value that enables the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the RAM clear switch saved earlier, and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is then executed.

Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not the backup valid determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power cutoff process and the backup valid determination flag (for example, "A55AH") is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

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

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup valid determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: Further, the main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power failure occurs.

Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends a return command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special symbol destination determination effect command, an operation memory number increase effect command, and an operation memory number) to the effect control device 124. (Decrease production command, count cut counter value command, special game state specification command, etc.) are sent. In response to this, the effect control device 124 receives the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, the effect display mode of the number of working memories, the acoustic output content, and various lamps) that were being executed when the power was cut off last time. The light emitting state, etc.) can be restored.

Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes the state return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the game state (for example, the display mode of the special symbol, the internal probability state, etc.) that was being executed when the power was cut off last time. The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated when the power is turned on (step S106: Yes), when the backup valid determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 shifts to step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and the stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is saved, the contents are erased.
Step S114: Further, the main control CPU 72 performs the initial setting of the RAM 76.

Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command required for the effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

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

Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes the CTC initial setting process and performs the initial setting of the CTC (counter / timer circuit) which is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the interrupt vector register and sets the interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue processing from the backed up program address of the PC register.

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

Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interruption and then executes a power failure occurrence check process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power supply cutoff detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power supply cutoff (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 backs up the work area of the RAM 76 when the output port buffer corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, the second special winning opening solenoid 97, etc. is cleared. Back up the entire contents except the valid judgment flag and the sum check buffer, and save the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup valid determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops the process (NOP). On the other hand, if the power cutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU is made to execute such a process when a power failure occurs as an non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments the random numbers for updating (changing) the initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers other than the jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) and the hit determination random number (hardware random number) corresponding to the ordinary symbol (for example, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, fluctuation pattern determination random number, etc.) Is generated on the program. These software random numbers are updated by the loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9), and the initial values of the loop counter (all) are updated every time the random number value makes one cycle in this process. Random numbers do not have to be the target). The initial value update random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value update random number is updated. It should be noted that the reason why the step S120 is executed after the interrupt is prohibited in the step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 9), so that there is duplication (conflict) with this. ) To prevent. As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is even faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the initial values of the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number.

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

[Power failure check process]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of the procedure for the power failure occurrence check process.
Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power failure. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power supply cutoff detection signal is continuously output, for example.

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

Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check condition is satisfied. Specifically, the on-counter value set in the previous step S130 is subtracted by, for example, 1, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not 0 at this point (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power supply disconnection detection switch input port. Then, when the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

Step S136: The main control CPU 72 is used as a test signal terminal and a command control signal in addition to the output ports corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, and the second special winning opening solenoid 97 as described above. Clear the corresponding output port buffer.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76 excluding the backup valid determination flag and the thumb check buffer in 1-byte units, and repeats the addition for the entire area until the addition is completed. ..
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum for the entire area is completed (step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 saves the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value in the backup valid determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the prohibited area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters the standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power supply is cut off, backup power is supplied from a backup power supply circuit (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main control device 70) (not shown), so that the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power supply is cut off. Retained without doing. The backup power supply circuit may be built in, for example, the power supply control unit 162.

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76, which is the backup target (sum addition target), is stored in the RAM 76 even after the main power supply is cut off. Further, the retained memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 6).

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

Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L pairs) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written to the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76, and each loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, a jackpot symbol random number and the like.

Step S202: The main control CPU 72 also executes the initial value update random number update process. The content of the process is the same as that described above (step S120 in FIG. 7).

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

Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the game is being played based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, and the right starting winning opening switch 83. The event that occurred in is determined, and another process is executed according to each event that occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event processing will be described later using a further flowchart.

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

Step S205, Step S206a, Step S206b: The main control CPU 72 executes the normal symbol game process, the first special symbol game process, and the second special symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the normal symbol game processing (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the variation display and the stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (a random number determined per normal symbol) acquired in the previous switch input event process (step S204) triggered by the passage of the start gate 20, and is in the normal symbol game process. Reads a random number value from the memory and determines whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 fluctuates the normal symbol to display the stop display of the normal symbol in a predetermined hit mode, and then the main control CPU 72 presses the normal electric accessory solenoid 88. The variable start winning device 28 is activated by excitation. On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a stop display of the normal symbol in a disengaged manner after the fluctuation display.

Further, in the first special symbol game process (step S206a), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol (first lottery execution means), or changes by the first special symbol display device 34. The display and the stop display are controlled, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display result. Further, in the second special symbol game process (step S206b), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol (second lottery execution means), or changes by the second special symbol display device 35. The display and the stop display are controlled, and the operation of the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display result. The details of the first special symbol game processing and the second special symbol game processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the prize ball payout process. In this process, the number of prize balls is instructed to the payout control device 92 based on the prize detection signals input from the various switches 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 in the previous input process (step S203). Outputs the prize ball instruction command.

Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs a prize ball content command for transmitting the content of the number of prize balls to the effect control device 124 in the prize ball payout process. When a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (for 15 game balls). Generate a prize ball content command. Further, when a winning detection signal is input from the winning opening switch 86 corresponding to the normal winning opening 22, a prize ball content command corresponding to the second profit (for 10 game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

[About the number of prize balls and the number of game balls won]
The number of prize balls at the start port of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls at the start port of the second special symbol are set to a specified number of one or more, respectively. Further, the number of prize balls may be different between the starting port of the first special symbol and the starting port of the second special symbol. Furthermore, the minimum number of prize balls is set based on the winning probability of the special symbol lottery and the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired (the average number of balls that can be obtained in a series of periods from the first hit to the end of the time reduction state). It may be set. Furthermore, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the expected value of the total number of game balls won, the number of opening of the big winning opening, the opening time of the big winning opening, the maximum number of winning of the big winning opening, the number of winning balls of the big winning opening are specified. When the above condition is satisfied, a jackpot may be set in which the number of game balls acquired by one jackpot is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of acquired game balls.

Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation count information, jackpot information, starting port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the amusement park through the external terminal plate 160. Store in the port output request buffer. The external information signal stored in the port output request buffer is transmitted to the data display device or the hall computer via the external terminal plate 160.

In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, by outputting "big hit 1" to "big hit 5" as big hit information to the outside, an external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 It is possible to provide various jackpot information to a vessel or a hall computer (external information signal output means). That is, by outputting the jackpot information by dividing it into a plurality of "big hit 1" to "big hit 5", the jackpot type (winning type) can be aggregated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) from these combinations, or internally. Occurrence of small hits (hits where the condition device does not operate) that are not classified as "big hits" even if they recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) and the shortened state of the symbol fluctuation time Can be aggregated and managed. In addition, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each machine is currently hit. Or, it is possible to recognize whether or not the symbol fluctuation time is currently shortened for each machine. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (ON or OFF set) of "big hit 1" to "big hit 5" in detail.

Step S209: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes the test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs various test signals representing its own internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, big hit, probability fluctuation function operating, fluctuation time shortening function operating). Generate and store these in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70.

Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 has a normal symbol display device 33, a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, a first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and a second special symbol. It controls the lighting state of the working memory lamp 35a, the game status display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer in the above-mentioned normal symbol game processing (step S205), first special symbol game processing (step S206a), and second special symbol game processing (step S206b) is used. Output to the port. The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which a symbol variation display, a stop display, an operation memory number display, a game state display, etc.) is performed.

Step S211: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes the output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 port outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 is a port in which the drive signals, test signals, etc. of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, and the second special winning opening solenoid 97 stored in the port output request buffer are combined. Output.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not there is a command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (command required for effect control) in the command buffer, and if there is an untransmitted command, the command to be output is output. Output to the port.

Step S213: Then, the main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored in the CTC interrupt this time.

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

Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores the value (01H) for specifying the interrupt end in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. After that, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 9). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described step by step.

Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S11 to execute the normal symbol storage update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol operation memories is less than the upper limit (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit, acquires a random number per normal symbol. To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the number of normal symbol operation memories by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, if there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S12.

Step S12: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal has been input from the upper starting winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the upper starting winning opening 26 (a lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S13 to execute the first special symbol storage update process. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

Step S14: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal has been input from the lower starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the lower starting winning opening 28b (a lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S15 to execute the first special symbol storage update process. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S16.

Step S16: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal has been input from the right-starting winning opening switch 83 corresponding to the right-starting winning opening 27 (a lottery opportunity has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S17 to execute the second special symbol storage update process. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

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

Step S20: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal has been input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second major winning opening of the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21 to execute the second major winning opening counting process. In the second big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 during the big hit game. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

[1st special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process. Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described step by step.

Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections for the first special symbol and four sections for the second special symbol (for example, 2 bytes each), and each section contains a big hit determination random number and The jackpot symbol random numbers can be stored as a set (set) one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol reaches the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

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

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

Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of this random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, it saves this as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S34: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number as random numbers related to the variation condition of the first special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (acquisition of variation pattern determination element). means). Similarly, the acquisition of these random number values is performed by designating the address of the random number counter area for fluctuation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, they save them at the transfer destination address.

Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. (Memory means, lottery element storage means). An order (for example, first to fourth) is set for the plurality of sections, and if all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored in order from the second section. The random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If the jackpot is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed for the ball entering during the big hit.

Step S37: When it is not during the jackpot (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the first special symbol acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for making a judgment (so-called "look-ahead"). The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S38: After returning from the acquisition-time effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 then sets the upper byte (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the first special symbol". Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), here, by synthesizing the upper byte with the lower byte, for example, a command having a length of one word. Will be generated.

Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the number of operating memories increases with respect to the first special symbol. Specifically, the one-word length obtained by adding the increased working memory number (for example, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte indicating the type of the command. Generate a production command. At this time, for the lower byte, by setting the second digit to "0" by default, the value indicates that the value is "the result (change information) due to the increase in the number of working memories". That is, if the lower byte is "01H", it means that the number of working memories this time is "01H" as a result of increasing by one from the number of working memories "00H" up to the previous time. Similarly, if the lower byte is "02H" to "04H", it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers "01H" to "03H", and as a result, the working memory number this time is "02H" to "04H". It means that it became "04H". The above-mentioned preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in step S38, the operation memory increase effect command generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning sound control command to the effect control device 124. It is a thing (memory number notification means).

When the above procedure is completed or the number of first special symbol operation memories has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10).

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

Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol operation storage number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 or later.

Step S41: The main control CPU 72 adds one second special symbol operation memory number (increments the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 11), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) based on the value of the counter added here. Will be.

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random value corresponding to the second special symbol (acquisition of the second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S32 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S33 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S44: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number related to the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). The acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. To memorize as a set (memory means). The storage method is the same as in step S35 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is a big hit. Then, if it is not during the jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. On the contrary, if the jackpot is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the incoming ball that also occurs during the big hit.

Step S46: When it is not during the jackpot (step S45a: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the second special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol acquired in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for judging. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

Step S47: After returning from the acquisition-time effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 then sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the second special symbol". Similarly, in this case as well, the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S46), so here, for example, one word is combined with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the number of operating memories increases with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word length production command in which the number of operating memories after the increase (for example, "01H" to "04H") is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte indicating the type of the command. To generate. Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the lower byte to "0" by default, it is possible to indicate that the value is "the result (change information) due to the increase in the number of working memories". it can. The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the second special symbol. As a result, preparations are made for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command, the operation memory number increase effect command, the start opening winning sound control command, and the like to the effect control device 124 with respect to the second special symbol (memory number notification means). .. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10).

[Production judgment processing at the time of acquisition]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition-time effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 11 and step S46 in FIG. 12) (first determination). Execution means). As described above, this process performs the first special symbol (at the time of entering the upper start winning opening 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28b)) and the second special symbol (at the time of entering the right starting winning opening 27). It is executed for each of (at the time of entry). Therefore, the following description may correspond to the process related to the first special symbol or the process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the content of the process will be described according to each procedure.

Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower bytes (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (first determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value (at the time of deviation) of the command.

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random number value. The random number loaded here is stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). ..

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

Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the deviation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects prior determination information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) when the "variation time shortening function" is activated. For example, if the current state is when the "fluctuation time shortening function" is operating, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the "off reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)" based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether or not. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to the "out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "time reduction / medium non-shortening fluctuation time". In the case of reach variation, the "reach group (type of reach)" may also be determined from the reach mode random number, and the variation pattern destination determination command may be generated from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "time reduction / medium reduction fluctuation time". Alternatively, if the current state is when the "variation time shortening function" is not operating, whether or not the fluctuation time corresponds to the "normally out-of-reach variation" based on the loaded reach determination random number. To judge. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to the "normally out of reach fluctuation", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normally out of reach fluctuation time". On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "normal deviation reach fluctuation", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normal deviation fluctuation time". Further, the fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above. In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of small hit, in the same manner as the above-described processing at the time of loss.

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, in the determination in step S54 above, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S56.

Step S56: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the pre-determination result is set when the winning value is among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not been started yet. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, the jackpot symbol random number that is paired with this corresponds to the "probability variation symbol (9 round probability variation symbol, 16 round probability variation symbol)". If it is, for example, "A0H" is set in the probability state schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting a high probability state as a schedule in the preliminary determination (pre-reading determination) of the jackpot determination random number acquired after the jackpot determination random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this random number corresponds to the "non-probability (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, "01H" is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting a normal (low) probability state as a schedule in the pre-determination (pre-reading determination) of the jackpot-determined random number acquired after the jackpot-determined random number. If the winning value does not yet exist in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. In addition, although an example in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the "probability state schedule flag" is given here, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, this step S56 and subsequent steps. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76 and the like may be omitted.

If the probability state schedule flag is not yet set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S66.

Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 then sets the low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register. The low-probability comparison value is also predetermined according to the low-probability winning probability of the pachinko machine 1.

Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (during probability change), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is high probability (during probability change), the value "01H" is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low probability (normal), the value of the state flag is reset ("00H"). ").

Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and as a result, if it represents a high probability (No). ), Then step S64 is executed.

Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in step S66 above is rewritten. The high-probability comparison value is predetermined according to the high-probability winning probability of the pachinko machine 1.

In this way, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has not been set yet and the current internal state has a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability time, and then the next step S72. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

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

Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number that is paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random numbers for each symbol stored in the first special symbol storage update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 above, and from the result, the jackpot type is "normal symbol (9 round normal symbol)" or "probability variation symbol (9 round probability variation symbol, 16 round probability variation symbol)". To determine which of the above is applicable. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents a "normal symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the value "01H" in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents the "probability variation symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the value "A0H" in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the next and subsequent processes, it is determined that "flag set has been completed" in step S56.

Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as a lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. For the special symbol destination determination value, for example, "01H" is set when it corresponds to "normal symbol", and "A0H" is set when it corresponds to "probability variation symbol". In any case, by setting the data for the lower byte here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of a big hit. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects, for example, prior determination information regarding the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of a big hit. Further, the fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

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

Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S58.

Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets the comparison value for low probability (normal time) in the A register.

Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “probability state schedule flag”. As described above, the probability state schedule flag is for setting the probability state in a planned manner in the subsequent subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. .. If the probability state based on the previous judgment result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), "A0H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above, and conversely, the previous judgment result immediately before. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), "01H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and as a result, if it represents a high-probability schedule (). No), then step S64 is executed, and the comparison value for high probability is set.

In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result is already set and the value is for a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability time, and then the next step S72 or later. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule but represents a normal (low) probability schedule (Yes), the main control CPU 72 steps. S64 is skipped and the next step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. As a result, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination in advance can be performed after considering the subsequent changes in the internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the first determination result. ..

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12).

[Parallel fluctuation of the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol]
Next, the details of the first special symbol game processing and the second special symbol game processing will be described. In the present embodiment, by separately executing the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first special symbol display device 34 changes the display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to display the variation of the second special symbol by the display device 35 in parallel (symbol parallel variation means). Therefore, in the present embodiment, for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process are separately performed (1 in one interrupt cycle) under the control of the main control CPU 72. It is supposed to be executed (once).

[1st special symbol game processing]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol game processing.
The first special symbol game process first has a procedure (step S1000a) for confirming whether or not the internal state flag is "start of big win (during big hit game)".

Step S1000a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the gaming state (internal state) corresponding to the second special symbol is "start of big win (during big hit game)". This confirmation can be performed based on the progress of the processing (value of the second special symbol game management status) that has been performed so far for the second special symbol. This confirmation is performed in the present embodiment because when the jackpot game is in progress with respect to the other second special symbol, the game related to the first special symbol is not advanced.

At present, the main control CPU 72 executes the process of the next step S1000b unless it is during the jackpot game (the value of the second special symbol game management status is during the jackpot), particularly with respect to the second special symbol (No).

Further, in the first special symbol game process, a procedure (step S1000b) for confirming whether or not the variable time measurement paused flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON and the game state is a small hit is performed. Have. If the fluctuation time measurement pause flag is ON, it means that the fluctuation time measurement is paused, and if the fluctuation time measurement pause flag is OFF, the fluctuation time measurement is performed. It means that it is not paused.

Step S1000b: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the fluctuation time measurement paused flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON and the gaming state is in the small hit. In the present embodiment, this confirmation is performed when the other second special symbol is in the small hit game and the first symbol is changing, the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is temporarily performed. This is because it is supposed to be stopped.

At present, if the variable time measurement paused flag is not ON, or even if the variable time measurement paused flag is ON but the gaming state is not in the small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 takes the next step. The processing after S1000b1 is executed. Steps S1000b1 to S6000 are program modules that form the basis of the first special symbol game processing, respectively. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the first special symbol through the processes of steps S1000b1 to S6000, which are the basis thereof.

On the other hand, when the variable time measurement paused flag is ON and the small hit game is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the process of step S7000.

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

Step S1000b1: The main control CPU 72 executes the special game special symbol determination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of determining a symbol to be processed as to which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is to be processed. Here, the special game special symbol discrimination flag is a flag for specifying the symbol to be processed, and is stored in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, "0") corresponding to the first special symbol to the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

Step S1000c: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2000 to S6000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the first special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

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

Step S2000: In the special symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display of the first special symbol. Specifically, the jackpot determination (first lottery execution means) and the fluctuation pattern are determined here, and in the case of a jackpot, the winning type is also determined. Further, according to the determination of the winning type, the main control CPU 72 sets a number-of-times cut counter related to the "time reduction state" and the "high probability state". The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (No. 0 to No. 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby the variation display of the first special symbol is performed.

Further, in this process, a process of determining whether or not to activate the skip function is also performed, and in the previous jackpot determination, for example, the first special symbol is changing the jackpot and the second special symbol is not elected. If applicable, the skip function is activated for the second special symbol. By operating this skip function, a process of forcibly ending the non-winning fluctuation of the second special symbol is performed. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S4000: In the process during special symbol stop display, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34. Here as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, so that the stop display of the first special symbol is performed. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S5000: The jackpot variable winning device management process is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing. For example, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of 9-round normal jackpot, 9-round probability variation jackpot, or 16-round probability variation jackpot, the normal state up to that point is changed to the jackpot game state (special game state advantageous for the player). There will be an opportunity to make the transition. Regarding the first special symbol During the jackpot game, the jump destination is set in the jackpot variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the first special symbol is not performed. In the jackpot variable winning device management process, a preset number of continuous operations for a certain period of time (for example, until 29 seconds or 9 winnings are counted) by the first winning opening solenoid 90 or the second winning opening solenoid 97. It is excited over (for example, 9 times), whereby the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this period, by intensively winning the game balls to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to collectively win a large number of prize balls (special game). Execution means). The opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit is referred to as a "round", and if the number of continuous operations is nine in total, this is referred to as a "9 round". Collectively. In the present embodiment, not only 9-round normal jackpot and 9-round probabilistic jackpot, but also a plurality of types of 16-round probabilistic jackpot are provided as the types of jackpot.

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

Then, when the big hit game is finished, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (high probability state, time shortened state) after the big hit game is finished based on the game state flag (probability fluctuation function operation flag, fluctuation time shortening function operation flag). (High-probability state transition means, time-reduced state transition means, low-probability time-reduced state transition means, high-probability non-time-reduced state transition means). In the "high probability state", the probability fluctuation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about 10 times higher than usual. Further, in the "time reduction state", the fluctuation time reduction function is activated, the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes high probability, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended to open. The number of times increases (so-called electric chew support is performed). It should be noted that the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state" may be shifted to only one of them in terms of control, or may be shifted according to both of them.

In the present embodiment, the "time reduction state" means that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol or the special symbol is shortened by operating the fluctuation time shortening function, and the winning probability of the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes high and variable. It means a state in which the opening time of the start winning device 28 is extended (opening extension function operation).

Further, in the "non-time shortening state", since the fluctuation time shortening function is not activated, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol or the special symbol is not shortened, and the winning probability of the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes low. It means a state in which the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is not extended (opening extension function is not activated).

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

Step S7000: The process during suspension of fluctuation time measurement is a process for maintaining the fluctuation of the first special symbol without stopping it. The main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 when the small hit game is in progress with respect to the second special symbol and the first special symbol is changing. As the drive control of the first special symbol display device 34, a process of outputting an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) for each segment and dots (Nos. 0 to 7) of the 7-segment LED is executed. As a result, the state in which the first special symbol is not stopped is maintained. If the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped, the measurement of the fluctuation time is restarted after the end of the small hit game. Even if the main control CPU 72 determines that the second special symbol is in the small hit game, if the first special symbol is not changing, the main control CPU 72 does not execute the processing during the suspension of fluctuation time measurement.

[2nd special symbol game processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol game processing.
The second special symbol game process first has a procedure (step S1900a) for confirming whether or not a big hit is being made with respect to the other first special symbol.

Step S1900a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the gaming state corresponding to the first special symbol is “big hit gaming”. This confirmation can also be performed based on the value of the first special symbol game management status as described above. It should be noted that this determination excludes the determination of whether or not "small hit is in progress" because there is no small hit in the first special symbol.

At present, if the first special symbol is not in the jackpot game (the first special symbol game management status is the value during the jackpot) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S1900a1 and subsequent processes. Steps S1900a1 to S6900 are program modules that form the basis of the second special symbol game processing, respectively. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the second special symbol through the processes of steps S1900a1 to S6900, which are the basis thereof.

As described in the first special symbol game process above, the special game special symbol determination flag update process (step S1900a1), execution selection process (step S1900b), and special symbol variation are also performed for the basic part of the second special symbol game process. Pre-processing (step S2900), special symbol change processing (step S3900), special symbol stop display processing (step S4900), big hit variable winning device management process (step S5900), small hit variable winning device management process (step) The subroutine (program module) group of S6900) is included. The description of the same content as that of the first special symbol game processing will be omitted as appropriate.

Step S1900a1: The main control CPU 72 executes the special game special symbol determination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of determining a symbol to be processed as to which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is to be processed. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, "1") corresponding to the second special symbol to the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

Step S1900b: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2900 to S6900) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the second special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

Similarly, which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (second special symbol game management status). For example, if the second special symbol has not yet started the variation display (second special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs the special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2900) as the next jump destination. select. If the special symbol change preprocessing has already been completed (second special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol change processing (step S3900) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol changes. If the process during fluctuation is completed (second special symbol game management status: 02H), the process during display of special symbol stop display (step S4900) is selected as the next jump destination.

Step S2900: In the special symbol variation preprocessing in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display of the second special symbol (second lottery execution means).

Step S3900: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the fluctuation timer.

Step S4900: In the process during the special symbol stop display in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the second special symbol display device 35. Here as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, whereby the stop display of the second special symbol is performed.

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

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

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

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, (1) "9-round normal jackpot", (2) "9-round probabilistic jackpot" and (3) "16-round probabilistic jackpot" are provided as a plurality of winning types. A big hit other than 16 rounds and 9 rounds may be set.

The above-mentioned winning types correspond to the types of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that are stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, "16 round probability variation jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot of "16 round probability variation symbol", "9 round normal jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot of "9 round normal symbol", and "9 round probability variation jackpot" corresponds to "9 rounds". Corresponds to the big hit of "probability variation pattern". Therefore, in the following, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as the "winning symbol".

[Opening operation pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable winning device. The contents of the opening of the large winning opening corresponding to each winning symbol will be explained.

[9 round normal design]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "9 round normal symbol" in the process during the special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state (special game execution means). In this case, the first large winning opening 30b of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this is 9 Continue until the round. For this reason, in the jackpot game of "9 rounds normal symbol", 9 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) are given to the player.

In addition, in the case of "9 round normal symbol", even if the "variation time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "variation time reduction function" is activated after the jackpot game is completed. Then, it shifts to the "time reduction state".

The first large winning opening 30b of the first variable winning device 30 is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur in one round. Will be done. Similarly, when the second large winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31 wins a specified number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) in one round, it does not wait for the longest opening time to elapse. Will be closed.

[9 round probability variation pattern]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "9 round probability variation symbol" in the process during the special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state (special game execution means). In this case, the first large winning opening 30b of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this is 9 Continue until the round. For this reason, in the jackpot game of the "9-round probability variation symbol", the player is given 9 rounds of balls (prize balls).

In addition, in the case of corresponding to the "9-round probability variation symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" is activated after the end of the big hit game, and the state shifts to the "high probability state".

[16 round probability variation pattern]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "16 round probability variation symbol" in the process during the special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state (special game execution means). In this case, the second large winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31 is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this is 16 Continue until the round. Therefore, in the big hit game of "16 round probability variation symbol", 16 rounds worth of balls (prize balls) are given to the player.

Further, in the case of corresponding to the "16 round probability variation symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" is activated after the end of the big hit game, and the state shifts to the "high probability state".

As described above, when the winning symbol corresponds to the above "9 round normal symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" does not operate and the "variation time shortening function" operates after the big hit game ends, so that the internal state is changed. It shifts to the "low probability time reduction state".

In addition, if the winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned "9-round probability variation symbol" or "16-round probability variation symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" is activated and the "variation time shortening function" is not activated after the jackpot game is completed. The internal state shifts to the "high probability non-time reduction state".

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

[Small hit]
Further, in the present embodiment, a small hit is provided as a winning type other than the non-winning for the second special symbol. When a small hit is won, a small hit game is performed separately from the big hit game, and the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes (special game execution means). That is, in the above-mentioned special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the small hit game (the game in which the second variable winning device 31 operates) is executed.

Here, in the present embodiment, the small hit is not set for the first special symbol, but the small hit may be set for the first special symbol. However, in that case, in order to increase the occurrence rate of small hits in the 2nd special symbol lottery, the probability of falling into a small hit (special winning type) in the 1st special symbol lottery is increased in the 2nd special symbol lottery. It is preferable to specify a high probability of falling under a small hit. In the small hit game, the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes for a predetermined number of times (for example, once) in a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can throw out a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be acquired.

In addition, even if the small hit game is completed, the "probability fluctuation function" does not operate, and the "variation time shortening function" does not operate, so that the "high probability state" or "time reduction state" No benefits will be granted to move to (it is not a prerequisite for this). Also, even if you win a small hit in the "high probability state", the "high probability state" does not end after the end of the small hit game, and even if you win the small hit in the "time reduction state", the small hit The "time reduction state" does not end after the winning game ends (except when the maximum number of times is reached).

Further, the opening pattern of the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a small hit is not limited to one type, and a plurality of small hit symbols are set, a double opening pattern, a three opening pattern, a 12 opening pattern, etc. You may set a plurality of open patterns such as. However, the small hit game ends within the first hour (for example, 5 seconds) regardless of which opening pattern is set.

[Special symbol change pre-processing]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol change preprocessing. The contents of the special symbol change preprocessing listed below can be shared in the first special symbol game processing (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game processing (FIG. 15). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game processing, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game processing, the control target is the second special symbol. To do. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2090: First, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of confirming whether or not the fluctuation time measurement paused flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON.

When it is determined that the variable time measurement paused flag is ON (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2092.

Step S2092: The main control CPU 72 executes the stop symbol reading process. In this process, the information of the stop symbol saved in the RAM 76 is read out. Then, based on the read stop symbol information, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) for transmission to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2094: The main control CPU 72 executes the remaining fluctuation time reading process. In this process, the value of the fluctuation timer (value of the remaining fluctuation time) saved in the RAM 76 is read out. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the read value of the variable timer in the variable timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

Step S2096: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol revariation start process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the re-variation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a re-variation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This revariation start command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2098: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of turning off the variation time measurement paused flag stored in the RAM 76. As a result, the situation in which the measurement of the fluctuation time is suspended is released.
Then, when the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed in step S2090 that the variable time measurement paused flag is ON (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2100.

Step S2100: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the number of controlled special symbol operation memories (first special symbol operation memory number or second special symbol operation memory number) remains (is greater than 0). To do. This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of operation memories of the target symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2150.

Step S2150: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol operation memory number is 0. That is, if the control target is the first special symbol, it is confirmed whether or not the second special symbol operation memory number is 0, and if the control target is the second special symbol, the first special symbol operation memory is confirmed. Check if the number is 0. This confirmation can also be performed by referring to the value of the special symbol working memory counter. Then, when the other special symbol operation memory number is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the demo setting process in step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not any of the start winning openings has won a prize for a predetermined time, and if it confirms that there has been no prize for a predetermined time, generates a command for demo production. .. The demo effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). At the time of return, it returns to the end address of each special symbol game processing (the same applies hereinafter).

On the other hand, when the other special symbol operation memory number is not 0 (step S2150: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute the demo setting process, and the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game. Return to the process (FIG. 15).

On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation memory counter to be controlled is larger than 0 (step S2100: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2160.

Step S2160: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a value (01H) is set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag with respect to the other special symbol. The big hit flag or small hit flag is a flag set when a big hit or a small hit is hit by an internal lottery, and is reset at the end of the big hit game. Therefore, the confirmation in this process is confirmation of whether or not the result of the internal lottery regarding the other special symbol is a big hit or a small hit. If the variation display of the other special symbol is not executed, the big hit flag or the small hit flag is not set, so that the confirmation result is inevitably No. Further, although the determination content is set to "big hit or small hit" here, only "big hit" or only "small hit" may be used.

In this process, when a value (01H) is set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag related to the other special symbol (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2202. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag related to the other special symbol, that is, when the value is "00H" (No), the main control CPU 72 next steps S2200. To execute.

Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random numbers, big hit symbol random numbers) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the special symbol to be controlled. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads the random numbers in order from the first section, erases (consumes) them, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for the internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol to be controlled) stored in the RAM 76, and the value after the subtraction. Is set to "Working memory number at the start of fluctuation". As a result, in the display output management process, the display mode of the number of stored symbols is changed (decreased by 1) for the control target of the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a. .. After completing the steps up to this point, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of jackpot values, and determines whether or not the read random number value (big hit determination random number value) is included in this range (first lottery execution means, second lottery execution means, second). Lottery execution means). The jackpot value range set at this time differs between the low-probability state and the high-probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated), and in the high-probability state, the jackpot value range is expanded by about 10 times compared to the low-probability state. To. Then, if the random number value read at this time is included in the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot flag to "01H".

Step S2302: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit determination process (internal lottery).
When the above jackpot flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of small hit values and determines whether or not the read random value is included in this range (lottery execution means). The "small hit" here is something other than non-winning (missing), but has a different property from the "big hit". That is, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (a turning point of the game) to shift to the above-mentioned "high probability state" or "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the "small hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the first variable winning device 30 as in the "big hit". If the read random number value is included in the small hit value range, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag to "01H". In this embodiment, the winning probability of a small hit is set to "approximately 1/1", and unless it corresponds to a large hit, it corresponds to a substantially small hit.

In this embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning (regulation means other than the non-winning), but the big hit determination table for each state is prepared in advance. The small hit determination table may be written in each ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random number value.

Step S2202: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the same process as in step S2200 above is performed, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S2404.

On the other hand, when the small hit determination process is completed (step S2302), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2400.

Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) has been set in the jackpot flag in the previous jackpot determination process. If the jackpot flag is not set to a value (01H) (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2402, and if the jackpot flag is set to a value (01H) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 is next. Step S2410 is executed.

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

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process at the time of disconnection. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) for transmission to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always one segment (center). Only the lighting display of the bar "-") can be set, and the stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load of the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the disconnection pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern number at the time of disconnection for the special symbol to be controlled (variation pattern determining means). The fluctuation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the fluctuation display of the special symbol to be controlled, and corresponds to the fluctuation time required for the fluctuation display. Fluctuation patterns include various fluctuation patterns such as non-reach fluctuation, reach fluctuation, super reach fluctuation, etc. (the same applies to large hits and small hits). Information about the variation pattern of the selected special symbol is transmitted to the effect control device as a variation pattern command.

Here, since the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection differs depending on whether or not it is the above-mentioned "high probability state" or "time reduction state", the main control CPU 72 loads the game state flag in this process and is currently Check whether the state of is "high probability state" or "time reduction state". For example, in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is set to the shortened time (for example, about 4 to 12 seconds).

Further, even if it is not in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is based on, for example, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. May be shortened. However, when the special fluctuation pattern is selected, the fluctuation time does not change depending on the number of stored items. The stop display time of the symbol at the time of detachment is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the fluctuation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

In the present embodiment, when a non-winning result is obtained as a result of the internal lottery by the first special symbol, for example, "reach effect" may be generated and the result may be missed, or "reach effect" may be generated and the result may be missed. It is supposed to control the operation. Then, in the "difference pattern selection table at the time of loss", fluctuation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects, for example, "non-reach effect" and "reach effect", are defined in advance. One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected from among them. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, a super reach production, and a story reach production.

[Example of 1st special symbol deviation pattern selection table]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time shortened state) when the first special symbol is out of alignment.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) in the low-probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "1" to "8" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

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

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

Then, the main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the comparison value is used. Select the corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number. In this embodiment, since the second special symbol is not set to be non-winning, there is no deviation pattern selection table for the second special symbol, but when the second special symbol is set to be non-winning, the second It is possible to prepare a variation pattern selection table at the time of loss regarding a special symbol.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state) when the first special symbol is out of alignment.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) in the low probability time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "21" to "28" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "21" to "25" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "26" to "28" are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reach. It corresponds.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “22” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) when the first special symbol is out of alignment.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when non-winning is applicable) in the high-probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "41" to "48" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "41" to "48" correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “42” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the jackpot determination result is missed (in the case of non-winning), but when the determination result is a jackpot (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes), The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type determining means). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 can refer to the jackpot stop symbol selection table in the jackpot stop symbol determination process and determine the type of the winning symbol based on the jackpot symbol random number from the stored contents.

[Winning symbol at the time of big hit]
In this embodiment, three types of winning symbols, which are selectively determined at the time of a big hit, are prepared. The breakdown of the three types is "9 round normal symbol", "9 round probable symbol" and "16 round probable symbol". Each winning symbol of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "9 round normal symbol", "9 round normal symbol a", "9 round normal symbol b", "9 round normal symbol c", and so on.

Further, in the present embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbols selected at the time of the big hit of the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the jackpot this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution values for each winning symbol, and each distribution value "35", "55", "10" has the denominator as 100. Corresponds to the proportion of cases. Further, in the second column from the left, "9-round normal symbol", "9-round probable variation symbol", and "16-round probabilistic symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting "9 round normal symbol" is 35/100 (= 35%), and the ratio of selecting "9 round probability variation symbol" is 100 minutes. 55 (= 55%), and the ratio of selecting "16 round probability variation symbol" is 10/100 (= 10%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using the jackpot symbol random number.

In any case, when the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. Selectively determine the winning symbol with. Further, in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value and EVENT value. Among them, the MODE value "B1H" of the upper byte means that the winning symbol this time is selected at the time of the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values "01H", "02H", and "03H" of the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, when the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol and "9 round normal symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described by "B1H01H". It will be.

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

[Time saving number]
In the second column from the right of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the time reduction number (time reduction number) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In the present embodiment, when the "9-round normal symbol" is applicable, 100 times are set as the number of time reductions. On the other hand, when it corresponds to the "9-round probability variation symbol" or the "16-round probability variation symbol", 0 times is set as the number of time reductions (the number of time reductions is not set).

[Probability change count]
In the right column of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the probability variation number (probability fluctuation count, ST count) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In the present embodiment, when the "9-round normal symbol" is applicable, 0 times is set as the probability variation number (the probability variation number is not set). On the other hand, when it corresponds to the "9-round probability variation symbol" or the "16-round probability variation symbol", 10000 times is set as the number of probability variations.

[Second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

In the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for each winning symbol are also shown in the left column, and each distribution value "35", "5", "60" has a denominator of 100. Corresponds to the ratio in the case of. Similarly, in the second column from the left, "9-round normal symbol", "9-round probable variation symbol", and "16-round probabilistic symbol" corresponding to the distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting "9 round normal symbol" is 35/100 (= 35%), and the ratio of selecting "9 round probability variation symbol" is It is 5/100 (= 5%), and the ratio of selecting "16 round probability variation symbol" is 60/100 (= 60%).

When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol by the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Here, too, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value "B2H" of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the second special symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values "01H", "02H", and "03H" of the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, if the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol and "16 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described by "B2H03H". ..

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

[Number of time reductions and probability changes]
The values of the number of time reductions and the number of probable changes in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table are the same as the values in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table.

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined value of the fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of jackpot reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a 9-round normal jackpot, a 9-round probability variation jackpot, or a 16-round probability variation jackpot, for example, a "reach effect" is generated in the production to control the jackpot. The "big hit fluctuation pattern selection table" defines fluctuation patterns corresponding to multiple types of "reach effects", and if it corresponds to a 9-round normal jackpot, a 9-round probability variable jackpot, or a 16-round probability variable jackpot, , One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected. In addition, when winning in a state where the fluctuation time shortening function is activated, a fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time (a fluctuation pattern without reach effect) is selected without selecting a fluctuation pattern having a long fluctuation time. May be good.

[Example of jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means). In the present embodiment, the fluctuation patterns are not distinguished between the 9-round normal jackpot, the 9-round probability variation jackpot, and the 16-round probability variation jackpot, but a dedicated variation pattern selection table may be used for each jackpot (the same applies hereinafter). ). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "61" to "68" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "61" to "68" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit by the reach effect.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “62” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a second special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability non-time shortened state in the second special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "71" to "78" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "71" to "78" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit without the reach effect being performed.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “72” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "81" to "88" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "81" to "88" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit by the reach effect.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “82” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a second special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability time shortened state in the second special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "91" to "98" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "91" to "98" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit without reach effect.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “92” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a first special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time shortened state in the first special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means).
In this table, the same fluctuation pattern (variation time is, for example, about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined fluctuation pattern (variation pattern 101 per non-reach) is set. ) Is selected in the table structure.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “101” as the fluctuation pattern number regardless of the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a second special symbol jackpot variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time shortened state in the second special symbol lottery (variable pattern defining means).
In this table, the same fluctuation pattern (variation time is, for example, about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined fluctuation pattern (variation pattern 102 per non-reach) is set. ) Is selected in the table structure.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “102” as the fluctuation pattern number regardless of the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value.

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of a big hit.
In this process, when the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol", the main control CPU 72 is set to the flag area of the RAM 76. A value (01H) is set in the stored probability variation function operation flag as the game state flag (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means, advantageous game state transition means).

Further, in this process, when the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is "9 round normal symbol", the main control CPU 72 is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. A value (01H) is set in the fluctuation time shortening function operating flag as a flag (time shortening state transition means, fluctuation time shortening function operating means).

Further, in the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the jackpot stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of big hit) together with the above-mentioned stop symbol command (at the time of big hit). These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

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

[Winning symbol at the time of small hit]
The winning symbol at the time of a small hit may be only one type of "1 open small hit symbol", and other types such as "2 times open small hit symbol" and "3 times open small hit symbol" may be used. You may prepare it. The "small hit" as a result of the internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state", so the "2 rounds (2)" that are essential for this type of pachinko machine It is possible to provide a "single opening small hit symbol" without being bound by the provisions of "more than once opening).

Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the small hit time variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined value of the fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the reach fluctuation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or the fluctuation pattern equivalent to that in the case of a normal fluctuation can be selected.

[2nd special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction / low probability time reduction state)]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a second special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction / low probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit in the low probability non-time reduction or low probability time reduction state in the second special symbol lottery (variation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same fluctuation pattern (variation time is a specified time (for example, a few minutes to several hours)) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined fluctuation pattern (non-reach small) is set. The table configuration is such that the hit fluctuation pattern 201) is selected (variation time defining means).

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “201” as the fluctuation pattern number regardless of the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value.

[2nd special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state)]
FIG. 30 is a second special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit with the second special symbol in the high probability non-time shortened state (variation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same fluctuation pattern (variation time is, for example, about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined fluctuation pattern (non-reach small hit fluctuation pattern) is set. The table structure is such that 202) is selected.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "202" as the fluctuation pattern number regardless of the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value.

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of small hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small hit stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol variation start process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (at the time of loss / at the time of hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets the fluctuation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above.

Step S2416: The main control CPU 72 executes the number-cut counter value management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of updating the value of the number-cut counter value. The details of the processing will be described later. Further, such a process may be executed in the process during the special symbol stop display.

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Figs. 14 and 15: Processing during special symbol change]
In the special symbol change processing (step S3000 or step S3900), the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the change timer set as described above from the register into the timer counter, and then the passage of time (count number of clock pulses). Or the value of the timer counter is decremented according to the value of the interrupt counter). Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) to be controlled until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. Then, when the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900) as the next jump destination.

Further, in this process, a determination process of whether or not to activate the skip function is also performed, and in the big hit determination or the small hit determination of the previous special symbol change preprocessing, one of the special symbols is in the process of being out of order and is changing. When it is determined that the other special symbol corresponds to a big hit or a small hit, the skip function is activated for one special symbol. By operating this skip function, the variable display of one special symbol is forcibly terminated.

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

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

[Internal lottery correspondence table]
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a correspondence table of the internal lottery.
In the correspondence table of the internal lottery, when the corresponding special symbol executes the big hit lottery (big hit judgment processing) or the small hit lottery (small hit judgment processing) of the internal lottery, it is executed based on the state of the other special symbol. It is shown that it is decided whether or not to do it.

When the other special symbol is "during jackpot fluctuation (during variable display when the jackpot flag is 01H)", the jackpot lottery and the small hit lottery are not executed in the internal lottery of the special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to "missing".

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

On the other hand, when the other special symbol is "out of alignment (during display of fluctuation when the jackpot flag or small hit flag is 00H)", the jackpot lottery is first executed in the internal lottery of the special symbol. Therefore, if it does not correspond to a big hit, a small hit lottery is executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to either "big hit", "small hit" or "missing". It should be noted that the out-of-change fluctuation includes waiting for fluctuation and a stop display.

In this way, when one special symbol is "big hit fluctuating" or "small hit fluctuating", the big hit lottery or the small hit lottery is not executed in the other special symbol, and as a result, the big hit game or The small hit game is not executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is "big hit fluctuating" or "small hit fluctuating", the other special symbol is substantially in a big hit or small hit no lottery state.

[Counter value management process]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the number-cut counter value management process. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described according to an example of the procedure.

Step S2420: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of loading the number-cut counter value. As for the "count cut counter value", the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state", respectively. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the "high probability non-time reduction state", the number cut counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 10000 times), but the number cut counter for the time reduction state is not set. .. Further, when shifting to the "low probability time reduction state", the number cut counter for the high probability state is not set, and the number cut counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times).

Step S2422: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value is 0. At this time, if the number-of-count counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, when the number-cut counter value is not 0 (No), after the number-cut counter value command (time reduction count designation command, special count designation command, ST count designation command, etc.) is generated, the main control CPU 72 is next. Step S2424 is executed.

Step S2424: The main control CPU 72 decrements (1 subtracts) the number-cut counter value.
Step S2426: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is 0. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number-cut counter is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2428. On the other hand, when the value of the number-cut counter is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 17).

Step S2428: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of resetting the flag when the number-of-times cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the "high probability non-time reduction state", the number-of-count counter for the high-probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 10000 times), so that the reset is performed in this case. Only the probability fluctuation function activation flag. Further, when shifting to the "low probability time shortening state", the number-of-times cutting counter related to the time shortening state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times), so that the variable time shortening function is reset in this case. Only the activation flag.

Then, when the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 17).

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned special symbol storage area shift processing. The content of the special symbol storage area shift processing can be common to the processing of the first special symbol and the processing of the second special symbol. However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol, the control target is the second special symbol. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2210: First, the main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 corresponding to the special symbol to be controlled. The specific contents of the processing are as already described in the above-mentioned special symbol change preprocessing.

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

Step S2214: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the “number of working memories at the start of fluctuation” for the special symbol to be controlled from the value of the working memory counter after subtraction.

Step S2216: Further, the main control CPU 72 sets an operation memory number reduction effect command for the special symbol to be controlled. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word length command, but its configuration is in contrast to the above-mentioned "effect command when the number of working memories is increased". That is, the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is the value of the lower byte (for example, "00H" to "03H") indicating the number of working memories after the reduction, with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte indicating the command type. ”) Is added, and the value of the lower byte is further added (logically) with an additional value (for example,“ 10H ”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories due to consumption”. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second digit is "1" by ORing the added value "10H", and this value indicates that it is the "result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories". It becomes a thing. That is, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memories "4" (command notation is "14H") up to the previous time is reduced by one, and as a result, the number of working memories this time is "3" (command). The notation indicates that it has become "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it is the result of one decrease in the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") up to the previous time. , It means that the number of working memories this time is "2" to "0" (command notation is "12H" to "10H"). The above-mentioned preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is a working memory number command for the first special symbol. If the control target is the second special symbol, the preceding value is a value (for example, "BCH") indicating that it is an operation memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2218: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the operation memory number reduction effect command for the special symbol to be controlled set in the previous step S2216 to the effect control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 17).

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for processing during special symbol change. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described. The contents of the special symbol changing processing described below can be common to the first special symbol game processing (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game processing (FIG. 15). That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game processing, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game processing, the control target is the second special symbol.

Step S3100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the variable timer (decrements the value corresponding to the interrupt cycle) for the special symbol to be controlled.

Step S3200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the variable timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the fluctuation timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the fluctuation display time has not ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000b in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle, and processes during special symbol variation display. Is repeated.

On the other hand, if the value of the fluctuation timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the fluctuation display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S3300.

Step S3300: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a value (01H) is set in the jackpot flag for the special symbol to be controlled. When the jackpot flag is set to a value (01H) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S3400. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol game processing (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game processing (FIG. 15).

Step S3400: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. In this confirmation process, is it necessary to activate the skip function for the other special symbol (forcibly terminate the other missed variation) when the fluctuation display at the time of the big hit of the target special symbol ends? Executed to confirm whether or not. Then, when it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S3500, assuming that it is necessary to activate the skip function for the other special symbol. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (No), the other special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner and it is not necessary to activate the skip function, so that the main control CPU 72 steps next. Execute S3600.

Step S3500: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of activating the skip function for the other special symbol. That is, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of ending the variation display related to the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets 0 to the value of the variable timer for the other special symbol.

Step S3600: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol variation end processing. In this process, a value (01H) is set in the symbol stop display flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76 as the variable display of the special symbol to be controlled ends. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900) as the next jump destination. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

Here, the big hit lottery probability and the small hit lottery probability of the game machine of the present embodiment are set as follows.
For example, the jackpot probability when the game state is the normal state (the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is a low probability state) is set to about 1/319. Further, the jackpot probability when the gaming state is an advantageous state (the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is a high probability state) is set to about 1/50. Further, the small hit probability is defined according to the type of the special symbol regardless of the gaming state, and since the first special symbol does not have a small hit, there is no small hit probability. On the other hand, the small hit probability of the second special symbol is set to about 1 / 1.1. For this reason, the second special symbol lottery is set to be more likely to correspond to a small hit than the first special symbol lottery (winning type defining means).

[Skip function and fluctuation time measurement pause function]
Hereinafter, the skip function for forcibly stopping the fluctuation display in the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 and the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol display device 34 are temporarily stopped. The function will be described in detail.

FIG. 35 is a timing chart showing changes in the variation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.
Of these, FIG. 35 (A) shows an "example in which the skip function and the fluctuation time measurement pause function are not activated", and the first special symbol corresponds to the loss while the fluctuation display at the time of the big hit of the second special symbol. It is a timing chart which shows the change of each fluctuation display when the skip function and the fluctuation time measurement pause function are not activated when the fluctuation display is started.

Further, FIG. 35 (B) shows an "example of operating the fluctuation time measurement pause function", and the fluctuation display corresponding to the deviation of the first special symbol while the fluctuation display when the second special symbol is a small hit is shown. It is a timing chart which shows the change of each fluctuation display when the fluctuation time measurement pause function is activated when is started.

Further, FIG. 35C shows a “skip function operation example”, and when the first special symbol starts the fluctuation display corresponding to the big hit during the fluctuation display when the second special symbol is removed. , It is a timing chart which shows the change of each fluctuation display at each time when a skip function is activated. The skip function and the fluctuation time measurement pause function will be described by taking the timing charts (A) to (C) as an example.

[(A) in FIG. 35: Example of each function not operating]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in the fluctuation waiting state and the second special symbol is in the fluctuation display at the time of big hit.

Then, at time t1, when the game ball wins the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, an internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and the first special symbol is executed based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner at the time of a big hit, the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are not performed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery is out of order. In the illustrated example, a loss (non-winning) is selected as a result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol, the fluctuation time for the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display ends at time t2. Is being done. Specifically, the time from time t1 to t2 is set in the variable timer related to the first special symbol. The variable timer represents the time during which the variable display can be executed, and is subtracted from the variable timer only for the time when the variable display is executed, and the variable display ends when the variable timer becomes 0.

Next, at time t2, since the fluctuation timer for the first special symbol becomes 0, the fluctuation display for the first special symbol ends, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the loss. Since the result of the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is not won, the skip function does not operate for the second special symbol here. Therefore, the variable display regarding the second special symbol is continued. That is, the variable timer related to the second special symbol (at the time of big hit) is not replaced.

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

[(B) in FIG. 35: Example of operation of the fluctuation time measurement pause function]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in the fluctuation waiting state and the second special symbol is in the fluctuation display at the time of a small hit.

Then, at time t1, when the game ball wins the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, an internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and the first special symbol is executed based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner at the time of a small hit, the big hit lottery or the small hit lottery is not executed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery is out of order. In the illustrated example, outliers are selected as a result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol, the fluctuation time for the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. There is. Specifically, the time from time t1 to t2 is set in the variable timer related to the first special symbol. The variable timer represents the time during which the variable display can be executed, and is subtracted from the variable timer only for the time when the variable display is executed, and the variable display ends when the variable timer becomes 0.

However, here, it is assumed that the fluctuation at the time of the small hit of the second special symbol ends at the time tx, which is the time between the times t1 and t2. Then, the small hit game related to the second special symbol is executed after the time tx. Here, it is assumed that the small hit game is executed from the time tx to the time t2. Then, the fluctuation time measurement pause function is activated, and the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped. Then, when the small hit game ends at time t2, the measurement of the remaining fluctuation time is restarted.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even if the game ball wins the starting winning opening for the other special symbol during the variable display at the time of a small hit in one special symbol, the internal lottery for the other special symbol The big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are not executed. Then, when the small hit game with one special symbol is started, the measurement of the fluctuation time of the other special symbol is suspended, and then the measurement of the fluctuation time of the other special symbol is restarted after the small hit game is completed. To. A big hit lottery may be performed during the small hit fluctuation.

[(C) in FIG. 35: Example of skip function operation]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in the fluctuation waiting state and the second special symbol is in the fluctuation display at the time of disconnection.

Then, at time t1, when the game ball wins the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, an internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and the first special symbol is executed based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner when it is removed, the big hit lottery is first executed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol, and the small hit lottery is performed when the big hit is not applicable. That is, the first special symbol is in a state where the big hit lottery can be executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a big hit, a small hit, or a miss. If a small hit is not selected in the first special symbol lottery, a big hit or a miss is applicable. In the illustrated example, a jackpot is selected as a result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol, the fluctuation time for the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. There is. Specifically, the time from time t1 to t2 is set in the variable timer related to the first special symbol. The variable timer represents the time during which the variable display can be executed, and is subtracted from the variable timer only for the time when the variable display is executed, and the variable display ends when the variable timer becomes 0.

Next, at time t2, since the fluctuation timer for the first special symbol becomes 0, the fluctuation display for the first special symbol ends, and the first special symbol stops and displays in a manner corresponding to the big hit. Since the result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is a big hit, and the variable display for the second special symbol is being executed, the skip function is activated. Then, by the operation of this skip function, the variation display at the time of a miss or a small hit regarding the second special symbol is terminated (forced termination means). Specifically, the variable timer related to the second special symbol is replaced with 0. Therefore, the set fluctuation time will be skipped. It should be noted that, unlike the operation example of FIG. 35 (B), the variation display at the time of loss regarding the skipped second special symbol is not executed again.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the game ball wins the starting winning opening for the other special symbol while the fluctuation display at the time of loss is displayed in one special symbol, the internal lottery for the other special symbol is a big hit lottery or a small lottery. A winning lottery is executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is not in the variable display at the time of big hit or small hit, it means that the big hit lottery or the small hit lottery is possible for the other special symbol. For example, if the game ball wins the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol while the fluctuation is displayed when the second special symbol is out of alignment or the second special symbol is waiting for the fluctuation as described above, the first Of the internal lottery related to special symbols, the big hit lottery is executed first, and then the small hit lottery is executed. In addition, while the fluctuation display at the time of a miss or a small hit regarding one special symbol (second special symbol) is started, the fluctuation display at the time of a big hit regarding the other special symbol (first special symbol) is started and ends after the fluctuation time elapses. In this case, the variable display of one of the special symbols (second special symbol) is skipped, and the variable display can be forcibly terminated.

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display processing (step S4000 in FIG. 14 or step S4900 in FIG. 15). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described. The contents of the processing during the special symbol stop display described below can also be common to the first special symbol game processing and the second special symbol game processing. That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game processing, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game processing, the control target is the second special symbol.

Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer for the special symbol to be controlled (decrements by the interrupt cycle).

Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has expired based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle, and processes during the special symbol stop display. Is repeated.

On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4250.

Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The "stop display time end command" is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

Step S4300: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set.

Step S4603: Then, when it is confirmed that the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set (step S4300: Yes), the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. To do. This confirmation process is to confirm whether or not it is necessary to activate the fluctuation time measurement pause function for the other special symbol when the variation display at the time of small hit of the target special symbol ends. Will be executed.

Then, when it is confirmed that the other special symbol is displaying the fluctuation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next steps S4604a, assuming that it is necessary to activate the fluctuation time measurement pause function for the other special symbol. And step S4604b. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (No), it is assumed that the other special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner and it is not necessary to activate the fluctuation time measurement pause function, and the main control CPU 72 Then executes step S4605.

Step S4604a: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of activating the fluctuation time measurement pause function for the other special symbol, that is, a process of saving the fluctuation information of the other special symbol. Specifically, in order to temporarily stop the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 transmits the current fluctuation timer value (the value of the remaining fluctuation time) and the information of the stop symbol to the RAM 76. Execute the process to save.

Step S4604b: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of turning on the variable time measurement paused flag stored in the RAM 76 (variable time measurement pause means). As a result, the measurement of the fluctuation time is suspended.

Step S4605: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit game in progress)" as a control internal state flag for the special symbol to be controlled. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the small hit game is in progress for the special symbol to be controlled. The state command indicating that the small hit game is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

Step S4600: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set. When the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4350.

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

Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "start of big win (during big hit game)" as an internal state flag on control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "16 rounds probability variation symbol", the value corresponding to "16 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol", a value representing "9 round" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the special symbol to be controlled is in the jackpot. The state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

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

[When not winning]
On the other hand, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed.
That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4600.
Then, when the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is not set and it is simply out of alignment (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4602.

Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special symbol change preprocessing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Then, when the processing of step S4500, step S4602 or step S4606 is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing (FIG. 14 or 15).

[Display output management process]
Next, FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes special symbol display setting process (step S1200), normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), status display setting process (step S1220), working memory display setting process (step S1230), and continuous operation count display setting. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the working memory display setting process (step S1230) are described in the first special symbol display device 34 and the second. Generates and outputs a drive signal applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a. It is a process to be done.

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d and the time reduction state display lamp 38e, respectively, according to the values of the probability fluctuation function operation flag or the fluctuation time shortening function operation flag. For example, if a value (01H) is set in the probability fluctuation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d. The probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d keeps lighting until the jackpot game related to the special symbol is started, or until the probability fluctuation function is turned off after the fluctuation display of the special symbol is performed a specified number of times, and then the lamp is not lit. The display can be switched (off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the fluctuation time shortening function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 lights the LED corresponding to the time saving state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Output a signal. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. In this case, the main control CPU 72 determines the launch direction of the game ball according to the progress of the game (value such as special game management status or internal state) (launch direction determining means). For example, when the gaming state is a left-handed gaming state (a low-probability non-time shortening state, a low-probability time-shortening state, or a jackpot gaming state using the first variable winning device 30), the main control The CPU 72 determines that the game ball should be launched into the first game area (left-handed area). On the other hand, when the gaming state is a right-handed gaming state (when it is a high-probability non-time shortening state, it is a big hit gaming state using the second variable winning device 31 or a small hit gaming state), the main control CPU 72 Determines that the game ball should be launched into the second game area (right-handed area). Then, when the main control CPU 72 determines that the gaming state is the right-handed gaming state, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of generating a launch position designation command. The launch position designation command includes information for identifying whether the game state is the left-handed game state or the game state is the right-handed game state. The generated launch position designation command is transmitted to the effect control device.

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

[Variable winning device management process at the time of big hit]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process at the time of big hit will be described. FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of a big hit. The jackpot variable winning device management process includes the jackpot game process selection process (step S5100), the jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5200), the jackpot opening / closing operation process (step S5300), and the jackpot jackpot opening / closing operation process (step S5300). The configuration includes a group of subroutines for the winning opening closing process (step S5400) and the jackpot end processing (step S5500).

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

[Large winning opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed at the time of a big hit and the opening time of each. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a symbol-specific open pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the opening pattern of the winning opening (the number of opening for each round and the opening time for each round), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the corresponding winning symbol this time. Select the number of winnings). The opening pattern of the big winning opening and the interval time between rounds for each winning symbol are as described in the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG.

Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the winning symbol at the time of the jackpot selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). Specifically, if the major classification "16 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16. If "9-round normal symbol" or "9-round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 9. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76 as a corresponding value (“8” for 9 times, “15” for 16 times) on the program.

Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot opening timer based on the jackpot opening pattern operation pattern set in the previous step S5204. The value of the timer set here is the opening time of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31. If a time of about 20.0 to 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer, the opening time is sufficient so that the ball can easily enter the big winning opening during one opening. (For example, the time for 10 or more game balls to be launched by the launch control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer, the opening time hardly occurs (it becomes difficult) even if it is not impossible to enter the big winning opening during one opening. ) It is a short time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the firing interval of the game ball by the firing control board set 174).

Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot time interval timer based on the jackpot opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time between rounds during the big hit.

Step S5212: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening / closing operation process, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing at the time of big hit]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the big winning opening at the time of a big hit. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5301: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the large winning opening interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to confirm whether or not the large winning opening interval timer is counting down by confirming whether or not the large winning opening interval timer set in the following step S5314 is already operating. it can.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the large winning opening interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the large winning opening interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5302.

Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first special winning opening 30b or the second special winning opening 31b. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 16, the drive signal applied to the first big winning opening solenoid 90 or the second big winning opening solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 39) is executed.

Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the large winning opening has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next steps S5308. To execute.

Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 (the first large winning opening 30b or the second large winning opening 31b that is open) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 within the opening time.

Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round during the big hit). If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). Then, when the variable winning device management process at the time of a big hit is executed, the jump destination is set to the opening / closing operation process of the big winning opening at the time of a big hit at this stage. Execute repeatedly.

When it is determined in step S5306 above that the opening time of the large winning opening has ended (Yes), or when it is confirmed in step S5310 that the number of counts has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then performs step S5312. Run.

Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the first special winning opening 30b or the second special winning opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 or the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 shifts from the open state to the closed state.

Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the big winning opening interval timer set in the above-mentioned big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 in FIG. 39).

Step S5315: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the grand winning opening interval time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the large winning opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the large winning opening interval timer is not still 0 or less (No), the main control The CPU 72 returns to the end address of the variable winning device management process (FIG. 38) at the time of a big hit. Then, when the big hit big winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the step S5314 is directly executed by jumping from the first step S5301. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the large winning opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5318.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter. The value of the open count counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0.

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the number of times set in the current round. Here, the "number of times set in the current round" is determined, for example, "the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened a plurality of times in one round during the big hit". This is to correspond to the open pattern. In the present embodiment, for example, such an open pattern is adopted in the 6th round when it corresponds to either the "9 round normal symbol" or the "9 round probability variation symbol", but from the 1st round to 5 Up to the round, the "number of times set in the current round" is set to once in each round. Therefore, in the first to fifth rounds when either the "9-round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol" is applicable, the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes). The main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

On the other hand, in the 6th round when either the "9-round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol" is applied, a pattern that repeats opening and closing operations multiple times within one round is adopted, so one opening is performed. At the end, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the jackpot opening / closing operation process at the present stage. Execute repeatedly. As a result, the increment of the open count counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big hit big winning opening closing process, and returns to the big hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). Then, when the jackpot variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 then executes the jackpot jackpot closing process.

[Closed the big prize opening at the time of big hit]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for closing the big winning opening at the time of a big hit. This big hit big winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the value of the round number counter is "1" at the stage where the first round is completed and the second round is approached.

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the round number counter after increment has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the round number counter after incrementing, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1 to 15 after subtracting 1), (No). Then, step S5405 is executed.

Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the value of the current round number counter. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening / closing operation process at the time of a big hit.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the jackpot opening / closing operation process, which is the next jump destination, in the jackpot game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 38). To execute. Then, after executing the jackpot opening / closing operation process at the time of a big hit, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot closing process at the time of a big hit again after executing the jackpot closing process at the time of a jackpot, and performs steps S5402 to S5408 above. Execute repeatedly. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (9 or 16 times).

When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5410.

Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (= 0) the round number counter, the next jump destination is set to the jackpot end process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38). As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, the jackpot end process is selected this time.

[End processing at the time of big hit]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the jackpot end processing. This big hit end process is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of big hit. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S5501: The main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value in the jackpot end time timer, and then counts down the timer (for each call of this module) with the passage of time.

Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the end time at the time of jackpot has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the jackpot end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

After that, when the value of the jackpot end time timer becomes 0 with the passage of time, the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes step S5503 and subsequent steps.

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

Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5508: When the value is set in the probability variation function operation flag (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, 10000 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76, for example, and becomes the above-mentioned number-cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the special symbol changes (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. In the present embodiment, since the high probability state is not provided with a substantial upper limit, the probability that the probability variation number is subtracted to 0 is low. If the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a value (01H) is set in the fluctuation time shortening function operation flag. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5512: Then, when the value is set in the fluctuation time shortening function operation flag (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, 100 times). The value of the set time reduction number is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The time reduction number set here is the upper limit number of times for shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol in the subsequent games. If the value of the variable time shortening function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state specification command based on various flags. Specifically, when the jackpot flag is reset or the major winning combination ends, a state specification command indicating "normal" is generated as the game state. If the probability fluctuation function operation flag is set, a state specification command indicating "high probability medium" is generated as the internal state, and if the fluctuation time reduction function operation flag is set, the internal state is "time reduction". Generates a state specification command that represents "medium". These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening pattern setting process at the time of a jackpot.

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 and step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 38).

[Variable winning device management process for small hits]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit will be described. FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit. The small hit variable winning device management process includes a small hit game process selection process (step S6100), a small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200), and a small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300). , The configuration includes a group of subroutines for the small hit large winning opening closing process (step S6400) and the small hit ending process (step S6500).

Step S6100: In the small hit game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of step S6200 to step S6500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the small hit variable winning device management process as the return destination address in the stack pointer. .. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the second variable winning device 31 has not been started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. To do. On the other hand, if the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300) as the next jump destination, and the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300). If the opening / closing operation process of the winning opening is completed, the large winning opening closing process (step S6400) at the time of a small hit is selected as the next jump destination. Further, when the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation processing and the small hit large winning opening closing processing are repeatedly executed over the set continuous operation number, the main control CPU 72 performs the small hit end processing (step) as the next jump destination. S6500) is selected. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Large winning opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed at the time of a small hit and the time for each opening. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S6212: The main control CPU 72 sets the “small hit opening pattern”. In the present embodiment, a "small hit opening pattern" is set according to the winning symbol. For example, when the opening pattern is selected twice, the opening pattern of "0.8 seconds open" is set for the first time and the second time, respectively. Since there is no concept of "round" for "small hit", "opening pattern" is also described as "first opening" and "second opening".

Step S6214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times the large winning opening is opened to, for example, two, based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S6212. The number of releases set here is stored in, for example, the buffer area of the RAM 76.

Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit release timer. The value of the timer set here is the opening time for each operation when the second variable winning device 31 is operated.

Step S6218: The main control CPU 72 sets the small hit interval timer. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time for each time when the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is a game ball on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a. Is set to a time (for example, about 2 seconds) in which

Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300).

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing at the time of small hit]
FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the large winning opening at the time of a small hit. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S6301: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the interval timer is counting down. Specifically, by confirming whether or not the interval timer set in step S6314 below is already in operation, it is possible to confirm whether or not the interval timer is in the countdown.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the interval timer is in the countdown (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6314. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6302.

Step S6302: The main control CPU 72 opens the second special winning opening 31b. Specifically, the drive signal applied to the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 44) is executed.

Step S6306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next steps S6308. To execute.

Step S6308: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won a prize in the second variable winning device 31 (the opening second large winning opening 31b) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the second count switch 85 within the opening time.

Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one opening at the time of a small hit). If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). Then, when the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit is executed next, the jump destination is set to the opening / closing operation process of the large winning opening at the time of small hit at this stage, so that the main control CPU 72 is in step S6301 to step S6310 described above. Repeat the procedure.

If it is determined in step S6306 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S6310 that the number of counts has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6312.

Step S6312: The main control CPU 72 closes the second grand prize opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is stopped. As a result, the second variable winning device 31 returns from the open state to the closed state.

Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the above-mentioned small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6218 in FIG. 44).

Step S6315: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the interval time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 is variable at the time of small hit. It returns to the end address of the winning device management process (FIG. 43). Then, when the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the step S6314 is directly executed by jumping from the first step S6301. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6316.

Step S6316: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening closing process, and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 43). Then, when the small hit variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 then executes the small hit large winning opening closing process.

[Large winning opening closing process at the time of small hit]
FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for closing the large winning opening at the time of a small hit. This small hit large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the second variable winning device 31 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S6412: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter.

Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after increment has reached the set open count. The number of times of opening is set in the previous small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6214 in FIG. 44). If the value of the open count counter has not reached the set open count (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at the time of a small hit.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 43) at the time of small hit.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, which is the next jump destination, in the small hit game process selection process (step S6100 in FIG. 43). To execute. Then, after executing the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 again executes the small hit large winning opening closing process until the actual number of opening reaches the set number of opening (2 times). , The opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is repeatedly executed.

When the actual number of times of opening at the time of a small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S6414: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6418.

Step S6418, Step S6420: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (= 0) the open count counter, the next jump destination is set to the small hit end process.

Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 43) at the time of small hit. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the small hit end process is selected this time.

[End processing at the time of small hit]
FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the end processing at the time of small hit. This small hit end process is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the second variable winning device 31 at the time of small hit. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S6502: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value in the small hit end time timer, and then counts down the timer (for each call of this module) with the passage of time.

Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the end time at the time of small hit has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hit end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 43).

After that, when the value of the small hit end time timer becomes 0 with the passage of time, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes step S6506 and subsequent steps.

Step S6506, Step S6508: The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and erases "in small hit game" from the internal state flag to end the small hit game. In the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of clearing the flag.

Step S6510: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process.

Step S6512: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 and step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit.

[Game flow (1)]
FIG. 48 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when a “9-round normal symbol” or a “9-round probability variation symbol” is applicable in the normal mode.

When starting the game with the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from the [F1] normal mode. [F1] In the "normal mode", the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is the "low probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is the "low probability state". In this way, the [F1] normal mode is in the "low probability non-time shortened state". Therefore, by inserting the game ball into the upper start winning opening 26, the first special symbol starts to fluctuate and the game is started. It will proceed.

In [F1] normal mode, if you win the jackpot of [F2] "9 round normal symbol", [F3] 9 round jackpot game (battle bonus) will be executed, and you will be defeated in the battle of [F4] big role production. , [F5] Shift to coastal mode.

[F5] In the coast mode, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is the "low probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is the "high probability state" (low probability time shortened state). In the [F5] coastal mode, if the winning result is not obtained and the [F6] special symbol fluctuates 100 times, the mode shifts to the [F1] normal mode.
In the [F5] coast mode, the first special symbol mainly fluctuates, so that the game flow is the same as in the normal mode.

In [F1] normal mode, if you win the jackpot of [F7] "9 round probability variation symbol", [F3] 9 round jackpot game (battle bonus) is executed, and you win the battle of [F8] big role production. , [F9] Move to fireworks rush. [F9] In the fireworks rush, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is "high probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is "low probability state" (high probability non-time shortening state).

Although not shown in particular, if the jackpot of the "16-round probability variation symbol" is hit in the [F1] normal mode, the 16-round jackpot game is executed, and the game shifts to the [F9] fireworks rush.

[Game flow (2)]
FIG. 49 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the fireworks rush corresponds to the “16-round probability variation symbol”, the “9-round probability variation symbol”, or the “9-round normal symbol”.

If you win the big hit of [G1] "16 round probability variation symbol" in [F9] fireworks rush, [G2] 16 round big hit game (special bonus) is executed, and after the big hit game is over, it shifts to [F9] fireworks rush. To do.

If you win the big hit of [G3] "9 round probability variation symbol" in [F9] fireworks rush, [G4] 9 round big hit game (normal bonus) is executed, and after the big hit game is over, it shifts to [F9] fireworks rush. To do.

If you win the big hit of [G5] "9 round normal symbol" in [F9] fireworks rush, [G4] 9 round big hit game (normal bonus) is executed, and after the big hit game is over, it shifts to [F5] coast mode. To do.

It should be noted that the above game flow shows an example of a typical game flow and does not cover all the game flows.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the internal lottery of the jackpot is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the fluctuation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lit / blinking by the 7-segment LED, they lack the apparent appealing power. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 executes a variable display effect using an effect symbol or the like.

The effect symbols include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each production pattern is, for example, a design of a picture card with a character attached to the numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all form a symbol sequence in which the numbers are arranged in descending order of "9" to "1". Such a symbol sequence is displayed in a variable manner so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in each of the left area, middle area, and right area on the screen.

50 and 51 are continuous views showing an example of production in the fireworks rush of the embodiment.
The figure below shows an example of the effect on the liquid crystal display screen and the state of the game ball near the right start winning opening 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31.

In FIG. 50 (A): Small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

In the fireworks rush, the game is played by hitting right. The right-handed game ball may enter the right-starting winning opening 27, or may enter the deceleration passage 200 without entering the right-starting winning opening 27. Then, all the game balls that have passed through the deceleration passage 200 head toward the second variable winning device 31. Here, since the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, the game ball rolls on the opening / closing member 31a and heads downstream.

In FIG. 50 (B): The small hit fluctuation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has been completed. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the small hit mode on the liquid crystal screen ("7"-"special effect symbol"-"5. "). The special effect symbol is an effect symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of a small hit, and is an effect symbol in which an animal character is displayed in a large size. If the first special symbol is changing when the small hit is stopped, the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol can be interrupted, or the first special symbol can be stopped in an out-of-order manner. ..

Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of small hit, the small hit game is started. When the small hit game is started, the second variable winning device 31 is opened by pulling the opening / closing member 31a to the back side. Therefore, the game ball passes by the opening / closing member 31a and enters the second special winning opening 31b, and the entry is detected by the second count switch 85.

In FIG. 51 (C): The jackpot fluctuation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

The right-handed game ball may enter the right-starting winning opening 27, or may enter the deceleration passage 200 without entering the right-starting winning opening 27. Then, all the game balls that have passed through the deceleration passage 200 head toward the second variable winning device 31. Here, since the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, the game ball rolls on the opening / closing member 31a and heads downstream.

In FIG. 52 (D): The jackpot fluctuation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has been completed. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot mode, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the jackpot mode on the liquid crystal screen ("9"-"big hit effect symbol"-"1". ). The jackpot effect symbol is an effect symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of a jackpot, and is an effect symbol in which an animal character holding the V mark is displayed in a large size. After that, the jackpot game corresponding to the winning symbol is executed. If the first special symbol is changing when the jackpot is stopped, the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol can be interrupted, or the first special symbol can be stopped in an out-of-order manner.

Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot mode, the jackpot game is started. For example, when the jackpot game corresponding to the 16-round probability variation symbol is started, the second variable winning device 31 is opened by pulling the opening / closing member 31a to the back side. Therefore, the game ball passes by the opening / closing member 31a and enters the second special winning opening 31b, and the entry is detected by the second count switch 85.

FIG. 52 is a continuous view showing an example of production in the fireworks rush of the comparative example.
The figure below shows an example of the effect on the liquid crystal display screen and the state of the game ball near the right start winning opening 27, the deceleration passage 200, and the second variable winning device 31.

In the above-described embodiment, the arrangement relationship is "right start winning opening 27-> deceleration passage 200-> second variable winning device 31" from upstream to downstream in the right-handed region, but in the comparative example, in the right-handed region. From the upstream to the downstream, the arrangement is such that "deceleration passage 200-> right start winning opening 27-> second variable winning device 31".

Since the gaming machine of the comparative example is a gaming machine equipped with a probability variation region, the arrangement of the first variable winning device 30 and the internal structure of the second variable winning device 31 are different from those of the above-described embodiment. It's a little different.

In FIG. 52 (A): The small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed. The first special symbol is in a stopped state.

In the fireworks rush, the game is played by hitting right. The right-handed game ball first enters the deceleration passage 200. Then, the game ball that has passed through the deceleration passage 200 may enter the right-starting winning opening 27, or may go to the second variable winning device 31 without entering the right-starting winning opening 27. Here, since the first variable winning device 30 is in the closed state, the game ball passes in front of the first variable winning device 30 and heads downstream. Further, since the second variable winning device 31 is also in the closed state, the game ball rolls on the opening / closing member 31a and heads downstream.

In FIG. 52 (B): The small hit fluctuation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has been completed. When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the small hit mode on the liquid crystal screen ("7"-"special effect symbol"-". 5 ").

Further, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of small hit, the small hit game is started. When the small hit game is started, the second variable winning device 31 is opened by the opening / closing member 31a rising up. Therefore, the game ball is guided by the opening / closing member 31a and enters the second large winning opening 31b, and the entry is detected by the second count switch 85.

FIG. 53 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the right-starting winning opening 27 and the like in the embodiment and the arrangement of the right-starting winning opening 27 and the like in the comparative example in comparison with each other.
In the embodiment and the comparative example, it is assumed that 100 game balls are hit right.
Further, in the embodiment and the comparative example, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 25 game balls are set to enter the right start winning opening 27.

[Embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 53 (A), in the configuration of the embodiment, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 25 game balls enter the right start winning opening 27 and 75 game balls. Enters the deceleration passage 200, and all 75 game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 head toward the second variable winning device 31.

As described above, in the configuration of the embodiment, all the 75 game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 go to the second variable winning device 31. Therefore, it is possible to give the player the impression that the game ball released from the deceleration passage 200 heads for the second variable winning device 31 at a rate of approximately 100%.

[Comparative example]
As shown in FIG. 53 (B), in the configuration of the comparative example, when 100 game balls are hit to the right, 100 game balls enter the deceleration passage 200 and are released from the deceleration passage 200. Of the pieces, 25 game balls enter the right-starting winning opening 27, and 75 game balls head toward the second variable winning device 31.

As described above, in the configuration of the comparative example, only 75 of the 100 game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 go to the second variable winning device 31. Therefore, the player is given the impression that the game ball released from the deceleration passage 200 heads for the second variable winning device 31 only at a rate of 75%, which is lower than about 100%.

Comparing the configuration of the embodiment with the configuration of the comparative example, the number of game balls entering the right start winning opening 27 is 25, and the number of game balls heading toward the second variable winning device 31 is 25. Both are 75 pieces. Therefore, there is no difference in the winning rates for the right-starting winning opening 27 and the second variable winning device 31.

However, in the present embodiment, the number of game balls entering the right-starting winning opening 27 and the number of game balls heading toward the second variable winning device 31 are set in the same manner as in the configuration of the comparative example to obtain a constant winning rate. While maintaining, many game balls are heading toward the second variable winning device 31 for the player (for the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200, if the second variable winning device 31 is in the open state). There is an effect that it is possible to give the impression that the second variable winning device 31 is won at a rate of 100%).

Next, an example of a control method for concretely realizing the above effect will be described. All of the above-mentioned effects are controlled through the following control processes.

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

The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp drive process (step S406), and acoustic drive. The configuration includes subroutines for processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 for each type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the number of operation memories increases, an effect command when the number of operation memories decreases, a start opening winning sound control command, and a demo effect. Commands, lottery result commands, fluctuation pattern commands, fluctuation start commands, stop symbol commands, status specification commands, round count commands, count cut counter value commands, fluctuation pattern destination judgment commands, stop display time end commands, launch position specification commands, etc. is there.

Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes the memory display effect using the markers M1, M2, etc., while referring to the effect command when the number of operation memories increases, the effect command when the number of operation memories decreases, and the like. Control.

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

Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with respect to the basic control information of the effect content (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , Working memory effect pattern number, look-ahead notice effect pattern number, change effect pattern number, change notice effect number, background pattern number, etc.) are instructed. As a result, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect execution means).

Step S406: In the lamp drive process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp drive circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp drive circuit 132 drives various lamps 46 to 52, the board lamp 53, and the like (lighting or extinguishing, blinking, change in luminance gradation, etc.) based on the control signal.

Step S408: In the next acoustic drive process, the effect control CPU 126 transmits the effect content (for example, BGM during variable display effect, reach effect, mode transition effect, jackpot effect, etc.) to the acoustic drive circuit 134. Instruct. As a result, the speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sounds according to the content of the effect.

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

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

[Production design management process]
FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes execution selection process (step S500), effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), effect symbol change process (step S504), effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and variable winning device operation. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along with each process.

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

Step S502: In the effect symbol variation preprocessing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display effect using the effect symbol. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, fluctuation pattern, etc.), and the effect pattern for the advance notice effect (reach other than the look-ahead advance notice effect pattern). Select a pre-occurrence notice pattern, a post-occurrence notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls the demo effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructed to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as needed. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of a variable display effect using an effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the effect button is operated by the player, and an effect according to the result. The control information of the content (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

Step S506: In the process during the stop display of the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the moving image in an manner according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) actually ends the variable display effect that has been executed so far in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be instructed (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player in an effect (design effect execution). means).

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is operated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect content during the small hit or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the effect during the big role according to various conditions (for example, the winning type). For example, in the case of a 16-round probability variation jackpot, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 16-round probability variation jackpot big role effect pattern as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and displays this on the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). To instruct. As a result, the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 displays an image of the effect during the important role, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, since the right-starting winning opening 27 (first winning opening) is arranged upstream of the deceleration passage 200, “ Right-starting winning opening 27 → deceleration passage 200 → second major winning opening 31b (second winning opening) ”can be arranged, and the right-starting winning opening 27 and the second major winning opening 31b can be arranged by the amount of the deceleration passage 200. You can keep the distance from.

As a result, the right-starting winning opening 27 does not exist near the second major winning opening 31b, and the game ball can enter the second major winning opening 31b (the second major winning opening 31b is in a state of being able to enter the ball). It is possible to avoid a situation in which it becomes difficult for the game ball to enter the second large winning opening 31b (despite the fact that the ball is open), and it is possible to suppress the interest of the game from being lost.

(2) According to the present embodiment, since the deceleration passage 200 for securing at least a part of the second time, which is longer than the first time, is provided, the game ball can stay in the deceleration passage 200 for a long time. , It is possible to avoid the aiming shot in which the game ball is launched after the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit and the game ball is inserted into the second large winning opening 31b.

(3) According to the present embodiment, since the game ball can stay in the deceleration passage 200 for a long time, the game ball enters the right start winning opening 27 upstream of the deceleration passage 200 and hits the right-handed area. Even if the total amount of game balls flowing down decreases, the length of stay in the deceleration passage 200 can give the illusion that the total amount of game balls has increased, and the total amount of game balls can be visually increased. The length makes it possible to forget the fact that the game ball has entered the right-starting winning opening 27, and further, the game ball passing through the deceleration passage 200 is slowly moved to the second large winning opening 31b at the speed after deceleration. As a result, it is possible to give the player the feeling that more game balls are entering the second prize opening 31b.

(4) According to the present embodiment, the deceleration passage 200 is a passage that guides all the game balls that have entered the deceleration passage 200 without entering the right start winning opening 27 to the second major winning opening 31b. , The game ball that has entered the deceleration passage 200 can be directed toward the second large winning opening 31b without omission, and the winning feeling for the second large winning opening 31b can be improved.

(5) In a model equipped with a so-called small hit rush (a state in which small hits frequently occur when hitting to the right), the positional relationship of "deceleration passage 200-> right start winning opening 27-> second large winning opening 31b" , There is a concern that the right-starting winning opening 27 will be won in the vicinity of the second major winning opening 31b, and the interest of the game will be lost. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right-starting winning opening 27 is provided upstream of the deceleration passage 200, so that the positional relationship is "right-starting winning opening 27-> deceleration passage 200-> second major winning opening 31b". As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which a game ball wins a right-starting winning opening 27 near the second major winning opening 31b even though the second large winning opening 31b is open at the time of a small hit. .. According to the game rules, the opening time (less than 1.8 seconds) at the time of a small hit must be set shorter than the opening time (less than 30 seconds) at the time of a big hit. , It is particularly effective for playability in which the number of balls can be increased by continuous small hits in a high-probability non-time shortened state.

The present invention can be variously modified and implemented without being limited to the above-described embodiment. The mode of effect given in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the mode of effect described above.

In the above-described embodiment, the present invention has been described as an example of applying the present invention to a gaming machine having no probability variation region, but the present invention may be applied to a gaming machine having a probability variation region.

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

In the above-described embodiment, the passage has been described by the example of the deceleration passage 200, but it may be an acceleration passage or a passage that does not accelerate or decelerate.

In the above-described embodiment, all the game balls released from the deceleration passage 200 have been described as an example in which they are directed to the second special winning opening 31b, but all the game balls are provided with a predetermined avoidance route and an out opening. It may not be directed to the big winning opening 31b.

The images given in the other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately deformed. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values, and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and these can be appropriately deformed.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Top start winning opening 27 Right starting winning opening 28 Variable starting winning device 30 1st variable winning device 31 2nd variable winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory Lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory lamp 35a 2nd special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 LCD display 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main Control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A game area in which the game ball flows down and has a left-handed area and a right-handed area,
The first ball entrance, which is placed in the right-handed area and allows a game ball to enter,
A passage that is arranged downstream of the first ball entry port in the right-handed area and through which a game ball that has not entered the first ball entry port passes through.
It is arranged downstream of the passage in the right-handed region, and is provided with a second entry port into which a game ball can enter in a special gaming state.
The first entrance is
It is an entrance that allows the game ball to shift to the special gaming state based on the fact that the game ball enters the first entrance, and is an entrance that allows the game ball to enter regardless of the game state. Ah is, a ball entrance port ball entrance probability does not change among the game ball that was implanted into the right-handed region, the proportion of the game ball, not ball entrance to the first ball entrance port, said first ball entrance opening A game machine characterized by having a ball entrance designed to be larger than the ratio of game balls entering the ball.

Images