JP6882790B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls the execution order of notification effects.

Conventionally, a gaming machine that controls the execution order of notification effects has been known. The gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 controls the display content of the effect display means for displaying the symbol variation game based on the scenario pattern that specifies the scenario of the effect over the symbol variation games for a plurality of times.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-62620

By the way, as a notification effect for notifying the determination result by the determination means, an effect (for example, a pseudo continuous effect) in which the symbol for the effect is variably displayed a plurality of times during the execution of one notification effect may be performed. In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since the scenario of the effect over the symbol variation game for a plurality of times is specified by one scenario pattern, the symbol variation game for a plurality of times according to the scenario of the effect specified in the scenario pattern. Is done. However, the scenario pattern in the above-mentioned gaming machine only specifies the execution order of the symbol variation game a plurality of times, and is a configuration in which the number of times of the variation display of the symbol for production in the multiple symbol variation games is taken into consideration. It has not been. As described above, the effect of the conventional gaming machine is restricted by the number of times the notification effect is executed and the order of execution, and there is a problem that there is a limit in the provision of playability mainly for the variable display of the symbol.

An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing an interesting effect mainly by displaying a variable pattern of a symbol without being bound by the number of times the notification effect is executed.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is for determining whether or not to execute a jackpot game when one or a plurality of starting ports provided on the game board and a game ball wins a prize at the starting ports. a random number acquisition means for acquiring one or more random numbers including the jackpot random number, and determining means for determining whether or not the random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit is a predetermined random number, variable display of varying the symbol by performing at least once, and notification effect execution means for executing a notification effect for notifying the determination result by the determining means, for performing predetermined times the variable display, defining the execution order of the plurality of the notification effect A specific game in which the variation display is executed a predetermined number of times based on the scenario storage means for storing at least one scenario data and the scenario data stored by the scenario storage means according to the establishment of a predetermined start condition. The scenario data includes a setting means for setting a specific game mode, which is a mode, and the scenario data uses a plurality of types of the notification effects in which the number of times of the variation display executed in one notification effect is different, and the specific game In order to execute the variation display a predetermined number of times in the mode, when the result of the determination by the determination means is not the predetermined random number value, the execution order of the notification effect to be executed a plurality of times by the notification effect execution means is determined. the setting means, after completion of the jackpot game to be executed when a random number result of the predetermined determination by at least the determining means, to set the specific game mode.

In the gaming machine according to the present invention, the variation display of the symbol is performed at least once in the notification effect. Then, the specific game mode is set according to the establishment of the predetermined start condition. In the gaming machine according to the present invention, the scenario storage means stores scenario data in which the execution order of a plurality of notification effects for executing the variation display a predetermined number of times is determined. Since the setting means sets the specific game mode based on the scenario data stored by the scenario storage means, the specific game mode can be set to a specific game mode in which the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. Since the gaming machine defines the scenario data using a plurality of types of notification effects having different numbers of variable displays, for example, by exchanging the execution order of the plurality of types of notification effects, the execution pattern of the notification effects in the specific game mode Can be easily changed. Further, the gaming machine can set the number of times of the variation display executed in the specific game mode to a different number of times, which is larger than the number of times of executing the notification effect. Therefore, the gaming machine can execute the variable display in the specific game mode as an effect having a degree of freedom not limited to the number of times the notification effect is executed. Therefore, the gaming machine can provide the player with an unprecedented effect in the specific gaming mode. In this way, the gaming machine according to the present invention can execute an interesting effect mainly based on the number of times of variable display, without being bound by the number of times the notification effect is executed.

In addition, the gaming machine is executed each time a display means having a display area corresponding to each of the predetermined variation display in the specific game mode and the variation display is executed in the specific game mode. A display control means for changing the display mode of the display area corresponding to the variable display to a mode different from the display mode before the execution of the variable display may be provided. The scenario storage means may store a plurality of scenario data in which the execution order of the notification effects is different from each other a plurality of times in the specific game mode. The setting means may set the specific game mode by selecting one scenario data from the plurality of scenario data stored by the scenario storage means.

In this case, the gaming machine includes a display means having a display area corresponding to each of the predetermined variation display in the specific game mode, and each time the variation display is executed in the specific game mode, the display area corresponding to the variation display is provided. The display mode of is changed. Therefore, the gaming machine can make the player visually recognize the execution status of the variation display in the specific gaming mode. The scenario storage means stores a plurality of scenario data in which the execution order of the plurality of notification effects is different from each other. Further, the setting means sets the specific game mode by selecting one scenario data from the plurality of scenario data. Therefore, in the setting of the specific game mode, the gaming machine can change the pattern of the execution order of the notification effect in the specific game mode as compared with the case where there is only one scenario data. Therefore, the gaming machine can prevent the specific gaming mode from becoming monotonous and improve the player's interest in the specific gaming mode.

When the specific game mode is set by the setting means, the game machine displays the variation display at least once among the predetermined variation displays in the specific game mode before the start of the specific game mode. The reserved random number and the reserved random number, which is information based on the designated means to be designated and the reserved random number which is the random number acquired by the random number acquisition means and whose determination result by the determination means has not yet been notified by the notification effect. At the time when the information acquisition means acquired before the determination by the determination means is executed and the specific look-ahead information which is the specific look-ahead information is acquired by the information acquisition means during the specific game mode. Among the reserved random numbers stored by the random number storage means, the specific variation which is the number of times of the variation display executed in the notification effect corresponding to the specific reserved random number which is the reserved random number for which the specific look-ahead information has been acquired. The number of times is the specified number of fluctuations, which is the number of times of the variation display determined according to the specific game mode from the time when the specific look-ahead information is acquired to the number of times of the variation display designated by the designated means. It may be provided with a determination means for determining an equal number of times.

When the specific game mode is set, at least one variation display out of a plurality of variation displays scheduled to be executed in the specific game mode is designated by the designated means. The specified number of fluctuations is the number of fluctuations from the time when the specific look-ahead information is acquired to the number of times specified before the start of the specific game mode by the designated means. It becomes. Further, the acquisition of the specific look-ahead information by the information acquisition means occurs at any time according to the progress of the game. When the specific look-ahead information is acquired during the specific game mode, the specific number of times of the variation display in the notification effect executed for the reserved random number is specified by the designated means from the time when the specific look-ahead information is acquired. The number of times is determined to be equal to the number of times of variable display specified up to the number of times of variable display. As a result, the gaming machine can realize an unprecedented execution of the effect such as executing the variable display of the notification effect corresponding to the reserved random number related to the specific look-ahead information in the variable display of the times designated by the designated means.

It is a front view of the pachinko machine 1. It is a front view of the game board 2. It is a front view which shows the structure of the variation meter 30. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of the pachinko machine 1. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the 1st jackpot relation information storage area of a RAM 52. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the variation pattern determination table stored in ROM 53. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the scenario variation pattern table stored in ROM 53. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the 1st loss scenario table stored in ROM 53. It is a flowchart of the main processing performed on the main board 41. It is a flowchart of special symbol processing performed in the main processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol processing performed in the main processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol processing performed in the main processing. It is a flowchart of random number look-ahead processing performed in special symbol processing. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation pattern determination processing performed in the special symbol processing. It is a flowchart of the game state transition processing performed in the special symbol processing. It is a flowchart of the special electric accessory processing performed in the main processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation meter 30 in the prediction area display effect. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation meter 30 and the display screen 28 when the symbol variation is executed in the prediction mode. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating prophecy mode effect and color change effect. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the prediction pattern determination table stored in ROM 583. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the variation number determination table stored in ROM 583. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the color change pattern determination table stored in ROM 583. It is a flowchart of the sub-control board processing performed in the sub-control board 58. It is a flowchart of the sub-control board processing performed in the sub-control board 58. It is a flowchart of the color change effect control processing performed in the sub-control board processing. It is a flowchart of the notification effect control processing performed in the sub-control board processing. It is a flowchart of the definite display control processing performed in the sub-control board processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation meter 30 and the display screen 28 during execution of a prediction mode effect. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation meter 30 and the display screen 28 during execution of a prediction mode effect. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation meter 30 and the display screen 28 during execution of a prediction mode effect.

Hereinafter, the pachinko machine 1 which is the first embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the mechanical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

As shown in FIG. 1, a game board 2 is provided in the upper half of the pachinko machine 1. The game board 2 has a substantially square plate shape in front view (see FIG. 2), and its front surface is protected by a front frame 10 holding a transparent glass plate. An upper plate 5 is provided at the lower part of the game board 2. The upper plate 5 supplies a metal game ball to the game ball launcher 37 (see FIG. 4) and receives a prize ball. An operation button 9 operated by the player is provided on the upper surface of the upper plate 5. Immediately below the upper plate 5, a lower plate 6 for receiving a prize ball is provided. On the right side of the lower plate 6, a firing handle 7 for adjusting the firing intensity of the game ball is provided. The launch handle 7 is provided so that the player can rotate the launch handle 7. When the player rotates the launch handle 7 to perform the launch operation, the launch device has a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch handle 7. A game ball is launched by 37. Speakers 48 are provided at the left and right corners of the upper part of the front frame 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 4 surrounded by a guide rail 3 is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. The guide rail 3 is formed on the left side of the game area 4. A center decoration 8 for executing various effects is provided in the substantially center of the game area 4. The game ball launched by the game ball launching device 37 is guided to the game area 4 by the guide rail 3 and flows down in the game area 4. A game ball fired at a firing intensity equal to or higher than a predetermined strength flows down the left side of the center decoration 8 (see, for example, arrow 21 in FIG. 2), and a game ball fired at a firing strength equal to or higher than a predetermined strength is formed by the center decoration 8. It flows down the right side (see, for example, arrow 22 in FIG. 2). Hereinafter, launching a game ball as shown by arrow 21 is referred to as "left-handed", and firing a game ball as shown by arrow 22 is referred to as "right-handed".

The center decoration 8 mainly includes a display screen 28, a warp passage 31, a stage 32, a fluctuation meter 30, and a large winning opening 16. The display screen 28 is arranged substantially in the center of the upper part of the center decoration 8. The display screen 28 is configured by arranging three 7-segment displays side by side in the left-right direction, and can display various numbers, characters, and the like. In particular, the display screen 28 displays the effect symbol 80 (see FIG. 18), which is an effect symbol that notifies the player of the result of the jackpot determination. The pachinko machine 1 displays a symbol variation that fluctuates a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) effect symbols 80, and then executes a notification effect that confirms and displays a combination of the effect symbols 80 that indicates the result of the jackpot determination. , Notify the player of the result of the jackpot determination. In the present embodiment, the combination of the effect symbols 80 indicating that the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot is a combination of three effect symbols 80 showing the same numbers, such as "777" and "222". Further, the combination of the effect symbols 80 indicating that the result of the jackpot determination is out of order is a combination in which three effect symbols 80 indicating the same number, such as "767" and "143", are not aligned.

The warp passage 31 is provided at the lower left of the display screen 28 in the center decoration 8. The warp passage 31 is a passage for guiding a part of the game ball that is left-handed and flows down the left side of the center decoration 8 from the outside to the inside of the center decoration 8. The warp passage 31 includes a warp inlet 311, a passage portion 312, and a warp outlet 313. The warp entrance 311 is provided substantially in the center on the left side of the center decoration 8, and a part of the game ball flowing down on the left side of the center decoration 8 can be received in the warp passage 31. The passage portion 312 extends from the warp entrance 311 while inclining downward to the right, and forms a passage for a game ball that has entered from the warp entrance 311. The warp outlet 313 is provided at the end of the passage portion 312 opposite to the end where the warp entrance 311 is provided, and the game ball that has passed through the passage portion 312 is moved to the upper part of the stage 32 or the front of the stage 32, which will be described later. Discharge toward.

The stage 32 is a surface portion extending in a substantially front-rear direction capable of rolling the game ball discharged from the warp outlet 313 in the left-right direction. The game ball discharged from the warp outlet 313 to the upper part of the stage 32 rolls in the upper part of the stage 32 in the left-right direction, and then is discharged to the front of the stage 32.

The variation meter 30 is an illumination member imitating the number "8", which is arranged substantially in the center of the center decoration 8. The upper half portion of the fluctuation meter 30 is provided so as to surround the display screen 28. The lower half portion of the fluctuation meter 30 is provided so as to surround the stage 32.

The grand prize opening 16 is provided at the lower right of the display screen 28 in the center decoration 8. The grand prize opening 16 includes an opening / closing member 161 that is electrically opened / closed by a solenoid. The entrance of the large winning opening 16 is opened only when the opening / closing member 161 is opened, and the game ball can win the large winning opening 16. Inside the grand prize opening 16, a specific area 162 is provided with an opening / closing member (not shown) that is electrically opened / closed by a solenoid, and the game ball is provided only when the opening / closing member is open. Can pass through the specific area 162. The game ball that has won the big winning opening 16 passes through the specific area 162 or a non-specific area (not shown) provided inside the big winning opening 16, and then is discharged to the outside of the game area 4.

The first starting port 14 is provided in the substantially center of the area surrounded by the lower half of the fluctuation meter 30 in the game area 4. The left out port 34 and the right out port 35 are provided on both the left and right sides of the lower end portion of the region below the first starting port 14 and surrounded by the lower half portion of the fluctuation meter 30. At the first starting port 14, a part of the game ball guided inside the center decoration 8 via the warp passage 31 can win a prize. The game ball that flows down the area surrounded by the lower half of the fluctuation meter 30 of the game area 4 without winning the first start port 14 passes through the left out port 34 and the right out port 35, and then the game area. It is discharged to the outside of 4.

A normal symbol operating gate 12 is provided at the lower right of the center decoration 8. A second starting port 15 is provided diagonally downward to the left of the normal symbol operating gate 12. The second starting port 15 includes an opening / closing member 151 as an ordinary electric accessory (an accessory that changes the size of the entrance of the winning opening based on the result of a normal hit determination described later), and the opening / closing member 151 is opened. Only in the state, the entrance of the second starting port 15 is opened, and the game ball can win a prize in the second starting port 15. The opening / closing member 151 is electrically opened / closed by a solenoid. The second starting port 15 can win a game ball even in the closed state in which the opening / closing member 151 is closed, and the opening / closing member 151 makes it easier to win the game ball than in the closed state. It may be a configuration.

In addition to the above, the game area 4 is provided with a lower out port 36, various illuminated lamps, a winning port, a windmill, a game nail, and the like. Of the game balls that flow down the outside of the center decoration 8, the game balls that flow down to the lower part of the game area 4 without winning any of the second starting port 15, the large winning opening 16, and the other winning openings are out. After passing through the mouth 36, it is discharged to the outside of the game area 4.

At the lower right of the game board 2, a symbol display unit 24 for displaying the result of the jackpot determination, the number of reserved balls, and the like is provided. The symbol display unit 24 includes a first special symbol display unit, a second special symbol display unit, a normal symbol display unit, a first special symbol storage number display LED, a second special symbol storage number display LED, and a normal symbol storage number display LED. Be prepared. The first special symbol display unit and the second special symbol display unit are each composed of one 7-segment LED, and display the first special symbol and the second special symbol indicating the results of the first jackpot determination and the second jackpot determination. Hereinafter, when the first jackpot judgment and the second jackpot judgment are collectively referred to, or when either is not specified, it is also referred to as a jackpot judgment. The normal symbol display unit displays the result of the normal hit determination by turning on and off the LED. The first special symbol storage number display LED and the second special symbol storage number display LED display the number of special symbol reserved balls, which is the number of game balls for which the result of the jackpot determination has not yet been displayed. The normal symbol storage number display LED displays the number of normal symbol reserved balls, which is the number of game balls for which the result of the normal collision determination has not yet been displayed.

The detailed configuration of the fluctuation meter 30 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the fluctuation meter 30 has six members, an upper segment 301, an upper right segment 302, a lower right segment 303, a lower segment 304, a lower left segment 305, and an upper left segment 306, which form an outer peripheral portion of the fluctuation meter 30. To be equipped. The inside of the upper segment 301 and the lower segment 304 are each divided into nine display areas. The inside of the upper right seg 302, the lower right seg 303, the lower left seg 305, and the upper left seg 306 are each divided into eight display areas. In this way, the variation meter 30 includes 50 display areas indicated by numbers (1) to (50) in FIG. Each of these 50 display areas is hereinafter referred to as a "meter area". The numbers (1) to (50) in FIG. 3 are assigned to indicate individual positions of each meter area, and each meter area of the actual fluctuation meter 30 includes (1). The number from (50) is not attached. A light emitting member (for example, a full-color LED) is provided inside each meter area, and each meter area can independently display different colors and lighting modes (lighting / extinguishing / blinking, etc.). Hereinafter, the numbers (1) to (50) assigned to each meter area are also referred to as "area numbers".

The pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment displays one or a plurality of symbol fluctuations in one notification effect. In the prediction mode described later, the pachinko machine 1 displays a display mode of one meter area corresponding to the symbol variation among the 50 meter areas of the variation meter 30 each time the symbol variation is displayed once. The display mode is changed from that before the variation is displayed. The display mode of the meter area is changed in order from the meter area having the smallest area number among (1) to (50) according to the degree of progress of the prediction mode. Hereinafter, the meter area with the area number of (1) is referred to as "meter area (1)", and the meter area with the area number of (2) is referred to as "meter area (2)". Is called.

Next, the flow of the game in the pachinko machine 1 will be schematically described. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a jackpot game and a normal hit game. In the pachinko machine 1, when a "big hit" is determined in the big hit determination, a big hit game is performed in which the opening / closing member 161 of the big winning opening 16 is opened a predetermined number of times in a predetermined time. The total number of times the opening / closing member 161 is opened during one jackpot game is hereinafter referred to as "the number of rounds". In the present embodiment, when a "big hit" is determined in the jackpot determination, a jackpot game of a predetermined number of rounds ("10" in the present embodiment) is executed, and the specific area 162 is opened in the final round. In the present embodiment, the large winning opening 16 is provided on the right side of the center decoration 8 (see FIG. 2). Therefore, during the jackpot game, it is advantageous for the player to proceed with the game by hitting right.

In the pachinko machine 1, it is a condition that the game ball passes through the specific area 162 in the big winning opening 16 during the big hit game to cause a probability fluctuation state after the big hit game is completed. The pachinko machine 1 has a non-probability fluctuation state in which the jackpot probability determined as "big hit" in the jackpot determination is about 1/300 and a probability of about 1/60 on condition that the game ball passes through the specific area 162. A fluctuating state can be generated after the end of the jackpot game.

Next, the normal hit game will be described. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 12, a normal hit determination is performed. If it is determined to be "hit" in the normal hit determination, a normal hit game is performed in which the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15 is opened for a predetermined time.

In the pachinko machine 1, the rate at which the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15 is opened is a normal rate, and the rate at which the opening / closing member 151 is opened is higher than that in the non-time saving state. A time saving state can be generated after the jackpot game is completed. Specifically, the probability of being determined as a normal hit in the time-saving state (99/100 in the present embodiment) is higher than the probability of being determined as a normal hit in the non-time-saving state (4/100 in the present embodiment). Further, the maximum opening time of the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15 during the normal hit game is longer in the time saving state (4.2 seconds) than in the non-time saving state (0.2 seconds). Further, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter in the time-saving state (2 seconds in the present embodiment) than in the fluctuation time in the non-time-saving state (10 seconds in the present embodiment). The opening / closing member 151 is opened after the normal symbol indicating the hit is confirmed and displayed. As a result, in the time saving state, the game ball can be easily won in the second starting port 15 rather than the first starting port 14. Therefore, it is advantageous for the player to proceed with the game by hitting right during the time saving state. On the other hand, in the non-time saving state, the rate at which the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15 is opened is lower than that in the time saving state, so that the player moves to the first starting port 14 rather than the second starting port 15. You can easily win a game ball. Therefore, it is advantageous for the player to proceed with the game by left-handed during the non-time saving state.

Depending on the combination of these states, the pachinko machine 1 has a "non-probability fluctuation non-time reduction state" (hereinafter referred to as "normal state"), a "probability fluctuation time reduction state" (hereinafter referred to as "probability variation time reduction state"), and a "probability variation time reduction state". Three types of gaming states, "non-probability variation time-saving state" (hereinafter referred to as "non-probability variation time-saving state"), occur after the end of the jackpot game. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the pachinko machine 1 may generate four or more types of gaming states including, for example, a “probability fluctuation non-time saving state” and the like. Further, the pachinko machine 1 may generate two or less types of gaming states.

The "probability fluctuation time saving state" and the "non-probability fluctuation time saving state" are the sum of the number of first jackpot determinations and the number of second jackpot determinations performed after the end of the jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as "judgment count"). When the specified number of times (100 times in this embodiment) is reached, the process ends and the state shifts to the "normal state". That is, the probability fluctuation state of the pachinko machine 1 ends when the sum of the number of hit determinations reaches the specified number of times, and the so-called number-cut probability change function is activated. The "probability fluctuation time reduction state" and the "non-probability fluctuation time reduction state" also end at the start of the jackpot game. In this case, the specified number of counts is cleared. The number of times the probability fluctuation state continues is not limited to 100 times in this embodiment. Further, the realization of the present invention is not limited to the gaming machine having the number-of-times cutting probability change function. The present invention can also be realized by a so-called loop type gaming machine in which a probability fluctuation state occurs after the end of the jackpot game and the probability fluctuation state continues until the next jackpot is determined. The pachinko machine 1 may have a configuration of a game area 4 in which it is advantageous for the player to advance the game by left-handed regardless of the game state.

The electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The control unit 40 of the pachinko machine 1 mainly includes a main board 41, a sub control board 58, a lamp driver board 46, an effect control board 43, a payout control board 45, a relay board 47, and a power supply board 42.

The main board 41 controls the main control of the pachinko machine 1. The main board CPU unit 50 of the main board 41 is provided with a CPU 51 that performs various arithmetic processes, a RAM 52 that temporarily stores data, and a ROM 53 that stores a control program and the like. An interrupt signal generation circuit 57 is connected to the main board CPU unit 50. The main board 41 executes a program each time an interrupt signal is input from the interrupt signal generation circuit 57. The main board 41 is connected to the sub control board 58, the payout control board 45, the relay board 47, the output port 55, the first start port switch 72, and the second start port switch 73 via the I / O interface 54. There is. The output port 55 outputs the information of the pachinko machine 1 to a computer for managing a game hall (not shown). The first start port switch 72 detects a game ball that has won a prize in the first start port 14. The second start port switch 73 detects a game ball that has won a prize in the second start port 15.

The sub-control board 58 includes a CPU 581, a RAM 582, and a ROM 583, and is connected to a lamp driver board 46, an effect control board 43, an operation button 9, and a speaker 48. The sub-control board 58 performs comprehensive control such as production according to a command transmitted from the main board 41. The lamp driver board 46 controls the display operation of the fluctuation meter 30, the operation of various illumination lamps, and the like according to a command received from the sub control board 58. The effect control board 43 includes a CPU 431 and the like, and controls the display of the display screen 28 according to a command received from the sub control board 58. The payout control board 45 includes a CPU 45a and the like. The payout control board 45 controls the operation of the prize ball payout device 49 in response to a command transmitted from the main board 41, and pays out a predetermined number of game balls.

The relay board 47 includes an ordinary electric accessory opening / closing solenoid 69, a large winning opening opening / closing solenoid 70, a specific area opening / closing solenoid 71, a normal symbol operation switch 74, a large winning opening switch 75, a specific area switch 76, a non-specific area switch 77, and a symbol. It is connected to the display unit 24. The normal electric accessory opening / closing solenoid 69 opens / closes the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15 during the normal hit game. The big winning opening opening / closing solenoid 70 opens / closes the opening / closing member 161 of the big winning opening 16 during the big hit game. The specific area opening / closing solenoid 71 opens / closes the opening / closing member of the specific area 162 in the big winning opening 16 in the final round of the big hit game. The normal symbol operation switch 74 detects a game ball that has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 12. The large winning opening switch 75 detects the game ball that has won the large winning opening 16. The specific area switch 76 detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 162. The non-specific area switch 77 detects a game ball that has passed through the non-specific area.

The power supply board 42 is connected to the main board 41 and the game ball launching device 37, and supplies stabilized DC power to each board and the game ball launching device 37. The game ball launching device 37 launches one game ball into the game area 4 at regular intervals (0.6 seconds in this embodiment).

The first jackpot-related information storage area of the RAM 52 will be described with reference to FIG. Since the configuration of the second jackpot-related information storage area is the same as the configuration of the first jackpot-related information storage area, the description will be simplified. The first jackpot-related information storage area and the second jackpot-related information storage area are used in the special symbol processing (see FIGS. 10 to 12) of the main processing described later. A plurality of storage areas are provided in the first jackpot-related information storage area. When a game ball wins in the first starting port 14, if the number of first reserved balls due to winning in the first starting port 14 is less than 4 (0 to 3) among the number of special symbol reserved balls, the number is small. Random numbers are stored in order from the storage area. In the present embodiment, the number (maximum number of first reserved balls) that can hold the jackpot determination and store the random numbers for the game balls that have won the first starting port 14 is "4". Among the random numbers in the storage area that have not been processed yet, the CPU 51 uses the storage area with the smallest number as the determination area, and performs various processing such as jackpot determination on the random numbers stored in the determination area. When the processing related to the random numbers stored in the determination area (specifically, the notification effect for notifying the determination result and the jackpot game executed when the determination result is a jackpot) is completed, the storage area with the next smallest number is completed. Is set as the determination area, and processing such as jackpot determination is repeated. The random numbers in the storage area for which processing has been completed may be appropriately deleted.

In each storage area, the first jackpot random number column in which the value of the first jackpot determination counter is stored, the first special symbol determination random number column in which the value of the first special symbol determination counter is stored, and the first fluctuation pattern determination counter. A first variation pattern determination random number column is provided in which the value of is stored. When the game ball wins the first starting port 14, the value of each random number acquisition counter counted at that time is stored in each column. The first jackpot random number is used for determining the first jackpot. The first special symbol determination random number is used to determine the first special symbol. The first variation pattern determination random number is used to determine a variation pattern indicating the variation time of the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display unit of the symbol display unit 24.

In the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation time of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is equal to the effect time of the notification effect for notifying the player of the results of the first jackpot determination and the second jackpot determination. The sub-control board 58 controls the notification effect according to the first fluctuation pattern and the second fluctuation pattern determined by the main board 41. Specifically, the main substrate 41 starts variation of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol according to the first variation pattern and the second variation pattern. The sub-control board 58 starts the variation display of the effect symbol 80 in synchronization with the variation start of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol. When the fluctuation time of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol that has started to fluctuate ends, the main board 41 causes the fluctuating first special symbol or second special symbol to stop the predetermined special symbol display time. The confirmation display is performed for (0.8 seconds in this embodiment). The sub-control board 58 confirms and displays the effect symbol 80 in synchronization with the special symbol stop display time. Further, the sub-control board 58 executes the notification effect synchronized with the first variation pattern and the second variation pattern by the effect symbol 80, various illumination lamps, the speaker 48, and the like.

The second jackpot-related information storage area is used in the special symbol processing (see FIGS. 10 to 12) of the main processing described later. Similar to the first jackpot-related information storage area, the second jackpot-related information storage area is provided with a plurality of storage areas. When a game ball wins in the second starting port 15, if the number of second reserved balls due to winning in the second starting port 15 is less than 4 (0 to 3) among the number of special symbol reserved balls, the number is small. Random numbers are stored in order from the storage area. In the present embodiment, the number (maximum number of second reserved balls) that can hold the jackpot determination and store the random numbers for the game balls that have won the second starting port 15 is "4".

In the following description, when the first jackpot random number and the second jackpot random number are collectively referred to, or when either is not specified, they are also referred to as jackpot random numbers. Further, when the first variation pattern determination random number and the second variation pattern determination random number are collectively used, or when any of them is not specified, the variation pattern determination random number is also referred to. Further, when the first jackpot-related information storage area and the second jackpot-related information storage area are collectively referred to, or when any of them is not specified, it is also referred to as a jackpot-related information storage area. In addition, the jackpot random numbers for which the jackpot determination is held while stored in the jackpot-related information storage area, and various random numbers acquired together with the jackpot random numbers for which the jackpot determination is reserved and stored in the jackpot-related information storage area are stored. Collectively called pending random numbers. The number of the first reserved random numbers stored in the first jackpot related area among the reserved random numbers corresponds to the number of first reserved balls. The number of the second reserved random numbers stored in the second jackpot related area among the reserved random numbers corresponds to the number of second reserved balls. The RAM 52 is provided with a normal hit-related information storage area for storing a random number acquired when a game ball wins a prize in the normal symbol operating gate 12. The normal hit-related information storage area is also configured in the same manner as the jackpot-related information storage area.

The variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 53 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the fluctuation pattern determination table shows the type of jackpot determination (first jackpot determination or second jackpot determination), the gaming state at the time of jackpot determination (normal state, probability fluctuation time saving state, or non-probability fluctuation time saving state). ) And the result of the jackpot determination (big hit or miss), a plurality of tables are provided. A plurality of types of fluctuation patterns are assigned to each table, and each fluctuation pattern is associated with the value of the fluctuation pattern determination random number (0 to 511). When the first jackpot determination is performed, the table corresponding to the game state and the determination result at that time is referred to, and one variation pattern corresponding to the value of the variation pattern determination random number acquired together with the jackpot random number is determined. .. In the present embodiment, the variation pattern determination table is referred to for determining the variation pattern of the notification effect executed in cases other than the prediction mode described later.

The scenario variation pattern table stored in the ROM 53 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, the scenario variation pattern table defines the variation pattern of the notification effect executed during the prediction mode described later. When the determination result of the jackpot determination performed in the prediction mode is "big hit", the fluctuation pattern of the "big hit fluctuation" shown in FIG. 7 is determined. When the fluctuation pattern of the "big hit fluctuation" is determined, the pachinko machine 1 displays a maximum of four symbol fluctuations in the jackpot notification effect for notifying that the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot. When the judgment result of the jackpot judgment performed in the prediction mode is "missing", any of the fluctuation patterns of "1 time fluctuation A", "1 time fluctuation B", and "2 times fluctuation" shown in FIG. 7 will be described later. It is determined based on the first outlier scenario table (see FIG. 8) or the second outlier scenario table.

The scenario fluctuation pattern table stores the fluctuation patterns constituting the first outlier scenario table (see FIG. 8) or the second outlier scenario table. When any of the fluctuation patterns of "1 time fluctuation A" and "1 time fluctuation B" is determined, the pachinko machine 1 performs once in the missed notification effect for notifying that the judgment result of the jackpot determination is out of order. Display the symbol variation of. In the present embodiment, the fluctuation time (12 seconds) of the special symbol defined by the fluctuation pattern of "1 time fluctuation B" is longer than the fluctuation time (3 seconds) of the special symbol defined by the fluctuation pattern of "1 time fluctuation A". .. When the fluctuation pattern of "twice fluctuation" is determined, the pachinko machine 1 displays two symbol fluctuations in the missed notification effect for notifying that the determination result of the jackpot determination is missed.

The first off-axis scenario table stored in the ROM 53 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the first out-of-order scenario table stores a plurality of scenario patterns in which the execution order of the out-of-order notification effects for 30 times in the prediction mode is predetermined. Specifically, in the pattern A, the fluctuation pattern of the first missed notification effect is "1 time variation A", the variation pattern of the second missed notification effect is "2 times variation", and so on, from the first time to 30. This is a scenario pattern that defines the fluctuation pattern of the missed notification effect up to the second time. Similarly, the pattern B and the pattern C also define a variation pattern of 30 missed notification effects in a different order from the other scenario patterns. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can diversify the execution order of the missed notification effect in the prediction mode as compared with the case where only one scenario pattern is provided.

The scenario pattern is configured so that a total of 50 symbol fluctuations are performed when 30 out-of-order notification effects defined by patterns A to C are performed. The execution order of the 30 missed notification effects defined by the patterns A to C is configured by using the variation patterns stored in the scenario variation pattern table (see FIG. 7). That is, when the deviation notification effect is performed in the prediction mode, the symbol variation is performed once or twice according to the variation pattern defined by the scenario pattern in one deviation notification effect.

Each of the 50 symbol variations is associated with each of the 50 meter regions of the variation meter 30. When the prophecy mode is started, the display mode starts to change from the meter area (1) located at the left end of the upper segment 301 according to the symbol variation. After that, according to the number of times the symbol variation is executed, the display mode changes in order from the upper right seg 302, the lower right seg 303, the lower seg 304, and the lower left seg 305 to the meter area (50) located at the upper end of the upper left seg 306. Be changed. When the jackpot notification effect is performed in the prediction mode, the fluctuation pattern of the "big hit fluctuation" stored in the scenario fluctuation pattern table is determined. Further, when the jackpot notification effect is performed in the prediction mode, the symbol variation is performed up to four times in one jackpot notification effect. In FIG. 8, a corresponding meter area column indicating a meter area corresponding to the number of symbol fluctuations is provided, which explains that the number of symbol fluctuations and each meter area are associated with each other. Is for. When the first loss scenario table is stored in the ROM 53, the corresponding meter area column may not be provided in the first loss scenario table.

In the present embodiment, as the prediction mode, a first round prediction mode and a second round prediction mode are provided. The first round of prophecy mode is started in synchronization with the start of the time saving state. The second round of prophecy mode is started in a form that is continuously executed in the first round of prophecy mode after the end of the first round of prophecy mode. In the first missed scenario table, the execution order of the missed notification effect for 30 times in the first round prediction mode is predetermined.

As shown in FIG. 8, in each of the patterns A to C, the variation pattern of the 30th missed notification effect is defined as "1 time variation B". This is because the production time of the 30th missed notification effect is made longer than that of the "1 time variation A", so that the time for executing the prediction area display effect described later at the end of the prediction mode of the first round is set. This is to secure it. On the other hand, although not shown, in the second missed scenario table, the execution order of the missed notification effect for 30 times in the prediction mode of the second round is predetermined. The scenario pattern stored in the second loss scenario table is configured in the same manner as the patterns A to C of the first loss scenario table, in addition to the fluctuation pattern of the 30th loss notification effect being defined as "one-time fluctuation A". To. This is because the prediction area display effect is not executed at the end of the second round of the prediction mode, so that it is not necessary to secure a long production time for the 30th missed notification effect.

The operation of the pachinko machine 1 by the main board 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 16. The main control of the pachinko machine 1 is performed by a control program stored in the ROM 53. The main process of the control program (see FIG. 9) is executed in the CPU 51 when the interrupt signal generation circuit 57 (see FIG. 4) detects an interrupt signal generated every 4 ms. Hereinafter, each step of the flowchart is abbreviated as "S".

As shown in FIG. 9, when the main process is started, the command output process is first performed (S10). In the command output process, the control command is output to the sub control board 58, the payout control board 45, the relay board 47, and the like. The control command output here is a control command stored in the RAM 52 in the main process executed last time.

Next, the switch reading process is performed (S11). In the switch reading process, each switch provided in the normal symbol operating gate 12, the first starting port 14, the second starting port 15, the large winning opening 16, the specific area 162, the non-specific area, and other winning openings (see FIG. 4). Processing for detecting the game ball is performed from the detection result of.

Next, the counter update process is performed (S12). In the counter update process, the value of the random number acquisition counter stored in the RAM 52 is added, and the value of the special symbol fluctuation time counter, which is a timer counter for measuring the fluctuation time of the special symbol, is subtracted.

Next, special electric accessory processing is performed (S13). The details will be described later, but in the special electric accessory processing, the processing for controlling the operation of the jackpot game (mainly the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member 161 of the winning opening 16) and the gaming state generated after the jackpot game is completed are related. Processing is performed (see FIG. 16).

Next, special symbol processing is performed (S14). Although the details will be described later, in the special symbol processing, a jackpot determination, a determination of a fluctuation pattern, a determination of a special symbol, a game state transition process, and the like are performed (see FIGS. 10 to 12).

Next, ordinary electric accessory processing is performed (S15). In the ordinary electric accessory process, a process for controlling the operation of the normal hit game (mainly the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member 151 of the second starting port 15) is performed. When the CPU 51 determines that the hit is normal during the time saving state, the CPU 51 opens the opening / closing member 151 longer than during the non-time saving state. If the time saving flag is set to "ON", the CPU 51 determines that the time saving state is in progress.

Next, normal symbol processing is performed (S16). In the normal symbol processing, a normal hit random number is acquired when the normal symbol operation switch 74 detects a game ball. Based on the acquired random numbers, processing such as normal collision detection and storage of commands for controlling fluctuations in normal symbols is performed. As described above, the normal collision detection is determined with the respective probabilities (99/100 or 4/100) depending on whether or not the time saving state has occurred.

Next, a payout process (S17), an error check (S18), and an information output process (S19) are performed. In the payout process, the payout of prize balls is controlled. In the error check, when an error occurs, the error is notified using the display screen 28, the speaker 48, and the like. In the information output process, various types of information are output to the amusement park management computer (not shown).

The details of the special symbol processing (see S14 and FIG. 9) will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. First, the flags used in the special symbol processing will be described. The RAM 52 stores a jackpot game state flag, a special symbol display state flag, a probability fluctuation flag, a time saving flag, and the like. The jackpot game state flag is a flag indicating whether or not the jackpot game is in progress, and "1" is memorized and turned "ON" during the jackpot game state, and "0" is memorized when the jackpot game state is not in progress. It becomes "OFF". The jackpot game state includes a period from the start of the jackpot game to the opening of the jackpot 16 for a predetermined number of rounds until the jackpot ending time, which will be described later, elapses. The special symbol display status flag is "1" when either one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is fluctuating (during fluctuation), and when one of them is stopped and displayed (during stop display). "2" is stored in, and "0" is stored when neither is changing nor the stop display is displayed. The probability fluctuation flag is a flag indicating whether or not the probability fluctuation state is in effect, and “1” is stored in the probability fluctuation state and becomes “ON”. The time saving flag is a flag indicating whether or not the time saving state is in progress, and "1" is stored and turned "ON" during the time saving state.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the special symbol processing is started, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won a prize in the first starting port 14 (S41). When the first start port switch 72 provided in the first start port 14 detects the winning of the game ball, the flag corresponding to the first start port switch 72 is set in the switch read process (S11, see FIG. 9) of the main process. It becomes "ON". If this flag is not "ON", it is determined that the game ball has not won a prize (S41: NO), and the process proceeds to the determination of S51. If a game ball has won a prize in the first starting opening 14 (S41: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of first reserved balls is "4" (S42). If the number of first reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 is "4" (S42: YES), the number of storable reserved balls has reached the upper limit, so the process proceeds to the determination of S51.

If the number of first reserved balls is not "4" (S42: NO), "1" is added to the number of first reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 (S43). Next, various random numbers are acquired and stored in the storage area having the smallest number among the empty storage areas in the first jackpot-related information storage area (see FIG. 5) (S45). Specifically, the value of the first jackpot judgment counter is in the first jackpot random number column, the value of the first special symbol determination counter is in the first special symbol determination random number column, and the first variation pattern determination random number column is the first. The values of the fluctuation pattern determination counters are stored in the RAM 52, respectively. After that, the process shifts to the determination of S51.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won a prize in the second starting port 15 (S51). When the second start port switch 73 provided in the second start port 15 detects the winning of the game ball, the flag corresponding to the second start port switch 73 is set in the switch read process (S11, see FIG. 9) of the main process. It becomes "ON". If this flag is not "ON", it is determined that the game ball has not won a prize (S51: NO), and the process proceeds to the determination of S61 (see FIG. 11). If a game ball has won a prize in the second starting opening 15 (S51: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of second reserved balls is "4" (S52). If the number of second reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 is "4" (S52: YES), the number of storable reserved balls has reached the upper limit, so the process proceeds to the determination of S61.

If the number of second reserved balls is not "4" (S52: NO), "1" is added to the number of second reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 (S53). Next, a hold ball number notification command for notifying the sub-control board 58 of the second hold ball number is stored in the RAM 52 (S54). The reserved ball number notification command is transmitted to the sub-control board 58 in the command output process (S10, see FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time.

Next, various random numbers are acquired and stored in the storage area having the smallest number among the empty storage areas in the second jackpot-related information storage area (not shown) (S55). Specifically, in the second jackpot random number column, the value of the second jackpot judgment counter (second jackpot random number), the value of the second special symbol determination counter (second special symbol determination random number), and the second fluctuation pattern determination counter. Each value (second variation pattern determination random number) is stored.

Next, the information about the second reserved random number newly stored in S55 is acquired (look-ahead) before the second jackpot determination is actually performed on the second jackpot random number included in the second reserved random number. Random number look-ahead processing is performed (S56). After that, the process shifts to the determination of S61.

The random number look-ahead process (S56, see FIG. 10) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. In the random number look-ahead process, information about the determination result of the second jackpot determination performed on the second hit random number newly stored in S55 (see FIG. 10) is acquired. In addition, the look-ahead command based on the acquired information is stored.

As shown in FIG. 13, when the random number look-ahead process is started, the information of the second reserved random number newly stored in S55 is acquired as the hold random number look-ahead information (S131). Of the acquired pending random number look-ahead information, the value of the second jackpot random number is referred to (S132).

Next, a determination table according to whether or not a probability fluctuation state has occurred is referred to (S133). Although not shown, the ROM 53 is provided with a low probability determination table and a high probability determination table as tables for performing a jackpot determination. The low-probability determination table is a table used for jackpot determination in a non-probability fluctuation state, and random numbers of jackpot random numbers corresponding to "big hit" and "missing" are defined. The high probability determination table is a table used for jackpot determination in a probability fluctuation state, and random numbers of jackpot random numbers corresponding to "big hit" and "missing" are defined. In S133, when the probability fluctuation flag is “ON”, it is determined that the probability fluctuation state has occurred, and the high probability determination table is selected. When the probability fluctuation flag is "OFF", it is determined that the probability fluctuation state has not occurred, and the low probability determination table is selected. With reference to the selected low-probability judgment table or high-probability judgment table, information indicating whether the second jackpot random number referred to in S132 corresponds to "big hit" or "missing" is acquired as jackpot random number look-ahead information. (S134).

Next, a look-ahead command for notifying the sub-control board 58 of the jackpot random number look-ahead information is created and stored in the RAM 52 (S135). The look-ahead command is transmitted to the sub-control board 58 in the command output process (S10, see FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. The processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 11).

Returning to the description of FIG. Next, as shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the game is in the jackpot game state (S61). When the jackpot game state flag is "ON", it is determined that the jackpot game state is in progress (S61: YES), and the process returns to the main process. When the jackpot game state flag is "OFF", it is determined that the jackpot game state is not in progress (S61: NO), and it is determined whether or not either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changing. (S62). If the special symbol display state flag is not "1", it is determined that neither of them is changing (S62: NO), and whether or not either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is in the stopped state. Is determined (S63). If the special symbol display status flag is not "2", it is determined that the stop display is not in progress (S63: NO), the process shifts to S71 (see FIG. 12), and a process such as a jackpot determination is performed.

In the present embodiment, in the jackpot determination, the second jackpot determination is prioritized over the first jackpot determination. As shown in FIG. 12, first, it is determined whether or not the number of second reserved balls is "1" or more (S71). When the number of second reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 is "1" or more (S71: YES), the second jackpot determination is performed, and the details will be described later. When the number of second reserved balls is "0" (S71: NO), it is determined whether or not the number of first reserved balls is "1" or more (S72). If the number of first reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 is "0" (S72: NO), the process returns to the main process.

When the number of first reserved balls is "1" or more (S72: YES), the number of first reserved balls stored in the RAM 52 is subtracted by "1" (S73). Next, the determination area of the first jackpot-related information storage area (see FIG. 4) is shifted to the storage area of the next number (S75).

Next, the first jackpot determination is performed according to whether or not the probability is in a fluctuating state (S76). In S76, it is specified whether or not the probability fluctuation state has occurred at the present time with reference to the state of the probability fluctuation flag. The above-mentioned low-probability determination table or high-probability determination table is selected according to the result of specifying whether or not the probability fluctuation state has occurred. The selected low-probability determination table or high-probability determination table is referred to, and it is determined whether the first jackpot random number stored in the determination area shifted in S75 corresponds to "big hit" or "missing". To. As a result, the first jackpot determination based on the undetermined first jackpot random number stored in the RAM 52 is performed in the order in which the first jackpot random number is stored.

Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the first jackpot determination is a jackpot (S77). When the result of the first jackpot determination is a jackpot (S77: YES), the first special symbol indicating that the jackpot is a jackpot is determined (S78). Although not shown, the ROM 53 is used to determine a first special symbol indicating that the result of the first jackpot determination is a jackpot and a second special symbol indicating that the result of the second jackpot determination is a jackpot. A special symbol determination table is provided. In the special symbol determination table, random numbers of special symbol determination random numbers corresponding to the special symbols are defined. In the process of S78, the special symbol determination table is referred to, and the first special symbol corresponding to the value of the first special symbol determination random number acquired at the same time as the jackpot random number stored in the determination area shifted in S75 is determined. Will be done. After that, the process shifts to S111. When the result of the first jackpot determination is out of order (S77: NO), a predetermined first special symbol indicating the out of place is determined (S80), and the process shifts to S111.

Further, in the second jackpot determination, the number of second reserved balls is first subtracted by "1" (S93). Next, a hold ball number notification command for notifying the sub-control board 58 of the second hold ball number is stored in the RAM 52 (S94). The determination area of the second jackpot-related information storage area is shifted to the storage area of the next number (S95).

Next, a second jackpot determination is performed according to whether or not the probability is in a fluctuating state (S96). In S96, it is specified whether or not the probability fluctuation state has occurred at the present time with reference to the state of the probability fluctuation flag. The above-mentioned low-probability determination table or high-probability determination table is selected according to the result of specifying whether or not the probability fluctuation state has occurred. The selected low-probability determination table or high-probability determination table is referred to, and it is determined whether the second jackpot random number stored in the determination area shifted in S95 corresponds to "big hit" or "missing". To. As a result, the second jackpot determination based on the undetermined second jackpot random number stored in the RAM 52 is performed in the order in which the second jackpot random number is stored.

Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the second jackpot determination is a jackpot (S97). When the result of the second jackpot determination is a jackpot (S97: YES), a second special symbol indicating that the jackpot is a jackpot is determined (S98). Specifically, the special symbol determination table (see FIG. 5) is referred to, and the second special symbol determination random number corresponding to the value of the second special symbol determination random number acquired at the same time as the jackpot random number stored in the determination area shifted in S95. (Ii) A special design is decided. After that, the process shifts to S111. When the result of the first jackpot determination is out of order (S97: NO), a predetermined second special symbol indicating the out of place is determined (S100), and the process shifts to S111.

Next, the fluctuation pattern determination process is performed (S111). In the variation pattern determination process, one variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table according to the game state, the determination result, and the like among the plurality of variation pattern determination tables stored in the ROM 53.

The variation pattern determination process (S111, see FIG. 12) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The variation pattern determination process is a process of determining the variation pattern of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. As shown in FIG. 14, when the fluctuation pattern determination process is started, it is determined whether or not the time is shortened (S141). This judgment is made by the state of the time saving flag. When the time saving flag is "OFF" (S141: NO), the process shifts to S144.

When the time saving flag is "ON" (S141: YES), it is determined whether or not H indicating the value of the jackpot determination number counting counter is "60" or less (S142). The jackpot determination number counting counter is a counter set in the game state transition process (S128, see FIG. 11), which will be described later, and is stored in the RAM 52. The jackpot determination count counter counts the number of determinations since the end of the previous jackpot game. That is, in S142, it is determined whether or not the number of times of the jackpot determination continuously executed in the time saving state is 60 times or less after the jackpot game is completed. When the value of H is "60" or less (S142: YES), and when the judgment result of the jackpot judgment is out of order, the scenario pattern determined in the game state transition process is referred to, and the variation according to the value of H. The pattern is determined (S143). Further, when the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the scenario fluctuation pattern table (see FIG. 7) is referred to, and the fluctuation pattern of the “big hit fluctuation” is determined (S143). The processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 12).

On the other hand, when the value of H is larger than "60" (S142: NO), the process shifts to S144. Next, the variation pattern determination table is referred to, and one of the variation patterns according to the game state and the determination result of the jackpot determination is determined by the value of the first variation pattern determination random number or the second variation pattern determination random number ( S144). The processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 12).

Returning to the description of FIG. Next, a variation pattern designation command for designating the determined variation pattern is stored in the RAM 52 (S112). The variation pattern designation command is transmitted to the sub-control board 58 in the command output process (see S10 and FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. The fluctuation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol determined according to the determined fluctuation pattern is set in the special symbol fluctuation time counter (S113). "1" indicating that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changing is stored in the special symbol display state flag (S114), and the process returns to the main process.

Further, in the determination of S62 shown in FIG. 11, when "1" is stored in the special symbol display state flag, it is determined that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changing ( S62: YES), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed (S121). When the value of the special symbol fluctuation time counter set in the process of S113 (see FIG. 12) is "0", it is determined that the fluctuation time has elapsed (S121: YES), and the special symbol is stopped in the RAM 52. The command is stored (S122). This command is transmitted to the relay board 47 and the sub-control board 58 by the command output process (see S10 and FIG. 9), and instructs the first special symbol or the second special symbol and the effect symbol 80 on the display screen 28 to stop fluctuating. To do. Next, a predetermined special symbol stop display time (0.8 seconds in this embodiment) is stored in the special symbol stop time counter (S123). “2” indicating that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is in the stop display is stored in the special symbol display state flag (S124). After that, the process returns to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination of S101 that the fluctuation time has not yet elapsed (S121: NO), the process returns to the main process.

Further, in the determination of S113, when "2" is stored in the special symbol display state flag (S63: YES), whether or not the stop display time has elapsed according to the value of the special symbol stop time counter set in S122. Is determined (S126). If the value of the special symbol stop time counter is not "0", it is determined that the stop display time has not yet elapsed (S126: NO), and the process returns to the main process. When the stop display time has elapsed (S126: YES), "0" indicating that neither the first special symbol nor the second special symbol is changing or being stopped is stored in the special symbol display status flag. (S127). Next, the game state transition process is performed (S128), and the process returns to the main process.

The game state transition process (S128, see FIG. 11) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. In the game state transition process, when it is determined that the game is a big hit, the game is transferred to the big hit game, and when a predetermined end condition is satisfied, various flags for ending the time saving state and the probability fluctuation state are controlled. Will be done.

As shown in FIG. 15, when the game state transition process is started, it is first determined whether or not the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot (S151). In the case of a big hit (S151: YES), a predetermined value (“10” in this embodiment) is set in the R number counter (S152). The R number counter is a counter that counts the number of rounds to be executed in the jackpot game, and is stored in the RAM 52. Then, the value of H is cleared to "0" (S153). Next, if there is a time saving flag and a probability fluctuation flag that are "ON", they are set to "OFF" (S154). That is, during the jackpot game, the game state shifts from the probability fluctuation state or the time saving state to the normal state.

Next, a jackpot game start command indicating that the jackpot game starts is stored in the RAM 52 (S155). The jackpot game start command is transmitted to the sub control board 58 in the command output process (see S10, FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. In addition, the jackpot game status flag is set to "ON" (S156).

Next, the first outlier scenario table (see FIG. 8) and the second outlier scenario table are referred to to determine the scenario pattern (S158). In S158, the execution order of the 30 missed notification effects in the first round of prediction mode is determined by selecting any one of the scenario patterns A to C stored in the first missed scenario table. Will be done. In addition, the execution order of the 30 missed notification effects in the second round of prediction mode is determined by selecting any one of the plurality of scenario patterns stored in the second missed scenario table. The CPU 51 selects one scenario pattern from each of the first scenario table and the second scenario table. This selection may be made randomly. Further, the scenario pattern may be selected from the first outlier scenario table and the second outlier scenario table according to a random number value such as a special symbol determination random number. After that, the processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 11).

On the other hand, when the determination result of the jackpot determination is incorrect (S151: NO), "1" is added to the value of H (S161). Next, it is determined whether or not the value of H is "100" (S162). If the value of H is not "100" (S162: NO), the processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 11).

When the value of H is "100" (S162: YES), it is determined whether or not the probability is in the fluctuating state (S163). This determination is made by the state of the probability variation flag. When the probability fluctuation flag is "OFF" (S163: NO), the process shifts to S165. When the probability fluctuation flag is "ON" (S163: YES), the probability fluctuation flag is "OFF" (S164). Next, the time saving flag is set to "OFF" (S165), and the processing returns to the special symbol processing (see FIG. 11).

The details of the special electric accessory processing (see S13 and FIG. 9) will be described with reference to FIG. First, the flag used in the special electric accessory treatment will be described. The opening flag, the processing waiting flag, and the like are stored in the RAM 52. The opening flag is a flag indicating whether or not the large winning opening 16 is in the open state, and when the opening / closing member 161 of the large winning opening 16 is opened, "1" is memorized and becomes "ON". When the opening / closing member 161 is not opened, "0" is stored and becomes "OFF". The processing waiting flag is a flag indicating whether or not processing is waiting, which is before a predetermined processing time elapses from the closing of the entrance of the large winning opening 16 to the next processing. “1” is stored during standby and becomes “ON”, and when the processing time elapses, it becomes “OFF”. The processing time is set in consideration of the time required from when the game ball enters the large winning opening 16 to when it passes through the specific area 162 or the non-specific area.

As shown in FIG. 16, when the special electric accessory processing is started, it is determined whether or not the game is in the jackpot game state (S171). This determination is made by the state of the jackpot game state flag. When the jackpot game status flag is "OFF" (S171: NO), the process returns to the main process (see FIG. 9). When the jackpot game state flag is "ON" (S171: YES), it is determined whether or not processing is waiting (S172). This determination is made according to the state of the processing waiting flag. When the processing waiting flag is "OFF" (S172: NO), it is determined whether or not the final round has been completed in the jackpot game (S173). This determination is made based on whether or not the value of the R number counter is "0".

When the value of the R number counter is not "0" (S173: NO), it is determined whether or not the large winning opening 16 is open (S174). This determination is made by the state of the open flag. When the opening flag is "OFF" (S174: NO), the opening command for opening the opening / closing member 161 is stored in the RAM 52 (S175). The release command is transmitted to the relay board 47 in the command output process (see S10 and FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. The large winning opening opening / closing solenoid 70 that receives the opening command via the relay board 47 opens the opening / closing member 161. Next, a predetermined opening time (29 seconds in this embodiment) is stored in the opening time counter (S176). Next, the opening flag is set to "ON" (S177).

Next, it is determined whether or not the jackpot round to be executed is the final round (S178). This determination is made based on whether or not the value of the R number counter is "1". If the value of the R number counter is not "1" (S178: NO), the process proceeds to the determination of S179. When the value of the R number counter is "1" (S178: YES), a specific area opening command for opening the opening / closing member of the specific area 162 is stored in the RAM 52 (S178). The specific area release command is transmitted to the relay board 47 in the command output process (see S10 and FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. The specific area opening / closing solenoid 71 that has received the specific area opening / closing command via the relay board 47 opens the opening / closing member of the specific area 162 for a predetermined time during the final round. The process shifts to the judgment of S179.

Next, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won a prize in the large winning opening 16 (S179). If the flag corresponding to the large winning opening switch 75 is "OFF", it is determined that the game ball has not won the large winning opening 16 (S179: NO), and the process proceeds to the determination of S182. If the flag corresponding to the large winning opening switch 75 is "ON", it is determined that the game ball has won the large winning opening 16 (S179: YES), and the number of game balls that have won the large winning opening 16 is counted. "1" is added to the winning ball number counter of the RAM 52 (S181). The process shifts to the determination of S182.

Next, it is determined whether or not the number of winning balls in the large winning opening 16 is "9" or more (S182). When the value of the winning ball counter is less than "9" (S182: NO), it is determined whether or not the opening time has elapsed (S183). If the opening time has not elapsed (S183: NO), the process returns to the main process. In the special electric accessory processing performed thereafter, the jackpot game state (S171: YES), the processing is not waiting (S172: NO), the final round has not been completed (S173: NO), and the big winning opening When 16 is open (S174: YES), these judgments are repeatedly executed until nine or more game balls are won in the large winning opening 16 or the opening time has elapsed (S182: NO, S183: NO).

To close the opening / closing member 161 of the open large winning opening 16 when nine or more game balls win the large winning opening 16 (S182: YES) or when the opening time has elapsed (S183: YES). The closing command is stored in the RAM 52 (S184). The close command is transmitted to the relay board 47 in the command output process (S10, see FIG. 9) of the main process to be executed next time. The large winning opening opening / closing solenoid 70 that receives the closing command via the relay board 47 closes the opening / closing member 161. Next, the predetermined processing time is stored in the processing time counter (S185). The processing waiting flag becomes “ON” (S186). The opening flag is set to "OFF" (S188), and the process returns to the main process.

On the other hand, when the processing waiting flag is "OFF" (S172: YES), it is determined whether or not the processing time has elapsed based on the value of the processing time counter (S201). If the value of the processing time counter is not "0", it is determined that the processing time has not elapsed (S201: NO), and the processing returns to the main processing. If the main processing is repeatedly performed and the value of the processing time counter is "0", it is determined that the processing time has elapsed (S201: YES), and the processing waiting flag is set to "OFF" (S202). Next, the value of the R number counter is subtracted by "1" (S203).

Next, based on the value of the R number counter, it is determined whether or not the final round has been completed in the jackpot game (S204). If the value of the R number counter is not "0", it is judged that the final round has not ended (S204: NO), the processing returns to the main processing, and in the next and subsequent special electric accessory processing, the big prize opening is again. The opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member 161 of 16 is performed.

When the value of the R number counter is "0" and it is determined that the final round has ended (S204: YES), a predetermined ending time is stored in the ending time counter that measures the jackpot ending time (S205). In the present embodiment, the prediction area display effect described later is executed at the jackpot ending time, which is the time between the end of the final round of the jackpot game and the execution of the next jackpot determination. Next, the ending start command for notifying the sub-control board 58 of the start of the jackpot ending time is stored in the RAM 52 (S206), and the process returns to the main process.

If it is determined in S173 that the value of the R number counter is "0" and the final round is completed (S173: YES), whether or not the jackpot ending time has elapsed based on the value of the ending time counter. Is determined (S191). If the value of the ending time counter is not "0", it is determined that the jackpot ending time has not elapsed (S191: NO), and the process returns to the main process. If the main processing is repeated and the value of the processing time counter is "0", it is determined that the processing time has elapsed (S191: YES), and the sub-control board 58 is notified that the jackpot game has ended. The jackpot game end command is stored in the RAM 52 (S192). The jackpot game end command is transmitted to the sub control board 58 in the command output process of the main process to be executed next time. Next, the jackpot game status flag is set to "OFF" (S193).

Next, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area 162 in the final round of the jackpot game (S194). If the flag corresponding to the specific area switch 76 is "OFF", it is determined that the game ball has not passed through the specific area 162 (S194: NO), and the process shifts to S196. If the flag corresponding to the specific area switch 76 is "ON", it is determined that the game ball has passed the specific area 162 (S194: YES), and the probability fluctuation flag is "ON". Next, the time saving flag becomes "ON" (S196), and the process returns to the main process.

With reference to FIGS. 17 to 19, various effects performed by using the fluctuation meter 30 in the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, each of the prophecy area display effect, the prophecy mode effect, and the color change effect is performed using the variation meter 30.

First, the prediction area display effect will be described. The prediction area display effect is performed before the start of the first round of prediction mode and before the start of the second round of prediction mode. As shown in FIG. 17, in the prediction area display effect, some meter areas out of the 50 meter areas are designated before the start of the prediction mode. Then, the designated meter area is displayed in a manner different from that of other meter areas. FIG. 17 shows how the seven meter regions (7), (12), (20), (27), (35), (45), and (49) were designated before the start of the prophecy mode. .. In this case, before the start of the first round of prediction mode, the undesignated meter area is lit in blue and the designated meter area is blinked in yellow. Before the start of the second round of prediction mode, the undesignated meter area is lit in pink and the designated meter area is blinked in yellow. By displaying the designated meter area in a specific display mode using a different color and a different lighting pattern from the non-designated meter area, the pachinko machine 1 has the designated meter area in the specific meter area. It is possible to make the player visually recognize that there is something. Such a meter area displayed in a specific display mode according to the designation before the start of the prophecy mode is hereinafter referred to as a "prophecy area". That is, the prediction area display effect is an effect of showing the prediction area to the player before the start of the prediction mode.

The pachinko machine 1 includes a plurality of designated patterns of the prediction area including different positions and different numbers of prediction areas among the 50 meter areas, and selects one of the plurality of designated patterns to display the prediction area. Do. The designated pattern of this prophecy area is hereinafter referred to as a "prophecy pattern".

Next, the prophecy mode production will be described. In the pachinko machine 1, when the prediction mode is started, the display mode of the corresponding meter area changes every time the symbol variation is displayed once. In the prophecy mode, the symbol changes up to 50 times. Each time the symbol changes repeatedly in the prediction mode, the display mode of the meter area (1) to the meter area (50) changes in order. Further, in the prediction mode, the specific display of the prediction area shown in the prediction area display effect is continuously performed until the symbol variation corresponding to the prediction area is completed.

As shown in FIG. 18, when the prediction mode is started and the first symbol variation is performed, the display mode of the meter area (1) changes. Specifically, when the prediction mode is started and the symbol variation has not been performed even once, the variation meter 30 shows the same display mode as the prediction area display effect shown in FIG. When the prediction mode is started and the first symbol variation is started, the meter area (1) starts blinking as shown in FIG. 18A. Note that FIG. 18A schematically shows that the effect symbol 80 is fluctuating by indicating the effect symbol 80 with a plurality of arrows. In this case, in the first round of prediction mode, the display mode of the meter area (1), which was lit in blue, changes to a blinking blue display. Further, in this case, in the second round of prediction mode, the display mode of the meter area (1), which was lit and displayed in pink, changes to a blinking pink display. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 allows the player to visually recognize which meter area corresponds to the currently performed symbol display.

The effect symbol 80 that has started the symbol variation is stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing. FIG. 18B shows a case where the three effect symbols 80 that were variablely displayed in FIG. 18A stopped at the combination of “772”. In this case, the blinking display of the meter area (1) ends in synchronization with the start of the prediction mode and the end of the first symbol change, and the display mode of the meter area (1) is before the first symbol change. And it changes to something different from the one during the first symbol change. In this case, in the first round of prediction mode, the display mode of the meter area (1), which was lit or blinking in blue, changes to a pink lit display. Further, in this case, in the second round of prediction mode, the display mode of the meter area (1), which is lit or blinking in pink, changes to the extinguished mode. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can make the player visually recognize that the display mode of the corresponding meter area changes according to the end of the symbol variation.

In this way, as the display mode of each meter area changes in order from the meter area (1) to the meter area (50) each time the symbol change is performed, the meter area corresponding to the symbol change becomes the prediction area. On the other hand, it gradually approaches. The prediction mode effect executed by the pachinko machine 1 is an effect in which a specific determination result among the determination results of the jackpot determination is easily notified when the change in the meter area approaches the prediction area. In this embodiment, the specific determination result is a "big hit".

The details of the prophecy mode production will be described. When the pattern A is determined from the first outlier scenario table (see FIG. 8) in S158 (see FIG. 15), the symbol variation is performed once or twice in one notification effect according to the pattern A. In this case, as shown in FIG. 19, in the notification effect executed for the seventh time after the prediction mode is started, the symbol variation is performed twice according to the variation pattern of the "twice variation". As the symbol changes twice in the seventh notification effect, the display modes of the meter area (11) and the meter area (12) change in order. Here, it is assumed that the number of second reserved balls reaches "4", which is the maximum number of second reserved balls, by winning a prize in the second starting port 15 during the execution of the seventh notification effect. The jackpot determination is subsequently executed for the second reserved random number that triggered the second reserved ball number to reach the maximum second reserved ball number. The notification effect for notifying the determination result of the jackpot determination executed for the second reserved random number is the notification effect executed for the fourth time after the end of the seventh notification effect, 11 after the prediction mode is started. This is the notification effect executed for the second time (see the upper part of FIG. 19).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the fluctuation pattern of the "big hit fluctuation" is determined, the symbol fluctuation is performed up to four times in the jackpot notification effect. In addition, in the out-of-order notification effect, the symbol is changed once or twice. When the number of second reserved balls has reached the maximum number of second reserved balls, four notification effects corresponding to the maximum number of second reserved balls are subsequently executed. The maximum number of symbol fluctuations performed in four consecutive notification effects is when the jackpot notification effect is performed once after the deviation notification effect based on the fluctuation pattern of "two fluctuations" is executed three times. is there. In this case, the maximum number of symbol fluctuations performed in the four consecutive notification effects is the jackpot notification after the out-of-order notification effect in which the symbol changes are performed twice according to the fluctuation pattern of "two fluctuations" is executed three times. It is "10" times when the symbol is changed four times in the production ("2" x 3 + "4" x 1 = "10"). In this case, the maximum number of symbol fluctuations performed in the four consecutive notification effects is hereinafter referred to as "maximum number of fluctuations S". In other words, when the number of second reserved balls is "4", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "10".

When the number of second reserved balls is "3", the maximum number of symbol fluctuations performed in the three consecutive notification effects is after the deviation notification effect based on the fluctuation pattern of "two fluctuations" is executed twice. , "8" times when the symbol is changed four times in the jackpot notification effect ("2" x 2 + "4" x 1 = "8"). That is, when the number of second reserved balls is "3", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "8". When the number of second reserved balls is "2", the maximum number of symbol fluctuations performed in two consecutive notification effects is a big hit after one out-of-order notification effect based on the "twice fluctuation" fluctuation pattern is executed. It is "6" times when the symbol is changed four times in the notification effect ("2" x 1 + "4" x 1 = "6"). That is, when the number of second reserved balls is "2", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "6". When the number of second reserved balls is "1", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "4" when the jackpot notification effect is performed ("4" x 1 = "4").

When the second reserved random number is stored in the prediction mode, the jackpot random number look-ahead information is acquired from the stored second reserved random number. When the jackpot random number look-ahead information is information indicating "big hit", the pachinko machine 1 is based on the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S corresponding to the number of second reserved balls at the time when the jackpot random number look-ahead information indicating "big hit" is acquired. , Decide whether to execute the prophecy mode effect. Specifically, the pachinko machine 1 determines whether or not to execute the prediction mode effect depending on whether or not the prediction area is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S. Hereinafter, the jackpot random number look-ahead information indicating "big hit" is referred to as "look-ahead jackpot information", and the jackpot random number look-ahead information indicating "missing" is referred to as "look-ahead loss information".

As shown in the upper part of FIG. 19, the number of second reserved balls becomes "4" when the game ball wins the second starting port 15 during the execution of the seventh notification effect, and the second reserved ball corresponding to the winning is held. It is assumed that the look-ahead jackpot information is acquired from the random number. In this case, the maximum number of fluctuations S is "10". Therefore, it is determined whether or not the prediction hold is included in the range of the 10 meter areas corresponding to the symbol fluctuations executed in the eighth and subsequent notification effects after the prediction mode is started. That is, 10 meter areas from the meter area (13) to the meter area (22) are the judgment targets. When the meter area (20) is designated as the prediction area in the prediction area display effect, the prediction area is included in the range of the 10 meter areas to be determined. Therefore, in this case, the execution of the prediction mode effect is determined.

When the execution of the prediction mode effect is determined, the symbol variation is executed the number of times according to the variation pattern based on the scenario pattern in the out-of-order notification effect. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 18, based on the scenario pattern of the pattern A, in the eighth out-of-order notification effect, the symbol variation is performed twice according to the variation pattern of the “twice variation”. The display modes of the meter area (13) and the meter area (14) change according to the two symbol fluctuations. Further, in the 9th and 10th out-of-order notification effects, one symbol variation is performed according to the variation pattern of "1 time variation A", respectively. Due to these symbol variations, the display modes of the meter area (15) and the meter area (16) are changed, respectively.

The eleventh notification effect to be performed next is a jackpot notification effect for notifying the determination result of the jackpot determination for the second reserved random number for which the look-ahead jackpot information has been acquired. The number of meter areas up to the prediction area when the eleventh notification effect is started is "4" including the prediction area. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 decides to execute the symbol variation four times in this jackpot notification effect. As a result, the display mode of the meter area (17) to the meter area (20) changes in order according to the four symbol fluctuations in the jackpot notification effect. Then, when the fourth symbol variation in the jackpot variation corresponding to the meter area (20) is completed, the effect symbol 80 indicating that the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot is confirmed and displayed. In this way, the pachinko machine 1 adjusts the number of symbol fluctuations executed in the jackpot notification effect according to the arrangement of the prediction region, so that the change in the meter region reaches the prediction region and the jackpot notification. Can be synchronized with. The pachinko machine 1 can give the player the impression that a big hit has been obtained by the change in the meter area reaching the prediction area.

Further, when the execution of the prediction mode effect is determined, the pachinko machine 1 executes the color change effect. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 19, in the color change effect, the display color of the meter area whose display mode changes according to the symbol variation in the prediction mode effect is changed to a specific color in the range up to the prediction area. By executing the color change effect, the pachinko machine 1 can raise the player's expectation while the symbol change corresponding to the prediction area is about to be performed. In the present embodiment, even when the jackpot random number look-ahead information is pre-reading loss information, the color change effect is performed by satisfying a predetermined condition. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can increase the chances of raising the player's expectation when the change in the meter area approaches the prediction area, and can greatly entertain the player.

The prediction pattern determination table stored in the ROM 583 of the sub-control board 58 will be described with reference to FIG. The prediction pattern determination table is a table used in the sub-control process (see FIG. 24) described later. As shown in FIG. 20, the prediction pattern determination table stores a plurality of the above-mentioned prediction patterns, that is, a plurality of designation patterns of the prediction area. For example, the prophecy pattern 1 is a prophecy pattern in which each meter area of (7), (12), (20), (27), (35), (45), and (49) is designated as a prophecy area. Prophecy pattern 2 is. (8) (15) (20) (27) (33) (40) (45) (50) is a prophecy pattern in which each meter area is designated as a prophecy area. The prediction pattern determination table can store a plurality of types of prediction patterns having different combinations of the number of meter areas used as the prediction area and the meter areas used as the prediction area. The pachinko machine 1 selects one prediction mode for each prediction mode to be executed from these a plurality of types of prediction patterns, and displays the prediction area corresponding to the selected prediction pattern in a specific display mode in the prediction area display effect. Display it. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can specify the prediction area in various patterns and show it to the player before the prediction mode is started, as compared with the case where only one prediction pattern is provided. That is, the pachinko machine 1 can diversify the prediction mode.

The fluctuation number determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The fluctuation number determination table is a table used in the notification effect control process (see FIG. 26) described later. As shown in FIG. 21, in the fluctuation number determination table, the number of meter regions up to the prediction region at the start of execution of the jackpot notification effect is set to the value of K indicating the number of regions, which is the number counted including the prediction region. The corresponding fluctuation frequency pattern is defined. The fluctuation number pattern defines the number of symbol fluctuations to be executed in the jackpot notification effect. The four-time pattern is a variation number pattern that defines that the symbol is changed four times in one jackpot notification effect. Similarly, the three-time pattern, the two-time pattern, and the one-time pattern are fluctuation frequency patterns that define that the symbol changes three times, two times, and once in one jackpot notification effect, respectively. The pachinko machine 1 determines the fluctuation number pattern according to the value of the number of regions K with reference to the fluctuation number determination table.

For each variation number pattern, the effect mode in the jackpot notification effect is predetermined. When the pattern is determined four times, the symbol variation is executed four times in succession in one jackpot notification effect. In each of the first to third symbol variations, after the symbol variation starts, the effect symbol 80 is changed for a predetermined time, and then the effect symbol 80 is stopped in a combination indicating that the effect symbol 80 is out of alignment. In the present embodiment, the predetermined time from the start of the symbol variation to the stop of the effect symbol 80 is about 2 seconds. In the fourth symbol variation, after the symbol variation starts, the effect symbol 80 is fluctuated for a predetermined time, and then the effect symbol 80 is confirmed and displayed in a combination indicating a jackpot. In the present embodiment, when the symbol is changed a plurality of times in one notification effect, the stop of the effect symbol 80 other than the final display is also referred to as a temporary stop, and is distinguished from the stop by the final display. To do. For example, in the four-time pattern, the stop of the effect symbol 80 after the first to third symbol changes is a temporary stop.

When the three-time pattern, the two-time pattern, and the one-time pattern are determined, the symbol is changed the number of times specified as the effect mode, and then the specific effect is performed in the remaining effect time in the jackpot notification effect. The specific effect is, for example, an effect that suggests that the determination result of the jackpot determination notified in the running notification effect is a jackpot by setting each display mode of the display screen 28 and the fluctuation meter 30 as a specific mode. is there. After that, the effect symbol 80 is confirmed and displayed in a combination indicating a big hit.

A specific description will be given by taking the lower part of FIG. 19 as an example. The notification effect executed for the 11th time after the prediction mode is started is a jackpot notification effect. In this case, since the meter area (20) is the prediction area, the number of areas K counted at the start of the eleventh notification effect, which is the jackpot notification effect, is from the meter area (17) to the meter area (20), which is the prediction area. ) Is counted, and it becomes "4". In this case, the corresponding variation number pattern is a 4-fold pattern. Therefore, in the jackpot notification effect, the symbol variation is continuously performed four times. The 1st to 3rd symbol fluctuations are terminated when the effect symbols 80 are temporarily stopped in a combination indicating that they are out of alignment. The display mode of the meter areas (17) to (19) changes to a display mode different from that before the symbol change is executed, according to the execution of the symbol variation from the first to the third time. Next, the display mode of the meter area (20), which is the prediction area, is changed according to the fourth symbol change. In the fourth symbol variation, after the symbol variation starts, the effect symbol 80 is fluctuated for a predetermined time, and then the effect symbol 80 is confirmed and displayed in a combination indicating a jackpot. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can give the player the impression that a jackpot determination result has been obtained by performing the symbol variation corresponding to the prediction area. In other words, the number of symbol fluctuations executed in each of the missed notification effects executed after the jackpot look-ahead information is acquired can be specified based on the fluctuation pattern defined in the scenario pattern. Then, the number of symbol fluctuations executed in the jackpot notification effect corresponding to the jackpot look-ahead information executed thereafter is set to 1 to 4 times according to the fluctuation number pattern defined in the fluctuation number determination table. It can be set flexibly. By configuring the number of symbol fluctuations executed by the notification effect in the prediction mode in this way, the pachinko machine 1 determines the number of symbol fluctuations executed after the jackpot look-ahead information is acquired, which is a predetermined prediction. The number of times can be determined to be equal to the number of times the symbol changes determined according to the area.

The color change pattern determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The color change pattern determination table is a table used in the color change effect control process (see FIG. 25) described later. As shown in FIG. 22, in the color change pattern determination table, a change pattern, which is a plurality of color change patterns according to the number of meter regions for executing the color change effect, is defined. The change pattern is whether the meter area is lit with the display color of green, red, or rainbow, or the color of the meter area is not changed from the meter area far from the prediction area to the prediction area. It has established. When it is decided to execute the color change effect, the pachinko machine 1 has a color that is the number of meter areas included from the meter area to the prediction area where the display mode is first changed according to the symbol variation in the next notification effect. Specify the number of areas to be changed. The color change pattern according to the specified number of color change target areas is determined by referring to the color change pattern determination table.

A specific description will be given with reference to FIG. 19 described above as an example. As shown in the upper part of FIG. 19, when the jackpot look-ahead information indicating "big hit" is acquired and the prediction region is included in the range of the meter region corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S, the prediction mode effect is executed. Is determined. When the execution of the prediction mode effect is determined, the pachinko machine 1 specifies the number of color change target regions. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 19, when the jackpot look-ahead information indicating "big hit" is acquired during the execution of the seventh notification effect, the number of color change target regions including the prediction region of the meter region (20) is the meter region. The number is 8, which is the number of (13) to (20). Therefore, one change pattern is selected from a plurality of change patterns including "8 patterns" corresponding to the number of color change target regions among the change patterns defined in the color change pattern determination table. The pachinko machine 1 changes the display color of the meter area up to the prediction area according to the selected change pattern. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can raise the player's expectation toward the execution of the symbol variation corresponding to the prediction area.

With reference to FIGS. 23 to 30, details of the sub-control board processing executed by the sub-control board 58 and the respective effects of the prediction area display effect, the prediction mode effect, and the color change effect executed in the present embodiment will be described. .. In the sub-control board processing, a process of controlling the notification effect by the display screen 28, the speaker 48, etc. is performed according to the command transmitted from the main board 41. In particular, in the sub-control board processing, each effect of the prediction area display effect, the prediction mode effect, and the color change effect is controlled. The sub-control board processing is executed by the CPU 581 according to the program stored in the ROM 583.

First, the flags used in the sub-control board processing will be described. The RAM 582 of the sub-control board 58 stores a prediction mode flag, a color change start flag, and the like. As for the prophecy mode flag, when the prophecy mode is started, "1" is stored and becomes "ON", and when the prophecy mode ends, "0" is stored and becomes "OFF". In the present embodiment, a time saving state occurs after the end of the jackpot game, and the prediction mode is a game mode peculiar to this time saving state. Therefore, the prediction mode is started after the jackpot game state ends. Further, in the present embodiment, the time saving state generated after the end of the jackpot game continues for a maximum of 100 notification effects, but in the prediction mode, 60 notification effects are performed after the time saving state is started. This is a game mode that occurs while it is being executed. The first round of prediction mode is a game mode during which the notification effect is executed 30 times after the time saving state is started, that is, while the symbol variation is executed 50 times. The second round of prediction mode is a game mode during 30 times of notification effects that are continuously started in the first round of prediction mode, that is, during 50 times of symbol variation. When it is determined that the color change effect is started, the color change start flag is memorized as "1" and becomes "ON", and when the color change effect is determined, "0" is memorized and becomes "OFF". It becomes.

As shown in FIG. 23, when the sub-control board processing is started, it is determined whether or not the reserved ball number notification command has been received from the main board 41 (S211). If the reserved ball number notification command has not been received (S211: NO), the process proceeds to the determination of S213. When the reserved ball number notification command is received (S211: YES), the second reserved ball number corresponding to the information notified by the reserved ball number notification command is stored in the RAM 582 (S212). The process shifts to the determination of S213.

Next, it is determined whether or not a look-ahead command has been received from the main board 41 (S213). When the read-ahead command is not received (S213: NO), the process shifts to the determination of S215. When the look-ahead command is received (S213: YES), the color change effect control process is executed (S214), and the process shifts to the determination of S215.

The color change effect control process (see S214 and FIG. 23) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 25. In the color change effect control process, it is determined whether or not to execute the prediction mode effect. Further, in the color change effect control process, the color change pattern of the color change effect to be executed when the prediction mode is executed is determined.

As shown in FIG. 25, when the color change effect control process is started, the jackpot random number look-ahead information notified by the look-ahead command is stored in the RAM 582 (S240). Next, it is determined whether or not the prediction mode is in progress (S241). This determination is made by the state of the prophecy mode flag. When the prediction mode flag is "OFF" (S241: NO), the process returns to the sub-control process (see FIG. 23). When the prediction mode flag is "ON" (S241: YES), the number of second reserved balls stored in the RAM 582 is referred to (S242). Next, in the process of S240, the jackpot random number look-ahead information stored in the RAM 582 is referred to, and it is determined whether or not the referenced jackpot random number look-ahead information is the look-ahead jackpot information (S243).

When the jackpot random number look-ahead information is the look-ahead jackpot information (S243: YES), the value obtained by adding "1" to the number of second reserved balls is stored in the prediction counter (S244). The prediction counter is a counter that is counted in order to determine whether or not the notification effect is such that the symbol variation corresponding to the prediction area is performed, and is stored in the RAM 582. The value of the prediction counter is hereinafter referred to as P. The process shifts to the determination of S245. For example, as shown in FIG. 28, when the scenario pattern of pattern A is selected, the symbol variation corresponding to the meter area (12) is performed in the seventh notification effect after the prediction mode is started. It is assumed that the look-ahead jackpot information is acquired in the meantime.

Next, in the meter area where the display mode is scheduled to be changed according to the symbol variation performed after the next notification effect, whether or not the prediction area is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S. Is determined (S245). In this determination, first, the maximum number of fluctuations S corresponding to the number of second reserved balls referred to in the process of S242 is calculated. As described above, when the number of second reserved balls is "4", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "10". When the number of second reserved balls is "3", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "8". When the number of second reserved balls is "2", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "6". When the number of second reserved balls is "1", the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is "4".

For the area number of the meter area whose display mode is changed first in the next notification effect performed after the notification effect currently being executed is completed, for example, a special symbol stop command is issued from the main board 41 after the prediction mode is started. It can be calculated based on the number of times it has been received. Specifically, a table similar to the first outlier scenario table (see FIG. 18) and the second outlier scenario table is stored in ROM 583. Then, the CPU 581 calculates the number of notification effects currently being executed in the prediction mode based on the number of times the special symbol stop command is received from the main board 41 after the prediction mode is started. If the number of notification effects currently being executed is calculated, the CPU 581 can calculate the number of notification effects to be executed next time. By referring to the above-mentioned table according to the number of times the notification effect to be executed next time is performed, the CPU 581 can grasp the area number of the meter area where the display mode is first changed in the next notification effect.

This will be described with reference to FIG. 28. When the scenario pattern is pattern A, the display mode of the meter area (13) is changed first in the eighth notification effect, which is the next notification effect, with respect to the seventh notification effect being executed (also in FIG. 8). reference). Assuming that the number of second reserved balls at this point is "4", the meter regions corresponding to the maximum number of fluctuations S are 10 in the meter regions (13) to (22).

On top of this, the prophetic pattern determined in the process of S226 (see FIG. 24) described later is referred to. Since the area number of the meter area corresponding to the prediction area is specified in the prediction pattern, the CPU 581 can determine whether or not the prediction area is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S. .. In the example of FIG. 28, since the prediction area is designated by the prediction pattern 1, the meter area (20), which is the prediction area, is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the maximum number of fluctuations S. (See also FIG. 20).

When the prediction area is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S (S245: YES), the area number of the prediction area included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S is , Obtained based on the prophetic pattern (S246). The area number of the acquired prophecy area is hereinafter referred to as Y. The value of Y is stored in the RAM 582. In the example of FIG. 28, the area number (20) of the prediction area included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the maximum number of fluctuations S is stored in the RAM 582 as Y.

Next, the area number of the meter area whose display mode is first changed in the next notification effect, which is grasped in the determination of S245, is acquired (S247). The area number of the meter area whose display mode is first changed in the acquired next notification effect is hereinafter referred to as X. In the example of FIG. 28, the area number (13) of the meter area where the display mode is first changed in the next eighth notification effect is acquired as X.

Next, the calculation of "Y-X + 1" is performed, and the value calculated by the calculation is used as the number of color change target regions. Such an operation is performed because the number of meter regions including the prediction region is used as the number of color change target regions. Then, one change pattern corresponding to the number of color change target regions is determined from the color change pattern determination table (see FIG. 22) (S248). In the example of FIG. 28, the calculation result “8” is obtained by adding “1” to the result of subtracting X (13) from Y (20). Therefore, any change pattern is determined from the eight pattern tables of the color change determination table. Here, for example, it is assumed that a change pattern in which five meter areas including the prediction area are green is determined. The determination of the change pattern may be performed by randomly selecting a change pattern corresponding to the number of color change target regions, or a random number for determining the change pattern is provided and the change pattern corresponding to the random number is provided. May be done by selecting. The determined change pattern is stored in the RAM 582. Next, the color change start flag becomes “ON” (S249), and the process returns to the sub-control board process. On the other hand, when the prediction region is not included in the range of the meter region corresponding to the value of the maximum number of fluctuations S (S245: NO), the processing returns to the sub-control board processing.

Further, when the jackpot random number pre-reading information is pre-reading loss information (S243: NO), it is determined whether or not the prediction region is included in the range of the meter region corresponding to the predetermined value less than the maximum number of fluctuations S (S243: NO). S251). When the prediction region is not included in the range of the meter region corresponding to the predetermined value less than the maximum number of fluctuations S (S251: NO), the processing returns to the sub-control board processing. When the prediction area is included in the range of the meter area corresponding to the predetermined value less than the maximum number of fluctuations S (S251: YES), the range of the meter area corresponding to the predetermined value less than the maximum number of fluctuations S is targeted. As a result, the processes S246 to S249 are performed. After that, the process returns to the sub-control board process.

In the present embodiment, as a predetermined value less than the maximum number of fluctuations S, when the number of second reserved balls is "4", the prediction region is within the range of "8" meter regions less than the maximum number of fluctuations S. Whether or not it is included is determined. When the number of second reserved balls is "3", it is determined whether or not the prediction region is included in the range of "6" meter regions, which is less than the maximum number of fluctuations S. When the number of second reserved balls is "2", it is determined whether or not the prediction region is included in the range of "4" meter regions, which is less than the maximum number of fluctuations S. That is, the number of color change target areas in the case of pre-reading loss information is set to be smaller than the number of color change target areas in the case of pre-reading jackpot information. In this way, by setting the color change target area in the case of the look-ahead loss information smaller than in the case of the look-ahead jackpot information, the pachinko machine 1 is hit so that the display color change starts from the meter area far away from the prediction area. The color change effect can be configured so that the expectation for the information is high. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can make the player pay attention to the color change effect. When the number of second reserved balls is "1", the pachinko machine 1 does not determine whether or not the prediction region is included.

Returning to the description of FIG. 23. Next, it is determined whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received from the main board 41 (S215). When the variation pattern designation command is not received (S215: NO), the process shifts to the determination of S217. When the variation pattern designation command is received (S215: YES), the notification effect control process is executed (S216), and the process shifts to the determination of S217.

The notification effect control process (see S216 and FIG. 23) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 26. In the notification effect control process, control of the notification effect for notifying the determination result of the jackpot determination using the effect symbol 80, particularly control of the jackpot notification effect, control for starting the color change effect, control for executing the prediction area display effect, etc. Is done.

As shown in FIG. 26, when the notification effect control process is started, the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern designation command received from the main board 41 is stored in the RAM 582 (S261). Then, it is then determined whether or not the prediction mode is in progress (S262). If the prediction mode flag is "OFF", it is determined that the prediction mode is not in progress (S262: NO), the notification effect is controlled according to the fluctuation pattern (S279), and the processing is sub-control board processing (see FIG. 23). Return to.

If the prediction mode flag is "ON", it is determined that the prediction mode is in progress (S262: YES), and it is determined whether or not the color change start flag is "ON" (S263). When the color change start flag is "OFF" (S263: NO), the process shifts to the determination of S266. When the color change start flag is "ON" (S263: YES), the change pattern determined in the process of S248 (see FIG. 25) and stored in the RAM 582 is referred to, and the color change effect is executed according to the change pattern. It is controlled (S264). Specifically, the CPU 581 controls to change the display color of the meter area of the color change target area with the display color defined in the change pattern. In the example of FIG. 29, the number of color change target regions is calculated as "8" in the processing of S248, and the change pattern in which 5 meter regions including the prediction region among the 8 patterns are green is determined. .. In this case, as shown in FIG. 29, the display colors of the meter areas (16) to (20) are changed to green according to the change pattern. In this case, for example, for the meter area (20), which is a prediction area, yellow indicating that it is a prediction area and green according to a change pattern are blinked alternately to indicate the prediction area and to match the color change effect. Can be done. Next, the color change start flag is set to "OFF" (S265), and the process shifts to the determination of S266.

Next, it is determined whether or not P indicating the value of the prediction counter is "1" (S266). The value of P of the prediction counter described above is a value obtained by adding "1" to the number of second reserved balls in the processing of S243. Details will be described later, but after that, every time the combination of the effect symbols 80 indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination is confirmed and displayed in response to the reception of the special symbol stop command from the main board 41, "1" is subtracted from P. Will be done. That is, when the value of P is "1", the notification effect to be controlled in the notification effect control process is the jackpot notification effect for the second reserved random number for which the look-ahead jackpot information has been acquired.

When P, which is the value of the prediction counter, is "1" (S266: YES), the number of areas from the meter area to the prediction area corresponding to the symbol variation first executed in the jackpot notification effect controlled this time is calculated (S26: YES). S268). Hereinafter, the value of the number of regions from the meter region to the prediction region corresponding to the symbol fluctuation first executed in the jackpot notification effect is shown as K. The value of K can be calculated based on the value of the meter counter. The meter counter is a counter that counts the number of meter regions whose display mode has already been changed according to the symbol fluctuation during the prediction mode, and is stored in the RAM 582. The value of the meter counter at the time when the processing of S268 is performed is equal to the number obtained by subtracting "1" from the number of the meter area where the symbol variation is first executed in the jackpot notification effect controlled this time. The value of the meter counter is hereinafter referred to as M. The CPU 581 can calculate the value of K by subtracting the value of M from the value of Y stored in the process of S246 (see FIG. 25). As shown in the examples of FIGS. 29 and 30, the notification effect in which the value P of the prediction counter is “1” is the 11th notification effect after the start of the prediction mode, and is a jackpot notification effect (see also FIG. 19). .. Here, the meter area corresponding to the symbol variation first executed in the eleventh notification effect is the meter area (17). The value of Y is (20) and the value of M is "16". Therefore, the CPU 851 can calculate the value of K as "K = 20-16 = 4".

Next, it is determined whether or not K indicating the value of the number of regions up to the prediction region calculated in S268 is "1" or more and "4" or less (S269). When the value of K is "1" or more and "4" or less (S269: YES), the fluctuation number determination table (see FIG. 21) stored in ROM 583 is referred to, and the fluctuation number pattern according to the K value is referred to. Is selected (S271). As shown in FIG. 30, when the value of K is "4", the display mode of the four meter areas (17) to (20) changes according to the symbol variation executed in the jackpot notification effect. Will be done. When the change in the display mode of the meter area reaches the meter area (20) which is the prediction area, the combination of the effect symbols 80 (“777” in FIG. 30) showing the determination result of the jackpot in the corresponding symbol variation Confirmed display. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can give the player the impression that a big hit has been obtained by the change in the display mode of the meter area reaching the prediction area. Next, the jackpot notification effect is controlled according to the effect mode defined in the variation number pattern selected in S271 (S272). The process returns to the sub-control board process.

On the other hand, when K is less than "1" or larger than "4" (S269: NO), it is determined whether or not K is "0" or less (S276). When K is "0" or less, the progress of the meter region whose display mode changes according to the symbol variation has already overtaken the prediction region corresponding to the value of Y stored in the processing of S246. When K is "0" or less (S276: YES), the variation number pattern of the one-time pattern is determined from the variation number determination table, and the jackpot notification effect is controlled according to the effect mode defined in the one-time pattern (S277). ). The process returns to the sub-control board process.

In the pachinko machine 1, when the progress of the meter area overtakes the prediction area, the pachinko machine 1 notifies that the judgment result of the big hit determination is a big hit at the timing when the display mode of the meter area located as close as possible to the prediction area is changed. Therefore, such processing is performed. As a result, even if the progress of the meter area overtakes the prediction area, the pachinko machine 1 can provide an opportunity to be notified of the jackpot determination result at an early stage after overtaking the prediction area. In this way, the pachinko machine 1 can maintain the player's expectation for a certain period of time even when the progress of the meter region overtakes the prediction region.

On the other hand, K is larger than "4" when the progress of the meter area does not reach the prediction area even if the symbol variation is executed four times in the jackpot notification effect controlled this time. When K is larger than "4" (S276: NO), the variation number pattern of the four-time pattern is determined from the variation number determination table, and the jackpot notification effect is controlled according to the effect mode defined in the four-time pattern (the jackpot notification effect). S278). The process returns to the sub-control board process.

In the pachinko machine 1, even if the progress of the meter area cannot reach the prediction area even if the symbol changes four times in the jackpot notification effect, the display mode of the meter area located as close to the prediction area as possible is changed. In order to notify that the judgment result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot at the timing when the above is performed, such processing is performed. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can be provided with a case where the jackpot determination result is notified at the timing when the meter area several points before the prediction area changes according to the symbol variation. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can improve the player's expectation at the stage where the progress of the meter region approaches the prediction region.

On the other hand, when P indicating the value of the prediction counter is not "1" (S266: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation pattern stored in S261 is "one-time fluctuation B" (S273). When the variation pattern is not "one-time variation B" (S273: NO), the notification effect according to the variation pattern is controlled (S279), and the process returns to the sub-control board process.

When the variation pattern is "one-time variation B" (S273: YES), the missed notification effect in which the symbol variation is performed once according to the "one-time variation B" is performed (S274). Further, in this out-of-order notification effect, a prediction area display effect for displaying the prediction area designated in the second round prediction mode before the start of the second round prediction mode is executed (S275). Specifically, in S226 described later, the prediction area is displayed in a mode different from other meter areas according to the prediction pattern stored as the prediction pattern corresponding to the second round prediction mode. After that, the process returns to the sub-control board process.

Returning to the description of FIG. 23. Next, it is determined whether or not the effect symbol stop command has been received from the effect control board 43 (S217). In the present embodiment, each command for notifying the effect control board 43 of the start and end of the prediction mode is transmitted from the sub control board 58 to the effect control board 43. As a result, the effect control board 43 can grasp whether or not the prediction mode is in progress. By controlling the display screen 28, the effect control board 43 performs a variation display of the effect symbol 80 and a stop display of the effect symbol 80 due to the symbol variation. When the effect symbol 80 is temporarily stopped after the symbol is changed during the prediction mode, the effect control board 43 temporarily stops the effect symbol 80 by transmitting a temporary stop command to the sub control board 58. Notify the sub control board 58. If the temporary stop command has not been received (S217: NO), the process proceeds to the determination of S221.

When the temporary stop command is received (S217: YES), the display mode of the meter area corresponding to the symbol variation in which the temporary stop of the effect symbol 80 is performed is changed as described above (S218). Next, "1" is added to the value M of the meter counter (S219), and the process shifts to the determination of S221.

Next, it is determined whether or not a special symbol stop command has been received from the main board 41 (S221). If the special symbol stop command has not been received (S221: NO), the process proceeds to the determination of S223 (see FIG. 24). When the special symbol stop command is received (S221: YES), the confirmation display control process is performed (S222), and the process shifts to the determination of S223.

The final display control process (see S222 and FIG. 23) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 27. In the final display control process, the final display control of the effect symbol 80, the control of the prediction counter, the control of the prediction mode flag, and the like are performed. Will be done.

As shown in FIG. 27, when the final display control process is started, the effect symbol 80 is finalized and displayed (S281). Specifically, a command for confirming and displaying the combination of the effect symbols 80 indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination is created and stored in the RAM 582. The stored command is transmitted to the effect control board 43 in the command output process (S235, see FIG. 24) described later.

Next, it is determined whether or not the prediction mode is in progress (S282). If the prediction mode flag is "OFF", it is determined that the prediction mode is not in progress (S282: NO), and the processing returns to the sub-control board processing (see FIG. 23). If the prediction mode flag is "ON", it is determined that the prediction mode is in progress (S282: YES), and it is determined whether or not the value P of the prediction counter is larger than "0" (S283). When P is "0" (S283: NO), the process shifts to S285. When P is larger than "0" (S283: YES), "1" is subtracted from P (S284).

The change in the display mode of the meter area corresponding to the symbol variation is performed in the case of the temporary stop and the final display of the effect symbol 80. Therefore, the display mode of the meter area corresponding to the symbol variation in which the finalized display of the effect symbol 80 is performed is changed as described above (S285). Next, "1" is added to M, which is the value of the meter counter (S285). The process shifts to the determination of S288.

Next, it is determined whether or not M is "50" (S288). In the present embodiment, the symbol changes are performed 50 times in each of the first and second prediction modes. In the determination of S288, it is determined whether or not either the first round or the second round of the prediction mode ends. If M is not "50" (S288: NO), the process returns to the sub-control board process. When M is "50" (S288: YES), the value of M is cleared to "0" (S289).

Next, it is determined whether or not the current prediction mode, which ends when M reaches "50", is the first round prediction mode (S291). This determination is made based on C, which is the value of the mode count counter that counts the number of prophecy modes. The mode count counter is stored in the RAM 582. When C is "0", it is determined that the prediction mode of the first round has ended (S291: YES), and "1" is added to C (S292). The process returns to the sub-control board process. On the other hand, when C is "1", the prediction mode of the first round has already ended, so it is determined that the prediction mode of the second round has ended (S291: NO), and C becomes "0". It is cleared (S293). Next, the prophecy mode flag is set to "OFF" (S294). After that, the prediction mode end command is created and stored in the RAM 582 (S295). The prediction mode end command is a command for notifying the effect control board 43 that the second round of prediction mode has ended. The stored command is transmitted to the effect control board 43 in the command output process (S235, see FIG. 24) described later. The process returns to the sub-control board process.

Returning to the description of FIG. 24. Next, it is determined whether or not a jackpot game start command has been received from the main board 41 (S223). If the jackpot game start command has not been received (S223: NO), the process shifts to the determination of S225. When the jackpot game start command is received (S223: YES), a predetermined jackpot game is started by the jackpot game effect processing (S224), and the processing shifts to the determination of S225.

Next, it is determined whether or not the ending start command has been received from the main board 41 (S225). If the ending start command has not been received (S225: NO), the process proceeds to the determination of S231. When the ending start command is received (S225: YES), the prediction pattern determination table (see FIG. 20) stored in ROM 583 is referred to, and the prediction patterns corresponding to the first and second rounds of the prediction modes are displayed. , Determined from a plurality of prophetic patterns (S226). The determination of the prediction pattern may be performed by randomly selecting from a plurality of prediction patterns included in the prediction pattern determination table. Further, a random number for determining the prediction pattern may be provided, and the prediction pattern corresponding to the random number may be determined for each of the first round prediction mode and the second round prediction mode. The determined prediction patterns corresponding to the first-round prediction mode and the second-round prediction mode are stored in the RAM 582. Next, a prediction area display effect for displaying the prediction area designated in the first round prediction mode before the start of the first round prediction mode is executed according to the prediction pattern corresponding to the determined first round prediction mode. (S228). The prediction pattern memorized here corresponding to the second round of prediction mode is referred to in the above-mentioned S275 (see FIG. 26), and the prediction area designated in the second round of prediction mode is set to the second round. It is used in the prediction area display effect for displaying before the start of the prediction mode of. The process shifts to the determination of S231.

Next, it is determined whether or not a jackpot game end command has been received from the main board 41 (S231). If the jackpot game end command has not been received (S231: NO), the process shifts to S235. When the jackpot game end command is received (S231: YES), the prediction area display effect executed before the start of the first round of prediction mode ends (S232). Next, the prophecy mode flag is set to "ON" (S233). Next, a prophecy mode start command is created and stored in the RAM 582 (S234). The prediction mode start command is a command for notifying the effect control board 43 that the first round of prediction mode is started. The stored command is transmitted to the effect control board 43 in the command output process (S235, see FIG. 24) described later. The process shifts to S235.

Next, command output processing is performed (S235). In the command output process, the control command stored in the RAM 52 is output to the effect control board 43 or the like. After that, the process returns to the determination of S221 (see FIG. 23).

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1, in the prediction mode, the symbol variation is performed at least once or twice in one notification effect. In the pachinko machine 1, the first round of prediction mode is started in synchronization with the occurrence of the time saving state after the jackpot game is completed. In addition, the second round of prediction mode is started with the end of the first round of prediction mode. The pachinko machine 1 stores the first out-of-order scenario table and the second out-of-order scenario table in the ROM 53. As shown in FIG. 8, the first missed scenario table stores a scenario pattern in which the execution order of the missed notification effect for 30 times in the prediction mode is predetermined. The scenario pattern is configured so that when 30 out-of-order notification effects are performed, a total of 50 symbol fluctuations are performed. Since the pachinko machine 1 determines the execution order of the missed notification effect in the prediction mode based on the scenario pattern, the prediction mode can be set to a specific mode in which the symbol variation is executed 50 times. Further, the pachinko machine 1, the pachinko machine 1, the pachinko machine 1, is a fluctuation meter having meter areas with region numbers (1) to (50) corresponding to each of the 50 symbol fluctuations in the prediction mode. Has 30. In the prediction mode, every time the symbol variation is displayed, the display mode of one meter area corresponding to the symbol variation among the 50 meter areas of the variation meter 30 is before the symbol variation is displayed. Is sequentially changed to different display modes. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can make the player easily recognize the progress of the prediction mode. In this way, the pachinko machine 1 can provide the player with an interesting prophecy mode effect based on the number of times the symbol variation is executed, without being bound by the number of times the notification effect is executed.

A plurality of patterns of scenario patterns are stored in the first outlier scenario table and the second outlier scenario table. Further, the pachinko machine 1 determines one scenario pattern for each of the first round and the second round prediction modes from the plurality of scenario patterns. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can diversify the execution order of the missed notification effect in the prediction mode as compared with the case where only one scenario pattern is provided. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can prevent the prediction mode from becoming monotonous and improve the player's interest in the prediction mode.

The scenario pattern is configured by using each fluctuation pattern of "1 time fluctuation A", "1 time fluctuation B", and "2 times fluctuation" defined in the scenario fluctuation pattern table. "One-time variation A" and "One-time variation B" specify that one symbol variation is performed in one notification effect. "Twice fluctuation" defines that two symbol fluctuations are performed in one notification effect. Therefore, for example, by providing scenario patterns A to C in which the execution orders of "1 time fluctuation A", "1 time fluctuation B", and "2 times fluctuation" are changed, the execution pattern of the notification effect in the prediction mode effect can be easily set. Can make a difference. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can execute the symbol variation in the prediction mode as an effect having a degree of freedom not limited to the number of times the notification effect is executed. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can provide the player with an unprecedented effect of the number of symbol fluctuations by realizing the prediction mode.

In the prediction mode, in the meter area of the variation meter 30, the prediction area corresponding to the designation before the start of the prediction mode is shown in a specific display mode. When the look-ahead jackpot information is acquired during the prediction mode, the number of symbol fluctuations executed in the jackpot notification effect executed for the second reserved random number for which the look-ahead jackpot information has been acquired is determined. The number of symbol fluctuations executed in the jackpot notification effect is determined by calculating the number of regions K in consideration of the number of meter regions up to the prediction region at the start of execution of the jackpot notification effect. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 can realize an unprecedented effect such as executing a jackpot notification at a timing when the symbol changes corresponding to the prediction area.

In the present embodiment, the first starting port 14 and the second starting port 15 correspond to the "starting port" of the present invention. The CPU 51 of the main board 41 that acquires random numbers in S45 and S55 of FIG. 10 functions as the "random number acquisition means" of the present invention. The CPU 51 of the main board 41 that stores random numbers in S45 and S55 of FIG. 10 functions as the "random number storage means" of the present invention. The CPU 51 of the main board 41 that performs the jackpot determination in S76 and S96 of FIG. 12 functions as the "determination means" of the present invention. The CPU 581 of the sub-control board 58 that controls the notification effect in S272, S274, S277, S278, and S279 of FIG. 19 functions as the "notification effect execution means" of the present invention. The ROM 53 of the main board 41 that stores the first off-axis scenario table and the second off-axis scenario table corresponds to the "scenario storage means" of the present invention. In S143 of FIG. 14, the CPU 51 of the main board 41 that determines the fluctuation pattern with reference to the scenario pattern functions as the “setting means” of the present invention. [Takada 1]

In S226 of FIG. 24, the CPU 581 of the sub-control board 58 that determines the prediction pattern corresponding to each of the first-round prediction mode and the second-round prediction mode functions as the "designating means" of the present invention. The CPU 51 of the main board 41 that executes the random number look-ahead process shown in FIG. 13 functions as the "information acquisition means" of the present invention. In S271 of FIG. 26, the CPU 581 of the sub-control board 58 that determines the variation number pattern according to the value of K functions as the "determining means" of the present invention.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in detail above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, when the second reserved random number is stored in the prediction mode, the jackpot random number look-ahead information is acquired from the stored second reserved random number, but the jackpot random number look-ahead information is also acquired from the first reserved random number. It may be configured to be. In this case, the prediction mode effect can be executed for only the first reserved random number, only the second reserved random number, and both the first reserved random number and the second reserved random number.

In the above embodiment, the prediction area display effect performed before the start of the first round of prediction mode is the jackpot ending time, and the prediction area display effect performed before the start of the second round of prediction mode is the final in the first round of prediction mode. Each is performed during the symbol change. The timing of the prediction area display effect is not limited to this. For example, the prediction area display effect performed prior to the first round of prediction mode may be performed, for example, during the first symbol change performed in the first round of prediction mode. Further, the prediction area display effect performed prior to the second round of prediction mode may be performed, for example, during the first symbol change performed in the second round of prediction mode. The prediction area display effect may be performed prior to the prediction mode, and is the same as before the start of the prediction mode as long as the symbol change has not been completed even once after the start of such a prediction mode. Can be interpreted as.

In the above embodiment, the first round of prediction mode is started in synchronization with the occurrence of the time saving state after the jackpot game is completed. In addition, the second round of prediction mode is started with the end of the first round of prediction mode. The trigger for starting the prediction mode is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, the second round of prophecy mode does not have to be performed. Further, the prediction mode may be started after the small hit game is completed. In this case, the pachinko machine 1 may determine a scenario pattern that defines a fluctuation pattern of a predetermined number of missed notification effects triggered by the end of the small hit game, and start the prediction mode based on the determined scenario pattern. In this way, the pachinko machine 1 can set the prediction mode at various triggers by expanding the start trigger of the prediction mode, and can improve the fun of the game.

When the symbol variation corresponding to the meter area where the display color is changed is performed in the color change effect of the above embodiment, a specific sound effect such as "Pui" may be emitted at the same time. In particular, the display mode of the meter area corresponding to the symbol variation in the jackpot notification effect controlled in each process of S277 or S278 (see FIG. 26) is set to a specific aspect, or a specific sound effect is emitted according to the symbol variation. It is preferable to use. In this case, the pachinko machine 1 can attract the player's interest not only in the symbol variation corresponding to the prediction region but also in the symbol variation corresponding to the meter region near the prediction region in the prediction mode. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 can give a special feeling to the player.

In the above embodiment, in S226 (see FIG. 24), the prediction patterns corresponding to both the first round prediction mode and the second round prediction mode are determined at once, but the determination timing of the prediction pattern is limited to this. Absent. For example, the pachinko machine 1 may determine a prediction pattern corresponding to the second round of prediction mode before the processing of S275 (see FIG. 26), and perform a prediction area display effect according to the determined prediction pattern.

In the above embodiment, the prophecy area displayed in the prophecy area display effect is only displayed as it is in the prophecy mode in a specific display mode. For example, after the prediction mode is started, a new other prediction area may be additionally displayed in addition to the prediction area displayed in the prediction area display effect.

In the above embodiment, the display color of the meter area of the color change target area is changed by the display color defined in the change pattern in the process of S264 (see FIG. 26), but the mode of change of the display color of the meter area is Not limited to this. For example, when the symbol variation corresponding to the meter area whose display color is specified by the change pattern is started, the display color of all the meter areas included from the meter area to the prediction area is displayed in the meter area. It may be changed to the same color as the color. In this case, each time the display color designated for each meter area changes depending on the change pattern, the display color from the meter area to the prediction area changes in sequence, so that the player's expectation can be effectively improved. it can. In this case, the timing for changing the display color from the meter area to the prediction area may be the end of the symbol variation corresponding to the meter area immediately before the meter area.

All elements described in claims, specifications and drawings (eg, effect device, symbol display, electric accessory, winning opening, etc.) are physically unless there is a clear description that consciously limits the number. It may be single or plural, and the arrangement may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the names (element names) given to the elements are merely given for convenience in the description of the present case, and are not particularly conscious of the fact that they have a special meaning. Therefore, the element name alone does not limit the interpretation of what the element is. For example, the "display screen" may be a single hardware or a software. Furthermore, whether a plurality of elements among all the above elements are appropriately integrally configured or one element is divided into a plurality of elements can be easily considered by those skilled in the art. Therefore, since it is clear that all patterns are within the assumed range even if all the patterns are not described in the specification, etc., it is stated that they are clearly excluded in the claims, etc. It goes without saying that all of them are included in the scope of rights according to the present invention unless otherwise stated. Therefore, simply adopting a structural difference within that range in a gaming machine because it is not described in the present embodiment does not mean that the right according to the present invention has been circumvented. .. The same applies to differences in the configuration and shape of each element, which can be easily considered by those skilled in the art from this embodiment.

1 Pachinko machine 2 Game board 14 First start port 15 Second start port 30 Fluctuation meter 41 Main board 51 CPU
52 RAM
53 ROM
58 Sub control board 581 CPU
582 RAM
583 ROM

Claims (1)

With one or more starting ports provided on the game board,
A random number acquisition means for acquiring one or more random numbers including a jackpot random number for determining whether or not to execute a jackpot game when the game ball wins a prize at the starting port .
Determining means for determining whether the random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit is a predetermined random number,
A notification effect execution means for executing a notification effect for notifying the determination result by the determination means by performing a variation display for changing the symbol at least once, and a notification effect execution means.
To perform a predetermined times the variable display, and scenario storage means for at least one storing scenario data that defines an execution order of a plurality of times of the notification effect,
A setting means for setting a specific game mode, which is a specific game mode for executing the variation display a predetermined number of times, based on the scenario data stored by the scenario storage means according to the establishment of a predetermined start condition. Prepare,
The scenario data, by using the variable display a plurality of types of the notification effect that different number of performed in one of the notification effect, the variation displayed in the specific game mode for executing the predetermined times, the determination When the result of the determination by the means is not the predetermined random value, the execution order of the notification effect to be executed a plurality of times by the notification effect execution means is determined.
The setting means, at least the after completion of the jackpot game to be executed when the determination means according to the determination result is the predetermined random number, a game machine, characterized in that you set the specific game mode.

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