JP6904586B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses the following techniques. That is, with the start of the first open 1R by the game control unit, the output of the music by the music data is started. When the special game progresses and the fourth opening 4R is completed, the output of the music is stopped. When the special game is performed in the open pattern of 8R, the information for specifying the stop point of the music data for which the output of the music is stopped is acquired, and the reading point of the music data is selected based on the acquired information, and then a long interval is used. Perform the production that accompanies. After that, the output of the music is restarted from the read point with the start of the fifth opening 5R, and the output of the music is stopped when the eighth opening 8R ends.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-202311

An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the enjoyment of gaming.

The present invention that achieves the above object is realized as the following gaming machine. The game machine (for example, the pachinko game machine 100) includes a special game determination means (for example, a game control unit 200) for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and the special game machine (for example, the game control unit 200). A symbol display means (for example, a game control unit 200) that changes a symbol based on a determination result by the game determination means and then stops and displays the determination result, and a sound output means (for example, a speaker) that outputs a sound. 156), an image display means for displaying an image on a screen (for example, an image display unit 114), and a light emitting body capable of emitting light (for example, a panel lamp 116) are provided, and the image display means starts to change the symbol. In a predetermined period after that, a predetermined image (for example, a single color image) is displayed, and the variation display and the stop display of the effect symbol are performed along with the variation display and the stop display of the symbol by the symbol display means . A first effect sound is output during the fluctuation of the symbol, and when the predetermined period is started, a start sound (for example, an introduction sound) which is a sound different from the start of the fluctuation of the symbol to the start of the predetermined period. Is output, the state in which the sound is suppressed during the predetermined period is maintained, and after the end of the predetermined period, a second production sound different from the first production sound is output, and the light emitting body is said to have the said light emitting body during the predetermined period. When it is maintained in a darker state than before the start of the predetermined period, becomes brighter than the predetermined period after the end of the predetermined period, and it is determined that the special game is to be executed, the second effect is performed after the end of the predetermined period. After the sound is output, it is determined that the sound output means outputs a specific sound, the image display means stops and displays the effect symbol, and the special game is not executed, along with the stop display of the symbol. In this case, after the second effect sound is output after the end of the predetermined period, the sound output means suppresses the volume of the sound without outputting the specific sound in accordance with the stop display of the symbol. Therefore, the image display means can stop and display the effect symbol.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned reference numerals in this column are exemplarily attached in the description of the present invention, and the present invention is not reduced by these reference numerals.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the enjoyment of gaming.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine which concerns on this embodiment. (A) is an enlarged view showing an example of a display arranged at the lower right of the gaming board, and (b) is a partial plan view of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko game machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game control part of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation of the basic processing by a game control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the operation of the processing at the time of power-off by a game control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the main control processing of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the start port switch processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the variation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the processing during stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the customer waiting setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of ordinary symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the electric tulip processing. It is a figure which shows the composition example of the random number used in this embodiment, (a) is a figure which shows the composition example of a jackpot random number, (b) is a figure which shows the composition example of a jackpot symbol random number, (c ) Is a diagram showing a configuration example of a reach random number, and (d) is a diagram showing a configuration example of a hit random number. It is a figure which shows the setting example of the variation pattern used in the variation pattern selection process. It is a figure which shows the structure of a command, (a) is a figure which shows the data structure of a command, (b) is a figure which shows the structure as a bit string of a command. It is a flowchart which shows the operation of an effect control part, (a) is a figure which shows the main process, (b) is a figure which shows the interrupt process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a command reception process. It is a figure which shows the setting example of a mode flag. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the effect selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during the end of a variation effect of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the hit effect selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the ending effect selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the customer waiting command reception process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the effect button processing. It is a timing chart explaining the output sound during a symbol variation. (A) to (c) are diagrams for explaining an image displayed on an image display unit in a variable period sound effect. This is a timing chart for explaining a modified example of the output sound. (A) to (c) are diagrams for explaining a modification example of an image displayed on an image display unit in a variable period sound effect. (A) to (e) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect after the end of the silence period. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (I) to (k) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect. (A) to (e) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machines]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
The pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by a player's instruction operation wins a prize. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which a game ball is launched, and a frame member 150 surrounding the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has, on the front surface, a game area 111 for playing a game with a game ball, a rail member 112 on which a game ball launched from below rises and forms a passage toward an upper position of the game area 111, and a game. A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 for displaying various images for effect is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 is provided with a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and as the game progresses by the player, for example, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol change result) can be displayed. It displays an effect image due to the appearance of a character or an item, or an effect image using the hold display described later.
Further, on the front surface of the game board 110, a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects are provided. The movable accessory 115 performs various effects by operating on the game board 110, and the board lamp 116 produces various effects by emitting light.

The game area 111 is provided with a game nail, a windmill, and the like (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various accessories related to winning a prize or a lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. Further, the game area 111 is provided with an discharge port 117 that discharges a game ball launched into the game area 111 that has not won a prize in the winning port to the outside of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various accessories related to winning and lottery, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 where the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) starts when the game ball wins, and the second starting port 122 when the game ball passes are normal. A starting gate (hereinafter, simply referred to as a gate) 124 at which a symbol lottery (opening / closing lottery) is started is arranged on the game board 110. In FIG. 1, gates 124 are provided on the left and right sides of the game area 111, the gate 124 on the left side is described as 124L, and the gate 124 on the right side is described as 124R. Further, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 referred to here refer to winning openings that trigger the operation of the predetermined special symbol display 1. Specifically, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 are provided with switches (first starting port switch 211 and second starting port switch 212, which will be described later) that detect the passage of a game ball at the time of winning a prize. Has been done. Then, when the game ball wins a prize in the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the switch detects the passage of the game ball, which triggers the operation of the special symbol display.

The second starting port 122 includes an electric tulip (opening / closing member) 123 as a normal electric accessory that opens and closes and lights up a pair of tulip flower-shaped blades by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blades are closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port 122, while when the blades are opened, the entrance of the second starting port 122 expands and the game ball moves to the second starting port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. Then, when the electric tulip 123 wins the ordinary symbol lottery, the blades open for a specified time (for example, 0.15 seconds to 1.8 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 1 to 3 times) while lighting or blinking.

The pachinko gaming machine 100 has, as a gaming state, a low probability state in which the winning probability is low and a high probability state in which the winning probability is higher than the low probability state, based on the winning probability of the jackpot lottery. Then, it is controlled to either a low probability state or a high probability state under a predetermined condition. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a time saving state in which there are few chances of winning a prize in the second starting port 122, and a time saving state in which there are more chances of winning a prize in the second starting port 122 than in the time saving state. Then, under a predetermined condition, it is controlled to be in either a time saving state or a time saving state. The time saving state is controlled by, for example, any one or a combination of increasing the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery, shortening the normal symbol fluctuation time, or extending the opening time of the electric tulip 123. It is a game state to be played. In the time saving state, the special symbol fluctuation time of the special symbol may be shortened.

Further, in the present embodiment, as other accessories related to winning and lottery, a large winning opening 125 as a special electric accessory that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery and a lottery even if the game ball wins are performed. A normal winning opening 126 and a normal winning opening 126 are arranged on the game board 110.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying the lottery result and the number of holdings is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

Further, on the back surface of the game board 110, a game control board for determining the winning of a special symbol, an effect control board for comprehensively controlling the effect, an image control board for controlling the effect by images and sounds, various lamps, and the like. Various substrates (not shown) such as a lamp control substrate that controls the effect of the movable accessory 115 are attached. Further, on the back surface of the game board 110, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it to various boards or the like is arranged.

When the player touches the handle 151 to rotate the lever 152 clockwise, the frame member 150 causes the game balls to be hit at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 pieces per minute) with a striking force according to the operation angle. It is equipped with a launcher (not shown) that launches electrically at. Further, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launcher one by one at a timing linked to an operation by the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launcher. It is equipped with a plate 153 for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is integrally formed with the upper and lower plates, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated can also be considered. Further, a configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launcher emits light under predetermined conditions is also conceivable.

Further, the frame member 150 has a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launching device, and the game ball accumulated in the plate 153. It is provided with an eject button 155 for dropping it into a box (not shown) and ejecting it.
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects by music, voice, and sound effects. The frame lamp 157 is composed of a light emitting body such as an LED, and performs various effects by light depending on a pattern due to lighting / blinking and a difference in light emission color. As for the frame lamp 157, a configuration example that enables an effect of changing the light irradiation direction can be considered.
Further, the frame member 150 includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the gaming board 110. , FIG. 2B is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 wins the first special symbol display 221 and the second starting port 122, which operate in response to the winning of the first starting port 121. It includes a second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124, and a normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124. The first special symbol display 221 is stopped after displaying the special symbol in a variable manner based on the winning of the first starting port 121, and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 stops after displaying the special symbol in a variable manner based on the winning of the second starting port 122, and displays the lottery result. Based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the normal symbol display 223 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner and then stops and displays the lottery result. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are each composed of a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is displayed depending on the lighting mode thereof. Similarly, the ordinary symbol display 223 is also composed of a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the lottery result of the ordinary symbol lottery is displayed depending on the lighting mode thereof.

Further, the display 130 operates in response to the hold on the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold display 218 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 The special symbol hold indicator 219 and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operate in response to the hold on the normal symbol indicator 223 are provided. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the ordinary symbol hold indicator 220 are each composed of a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the number of holds is determined by the lighting mode thereof. Is displayed.

Here, the hold will be described. If a game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122 during the variable display operation of the special symbol (while the variable display for one winning is being performed), the special symbol is changing. In addition, it is not possible to start the variable display operation of the special symbol based on the later winning. Therefore, the later winnings are stored up to the specified number (for example, 4), and the right to start the special symbol for the winning game ball is until the variable display operation for the first winning game ball is completed. It is put on hold. It should be noted that the same processing as for the special symbol is performed for the normal symbol. The fact that such a hold has been made and the number of holds (unchanged number) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the ordinary symbol hold indicator 220.

Further, the display 130 includes a state display 224 that displays the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100. In the present embodiment, the status display 224 is composed of a display device in which three LEDs are arranged. One of the three LEDs lights up to notify whether or not the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a high probability state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is high. The other one is to notify by lighting whether or not the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a time-saving state in which it is easy to win a prize in the second starting port 122. Still another one is to notify by lighting whether or not the player is in an advantageous state by hitting right (by changing the hitting force of the game ball).
The state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 displayed by the state display 224 is not limited to the above example, and other states can be displayed. For example, when a medium probability state in which the winning probability is higher than the low probability state and the winning probability is lower than the high probability state is set as the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100, whether or not the state indicator 224 is in the medium probability state. May be notified by lighting.

Further, the display 130 includes a round number display 225 that displays the number of rounds when the big winning opening 125 is operated in the big hit game performed according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery. The jackpot game will be described later. The round number display 225 is composed of a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the number of operating rounds of the big winning opening 125 in the big hit game is displayed depending on the lighting mode thereof.

The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for the player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of the input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 adjacent to the effect button 161 and composed of a plurality of keys arranged in a substantially cross shape are used. Is arranged on the frame member 150. In the illustrated example, the player may instruct any of the plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by, for example, operating the effect key 162 composed of four keys arranged in a cross shape. It is possible, and it is possible to select the instructed image by operating the effect button 161. Further, as the form of the input device, in addition to the illustrated effect button 161 and effect key 162, various input forms such as a lever and a dial can be adopted depending on the content of the effect and the like.

[Control unit configuration]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 as a main control means, which determines whether or not a special symbol has been won. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls the effect, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls the effect using images and sound, and various lamps and movable accessories 115 are used for the effect. A lamp control unit 320 for controlling the payout ball and a payout control unit 330 for controlling the payout of the payout ball are provided.

As described above, each of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 330 is a game as a main board arranged on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, the effect control board as a sub board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board are individually configured.

[Configuration / function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 is used as a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when determining the winning of a special symbol, a ROM 202 that stores programs and various data executed by the CPU 201, and a working memory of the CPU 201. RAM 203 and
When the game ball wins a prize in the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122, the game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery and sends the lottery result to the effect control unit 300. Further, the change information of the high probability state and the low probability state, and the change information of the time saving non-state and the time saving state are sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls to increase the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery, shorten the normal symbol fluctuation time, or extend the opening time of the electric tulip 123. Further, the game control unit 200 holds up to the limit number (for example, 4) of the unvariable amount when the game balls continuously win the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and the game balls are continuously played. The hold up to the limit number (for example, 4) of the unvariable portion when passing through the gate 124 is set.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is opened until the large winning opening 125, which is a special electric accessory, satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. It is controlled so that the round for maintaining the state is repeated a predetermined number of times. Further, the opening / closing operation interval when the large winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when a game ball wins in the first starting port 121, the second starting port 122, the large winning opening 125, and the normal winning opening 126, the game control unit 200 hits one game ball according to the place where the game ball wins. An instruction is given to the payout control unit 330 to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, if a game ball wins in the first starting port 121, three prize balls, if a game ball wins in the second starting port 122, four prize balls, and if a game ball wins in the large winning opening 125, 13 prizes. When a game ball wins a ball or a normal winning opening 126, an instruction command is sent to the payout control unit 330 so that 10 prize balls are paid out respectively. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 330 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball linked to the game ball.
When the payout control unit 330 pays out the prize balls according to the instruction of the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information regarding the number of paid out prize balls from the payout control unit 330. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As a detection means, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects the winning of the game ball to the first start port 121. , To the second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the second start port 122, the electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 for opening and closing the electric tulip 123, and the gate 124. A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 for detecting the passage of the game ball is connected to the gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214.
Further, in the game control unit 200, the large winning opening detection unit (large winning opening switch (SW)) 215 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the large winning opening 125 and the large winning opening 125 are projected and tilted in a closed state. The large winning opening opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and the ordinary winning opening detection unit (ordinary winning opening switch (SW) 217) for detecting the winning of the game ball to the ordinary winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol hold indicator 218 that displays the number of unchanged items that have won a prize in the first start port 121 during the change of the special symbol within the limit number (for example, 4). , The second special symbol hold indicator 219 that displays the number of unchanged items held in the second starting port 122 during the change of the special symbol within the limit number, and the gate 124 that has not passed through the gate 124 during the change of the normal symbol. A normal symbol hold indicator 220, which displays the number of holdings of the variable amount within the limit number, is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a first special symbol display 221 for displaying the variation display of the special symbol and the result of the special symbol lottery performed by winning the game ball to the first starting port 121, and a second starting port. The second special symbol display 222 that displays the variation display of the special symbol and the result of the special symbol lottery performed by winning the game ball to 122, and the normal symbol display that displays the variation display of the normal symbol and the result of the ordinary symbol lottery. The device 223 and the state display 224 that displays the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 are connected.

Then, the detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the large winning opening switch 215, and the normal winning opening switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. Further, the control signals from the game control unit 200 are the electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, the grand prize opening opening / closing unit 216, the first special symbol holding indicator 218, the second special symbol holding indicator 219, and the normal symbol holding indicator 220. It is sent to the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222, the normal symbol display 223, and the status display 224. As a result, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls described above.

Further, the game control unit 200 is connected to an external information terminal board 350 for a board that transmits various information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of prize balls paid out, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, etc. acquired from the payout control unit 330 to the host computer via the external information terminal board 350 for the board. do.

[Structure / function of production control unit]
The effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs and various data executed by the CPU 301, a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory of the CPU 301, and a date and time. It is equipped with a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring.
The effect control unit 300 sets the effect content based on, for example, a determination result of winning or not winning in the special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200 and a fluctuation pattern. At that time, in some cases, the effect content is set according to the operation input in response to the operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to the operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as the effect button 161 and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the effect setting.
Further, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, the effect control unit 300 instructs the setting of the screen display for waiting for customers as one of the effects.
Further, the effect control unit 300 sets the effect content based on the change information of the high probability state and the low probability state, and the change information of the time reduction non-state and the time reduction state received from the game control unit 200.
Further, the effect control unit 300 sends a command instructing the execution of the set effect content to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / function of image / acoustic control unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is used for the work of the CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling the image and sound that express the effect content, the ROM 312 that stores the programs and various data executed by the CPU 311, and the CPU 311. It includes a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, the ROM 312 of the image / acoustic control unit 310 contains a symbol image and a background image to be displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect to the player. Image data such as characters and items for displaying is stored.
The ROM 312 further stores various acoustic data such as music and sound to be output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the image data and the acoustic data stored in the ROM 312 that correspond to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc. using the read image data, and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image processed image data. In addition, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound processed sound data.

[Configuration / function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and a program and various data executed by the CPU 321. It includes a ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory of the CPU 321 and the like.
Then, the lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / blinking, emission color, and the like of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. It also controls the operation of the movable accessory 115.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 contains lighting / blinking pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the effect content set by the effect control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 that corresponds to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Then, the lamp control unit 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
Further, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores the operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 according to the effect content set by the effect control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration / function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 330 includes a CPU 331 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the payout of payout balls, a ROM 332 that stores programs and various data executed by the CPU 331, and a RAM 333 that is used as a work memory of the CPU 331. And have.
Then, the payout control unit 330 controls the payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 330 acquires a command from the game control unit 200 to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won a prize (first starting port 121 or the like). Then, the payout drive unit 334 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified in the command. The payout drive unit 334 here is composed of a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

Further, the payout control unit 330 includes a payout ball detection unit 335 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 334, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). It detects whether or not the ball presence detection unit 336 that detects the presence or absence of storage of the ball and the plate 153 that holds the game ball used when the player plays the game and the prize ball that has been paid out are in a full state. The full tank detection unit 337 is connected to the full tank detection unit 337. Then, the payout control unit 330 receives the detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 335, the ball presence detection unit 336, and the full tank detection unit 337, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, a frame external information terminal board 340 for transmitting various information to the host computer installed in the hall is connected to the payout control unit 330. Then, the payout control unit 330 may, for example, provide information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout drive unit 334, information on the number of actually paid out prize balls detected by the payout ball detection unit 335, and the like. Is transmitted to the host computer via the external information terminal board 340 for the frame. Further, the same information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Subsequently, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in FIG. 4, the game control unit 200 includes a random number acquisition unit 231, a normal symbol determination unit 232, a special symbol fluctuation control unit 233, and a special symbol determination unit 234 as functional units for executing various lottery processes. , Ordinary symbol variation control unit 236.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 as a functional unit that executes processing associated with a special symbol variation.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning opening motion control unit 237, an electric tulip motion control unit 238, and a prize ball processing unit 239 as functional units for executing motion control of various accessories and data processing related to prize balls and the like. And an output control unit 240 and a random number control unit 241.

The random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number related to the special symbol when the game ball wins a prize in the first start port 121 or the second start port 122. Specifically, one numerical value (random value) is selected (acquired) from the numerical values in a predetermined range and used for determination by the special symbol determination unit 234.
The random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number related to a normal symbol when the game ball passes through the gate 124. Specifically, one numerical value (random value) is selected (acquired) from the numerical values in a predetermined range, and is used for determination by the normal symbol determination unit 232.
When a special symbol lottery is performed, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result.

The special symbol determination unit 234 uses a random number table as shown in FIG. 17 at the start of fluctuation of the special symbol, and the lottery result is "whether or not it is a big hit", "type of big hit when a big hit is won", and " Whether it is a small hit or a miss when the big hit is not won ”is determined. That is, the random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number value related to the special symbol when the passage of the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 211 or the second start port switch 212, which is the detection means, and determines the special symbol. Based on the acquired random number value, the unit 234 determines whether or not to perform a special game (big hit game, etc.) that is advantageous to the player. The above-mentioned special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) refers to processing by the random number acquisition unit 231 and the special symbol determination unit 234.

Here, the "big hit" is divided into a plurality of types according to the game state generated after the end of the big hit game. Specifically, the type of jackpot is determined by the combination of the time saving no state or the time saving state, and the high probability state or the low probability state. That is, as a type of jackpot based on the game state generated after the end of the jackpot game, after the end of the jackpot game, the jackpot becomes a high-probability time-saving game state having both a time-saving state and a high-probability state (hereinafter, high probability). A jackpot in a time-saving game state), a jackpot in a low-probability time-saving game state having both a time-saving state and a low-probability state (hereinafter, a jackpot in a low-probability time-saving game state), a state in both a time-saving no state and a high-probability state. A jackpot that becomes a high-probability time-saving no-game state (hereinafter, a jackpot in a high-probability time-saving no-game state), and a jackpot that becomes a low-probability time-saving no-game state that has both a time-saving no state and a low-probability state (hereinafter, low) Probability time saving No game state jackpot) is possible. Each of these jackpots is associated with an individual special symbol, and the type of jackpot is determined according to the type of the special symbol won in the special symbol lottery.

Further, the "big hit" may be divided into a jackpot in which the jackpot game time is long and a large amount of game balls can be expected to be paid out, and a jackpot in which the jackpot game time is short and the payout of the game balls can hardly be expected. The former is called "long hit" and the latter is called "short hit". For example, in "long hit", a round in which the open state of the large winning opening 125 is maintained until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls are won) is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). Is done. Further, in the "short hit", a round in which the large winning opening 125 is opened for a certain period of time (for example, 0.1 second) is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times).

Further, in the "small hit" when the big hit is not won, a small hit game is performed in which the large winning opening 125 is opened for 0.1 seconds, for example, a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). When the small hit is won, the game state before the small hit is continued even after the small hit game is completed. That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the high-probability time-saving game state, the high-probability time-saving game state is continued even after the end of the small-hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, when the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is the low-probability time-saving no-game state, the low-probability time-saving no-game state is continued even after the end of the small-hit game, and the gaming state does not shift.
Further, the "small hit" is a kind of "missing", and none of the above-mentioned gaming states that are advantageous to the player is set.

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. Here, the variation pattern selection unit 235 determines the variation pattern based on the determination result of whether or not to perform the jackpot game, the determination result of whether or not to perform reach, and the like. Then, the special symbol variation control unit 233 controls the variation of the special symbol based on the variation pattern selected by the variation pattern selection unit 235. Details of the operations of the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 and the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 will be described later.
Here, the "reach" is an effect for making the player expect a big hit in the decorative design described later.

The ordinary symbol determination unit 232 determines whether the lottery result of the ordinary symbol is "winning or not" when the lottery of the ordinary symbol is performed.
The normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 controls the fluctuation of the normal symbol according to the lottery result of the normal symbol.
When the electric tulip motion control unit 238 is determined to be "winning" by a lottery of ordinary symbols, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time and a specified number of times, and a game ball can be easily won in the second starting port 122. Generate a state. Further, when it is determined to be "off", such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The large winning opening operation control unit 237 controls the opening operation of the large winning opening 125.
The prize ball processing unit 239 sets a command for managing the number of prizes for various prizes related to prizes and lottery, and for controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 240 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 330.
The random number control unit 241 controls the update of various random number values used in the processing by the main control means.

[Basic operation of gaming machines]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
When the power is turned on, the game control unit 200 of the pachinko game machine 100 initializes and sets various devices as a basic process at the time of startup. Then, after performing the basic processing, the game control unit 200 repeatedly executes the main control processing, which is a series of processing related to the progress of the game. Further, when the power is cut off, the game control unit 200 executes a series of power cut-off processes.

FIG. 5-1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the basic processing by the game control unit 200.
When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is turned on, the game control unit 200 first permits access to the RAM 203 (see FIG. 3) (step (hereinafter, step is referred to as “S”) 101). Then, the game control unit 200 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch for clearing the RAM 203 is ON (S102).
When the RAM clear switch is OFF (No in S102), the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the backup flag related to the operation when the power is cut off is ON (S103).
When the backup flag is ON (Yes in S103), the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the checksum created when the power is cut off is normal (S104).
When the checksum is normal (Yes in S104), the game control unit 200 then executes the return process (S105). In this return process, the game control unit 200 sets sub-control means such as the effect control unit 300 when returning from the state in which the power supply is cut off. Specifically, the game control unit 200 has an internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 when the power is cut off (whether or not a jackpot game is in progress, either a high-probability state or a low-probability state, a time-saving state and a time-saving no state). A command for setting the sub control means is output to the effect control unit 300 so as to reflect any of the above). Further, in this return process, the game control unit 200 turns off the backup flag.

On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch is ON (Yes in S102), the backup flag is OFF (No in S103), or the checksum is abnormal (No in S104), then the game control unit 200 is initialized. As a process, the stored contents of the RAM 203 are cleared (S106), and the work area of the RAM 203 is set (S107). Then, the game control unit 200 outputs a command for setting (initializing) the sub control means to the effect control unit 300, and sets the sub board (sub control means) (S108). The setting of the sub-board includes clearing the RAM 303, 313, 323 mounted on each sub-board, and the like.

After the return process (see S105) is completed or the sub-board setting (see S108) is completed, the game control unit 200 sets various counters and timers used for the game control (S109). Then, the game control unit 200 determines whether or not the interrupt enable (S110), interrupt disable (S111), symbol random number control process (S112), initial value random number update process (S113), and power cutoff flag are ON. (S114) is repeatedly executed as a loop process.
Here, the interrupt enable (S110) and the interrupt disable (S111) are provided to enable the execution of the interrupt process during the execution of the loop process (S110 to S114). In the present embodiment, the main control process in the game control is executed by this interrupt process. The details of the main control process will be described later.
In the symbol random number control process (S112), the game control unit 200 updates the variable pattern random number used in the special symbol lottery.
In the initial value random number update process (S113), the game control unit 200 updates the initial values of various random numbers used in the game control.
In the determination of the power cutoff flag, when the power cutoff flag is OFF (No in S114), the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not cut off, and the game control unit 200 performs main control by interruption together with loop processing (S110 to S114). Repeat the process. On the other hand, when the power cutoff flag is ON (Yes in S114), the game control unit 200 starts a process for shutting off the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 100 (process at the time of power cutoff).

FIG. 5-2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the power cutoff process by the game control unit 200.
In the power cutoff process, the game control unit 200 first clears the setting of the output port for performing various outputs (S115). Next, the game control unit 200 creates a checksum and stores it in the RAM 203 (S116). Next, the game control unit 200 turns on the backup flag (S117), prohibits access to the RAM 203 (S118), and shifts to an infinite loop.

[Main control processing of gaming machines]
Next, the main control process of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
In the main control process, the game control unit 200 controls the game in the pachinko gaming machine 100, instructs the effect control unit 300, which is a sub control means, to control the effect, and gives the payout control unit 330 a prize ball. Instruct to control the payout of.

FIG. 5-3 is a flowchart showing the main control process of the game control unit 200.
The main control process consists of a series of processes in game control, and is repeatedly executed at predetermined fixed time (for example, 4 milliseconds). In the present embodiment, the game control unit 200 generates an interrupt at preset fixed time intervals, and when the interrupt is enabled (see S110) in the loop process shown in FIG. 5-1 as the interrupt process. Executes the main control process. As shown in FIG. 7, in the main control process, random number update process, switch process, symbol process, electric accessory process, prize ball process, and output process are sequentially executed (S501 to S506).

In the random number update process (S501), the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the random number control unit 241 to update the values of various random numbers used in the game control by the game control unit 200. Details of setting the random number and updating the random number value will be described later.

As the switch process (S502), a start port switch process and a gate switch process are performed.
In the start port switch process, the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the random number acquisition unit 231 to monitor the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. 3, and the switch is turned on. When it becomes, the process for the special symbol lottery is executed.
In the gate switch process, the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the normal symbol determination unit 232, monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3, and when the switch is turned on, for the normal symbol lottery. Executes the processing of.
The detailed contents of these switch processes will be described later.

As the symbol processing (S503), a special symbol processing and a normal symbol processing are performed.
In the special symbol processing, the game control unit 200 calls each function (subroutine) of the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol determination unit 234, and the variation pattern selection unit 235, and executes the special symbol variation and the processing associated with the symbol variation. do.
In the normal symbol processing, the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 and executes the normal symbol change and the processing associated with the normal symbol change.
The detailed contents of these symbol processing will be described later.

As the electric accessory processing (S504), a large winning opening processing and an electric tulip processing are performed.
In the big winning opening process, the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the big winning opening operation control unit 237 and controls the opening operation of the big winning opening 125 based on a predetermined condition.
In the electric tulip processing, the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the electric tulip motion control unit 238 and controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition.
The detailed contents of these electric accessory processing will be described later.

In the prize ball processing (S505), the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the prize ball processing unit 239, and sets a command for managing the number of prizes and controlling the payout of the prize balls according to the prize.

In the output process (S506), the game control unit 200 calls the function (subroutine) of the output control unit 240, outputs a command for effect control to the effect control unit 300, and outputs a command for payout control to the payout control unit 330. Output. The effect control command is generated in each process from S502 to S504 and is stored (set) in the control command storage area provided in the RAM 203. The payout control command is generated in the process of S505 and is stored (set) in the control command storage area provided in the RAM 203. A storage area is set in the RAM 203 for each type of control command.

The output control unit 240 examines the storage area of each control command of the RAM 203 in order, and if the control command is stored in each storage area (that is, the control command is generated by the processing of S502 to S505). (B), the control command is read and output to the output destination (effect control unit 300 or payout control unit 330).

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5-3, the output process is performed at the end of the series of main control processes. That is, the commands generated in each of the processes S502 to S505 by each of the above functions as the first processing means are stored in the corresponding storage area of the RAM 203 in each of the processes. Then, after these processes, the output control unit 240 as the second processing means collectively outputs the commands generated in each process accumulated in the storage area of the RAM 203. In other words, in the present embodiment, when the main control process is executed for one cycle, the command generated in the execution of the one cycle is output after the last command generation in the execution of the one cycle is performed.

[Modification example of basic operation of gaming machine]
In the operation example described with reference to FIGS. 5-1 to 5-3, an interrupt is permitted in the loop processing portion of the basic processing, and the main control processing including a series of processing is executed as the interrupt processing. However, the main control process may be configured to be repeatedly executed at regular intervals, and specific realization means (execution procedure) are shown in the examples shown in FIGS. 5-1 to 5-3. Not limited. For example, the main control process may be incorporated into a series of operations of the basic process, the elapsed time may be measured at a predetermined timing, and the process may be returned to the main control process at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds). Further, while incorporating the main control process into a series of operations of the basic process, an interrupt is generated at regular intervals and the interrupt is generated as in the operation described with reference to FIGS. 5-1 to 5-3. If it occurs, it may be configured to return to the main control process incorporated in the basic process.
Further, when outputting the command generated in the basic processing, as a general rule, each time the command is generated, it is stored in the command storage area of the RAM 203, and the function of the output control unit 240 which is the second processing means is called. Output. The basic processing is a special processing such as an initial operation performed when the power is turned on, and the processing procedure may change due to branching based on conditions such as the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 when the power is turned on. This is to promptly output the generated command so that there is no such command. In addition, in response to a specific processing request, such as when commands are continuously generated by a plurality of related processes, a processing procedure is adopted in which a plurality of commands are stored in the command storage area of the RAM 203 and output collectively. You may.

[Starting port switch processing in the game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process among the switch processes shown in S502 of FIG. 5-3.
In this start port switch process, a process for winning a prize at the first start port 121 and a process for winning a prize at the second start port 122 are sequentially performed. With reference to FIG. 6, the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball has won a prize in the first start port 121 and the first start port switch 211 has been turned on (S601). When the first start port switch 211 is turned on, the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the number of unchanged hold numbers U1 in the winning of the first start port 121 is less than the upper limit value (S602). .. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit is set to 4. When the number of holds U1 has reached the upper limit (No in S602), the winning of the unvariable portion cannot be held any more, so that the processing for winning at the first starting port 121 ends.

On the other hand, when the hold number U1 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in S602), the game control unit 200 then adds 1 to the value of the hold number U1 (S603). Then, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 acquires the random number value for the lottery by the winning this time and stores it in the RAM 203 (S604). Here, since the first starting port 121 is won, a random number value for a special symbol lottery is acquired. The random number value acquired at this time is a value updated by the random number update process of S501. Then, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by the random value in the subsequent special symbol processing. The random number values referred to here are the jackpot random value that determines the jackpot, small hit or miss, and the type of jackpot (time saving state or time saving no state after the end of the big hit game, high probability state and low probability state, long hit, short). The symbol random value (big hit symbol random value) that determines the hit), the fluctuation pattern random value for specifying the fluctuation pattern in the symbol fluctuation, the reach random value that determines whether or not to produce a reach when there is a loss, etc. Is included.

Next, the game control unit 200 performs a pre-determination process for giving a notice of the lottery result to the winning ball (reserved ball) for which the variable display operation of the special symbol is suspended (that is, the reserved ball). (S605). In this pre-determination process, the lottery result is determined not at the start of the symbol variation but at the start opening winning (that is, in S605). In addition, in a gaming machine that does not perform the advance notice effect based on the preliminary determination, this preliminary determination process may be omitted.
After that, the game control unit 200 sets the hold number increase command for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number U1 by S603 in the RAM 203 (S606), and ends the process for winning the prize at the first start port 121. do. When the pre-determination process of S605 is performed, the hold number increase command includes the information of the pre-determination determination result obtained in S605.

Next, processing for winning a prize at the second starting port 122 is performed. With reference to FIG. 6, the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the game ball has won a prize in the second start port 122 and the second start port switch 212 has been turned on (S607). When the second start port switch 212 is turned on, the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the number of unchanged hold numbers U2 in the winning of the second start port 122 is less than the upper limit value (S608). .. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit is set to 4. When the number of holds U2 has reached the upper limit (No in S608), the winning of the unvariable portion cannot be held any more, so that the processing for winning at the second starting port 122 ends.

On the other hand, when the hold number U2 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in S608), the game control unit 200 then adds 1 to the value of the hold number U2 (S609). Then, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 acquires the random number value for the lottery by the winning this time and stores it in the RAM 203 (S610). Here, since the second starting port 122 is won, the random number values (big hit random value, big hit symbol random value), reach random value, variable pattern random value, etc. for the special symbol lottery are acquired in the same manner as in S604 above. Will be done. The random number value acquired at this time is a value updated by the random number update process of S501. Then, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined in the later special symbol processing by this random value.

Next, the game control unit 200 performs a pre-determination process for giving a notice of the lottery result to the winning ball (reserved ball) for which the variable display operation of the special symbol is suspended (that is, the reserved ball). (S611). The content of this pre-determination process is the same as that of S605 described above. This pre-determination process may also omit this pre-determination process in a gaming machine that does not perform the advance notice effect based on the pre-determination.
After that, the game control unit 200 sets the hold number increase command for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number U2 by S609 in the RAM 203 (S612), and ends the process for winning the prize at the second start port 122. do. When the pre-determination process of S611 is performed, the hold number increase command includes the information of the pre-determination determination result obtained in S611.

[Gate switch processing in the game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch processing when the game ball passes through the gate 124.
In this gate switch process, the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (S701). When the gate switch 214 is turned ON, the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the number of unchanged hold numbers G is less than the upper limit value (S702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit is set to 4. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in S702), the winning of the unvariable portion cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

On the other hand, when the hold number G is less than the upper limit value (Yes in S702), the game control unit 200 then adds 1 to the value of the hold number G (S703). Then, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 acquires the random number value for the lottery by the winning this time and stores it in the RAM 203 (S704). Here, since the prize is won at the gate 124, a random number value (a winning random number value, etc.) for a normal symbol lottery is acquired.

After the random number value is acquired in S704, the game control unit 200 sets the hold number G increase command in the RAM 203 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number G by S703 (S705), and the gate 124 Finish the processing for winning.

[Special symbol processing in the game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol processing among the symbol processing shown in S503 of FIG. 5-3.
In this special symbol processing, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting (hereinafter, flag setting) set in the RAM 203 (hereinafter, flag setting). S801). Here, the winning game flag is a flag set to identify that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit. Depending on the type of hit, either the long hit game flag or the short hit game flag is set. In the present embodiment, these are collectively referred to as a winning game flag.

When the winning game flag is ON, the pachinko gaming machine 100 is already in the big hit, so the special symbol processing is completed without starting the special symbol variation (Yes in S801). On the other hand, when the winning game flag is OFF (No in S801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 then determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the special symbol variation (S802). When the special symbol is not changing (No in S802), the special symbol change control unit 233 then performs processing related to the pending numbers U1 and U2 (see FIG. 6) of the unchanged portion of the special symbol (S803 to S806). In the present embodiment, since the number of reservations U1 related to the winning of the first starting port 121 and the number of holdings U2 related to the winning of the second starting port 122 are distinguished, this process is also performed individually for each corresponding starting port. ..

Specifically, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 first determines whether the number of reservations U2 related to the winning of the second starting port 122 is 1 or more (S803). When the hold number U2 is 1 or more (Yes in S803), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the hold number U2 (S804). On the other hand, when the number of reservations U2 = 0 (No in S803), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 then determines whether the number of reservations U1 related to the winning of the first starting port 121 is 1 or more (S805). When the hold number U1 is 1 or more (Yes in S805), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the hold number U1 (S806). On the other hand, when the number of reservations U1 = 0 (No in S805), it means that there is no prize for starting the lottery of the special symbol. Therefore, the special symbol change is not started and the customer waiting setting process of another routine is performed. Is executed to end the process (S816).

After subtracting the hold number U1 or the hold number U2 in S804 or S806, the special symbol variation control unit 233 turns off the customer waiting flag set in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S807). The customer waiting flag is a flag for identifying that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, and is set in the customer waiting setting process (S816, see FIG. 12).

Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 executes a jackpot determination process and a variation pattern selection process by another routine (S808, S809). As will be described in detail later, the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process determine the setting information (big hit symbol, game state, variation pattern, etc.) for variation of the special symbol that is variablely displayed on the first special symbol display 221. Will be done. It should be noted that these pieces of information are included in the fluctuation start command sent to the effect control unit 300.

After that, the special symbol variation control unit 233 is displayed by the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents determined by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process. The change of the special symbol is started (S810). Then, a fluctuation start command including setting information (big hit symbol, game state, fluctuation pattern, etc.) indicating the setting contents is generated and set in the RAM 203 (S811). The fluctuation start command set in S811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3.

When it is determined in S802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in S802), or after the change start command is set in S811, the special symbol change control unit 233 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed (S812). ). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the fluctuation of the special symbol in S810 has reached the fluctuation time set in the fluctuation pattern selection process of S809. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (No in S812), the special symbol variation is continued, so that the special symbol processing ends as it is.

On the other hand, when the fluctuation time has elapsed (Yes in S812), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 first determines the fluctuation of the special symbol in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 in the jackpot determination process of S808. It stops at the symbol determined in (S813). A variable stop command for stopping the decorative symbol described later is set in the RAM 203 (S814). Then, the stopped processing of another routine is executed (S815). The details of the stopped processing will be described later. The fluctuation stop command set in S814 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3.

[Big hit judgment processing by the game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (S808 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines the jackpot random number value in the special symbol lottery this time (S901), and determines whether or not it is a jackpot or a small hit (S902). , S905). Whether or not a jackpot or a small hit is determined is whether or not the value of the jackpot random number acquired in S604 or S610 in FIG. 6 matches the value set as the jackpot winning value or the value set as the small hit winning value. It is determined by determining whether or not (see FIG. 17 (a)).

When the result of the random number determination in S901 is a big hit (Yes in S902), the special symbol determination unit 234 then determines the jackpot symbol random number value (S903). Depending on the result of this determination, the type of jackpot (high probability state or low probability state, time saving state or time saving no state, long hit, short hit) is determined. Which jackpot will be won is determined by which of the values preset for each type of jackpot matches the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in S604 or S610 of FIG. 6 (FIG. 17 (Fig. 17). b) See).

After the above determination, the special symbol determination unit 234 sets the symbol (big hit symbol) representing the type of jackpot determined by the determination of the jackpot symbol random number in the RAM 203 as setting information (S904).

When the result of the random number determination in S901 is a small hit (No in S902, Yes in S905), then the special symbol determination unit 234 uses a symbol indicating that it is a small hit (hereinafter, small hit symbol) as setting information. It is set in the RAM 203 (S906).

When the result of the random number determination in S901 is neither a big hit nor a small hit (No in S902 and S905), then the special symbol determination unit 234 uses the symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter, the missed symbol) as setting information in the RAM 203. (S907).

[Variation pattern selection process by the game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (S809 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a jackpot has been won in this special symbol lottery by using the determination result of S902 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). (S1001). Then, in the case of a big hit (Yes in S1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the fluctuation pattern table for the big hit from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (S1002).

On the other hand, if there is no big hit (No in S1001), then the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 determines a random number value for determining whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for the player to expect a big hit. (S1003). Whether or not to perform the reach effect is determined by determining whether or not the value of the reach random number acquired in S604 or S610 of FIG. 6 matches the preset value (see FIG. 17 (c)). ..
When the reach effect is performed as a result of the determination using the random value (Yes in S1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (S1005). Further, when the reach effect is not performed (No in S1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for detachment from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (S1006).
Here, the fluctuation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of fluctuation patterns (variation time 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.

Next, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 determines the fluctuation pattern random value using the fluctuation pattern random value acquired in S604 or S610 of FIG. 6 and the fluctuation pattern table set in S1002, 1005, 1006 (S1007). ). That is, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the fluctuation pattern table set in the RAM 203, and selects a fluctuation pattern according to the random number value of the fluctuation pattern random number. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the result of the special symbol lottery will be referred to according to the difference in the state such as whether or not it is a big hit, and if it is not a big hit, whether or not to perform a reach effect. Since the pattern table is different, the fluctuation pattern to be determined is different.

After that, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 sets the fluctuation pattern selected in S1007 in the RAM 203 as setting information (S1008). The fluctuation pattern setting information set in S1008 is included in the fluctuation start command set in S811 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3. Details of the fluctuation pattern selected in this embodiment and its setting will be described later.

[Processing during stop by the game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stopped processing (S815 in FIG. 8).
In this stopped processing, the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the flag indicating the time saving state (hereinafter, the time saving flag) is turned on in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S1101). When the time saving flag is ON (Yes in S1101), the game control unit 200 subtracts 1 from the value of the lottery number (variation number) J in the time saving state (S1102), and whether or not the lottery number J becomes 0. (S1103). Then, if the number of lottery times J = 0 (Yes in S1103), the time saving flag is turned off (S1104). The operation of turning on the time saving flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number J are performed in the game state setting process (FIG. 15) in the large winning opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

When the time saving flag is OFF (No in S1101), after turning off the time saving flag in S1104, or when the value of the lottery number J is not 0 (No in S1103), the game control unit 200 then moves the RAM 203. In the flag setting, it is examined whether or not the flag indicating the high probability state (hereinafter, the probability variation flag) is ON (S1105). If both the probability change flag and the previous time saving flag are ON, the game is in a high probability time saving game state, and if the probability change flag is ON and the time saving flag is OFF, the game is in a high probability time saving game state.

When the probability change flag is ON (Yes in S1105), the game control unit 200 subtracts 1 from the value of the lottery number (variation number) X in the high probability state (S1106), and whether or not the lottery number X becomes 0. (S1107). Then, if the number of lottery times X = 0 (Yes in S1107), the probability change flag is turned off (S1108). The operation of turning on the probability change flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number X are performed in the game state setting process (FIG. 15) in the large winning opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

When the probability change flag is OFF (No in S1105), after the probability change flag is turned OFF in S1108, or when the value of the lottery number X is not 0 (No in S1107), then the game control unit 200 is set to this time. It is determined whether or not a big hit is made in the special symbol lottery (S1109). Then, in the case of a big hit (Yes in S1109), the game control unit 200 then determines whether or not the type of big hit is a long hit (S1110).

Here, the determination of whether or not the jackpot is a jackpot can be determined based on the determination result of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, if any of the symbols shown in the chart of FIG. 17B, which will be described later, is set, S1109 is Yes. If a missed symbol or a small hit symbol is set in the RAM 203 by the jackpot determination process, the result is No in S1109.

When the type of jackpot is a long hit (Yes in S1110), the game control unit 200 turns on the long hit game flag (S1111). As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to the big hit game state (long hit game state) in which the type of big hit is a long hit. It should be noted that here, in the long hit, there is no distinction between a high probability state and a low probability state. Whether the state becomes a high probability state or a low probability state is specified by turning on the corresponding flag in the game state setting process (FIG. 15) in the large winning opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

When the type of big hit is not a long hit (No in S1110), the game control unit 200 turns on the short hit game flag (S1112). As a result, the setting of the gaming state of the RAM 203 becomes the jackpot gaming state (short hit gaming state) in which the type of jackpot is a short hit. As in the case of long hits, short hits do not distinguish between high-probability states and low-probability states.

After turning on the winning game flag in S1111 or S1112, the game control unit 200 initializes the values of the lottery times J and X (S1113). Further, the game control unit 200 turns off the time saving flag when the time saving flag is ON in S1101 and the lottery number J is not 0 in S1103 (S1114). Similarly, when the probability variation flag is ON in S1105 and the lottery number X is not 0 in S1107, the probability variation flag is turned OFF (S1114).

On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery this time is not a big hit (No in S1109), then the game control unit 200 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery this time is a small hit (S1115). If it is not a small hit (No in S1115), the stopped processing is terminated.
On the other hand, if it is a small hit (Yes in S1115), the game control unit 200 starts the small hit game (S1116). As a result, the game state setting of the RAM 203 becomes the small hit game state. In the small hit game, as described above, the large winning opening 125 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times, and the game ends after a predetermined time has elapsed.

After initializing the values of the lottery times J and X in S1113, the game control unit 200 starts the opening operation (S1117). Here, the content of the opening operation differs depending on which of S1111 and S1112 the winning game flag is turned ON. That is, one of the opening operations set in each of the long-hit game and the short-hit game states is performed according to the state of the hit game flag.
After that, the game control unit 200 sets the opening command in the RAM 203 to perform the effect in the opening operation according to the hit game flag in the effect control unit 300 (S1118), and ends the stopped processing. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3.

[Customer waiting setting processing by the game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting setting process (S816 in FIG. 8).
In this customer waiting setting process, the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the customer waiting flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S1201). Here, the customer waiting flag is a flag set to identify that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state.

When the customer waiting flag is ON, the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, so the process ends as it is (Yes in S1201). On the other hand, when the customer waiting flag is OFF, the game control unit 200 generates a customer waiting command and sets it in the RAM 203 (S1202), and turns the customer waiting flag ON (S1203). The customer waiting command set in S1202 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3. The customer waiting flag is set in a state where the fluctuation of the special symbol is stopped and there is no hold.

[Normal symbol processing by the game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the normal symbol processing among the symbol processing shown in S503 of FIG. 5-3.
In this normal symbol processing, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S1301). Here, the auxiliary game flag is a flag that is set when a normal symbol lottery is won. The state in which the auxiliary game flag is set is a state in which the electric tulip 123 is opened according to the electric tulip process (FIG. 16) described later, and it is easy to win a prize in the second starting port 122 (auxiliary game state).

When the auxiliary game flag is ON, the auxiliary game state is already in effect and the normal symbol is stopped. Therefore, the normal symbol processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol change (Yes in S1301). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is OFF (No in S1301), the normal symbol variation control unit 236 then determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the normal symbol variation (S1302). When the normal symbol is not changing (No in S1302), the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 then determines whether the number of pending numbers G (see FIG. 7) of the unchanged portion of the normal symbol is 1 or more (S1303). When the number of holds G = 0 (No in S1303), it means that there is no prize for starting the lottery of the normal symbol, so the process ends without starting the change of the normal symbol.

On the other hand, when the hold number G is 1 or more (Yes in S1303), the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the hold number G (S1304), and determines the winning random number in the current normal symbol lottery. Is performed to determine whether or not the normal symbol lottery has been won (S1305). Whether or not the winning value is determined is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in S704 of FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value in the table or the like shown in FIG. 17 (d) described later. It is determined.

Next, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 sets the normal symbol according to the result of the normal symbol lottery (S1306). That is, when the normal symbol lottery is won, the symbol representing the winning (hereinafter, the winning symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as the setting information. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a missed symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information.

Next, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 sets the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (S1307). This fluctuation time is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processes of S1104 and S1114 in FIG. 11 and S1504 and S1507 in FIG. 15 described later. That is, when the time saving flag is ON at the time of setting by S1307, it is set to a short time (for example, 1.5 seconds), and when the time saving flag is OFF, it is set to a long time (for example, 4.0 seconds). Will be done. After this setting, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 starts the fluctuation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 3 based on the setting contents of S1307 (S1308).

After starting the fluctuation of the normal symbol in S1308, or when it is determined in S1302 that the normal symbol is changing (Yes in S1302), the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed (S1309). ). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the fluctuation of the normal symbol in S1308 has reached the fluctuation time set in S1307. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (No in S1309), the normal symbol fluctuation is continued, so that the normal symbol processing ends as it is.

On the other hand, when the fluctuation time ends (Yes in S1309), the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 stops the fluctuation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 223 (S1310). Then, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 236 determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery has been won based on the stopped normal symbol (S1311). If it is won (Yes in S1311), the auxiliary game flag is turned ON (S1312). On the other hand, if the lottery is missed (No in S1311), the normal symbol processing is completed without turning on the auxiliary game flag.

[Large winning opening processing by the game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the large winning opening processing among the electric accessory processing shown in S504 of FIG. 5-3.
In this big winning opening process, the big winning opening operation control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S1401). When the winning game flag is OFF, there is no winning in the large winning opening 125, so the large winning opening process ends (No in S1401). On the other hand, when the winning game flag is ON (Yes in S1401), then the big winning opening operation control unit 237 opens in the operation control at the time of the big hit started in the processing while the pachinko gaming machine 100 is stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether or not the operation is in progress (S1402).

When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in S1402), the large winning opening operation control unit 237 then determines whether or not the preset opening operation should be performed (opening time). (S1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the large winning opening 125 is continued, so the large winning opening process is terminated (No in S1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in S1403), then the large winning opening operation control unit 237 sets the operation of the large winning opening 125 (S1404) and initializes the winning number C (C = 0). Then (S1405), the value of the number of rounds R of the operation of the large winning opening 125 is added by 1 from the current value (S1406), and the large winning opening 125 is started (opened) (S1407).

In the operation setting of S1404, the operation pattern of the large winning opening 125 and the number of rounds (the number of operation rounds) to be operated by the operation pattern are set. When the big winning opening 125 operates, there are cases where it is a big hit of a long hit or a short hit and a case where it is a small hit in a special symbol lottery. The operation pattern and the number of rounds are set variously according to the types of these hits. As an example, in the case of a long hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and in one round, 29.5 seconds of opening is performed once. In the case of a short hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and in one round, 0.1 second opening is performed once. In the case of a small hit, for example, one round (1R) is operated, and in this one round, 0.1 second opening is performed 15 times. Here, comparing the operation with a short hit and the operation with a small hit in the above example, the opening for 0.1 seconds is performed 15 times in both cases. That is, the operation of the large winning opening 125 seen by the player is the same in the case of the short hit and the case of the small hit, and the short hit and the small hit are distinguished only from the operation of the large winning opening 125 on the game board 110. You can't.

As another example, in the long hit, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, in 1 round, 29.5 seconds are opened once, in the short hit, 2 rounds (2R) are operated, and 0 in 1 round. Open for .9 seconds twice, and for small hits, operate for 1 round (1R), and open for 0.9 seconds twice in this 1 round. In this case as well, when comparing the operation with a short hit and the operation with a small hit, the opening of 0.9 seconds is performed twice, and the operation of the large winning opening 125 seen by the player is the case of a short hit. And the case of a small hit is the same.

In the case of a small hit, the law stipulates that the cumulative opening time of the large winning opening 125 must be set within 1.8 seconds. On the other hand, in the case of a big hit (long hit or short hit), the big winning opening 125 must be opened a plurality of times in a row. Therefore, when it is difficult to visually distinguish between the operation with a small hit and the operation with a short hit as described above, in the case of a small hit, the cumulative opening time in one operation is within 1.8 seconds. An operation mode in which the large winning opening 125 is opened twice or more is set, and in the short hit, the number of rounds equal to the number of times the small hit is opened is set.

Next, the large winning opening operation control unit 237 determines whether or not the opening time in the operation pattern set in S1404 has elapsed (S1408). If the open state of the large winning opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in S1408), then the large winning opening operation control unit 237 has a specified number C of winnings in the large winning opening 125 (for example, 9). It is determined whether or not the number is greater than or equal to (S1409). If the opening time has not passed and the winning number C is less than the specified number, the operating state (opening state) of the large winning opening 125 is continued, so that the large winning opening process is terminated (No in S1409). ). On the other hand, when the opening time has elapsed (Yes in S1408) or the number of winnings C reaches the specified number (Yes in S1409), the large winning opening operation control unit 237 ends the operation of the large winning opening 125 (closing). (S1410).

Next, the large winning opening operation control unit 237 determines whether or not the number of rounds R of operation of the large winning opening 125 has reached the maximum value set in S1404 (S1411). Then, if the maximum value is not reached, the remaining operations are performed, so that the large winning opening process is terminated (No in S1411).

When the number of rounds R of operation of the large winning opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in S1411), the large winning opening operation control unit 237 then starts the ending operation (S1412). Here, the content of the ending operation corresponds to the state of the winning game flag among the ending operations set in each game state of the long hit game and the short hit game.
After that, the large winning opening operation control unit 237 sets the ending command in the RAM 203 to perform the effect in the ending operation according to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 (S1413). This ending command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in S506 of FIG. 5-3.

Next, the large winning opening operation control unit 237 resets the number of rounds R of the operation of the large winning opening 125 to 0 (S1414), and then performs the ending operation in which the elapsed time from the start of the ending operation is preset. It is determined whether or not the desired time (ending time) has passed (S1417). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, so the large winning opening process is terminated (No in S1417). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in S1417), then the big winning opening operation control unit 237 turns off the winning game flag after the game state setting process by the game control unit 200 (S1418). The large winning opening process is completed (S1419). The content of the game state setting process will be described later.

When it is determined in S1402 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not in the opening (No in S1402), then the grand prize opening operation control unit 237 determines whether or not the ending is in progress (S1415). Then, if the ending is in progress (Yes in S1415), the operations after S1417 are executed.

On the other hand, if the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not in the ending (No in S1415), then the large winning opening operation control unit 237 determines whether or not the large winning opening 125 is operating (opening) (S1416). Then, if it is not in operation (No in S1416), the operation after S1405 is executed, and if it is in operation (Yes in S1416), the operation after S1408 is executed.
It should be noted that the effect performed in the small hit game described above is the same as the effect performed in the short hit game, and it is not possible to distinguish between the short hit and the small hit from the effect.

[Game state setting process]
FIG. 15 shows the contents of the game state setting process (S1418) by the game control unit 200, which is executed when the ending time has elapsed (Yes in S1417).
When the game state setting process is performed, the winning game flag is ON in S1401 of FIG. 14 as a premise. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, the game control unit 200 first determines the type of hit (S1501, S1502, S1503, S1506). These determinations can be made based on, for example, the type of symbol set in the RAM 203 as setting information in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). Since these judgments are almost the same as those of S902, S903, and S905 of the jackpot judgment processing (FIG. 9), the judgment results of S902, S903, and S905 may be used.

In the case of a small hit (Yes in S1501), the gaming state (internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100) is not changed, so the gaming state setting process is terminated.
When the type of hit is a big hit in a low-probability time-saving game state (No in S1501, Yes in S1502, Yes in S1503), the game control unit 200 turns on the time-saving flag (S1504). As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to the low-probability time-saving game state. Further, the game control unit 200 sets an initial value of the lottery number J (S1505), and ends the game state setting process. The initial value of the lottery number J is 100 times in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery in the low-probability time-saving game state is performed 100 times, the low-probability time-saving game state ends and the low-probability time-saving non-game state is reached.

On the other hand, when the type of hit is a big hit in a low-probability time-saving non-game state (No in S1501, Yes in 1502, No in S1503), the game control unit 200 ends the process without turning on both the time-saving flag and the probability variation flag. do. Therefore, the setting of the game state of the RAM 203 for the game after the jackpot is a low-probability time-saving non-game state.

When the type of hit is a big hit in a high-probability time-saving game state (No in S1501 and S1502, Yes in S1506), the game control unit 200 turns on the time-saving flag (S1507) and sets the initial value of the number of lottery J. (S1508). The initial value of the lottery number J in this case is 10,000 times in the illustrated example. Further, the game control unit 200 turns on the probability change flag (S1509) and sets the initial value of the lottery number X (S1510). The initial value of the lottery number X is 10,000 times in the illustrated example. As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to the high-probability time-saving game state. Then, if the lottery in this high-probability time-saving game state is performed 10,000 times, the high-probability time-saving game state ends, and the low-probability time-saving non-game state is established.

On the other hand, when the type of hit is a big hit in a high-probability time-saving non-game state (No in S1501, S1502, S1506), the game control unit 200 turns on only the probability change flag (S1509) and sets the initial value of the number of lottery X (S1509). 10000 times) is set (S1510). As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to the high-probability time-saving non-game state. Then, if the lottery in this high-probability time-saving no-game state is performed 10,000 times, the high-probability time-saving no-game state ends, and the low-probability time-saving no-game state is established.

[Electric tulip processing by the game control unit]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip processing among the electric accessory processing shown in S504 of FIG. 5-3.
In the electric tulip processing, the electric tulip motion control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (S1601). When the auxiliary game flag is OFF, the electric tulip 123 is not opened, so the electric tulip processing is terminated (No in S1601). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is ON (Yes in S1601), the electric tulip motion control unit 238 then determines whether or not the electric tulip 123 is operating (S1602).

When the electric tulip 123 is not operating (No in S1602), the electric tulip operation control unit 238 sets the operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 (S1603) and operates the electric tulip 123 in the set operation pattern (S1604). .. Here, the operation pattern is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of S1104, S1114 in FIG. 11, S1504, S1507 in FIG. 15, and the like. For example, when the time saving flag is OFF at the time of setting by S1603, an operation pattern of opening once with an opening time of 0.15 seconds is set, and when the time saving flag is ON, opening of 1.80 seconds. An operation pattern that opens three times in time is set. In this way, normally, when the time saving flag is ON (when the time saving state is in the state), the electric tulip 123 is opened a plurality of times for a long time, and it becomes easy to win a prize in the second starting port 122 (electric chew support). Is done.

When it is determined in S1602 that the electric tulip 123 is operating (Yes in S1602), or after the electric tulip 123 is operated in S1604, the electric tulip operation control unit 238 elapses the opening time in the set operation pattern. It is determined whether or not it has been done (S1605). If the opening time has not elapsed, the operating state (opening state) of the electric tulip 123 is continued, so that the electric tulip processing is terminated (No in S1605). On the other hand, when the opening time has elapsed (Yes in S1605), the electric tulip motion control unit 238 turns off the auxiliary game flag and ends the electric tulip processing (S1606).

[Random number judgment method]
Here, a random number determination method performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 13), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a random number (determination table) used in the special symbol lottery and the ordinary symbol lottery in the present embodiment.
FIG. 17 (a) shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number used in a special symbol lottery, FIG. 17 (b) shows a configuration example of a jackpot symbol random number used in a special symbol lottery, and FIG. A configuration example of the reach random number used and a configuration example of the winning random number used in the ordinary symbol lottery are shown in FIG. 17 (d), respectively.

With reference to FIG. 17A, two types of jackpots, a jackpot in which the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a low probability state and a jackpot in a high probability state, and a small hit are set as determination values of the jackpot random numbers. The range of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 300, from 0 to 299. In the case of a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) in a low probability state, only one winning value is set, and the winning probability is 1/300. Further, in the case of a special symbol lottery in a high probability state, 10 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the illustrated example, when the start ports 121 and 122 are won in the high probability state and the special symbol lottery is performed, the winning probability is 10 times higher than in the case where the special symbol lottery is performed in the low probability state. Further, the winning value of the small hit is set to three regardless of whether it is in the low probability state or the high probability state, and the winning probability is 3/300 (= 1/100).

With reference to FIG. 17B, five types of jackpot symbols are prepared: low-probability symbol A, low-probability symbol B, high-probability symbol A, high-probability symbol B, and latent symbol. Here, the low-probability symbol A and the low-probability symbol B are symbols indicating that they are big hits in the low-probability state, of which the low-probability symbol A is a long hit (low-probability time-short game state) and the low-probability symbol B is. Each represents a short hit (low probability time saving no game state). High-probability symbol A and high-probability symbol B are symbols indicating that they are big hits in a high-probability state. Among them, high-probability symbol A is a long hit (high-probability time-short game state), and high-probability symbol B is a short hit (high-probability short-time game state). High probability time saving no game state) is represented respectively. The latent symbol is a symbol indicating that it is a big hit in a high-probability time-saving non-game state. Therefore, the high-probability symbol B and the latent probability symbol have the same gaming state after the jackpot game, but the latent probability symbol is a condition for performing a latent effect that does not clearly notify the player that the high-probability symbol is in the high-probability state. Therefore, it is provided separately from the high-probability symbol B. The range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249. Further, in the jackpot symbol random number, winning values are set for each of the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122, which trigger the special symbol lottery.

In the low-probability symbol A, 35 values are assigned as winning values to both the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the probability of winning the low probability symbol A is 35/250 (= 7/50).
In the low-probability symbol B, 15 values are assigned as winning values to both the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the probability of winning the low probability symbol B is 15/250 (= 3/50).

In the high-probability symbol A, 25 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, if a big hit is won in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121, the probability of winning the high probability symbol A is 25/250 (= 1/10).
On the other hand, 175 values are assigned as winning values when the second starting port 122 is won. Therefore, the probability of winning the high probability symbol A in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122 is 175/250 (= 7/10).

In the high-probability symbol B, 75 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, if a big hit is won in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121, the probability of winning in the high probability symbol B is 75/250 (= 3/10).
On the other hand, 25 values are assigned as winning values when the second starting port 122 is won. Therefore, if a big hit is won in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122, the probability of winning in the high probability symbol B is 25/250 (= 1/10).

In the latent probability symbol, 100 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, if a big hit is won in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121, the probability of winning the latent symbol is 100/250 (= 2/5).
On the other hand, the winning value in the latent probability symbol is not assigned to the second starting port 122, and if the second starting port 122 is won, the winning value in the latent probability symbol will not be won.

As described above, in the example shown in FIG. 17B, the jackpot when the first starting port 121 is won has a high probability of becoming a jackpot in a high-probability time-saving non-game state (high-probability symbol B, latent symbol). The jackpot when winning the second starting port 122 is high, and there is a high probability that the jackpot will be a jackpot in a high-probability time-saving gaming state (high-probability symbol A). In this way, by making the winning probability of the type of jackpot different between the case where the first starting port 121 is won and the case where the second starting port 122 is won, various playability can be provided. In addition, the arrangement of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 on the game board 110 is devised so that it becomes easier to aim at either the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 in a specific state (mode). It is also possible to encourage the player to participate in a more active game by configuring the above.

Next, the determination of the reach random number will be described.
With reference to FIG. 17 (c), the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random number values are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing reach effect, and the lottery without reach effect is performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). That is, in the illustrated example, if a big hit is not made in the special symbol lottery, the reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/250 (= 11/125).

It should be noted that the effect with reach and the effect without reach determined by the reach random number indicate the mode of the effect performed by the image display unit 114. That is, during the variable display of the special symbol, for example, a symbol consisting of a number sequence in which the numbers 1 to 9 are continuously written in the vertical direction is displayed in three columns, and the variable display of the special symbol is started. At the same time, these symbols start scrolling.
Then, in the effect with reach, when the scrolling is stopped and each symbol is stopped and displayed after a lapse of a predetermined time after the start of scrolling, first, any two symbols (sequential sequence) are stopped first. At this time, the same number is stopped and displayed on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally, and the scroll speed is gradually slowed down in the last row, and there is a feeling of expectation that three identical numbers will be aligned on the straight line. Give to the player. Such a reach production includes a so-called super reach production in which various characters appear and the story unfolds before the scrolling of the last row stops. On the other hand, unlike the production with reach, the production without reach does not give a feeling of expectation to the player, and the symbols are stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are not aligned on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally. It is a thing.
As described above, the reach random number is for determining whether the image display unit 114 performs the effect with reach or the effect without reach when the result of the determination of the jackpot random number is lost. The effect with reach appears with a probability, and the player is given an appropriate sense of expectation.
In addition, if the jackpot is won, the effect with reach is always performed, and finally, the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed with the same numbers aligned on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally. On the other hand, in the case of winning a small hit or losing, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed on the above straight line in a state where the same numbers are not aligned.

Next, the determination of the winning random number used in the ordinary symbol lottery will be described.
With reference to FIG. 17D, the range of random numbers is 10 from 0 to 9, and one value is assigned as the winning value when the time saving flag is OFF, and as the winning value when the time saving flag is ON. Nine values are assigned. Therefore, if the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (opening / closing lottery) is performed in the state of no time saving, the player wins with a probability of 1/10. On the other hand, if the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed in the time saving state, the player wins with a probability of 9/10.

The random number value as the determination information used in various lottery starts from a predetermined initial value and is added by 1 each time the random number update process (S501) shown in FIG. 5-3 is performed. Then, the value at the time when each lottery is performed is acquired by the start port switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and is used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 13). NS. The random number counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random numbers (for example, 299 for the jackpot random number shown in FIG. 17A). Further, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on this information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism has been introduced in which the initial value of each random number is randomly changed at an appropriate timing.
The range of random numbers, the ratio of winning values, and the values of winning values shown in the configuration example of each random number in FIG. 17 are merely examples, and are not limited to the values shown in the drawings.

[Example of setting fluctuation pattern]
Next, a setting example of the fluctuation pattern used in the fluctuation pattern selection process shown in FIG. 10 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a setting example of a fluctuation pattern used in the fluctuation pattern selection process shown in FIG.
In the example shown in FIG. 18, three types of fluctuation patterns A to C are set as fluctuation patterns when the determination result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit (in the case of Yes in S1001 of FIG. 10). In addition, six types of fluctuation patterns D to I are set as fluctuation patterns when the determination result of the special symbol lottery is incorrect (when No in S1001 of FIG. 10). The fluctuation time is 90 seconds for the fluctuation pattern A, 60 seconds for the fluctuation pattern B, 30 seconds for the fluctuation pattern C, 60 seconds for the fluctuation pattern D, 30 seconds for the fluctuation pattern E, 15 seconds for the fluctuation pattern F, and 15 seconds for the fluctuation pattern G. The fluctuation pattern H is set to 13 seconds, the fluctuation pattern H is set to 7 seconds, and the fluctuation pattern I is set to 3 seconds. That is, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol determines the determination result in the special symbol lottery and the fluctuation time of the special symbol.

Further, the fluctuation patterns D to F are fluctuation patterns selected when the reach effect is performed (Yes in S1004 of FIG. 10), and the fluctuation patterns G to I are when the reach effect is not performed (FIG. 10). It is set as the fluctuation pattern selected in (No in S1004 of 10). Since the reach effect is always performed when the determination result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, the presence or absence of the reach effect is not referred to when the fluctuation patterns A to C are selected.

Further, among the fluctuation patterns G to I, when the fluctuation pattern G has 0 hold numbers, the fluctuation pattern H has 1 or 2 hold numbers, and the fluctuation pattern I has 3 or 4 hold numbers. It is set as a fluctuation pattern that is selected when there are individual pieces. That is, the larger the number of pending judgments in the special symbol lottery, the shorter the average time of the special symbol fluctuation is set.

The game control unit 200 has a variation pattern random value (see S604 and S610 in FIG. 6) acquired when the game ball wins the start ports 121 and 122, a determination result shown in the setting example in FIG. 18, and the presence or absence of reach effect. , The fluctuation pattern of the special symbol is determined based on the conditions such as the number of reservations. Then, the information on the fluctuation pattern of the determined special symbol is included in the fluctuation start command, and is sent from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300. As will be described later, the effect control unit 300 corresponds to the variation time specified based on the variation pattern information included in the variation start command (executable in the variation time) as the effect when the special symbol changes. Is selected and executed.

Although not shown, the fluctuation pattern A is selected at the highest ratio among the fluctuation patterns A to C selected when the judgment result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, and the fluctuation pattern A is the next highest ratio. It can be set so that the pattern B is selected and the variation pattern C is selected at the lowest rate.
Further, in the example shown in FIG. 18, the case where the game ball wins the first start port 121 and the case where the game ball wins the second start port 122 are not distinguished, but the first start port 121 and the second start port 121 are not distinguished. It is also possible to make the setting of the fluctuation pattern different depending on which of 122 is won.

[Command configuration and transmission method]
Here, the configuration and transmission method of commands (commands for effect control and commands for setting) output from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 19-1 is a diagram showing a command configuration. FIG. 19-1 (a) shows the data structure of the command, and FIG. 19-1 (b) shows the structure as a bit string of the command.

As shown in FIG. 19-1 (a), one command is composed of two bytes in the command output from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300. This command is composed of a 1-byte "code" as a first data part and a 1-byte "data" as a second data part. "Code" indicates the type of command, and "data" indicates the value of the command. This command is transmitted from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 by using one serial signal and using the pace synchronization. More generally, the "code" which is the first data part is the size of a bit (a is an integer of 2 or more), and the value of the first 1 bit is specified as either 1 or 0. , The "data" which is the second data part has a size of n × a bit (n is an integer of 1 or more), and the value of the first 1 bit is different from the value of the first 1 bit of the first data part. Specified by value.

Since the pace synchronization is used, a 1-bit start bit (bit described as "S" in the figure) is provided at the beginning of each of the "code" and "data" constituting the command, and 1 is provided at the end. The end bit of the bit (the bit described as "E" in the figure) is provided. Further, each of the "code" and the "data" constituting the command is provided with a 1-bit parity bit (a bit described as "P" in the figure).

As shown in FIG. 19-1 (a), both the "code" and the "data" constituting the command have a data size of 1 byte (8 bits). Then, when transmitted, the "code" and the "data" are provided with a start bit, an end bit, and a parity bit, respectively. Therefore, in the effect control unit 300 that receives the command, it is not easy to identify whether the received data string is the "code" or the "data" of the command from the outer shape of the data string. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a flag for identifying the "code" and the "data" is set. Specifically, the value of the specific part of the 8-bit value constituting the "code" and the value of the part corresponding to the specific part of the "code" among the 8-bit values constituting the "data" are made different. ..

In the example shown in FIG. 19-1 (b), the first bit of each of the "code" and the "data" is used as a flag. That is, in the 8-bit value constituting the "code", the value of the first 1 bit is set to "1", and in the 8-bit value constituting the "data", the value of the first 1 bit is set to "0". .. As a result, the effect control unit 300 can identify whether the data string is "code" or "data" by examining the value of the first 1 bit following the start bit of the received data string. Note that the specific value of the flag is merely an example, and a value different from the value shown above may be used as long as the "code" and the "data" can be distinguished.

Here, since the value of the first bit of the "code" is specified as "1", the range of values that the "code" can take is 128 from 10000000B (= 80H) to 11111111B (= FFH). Is. The letter "B" attached to each value indicates that it is in binary notation, and the letter "H" indicates that it is in hexadecimal notation. Further, since the value of the first bit of "data" is specified as "0", the range of values that "data" can take is 128 from 00000000000B (= 00H) to 01111111B (= 7FH). be. That is, according to the configurations shown in FIGS. 19-1 (a) and 19-1 (b), 128 types of commands that can take 128 types of values can be set.

By the way, in the pachinko gaming machine 100, many kinds of effects are executed according to the gaming state, the determination result of the special symbol lottery, and the like. Therefore, a large number of commands for effect control are prepared. In particular, the above 128 "data", which are values indicating the specific contents of the command, may be insufficient. On the other hand, the number of "codes" indicating the types of commands is usually smaller than the above 128. Therefore, it is conceivable to use a part of the bit string of the "code" to describe the value of the "data".

For example, consider the case where the last 1 bit of the "code" is used to describe the value of the "data". Hereinafter, each bit in the 8-bit bit string constituting the "code" and "data" will be referred to as a first bit to an eighth bit. In addition, the value of "code" that actually indicates the type of command is called "code value" separately from the bit string that constitutes "code", and the value of the command is actually set separately from the bit string that constitutes "data". The value of the indicated "data" is called a "data value". Then, the code value is described using the 1st to 7th bits of the "code" bit string, and the data value is the entire bit string of the "data" (1st to 8th bits). , Is described using the 8th bit of the "code".

With this configuration, the possible range of the code value is 1000000B (= 40H) to 1111111B (= 7FH) because the value of the first bit is specified as "1" and the size is 7 bits as a whole. ) Up to 64. In addition, the range of data values that can be taken is 128, in which the value of the first bit is represented by 8 bits of "data" specified as "0", and the values of the 8th bit of "code" are "0" and ". In total, there are 256 pieces. Therefore, it is possible to set a command having 256 kinds of values as data values.

It should be noted that the above configuration in the case of describing the data value using a part of the "code" is merely an example, and the specific number of bits and the value are not limited to the above configuration example. For example, it may be configured to describe the data value using the 7th bit and the 8th bit of the "code". More generally, a predetermined type of data (data value) is used by using a predetermined bit constituting the "code" which is the first data unit and a bit constituting the "data" which is the second data unit. Is recorded. Then, other types of data (code values) different from the predetermined types of data (data values) are recorded by using the remaining bits other than the above-mentioned predetermined bits in the "code" which is the first data unit. NS. In other words, the a bit that constitutes the second data part "data" and the b bit that constitutes the first data part "code" (b is smaller than a-1 and is an integer of 1 or more). In use, data values of the size of the (a + b) bits are recorded.

Further, as a means for increasing the number of data values that can be handled, it is conceivable to increase the bit string of "data" that describes the data values. For example, it is conceivable to prepare "first data" and "second data" as bit strings for describing data values. In this case, if each bit string is 8 bits, the data value can be described by a total of 16 bits. If the second bit of the 8-bit bit string is used as a flag in order to distinguish between the "first data" and the "second data", for example, the first bit and the second bit of the "first data" Can be set to "00B", and the first and second bits of the "second data" can be set to "01B". The first bit has a value of "0" as a flag for identifying the "code". That is, the "data" which is the second data part is every 8 bits (more generally) which is the size of the bit strings ("first data", "second data", ...) Representing individual data values. , For each a bit above), the same value as the value of the first 1 bit is set.

With this configuration, the range of possible values for the "first data" is 64 from 0000000000B (= 00H) to 001111111B (= 3FH), and the range of possible values for the "second data" is Since there are 64 pieces from 01000000B (= 40H) to 01111111B (= 7FH), the total number is 4096 (= 64 × 64). Here, the first bit is used as a flag for distinguishing the "code" and the "data" (the "first data" and the "second data"), and the "first data" and the "second data" are used. Although the second bit is used as the flag for identifying the above, the flag for identifying the four types of bit strings may be set by using the first and second bits. For example, the "code" may have the values of the first and second bits set to "11B", and the "data" may have the values of the first and second bits set to any of "00B", "01B", and "10B". Conceivable.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 19-2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300.
The operation of the effect control unit 300 includes the main process shown in FIG. 19-2 (a) and the interrupt process shown in FIG. 19-2 (b). Referring to FIG. 19-2 (a), the effect control unit 300 first performs initial setting at startup (S1901), sets the cycle of CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) (S1902), and then sets the cycle. According to this, interrupt processing is accepted while updating the random numbers used in the effect control (S1903).

The interrupt processing is periodically performed according to the cycle set in S1902. Referring to FIG. 19-2 (b), in this interrupt process, the effect control unit 300 receives a command from the game control unit 200 and performs a command reception process (S1911). In this command reception process, an effect pattern is selected. In addition, the effect control unit 300 performs an effect button process for accepting an operation of the effect button 161 or the like by the player (S1912). After that, the effect control unit 300 performs a command transmission process of transmitting a command including information of the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (S1913). As a result, the image display and sound output to the image display unit 114, the operation of the movable accessory 115, the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, and the like are performed.

[Command reception processing by the production control unit]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the contents of the command reception process (S1911 in FIG. 19-2 (b)).
In this command reception process, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not the received command is a command for increasing the number of holds (command for increasing the number of holds) (S2001). This hold number increase command is set in the game control unit 200 in the start port switch process shown in FIG. 6 (S606, S612), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (S506) shown in FIG. 5-3. Will be done. If it is a hold number increase command (Yes in S2001), the effect control unit 300 adds 1 to the hold number value held in the RAM 303 (S2002), and the hold number command indicating the hold number value after the addition. Is set in the RAM 303 (S2003).

If the received command is not a hold number increase command (No in S2001), or if a command is received after the hold number increase command is set in S2003, the effect control unit 300 determines whether the received command is a fluctuation start command. (S2004). This fluctuation start command is set in the game control unit 200 in the special symbol processing shown in FIG. 8 (S811), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output processing (S506) shown in FIG. 5-3.
When the received command is a fluctuation start command (Yes in S2004), the effect control unit 300 executes the effect selection process (S2005). The details of the effect selection process will be described later.

If the received command is not a fluctuation start command (No in S2001 and S2004), or if a command is received after executing the effect selection process of S2005, the effect control unit 300 determines whether the received command is a variation stop command. (S2006). This fluctuation stop command is set in the game control unit 200 in the special symbol processing shown in FIG. 8 (S814), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output processing (S506) shown in FIG. 5-3.
When the received command is a fluctuation stop command (Yes in S2006), the effect control unit 300 executes the processing during the end of the variation effect (S2007). The details of the processing during the end of the variable effect will be described later.

When the received command is not the fluctuation start command and the fluctuation stop command (No in S2001, S2004 and S2006), or when the command is received after the execution of the fluctuation production end processing of S2007, the effect control unit 300 receives the command. It is determined whether or not it is an opening command for starting the opening in the jackpot production (S2008). This opening command is set in the stopped processing shown in FIG. 11 (S1118), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output processing (S506) shown in FIG. 5-3.
When the received command is an opening command (Yes in S2008), the effect control unit 300 executes a hit effect selection process (S2009). The details of the hit effect selection process will be described later.

If the received command is not a fluctuation start command, a fluctuation stop command, or an opening command (No in S2001, S2004, S2006, and S2008), or if a command is received after executing the hit effect selection process of S2009, the effect control unit 300 will perform the effect control unit 300. It is determined whether or not the received command is the ending command for starting the ending in the jackpot effect (S2010). This ending command is set in the large winning opening process shown in FIG. 14 (S1413), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (S506) shown in FIG. 5-3.
When the received command is an ending command (Yes in S2010), the effect control unit 300 executes the ending effect selection process (S2011). The details of the ending effect selection process will be described later.

If the received command is not a fluctuation start command, fluctuation stop command, opening command and ending command (No in S2001, S2004, S2006, S2008 and S2010), or if a command is received after the ending effect selection process of S2011 is completed, the following In addition, the effect control unit 300 executes a customer waiting command reception process for shifting the received command to the customer waiting state (S2012). The details of the customer waiting command reception process will be described later.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a setting example of the mode flag.
When the effect is performed by the effect control unit 300, various effect patterns are selected and executed based on the set effect mode. This effect mode is determined by the mode flag set in the RAM 303. Here, any of the values 0 to 4 is set for the mode flag, and five types of effect modes from A mode to E mode are assigned to each. The mode flag is set according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery or the number of lottery of the special symbol lottery.
The mode flag 1 is for the jackpot of the high-probability symbol A, the mode flag 2 is for the jackpot of the low-probability symbol A, and the mode flag 3 is for the jackpot of the high-probability symbol B and the low-probability symbol B. A mode flag 4 is assigned to each small hit. Here, the types of these symbols are the same as those shown in FIG. 17 (b). Mode flag 0 is not assigned to any of the hits. In mode flags 1 to 4, mode flag 0 is set by executing the special symbol lottery a predetermined number of times.
Further, in the example shown in FIG. 21, the parameter M (M value) used in the processing during the end of the variation effect is individually set for each mode except the A mode.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect selection process (S2005) of FIG.
In this effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received fluctuation start command (S2201). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (S2202), and subtracts 1 from the value of the number of holds held in the RAM 303 (S2203). Then, the effect control unit 300 is based on the effect mode determined by various setting information (information such as the type of jackpot, the game state after the jackpot game, the variation pattern, etc.) obtained from the analysis result of the fluctuation start command, and the mode flag. , The effect pattern (variation effect pattern) of the symbol variation by the image to be displayed on the image display unit 114 is selected in the effect mode (S2204). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads the image data and acoustic data used for the effect according to the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets the RAM 303 with a variable effect start command instructing the start of execution of the selected effect together with these data. Then, the effect selection process is terminated (S2205).

Although not described in detail, in the effect pattern selection process of the symbol variation in S2204, the effect mode, the variation pattern, and the effect random number (one of the random numbers updated in S1903 of FIG. 19-2, and are produced when the variation start command is received. The effect pattern is determined based on (obtaining a random number value). Based on the effect pattern determined here, the variable display of the decorative pattern, the background effect, and the notice effect are determined. The decorative symbol variation display is an effect display performed by the image display unit 114 in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol performed by the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222. In the variable display of this decorative pattern, a reach effect or the like is executed.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of the process during the end of the variation effect (S2007) of FIG.
In the process during the end of the variation effect, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received variation stop command (S2301). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (S2302). Then, the effect control unit 300 wins (big hit or small hit) the lottery result of the special symbol lottery based on the information indicating the type of the symbol when the special symbol fluctuation is stopped obtained from the analysis result of the fluctuation stop command. It is determined whether or not (S2303). If there is any hit (Yes in S2303), the mode flag set in the RAM 303 is changed based on the setting example shown in FIG. 21 according to the type of hit (S2304).

On the other hand, when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is not a hit (No in S2303), the effect control unit 300 then examines whether or not the value of the mode flag is 0 (S2305). When the mode flag is not 0 (No in S2305), the effect control unit 300 subtracts 1 from the parameter M (S2306) and examines whether or not the value of M has become 0 (S2307). When the value of M becomes 0 (Yes in S2307), the effect control unit 300 sets the mode flag to 0 (S2308).

If the mode flag is 0 in S2305 (Yes in S2305), if the value of parameter M does not become 0 in S2307 (No in S2307), or after setting the mode flag to 0 in S2308, or in S2304 After changing the mode flag, the effect control unit 300 sets the variation effect end command for instructing the end of the effect of the symbol variation in the RAM 303, and ends the process during the end of the variation effect (S2309). Here, referring to FIG. 21, when the mode flag is changed in S2304, the effect mode after the end of the variable effect becomes the effect mode according to the type of hit. Further, when the mode flag is 0 in S2305 and when the mode flag is set to 0 in S2308, the effect mode after the end of the variable effect is the A mode. If the value of the parameter M does not become 0 in S2307, the previous effect mode is continued.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of the hit effect selection process (S2009) of FIG.
In this hit effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received opening command (S2401) and selects an effect pattern (hit effect pattern) according to the content of the effect mode based on the mode flag (S2402). .. Then, the effect control unit 300 reads the image data and the acoustic data used for the effect according to the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, sets the hit effect start command instructing the selected effect together with these data in the RAM 303, and hits. The effect selection process ends (S2403). As a result, the production during the jackpot is determined.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the contents of the ending effect selection process (S2011) of FIG.
In this ending effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received ending command (S2501) and selects an effect pattern (ending effect pattern) according to the content of the effect mode based on the mode flag (S2502). .. Then, the effect control unit 300 reads the image data and acoustic data used for the effect according to the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, sets the ending effect start command instructing the selected effect together with these data in the RAM 303, and ends. The effect selection process ends (S2503).

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting command reception process (S2012) of FIG.
The effect control unit 300 determines whether or not a customer waiting command for shifting to the customer waiting state has been received (S2601). When the customer waiting command is received (Yes in S2601), the effect control unit 300 starts measuring the elapsed time (S2602) and turns on the measurement flag in the RAM 303 (S2603). On the other hand, when the received command is not a customer waiting command (No in S2601), the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 is ON (S2604). If the measurement flag is OFF (No in S2604), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated.

When the measurement flag is ON (after turning it ON in Yes or S2603 in S2604), the effect control unit 300 then determines whether or not the measurement time has reached a predetermined time-up time (S2605). .. If the time is not up (No in S2605), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated. On the other hand, when the time is up (Yes in S2605), the effect control unit 300 turns off the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 (S2606), sets the customer wait effect command for performing the customer wait effect in the RAM 303, and sets the RAM 303. The customer waiting command reception process is terminated (S2607).

When the command reception process is completed as described above, any one of the variable effect start command, the variable effect end command, the hit effect start command, the ending effect start command, and the customer waiting effect command is set in the RAM 303.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect button processing (S1912 in FIG. 19-2 (b)).
In this effect button process, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not an operation means such as the effect button 161 by the player has been operated (S2701). Here, the operation of the operating means includes pressing the effect button 161 to turn it on, and pressing the center key and surrounding keys of the effect key 162 to turn it ON. Further, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is provided with an operation device other than the effect button 161 and the effect key 162, such as a touch panel, the operation of the device is detected. The effect control unit 300 receives an operation signal from the controller of these devices and detects that the operation has been performed.

If the operation means such as the effect button 161 is operated (Yes in S2701), the effect control unit 300 sets the effect button command including the information indicating the operation content of the operation means in the RAM 303 and ends the effect button process. (S2702).

After that, the effect control unit 300 performs the command transmission process (S1913) shown in FIG. 19-2 (b), and issues the command set in the RAM 303 by the above command reception process and effect button process to the image / sound control unit 310. And to the lamp control unit 320. Then, based on the received command, the image / acoustic control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 display an image on the image display unit 114, sound output, operate the movable accessory 115, emit light from the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, and the like. To execute the set effect.

[Output sound during symbol fluctuation]
FIG. 28 is a timing chart for explaining the output sound during the symbol variation.
Next, with reference to FIG. 28, the sound effect (fluctuation period sound effect) output by the speaker 156 from the start to the stop of the special symbol variation will be described.

First, in the present embodiment, when the symbol variation is started, the image / acoustic control unit 310 of the staging control unit 300 causes the image display unit 114 to display the decorative symbol, and the speaker 156 outputs a predetermined sound. Output. Then, by changing the sound output by the speaker 156, the effect when the symbol variation is being executed is enhanced.

To further explain, in the present embodiment, the effect is executed by combining the period in which the speaker 156 outputs sound and the period in which no sound is output.
Further, the speaker 156 outputs a music A, a music B, and a dedicated sound different from the music A and the music B as predetermined sounds. Here, the music A and the music B are different music from each other, and are assigned according to the degree of expectation (reliability) to the extent that a big hit is expected. In the illustrated example, the degree of expectation when the music B is output (played) is higher than that when the music A is output.

By the way, in the example shown in FIG. 28, the pattern 1 and the pattern 2 are included as the patterns of the effect executed by the speaker 156. Here, pattern 1 is a production with a higher degree of expectation (high expectation degree production), and pattern 2 is a production with a lower degree of expectation (low expectation degree production). Hereinafter, each aspect will be described.

First, pattern 1 which is a high expectation effect will be described.
As shown in FIG. 28, in the pattern 1, the speaker 156 outputs (reproduces) the music A at the start of the symbol variation. After the music A is output for a predetermined period, the speaker 156 outputs a dedicated sound (described later). Here, the output of the music A is stopped together with the output of the dedicated sound. Then, the speaker 156 outputs the music B after a silent period (described later).

Here, the dedicated sound is a sound different from the music A that is output when the silence period starts, in other words, when the output of the music A up to that point ends. The dedicated sound is a sound that is output only in this variable period sound effect, that is, a sound dedicated to the variable period sound effect.

The time during which the dedicated sound is output is long enough to draw the player's attention and is short. In other words, the time for which the dedicated sound is output is shorter than the time for which the music A is output, that is, the time from the start of the symbol variation to the output of the dedicated sound (from the start of the music A to the stop). Is. Specifically, it is a sound that is output in the range of about 0.1 seconds to 3 seconds, more preferably about 0.1 seconds to 1 second. As the dedicated sound in the illustrated example, it is assumed that a sound effect of "ping pong" is output as an electronic sound. It is preferable that this dedicated sound is a sound different from the sound produced in the music A. In other words, the dedicated sound is preferably a sound that is not included in the music A. Note that, unlike the illustrated example, the dedicated sound may be reproduced so as to overlap with the music A. That is, the dedicated sound may be reproduced on top of the reproduced music A.

The silent period (sound stop effect) is a period during which no sound is output from the speaker 156. This silent period is long enough for the player to recognize that the music A has stopped. Further, the silence period is shorter than the time from the start of the symbol variation to the stop of the music A. Further, in the illustrated example, the silence period is longer than the time during which the dedicated sound is output. This silence period is, for example, in the range of about 0.5 seconds to 5 seconds, more preferably in the range of about 1 second to 3 seconds. The silence period is set to include a period during which a specific image (image at the time of silence, which will be described later) is displayed on the image display unit 114.
In addition to the mode in which the silence period is always set (controlled) to a constant length, a control example in which the length of the silence period is changed according to a predetermined condition can be considered. For example, the length of the silence period may be set according to the degree of expectation. Specifically, when the degree of expectation is high, the silence period may be set longer than when the degree of expectation is low. By setting in this way, the longer the silence period, the more the player's expectation (feeling of excitement) can be fueled. In other words, the effect is obtained that the player expects the silence period to be longer.

Next, pattern 2 which is a low expectation effect will be described.
As shown in FIG. 28, in the pattern 2, the speaker 156 outputs the music A when the symbol variation starts, as in the pattern 1. After the music A is output for a predetermined period, the speaker 156 outputs a dedicated sound. Then, the speaker 156 outputs the music A after a silent period. The music output after the silence period is the music A, which is different from the pattern 1 in which the music B is output as described above.

In the present embodiment, as described above, by having the pattern 1 and the pattern 2 as the variable period sound effect, the player's interest can be enhanced. That is, it is possible to provide a surprise to the player by producing the music A in which the symbol variation is started and output so as to suddenly end with the output of the dedicated sound. Further, when the sound output by the speaker 156 is resumed after the silence period, the player can provide the enjoyment of estimating the degree of expectation depending on which of the music A and the music B is output. In addition, in pattern 1, the player can be encouraged by changing the music output before and after the silence period.

Further, in the present embodiment, by providing the silence period, the player can more surely recognize that the music has been changed. To further explain, unlike the above pattern 1, if the music suddenly changes from music A to music B without providing a silent period, the player may feel uncomfortable. However, in the above pattern 1, it is suppressed that the player has such a feeling of strangeness. Further, in the present embodiment, the player can be expected that the music may change by providing the silence period.

Here, the silent period is a period in which the speaker 156 does not output sound as described above, but the speaker 156 may output sound as long as the volume or range is such that the player cannot hear it. Further explaining, instead of the above-mentioned silence period, a sound suppression period, which is a period during which the speaker 156 suppresses the sound, may be provided.
Further, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 (see FIG. 1) is installed in the hall and the game is played, the speaker 156 may output the sound as long as the sound is inaudible to the player. Further, a sound that is easy for some players to hear and difficult for other players to hear may be output. For example, the speaker 156 outputs a very high frequency sound (mosquito sound) that is easy for a player in his early twenties to hear but difficult for a player of an older age to hear. May be good.

During the silent period, there are sounds for effects other than the variable period sound effect, for example, a ball entry sound (winning sound) to the first starting port 121, a hold generation sound indicating that a hold has occurred, and a hold. The pending change sound indicating that the change has occurred, the error sound indicating that an error has occurred, or the like is not output (prohibited) from the speaker 156.
Alternatively, contrary to the above-mentioned mode in which the sound for the effect other than the variable period sound effect is not output (prohibited), the sound for the effect other than the above-mentioned variable period sound effect is output during the silent period. It may be a mode to be (permitted).

In addition, the silence period is started at a predetermined timing without any operation by the player. This can give the player the impression that the silence period has suddenly started.
Further, the music A output after the silence period in the above pattern 2 is output so as to continue to the music A output before the silence period. That is, after the output music A is stopped for a silent period, the output of the music A is restarted from the stopped portion.

In addition, during the silence period, the music A may be advanced while outputting the music A at zero volume (silence), and the volume may be increased again after the silence period elapses. Alternatively, the music A may be output again from the beginning after the silence period.
In addition, the output sound can be controlled by a so-called soft volume that changes the volume by internal control without any external instruction. That is, the soft volume is controlled by the effect control CPU 301, and is realized by software, for example. Further, a configuration example in which a soft volume is realized by an ASIC (Application Specific IC) (an integrated circuit for a specific application) which controls the volume control is also conceivable.

[Display image of variable period sound production]
29 (a) to 29 (c) are diagrams for explaining an image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the variable period sound effect.
As shown in FIG. 29A, when the symbol variation is started and the speaker 156 is outputting the music A, the following image is displayed on the image display unit 114. That is, a game effect image composed of element images such as a background P11, a decorative pattern P12, and a hold display P13 is displayed on the image display unit 114. The hold display P13 is an image showing that the right to determine the jackpot is held. Further, in the present embodiment, the display mode of the hold display P13 on the screen is determined based on the pre-determination result by the pre-determination process. To explain further, for example, by changing the display mode of colors, patterns, shapes, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "colors, etc."), the degree of expectation of winning a jackpot is notified based on the pre-judgment result by the pre-judgment process. Or suggest.

Next, as shown in FIG. 29B, the dedicated sound is output, and the image displayed on the image display unit 114 is switched from the above-mentioned game effect image to a silent image. The period during which the silent image is displayed corresponds to the above-mentioned silent period.
This silent image includes a background P11 and a character image P14. The character image P14 in the illustrated example includes a character image of "see!" Along with an image showing a character of a gesture that calls attention not to make a noise.
The silent image is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, a character string (explanation) such as "Expectations are high if the music changes!" May be displayed on the image display unit 114.

By the way, the image displayed on the image display unit 114 after the silent image is displayed changes depending on which of the above patterns 1 and 2 is.
As shown in FIG. 29 (c-1), in the case of the pattern 1 which is a high expectation effect, the reach effect image is displayed after the silent image. This reach effect image includes element images such as a decorative pattern P12 indicating reach, a background P11, and a hold display P13. When this reach effect image is displayed, the speaker 156 outputs the music B (see pattern 1 in FIG. 28).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 29 (c-2), in the case of the pattern 2 which is a low expectation effect, the loss effect image is displayed after the silent image. This loss effect image includes element images such as a decorative pattern P12, a background P11, and a hold display P13 that are fluctuating in a state where it is determined that the image is not reach. When this loss effect image is displayed, the speaker 156 outputs the music A (see pattern 2 in FIG. 28). That is, if the music does not change after the silence period, the loss is confirmed.

In the present embodiment, the image displayed on the image display unit 114 is changed in synchronization with the sound production by the speaker 156 as described above. In particular, by displaying the silent image on the image display unit 114 during the silent period, it is possible to arouse the player's expectation for the effect performed after the silent period.

It is preferable that the images displayed on the image display unit 114 before and after displaying the silent image on the image display unit 114, in other words, before and after the silent period, have the same display. In the present embodiment, since the degree of expectation is suggested by whether or not the music has changed before and after the silence period as described above, it is preferable that the display after the silence period is the same.

For example, after the game effect image shown in FIG. 29 (a) is switched to the silent image shown in FIG. 29 (b), unlike the illustrated example, the game effect image is once switched to the game effect image shown in FIG. 29 (a). After that, the reach effect image shown in FIG. 29 (c-1) or the loss effect image shown in FIG. 29 (c-2) may be displayed. By making the display after the silence period the same in this way, the player can more reliably recognize the change in the music.

[Modification 1]
FIG. 30 is a timing chart for explaining a modified example of the output sound.
In the above description of FIG. 28, it has been explained that the dedicated sound is output when the silence period is started. This dedicated sound is not particularly limited as long as it is a sound output from the speaker 156. For example, a firing sound, an explosive sound, a bell sound, a metal sound, a buzzer sound, a breaking sound such as a glass breaking sound, a character's speech, a high-pitched cuin sound effect, or the like may be used.

Further, as shown in the pattern 11 in FIG. 30, the mode may be such that the dedicated sound is not output. That is, after the music A is output, the music A suddenly ends, and the silence period is reached. Further, in the illustrated example, the music B is output after the end of the silence period. As a mode when the music B is started, the music B may be started by a fade-in in which the volume gradually increases, or the music B may be started suddenly.

Further, as shown in the pattern 12 in FIG. 30, a dedicated sound may be output at the end of the silence period in addition to the start of the silence period. That is, after the music A is output, the dedicated sound (first time) is output, and the silence period is set. Then, after the dedicated sound (second time) is output, the music B is output in the illustrated example. The dedicated sound (first time) and the dedicated sound (second time) may be the same or different from each other. Although not shown, the dedicated sound may not be output when the silent period starts, and the dedicated sound may be output only when the silent period ends.

By the way, in the above description of FIG. 28, the mode in which the silence period is provided once from the start to the stop of the special symbol change, that is, in one special symbol change is provided, but the silence period is provided a plurality of times. It may be the mode. In other words, the silence period may be repeated during the special symbol variation.
For example, as shown in pattern 13 in FIG. 30, after the music A is output, a dedicated sound is output and the silence period (first time) is set. Then, after the music A is restarted, the dedicated sound is output again and the silence period (second time) is set. Then, after the predetermined period has elapsed, the music B is output in the illustrated example.
In this example, after the first silence period, the player who is disappointed by the output of the music A having a low expectation can be excited by the second silence period. The dedicated sound (first time) and the dedicated sound (second time) output at the start of the silence period (first time) and the silence period (second time) may be the same or different from each other.

Further, in the explanation of the pattern 1 of FIG. 28, it has been explained that the music output from the music A to the music B changes with one special symbol change while the silence period elapses. The change of the music may be executed a plurality of times from the start of the special symbol change to the stop. In other words, it may be a mode in which the change of the music is repeated while passing through a silent period during the special symbol change.

For example, as shown in the pattern 14 in FIG. 30, after the music A is output, the dedicated sound is output and the silence period (first time) is set. Then, after the music B is output, the dedicated sound is output again, and the silence period (second time) is set. Then, after a predetermined period has elapsed, the music C different from the music A and the music B is output. It is assumed that the music C has a higher degree of expectation than the music A and the music B.
In this example, the music changes each time the silence period elapses, and more specifically, the music with a higher degree of expectation is output, so that the player's expectation can be increased.

In the above description, the songs A, B, and C have been described as different songs, but the forms may be different from each other to the extent that the player can feel the difference. For example, the music itself may be the same, and each may be modulated, or the tempo and volume of each may be different. To further explain, the higher the degree of expectation, the faster the tempo of the music may be. In addition, instead of the above-mentioned songs A, B, and C, sounds other than the songs, such as character lines and sound effects, may be output.

[Modification 2]
31 (a) to 31 (c) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the variable period sound effect.
In the description of FIGS. 29 (a) to 29 (c), it has been explained that whether or not the reach effect image is displayed changes after the silence period has passed, depending on the degree of expectation. However, the present invention is not limited to this as long as it suggests either a state that is relatively advantageous to the player or a state that is relatively unfavorable to the player after the silence period has passed.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 31 (a) to 31 (c), even if the reach effect image is displayed, there is a silent period, and then whether or not the reach effect image is displayed again changes. good.
More specifically, as shown in FIG. 31A, when the symbol variation is started and the speaker 156 is outputting the music A (see FIG. 28), the decorative symbol P12 indicating the reach, A reach effect image composed of element images such as a background P11 and a hold display P13 is displayed.
Then, as shown in FIG. 31B, the dedicated sound is output, and the image displayed on the image display unit 114 is switched from the reach effect image to the silent image.

Next, in the case of the above-mentioned pattern 1 (see FIG. 28), as shown in FIG. 31 (c-1), the reach effect image is displayed again after the silent image. At this time, the speaker 156 outputs the music B (see pattern 1 in FIG. 28).
On the other hand, in the case of the above-mentioned pattern 2 (see FIG. 28), as shown in FIG. 31 (c-2), a loss effect image is displayed after the silent image. This loss effect image includes element images such as a decorative pattern P12, a background P11, and a hold display P13 in a state where the loss is confirmed. When this loss effect image is displayed, the speaker 156 outputs the music A (see pattern 2 in FIG. 28).

Although the description is omitted above, the silent image shown in FIG. 31B includes, in addition to the decorative symbol P12, a so-called slow motion image P15 that displays the fighting scene of the character at a lower speed than usual. That is, this silent image is different from the silent image shown in FIG. 29 (b).
The silent image is not limited to the one shown in FIGS. 29 (b) and 31 (b). The silent image may be an image different from the image displayed by the start of the silent period. For example, as the background P11, a monochromatic background image, an image of outer space or desert, an image of a flashback scene, or the like is displayed. May be good.

Here, the silent image shown in FIG. 31B includes the decorative symbol P12. This decorative symbol P12 is different from the decorative symbol P12 of FIG. 31 (a).
Specifically, it is displayed smaller than the dimensions in the reach effect image shown in FIG. 31 (a). Further, the decorative symbol P12 is displayed on the outer peripheral side of the image display unit 114, unlike the position in the reach effect image shown in FIG. 31 (a).
In addition, unlike the silent image shown in FIG. 31B, the silent image may include both the decorative symbol P12 and the hold display P13, or may not include both the decorative symbol P12 and the hold display P13.

[Modification 3]
32 (a) to 32 (e) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect after the end of the silence period.
In the above description of FIGS. 29 (a) to 29 (c), it has been explained that the reach effect image (see FIG. 29 (c-1)) is displayed as the high expectation effect executed after the silence period. However, the present invention is not limited to this as long as it suggests that the degree of expectation is higher.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 32 (a), when the symbol variation is started and the speaker 156 is outputting the music A, the game effect image is displayed on the image display unit 114. .. Then, as shown in FIG. 32 (b), a silent image is displayed during the silent period.

Next, as shown in FIG. 32 (c), after the end of the silence period, the movable accessory 115 operates to suggest that the degree of expectation is higher. In the illustrated example, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 and rotates on the front surface of the image display unit 114. When the movable accessory 115 is operated, the decorative symbol P12 is displayed small on the outer peripheral side of the image display unit 114 in the image display unit 114 in order to avoid being hidden by the movable accessory 115. Further, in the illustrated example, the hold display P13 is not displayed, but the hold display P13 may be displayed.

Further, as another mode suggesting that the degree of expectation is higher, a mode in which an image different from the silent image is displayed on the image display unit 114 after the end of the silent period may be used.
For example, as shown in FIG. 32 (d), the image display unit 114 may display the operation instruction image P16 instructing the pressing of the effect button 161. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 32 (e), a suggestion image P17 showing an image suggesting that the degree of expectation is high (characters “GO!” In the illustrated example) may be displayed. Also in the examples shown in FIGS. 32 (d) and 32 (e), the decorative symbol P12 is displayed small on the outer peripheral side of the image display unit 114. Further, in the illustrated example, the hold display P13 is not displayed, but the hold display P13 may be displayed.

[Modification example 4]
FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (h). In FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (h), it is assumed that the main liquid crystal 114A and the sub liquid crystal 114B are provided as the image display unit 114.

As shown in FIG. 33A, in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Here, the fourth symbol P23 is a special symbol based on the winning of the first starting port 121 (see FIG. 1) or the second starting port 122 (see FIG. 1) by the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 (see FIG. 4). Is an image showing that is being changed (during display of change of the decorative symbol P12). The fourth symbol P23 is controlled by the effect control unit 300 and is displayed in a different manner according to the fluctuation and stop of the special symbol.

The fourth symbol P23 is three images corresponding to the decorative symbol P12, respectively. The fourth symbol P23 shown in FIG. 33A is displayed as an image having a smaller dimension than the decorative symbol P12. Further, the fourth symbol P23 is displayed (for example, vertically scrolled) in an manner indicating that the special symbol is changing with the winning of the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122. Then, the fourth symbol P23 stops when the fluctuation of the special symbol stops. In the illustrated example, the number indicated by the stop-displayed fourth symbol P23 matches the number indicated by the decorative symbol P12. The fourth symbol P23 plays the same role as the decorative symbol 41 in that it is performed as an effect suggesting the change and stop of the special symbol.

Further, the hold number display P24 is an image showing the hold number. The number displayed on the image display unit 114 of the hold number display P24 changes according to the number of holds for winning a prize in each of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. The hold number display P24 shown in FIG. 33A shows a number of “4” as the number of holds for winning the first starting port 121, and a number of “0” as the number of holds for winning the second starting port 122. Is shown. The hold number display P24 plays the same role as the hold display P13 in that the hold number display P24 is performed as an effect of suggesting the number of holds for winning each of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122.

The sub-background P21 is an image that serves as a background in the image displayed on the sub-liquid crystal 114B. Further, the sub-character image P22 is an effect image displayed on the sub-liquid crystal 114B. In the example shown in FIG. 33A, the sub-character image P22 is an image including a character image. The sub-character image P22 is displayed so as to be superimposed on the front side (upper layer) of the sub-background P21.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (b), in the main liquid crystal 114A, the reach effect in which the symbols on both sides of the decorative symbol P12 are aligned is executed. At this time, the sub-background P21 and the sub-character image P22 are displayed on the sub-liquid crystal 114B. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (c), the SP reach effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.

In addition, SP reach production is generally called super reach or special reach, and it is a production that expects a big hit rather than reach, and it depends on images (moving images) in which various characters appear and the story develops. It is a production.
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the SP image P25 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A, and the sub background P21 and the sub SP image P35 are displayed on the sub liquid crystal 114B. Is displayed.

Here, the decorative symbol P12 is displayed in small dimensions in the corners (upper left and upper right corners) of the image display area on the main liquid crystal 114A.
Further, each of the SP image P25 and the sub SP image P35 is an image including a character image. Each of the SP image P25 and the sub SP image P35 is an image displayed only when the SP reach effect is executed. Further, in the illustrated example, the SP image P25 and the sub SP image P35 are images that are similar (related) to each other.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (d), the button operation effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the operation instruction image P16, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub SP image P35 are displayed. The sub SP image P35 is an image that is not similar to the operation instruction image P16.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (e), the introduction effect is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a dedicated sound (special sound, introduction sound). As this introduction sound, for example, a sound effect such as "push" is output.

The introduction effect is an effect that suggests that a blackout effect (described later) is executed. In other words, the introductory effect can be regarded as an effect that announces (notifies) that the blackout effect will be executed. In addition, the introductory production can be regarded as a switching production (fanning production) to a high-expectation production.

In the illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 33 (e), the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the horizontal image P26 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub horizontal image P27 are displayed. The sub-horizontal image P27 is an image similar to the horizontal image P26.

Each of the horizontal image P26 and the sub-horizontal image P27 in the illustrated example is a linear image extending in one direction (horizontal direction). Further, the linear image extending in one direction is displayed so as to extend over the entire length of the image display area of the main liquid crystal 114A or the sub liquid crystal 114B. Further, in the illustrated example, the width of the central portion in one direction is thicker than that of the other portions. Then, the width (length in the vertical direction) of the linear image extending in one direction becomes narrower (decreases) with the passage of time.

The horizontal image P26 and the sub-horizontal image P27 are displayed in a different color from the background P11 and the sub-background P21. The background P11 and the sub-background P21 in the illustrated example are displayed as a monochromatic image. For example, the background P11 and the sub-background P21 are displayed in black. The horizontal image P26 and the sub-horizontal image P27 displayed on the background P11 and the sub-background P21 displayed in the black image are displayed in white.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (f), the blackout effect is executed. Further, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period (silence period).

Here, the blackout effect is an effect of displaying a single color image (for example, black) in the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B). The display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B) is defined as a monochromatic image, as long as the player can recognize that the monochromatic image is displayed in the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B). It does not exclude the display of images other than the image. For example, a monochromatic image is displayed as a background image in the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B), and an image of a single line extending in the left-right direction is displayed or a character image is displayed by superimposing the background image. You may do it.

In the illustrated example, in the main liquid crystal 114A, in addition to the background P11 which is a monochromatic image, the fourth symbol P23 and the hold number display P24 are displayed. On the other hand, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, only the sub background P21 which is a monochromatic image is displayed. The background P11 and the sub-background P21 in the illustrated example are black images displayed on the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A or the sub-liquid crystal 114B. This black image is the same as the background P11 and the sub-background P21 of the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e). In addition, the black images of the background P11 and the sub-background P21 in the illustrated example have uniform shades of the image, but there may be a distribution of shades in the image.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (g), the high expectation effect is executed. Further, in the illustrated high expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. That is, the speaker 156 outputs a music B different from the music A that was output before the sound suppression period (see FIG. 33 (f)). In other words, the sound output from the speaker 156 changes before and after the sound suppression period.

In the illustrated example, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the next image P28 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub next image P29 are displayed. Here, the next image P28 and the sub-next image P29 are images including the character string "next time!". Further, the next image P28 and the sub-next image P29 suggest that there is a high possibility that the jackpot game will be performed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 33 (h), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound. For example, the speaker 156 outputs a sound "Zusharn!".
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, the sub background P21 and the sub decorative pattern P18 are displayed on the sub liquid crystal 114B. Here, the sub-decorative symbol P18 is an image corresponding to the decorative symbol P12. The decorative symbol P12 and the sub-decorative symbol P18 in the illustrated example are images including the number “777”. The decorative symbol P12 and the sub-decorative symbol P18 are a combination when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit.

By the way, in the illustrated example, when shifting from the button operation effect shown in FIG. 33 (d) to the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e) as described above, the display mode of the decorative symbol P12 is switched. That is, the decorative symbol P12 is switched from display to non-display. On the other hand, when shifting from the button operation effect shown in FIG. 33 (d) to the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e), the display of the fourth symbol P23 is maintained.

Although it has been described above that the decorative symbol P12 is hidden, that is, disappears in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e), the present invention is not limited to this mode. For example, the display mode may be switched so that the decorative symbol P12 is inconspicuous, such as the decorative symbol P12 becoming more transparent and the decorative symbol P12 becoming smaller in size. More specifically, this inconspicuous display mode may be maintained in the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f).

Further, although it has been described above that the display of the fourth symbol P23 is maintained in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e), the present invention is not limited to this aspect. For example, unlike the illustrated example, the fourth symbol P23 may be hidden in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e). Further, although the display itself of the fourth symbol P23 is maintained, the transparency and color of the fourth symbol P23 may be changed so as to reduce the visibility of the fourth symbol P23 or make it difficult to see. Further explaining, the display mode in which the visibility is reduced (hidden) may be maintained in the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f). Here, as an aspect of reducing the visibility of the fourth symbol P23, an image covering the fourth symbol P23 may be displayed in a layer higher than the fourth symbol P23.

Further, with respect to the hold number display P24, as in the case of the fourth symbol P23, in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f), the visibility is reduced or the display is hidden. It may be an embodiment.
By controlling the display of the fourth symbol P23 and the hold number display P24 as described above, the player can be more concentrated on the introduction effect and the blackout effect.

By the way, in the above example, when shifting from the reach effect shown in FIG. 33 (b) to the SP reach effect shown in FIG. 33 (c), the hold display P13 is hidden while the hold number display P24. Is displayed. As a result, the player can be more concentrated on the SP reach effect.
Further, in the above example, the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e) is executed immediately before the transition to the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f). By executing a dynamic introduction effect immediately before the blackout effect, which is a static effect, the blackout effect can be executed more effectively. Note that, unlike the illustrated example, the mode may shift to the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f) without executing the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e).

Here, the blackout effect can be regarded as a darkening effect. Further, the blackout effect can be regarded as an effect of changing the visibility of the image displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B) to a difficult-to-see state lower than a predetermined state (reference state). Further, the blackout effect can be regarded as an effect of reducing the brightness of the entire image displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B). The blackout effect may be performed on only one of the main liquid crystal 114A and the sub liquid crystal 114B. That is, when the blackout effect is executed on the main liquid crystal 114A, the blackout effect may not be executed on the sub liquid crystal 114B. Further, when the blackout effect is executed on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the blackout effect may not be executed on the main liquid crystal 114A.

Further, instead of this blackout effect, a whiteout effect may be executed. In this whiteout effect, the visibility of the image displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B) can be regarded as an effect of changing the visibility to a state of difficulty in viewing higher than the reference state. Further, the whiteout effect can be regarded as an effect of increasing the brightness of the entire image displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B). For example, in the whiteout effect, a white image is displayed in the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B) as the background P11 (sub background P21).

Note that, unlike the illustrated example, the effect button 161 is switched (deformed) between a non-protruding state in which the effect button 161 is in a normal state and a protruding state in which the effect button 161 is more prominent than the non-protruding state. )Sometimes. In this way, when the effect button 161 is deformed, the button operation effect shown in FIG. 33 (d) may be executed according to the degree of expectation of the effect executed after the blackout effect. For example, when the effect executed after the blackout effect has a low expectation, the operation instruction image P16 showing the effect button 161 in the non-protruding state is displayed, and the effect executed after the blackout effect has a high expectation. In some cases, the operation instruction image P16 showing the effect button 161 in the protruding state may be displayed.

Further, unlike the illustrated example, a plurality of effect buttons 161 may be provided. In this case as well, the button operation effect may be executed according to the degree of expectation of the effect to be executed after the blackout effect. For example, when the effect executed after the blackout effect has a low expectation, the operation instruction image P16 showing the first effect button 161 is displayed, and the effect executed after the blackout effect has a high expectation. In that case, the operation instruction image P16 indicating the second effect button 161 may be displayed.

[Modification 5]
FIGS. 34 (a) to 34 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 (a) to 34 (h). In the description from the modified example shown in FIG. 34 to the modified example shown in FIG. 40 described later, the points different from the effect of FIG. 33 will be mainly described, and the points corresponding to the effect of FIG. 33 will be described. May be omitted.

First, as shown in FIGS. 34 (a) to 34 (f), after the symbol variation is started, the reach effect, the SP reach effect, the button operation effect, the introduction effect, and the blackout effect are executed. The effect shown in FIGS. 34 (a) to 34 (f) is the same as the effect shown in FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (f).

Then, as shown in FIG. 34 (g), the low expectation degree effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156. At this time, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. That is, an image similar to the image displayed by the reach effect shown in FIG. 34 (b) is displayed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 34 (h), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. The speaker 156 outputs a stop sound. For example, the speaker 156 outputs a sound of "Chun!".
In the fixed stop effect of the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, the sub background P21 and the sub decorative pattern P18 are displayed on the sub liquid crystal 114B. In the illustrated example, the decorative symbol P12 and the sub-decorative symbol P18 are images including the number "787". The decorative symbol P12 and the sub-decorative symbol P18 are combinations when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is lost.

Here, a comparison between the effect shown in FIG. 33 and the effect shown in FIG. 34 will be described.
First, in the effect shown in FIG. 33, after the introduction effect shown in FIG. 33 (e) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 33 (f) are executed, the high expectation effect is produced as shown in FIG. 33 (g). Will be executed. On the other hand, in the effect shown in FIG. 34, after the introduction effect shown in FIG. 34 (e) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 34 (f) are executed, the low expectation effect is shown as shown in FIG. 34 (g). Is executed.
Therefore, a player who desires to execute a high-expectation effect will be excited when the introduction effect and the blackout effect are executed.

Here, in the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 33 (g), the next image P28 having a higher expectation is displayed, the music B having a higher expectation is output, and the hold display P13 is hidden.
On the other hand, in the low expectation effect shown in FIG. 34 (g), the decorative symbol P12 showing the reach with the lower expectation is displayed, the music A with the lower expectation is output, and the hold display P13 is displayed.

Further, in the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 33 (h), a definite sound having a higher expectation is output. The volume of this fixed sound is loud because it arouses the player's uplifting feeling.
On the other hand, in the low expectation effect shown in FIG. 34 (h), a stop sound having a lower expectation is displayed. The volume of this stop sound is lower than that of the fixed sound.

[Modification 6]
35 (a) to 35 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 35 (a) to 35 (h).

Here, in the modified examples shown in FIGS. 35 (a) to 35 (h), the main liquid crystal 114A and the sub liquid crystal 114B are provided as the image display unit 114, and the sub liquid crystal 114B is movable. Specifically, the sub liquid crystal 114B is provided so as to be movable in the vertical direction. Further, in the modified example shown in FIG. 35, unlike the modified example shown in FIG. 33, the hold number display P24 is not displayed. Further, in this modification, a plurality of lamps (not shown) indicating the number of holdings are provided, and a prize is given to each of the first starting port 121 (see FIG. 1) and the second starting port 122 (see FIG. 1). The display mode of the lamp (for example, the number of lamps to be lit) changes according to the number of reserved lamps.

First, as shown in FIGS. 35 (a) to 35 (c), the reach effect and the SP reach effect are executed after the symbol variation is started. The effect shown in FIGS. 35 (a) to 35 (c) is the same as the effect shown in FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (c).

Then, as shown in FIG. 35 (d), the introduction effect is executed. Further, the introduction sound is output from the speaker 156. As this introduction sound, for example, a sound effect such as "Dokan" is output. Further, the sub liquid crystal 114B rises with the output of the introduced sound (see arrow A1 in the figure). By raising the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub liquid crystal 114B is arranged to cover the image display area of the main liquid crystal 114A more (wider) than before the rise (see FIG. 35C).

In the illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 35 (d), the background P11 and the fourth symbol P23 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 is displayed. The background P11 in the illustrated example is a white image displayed on the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, the sub-background P21 is a black image displayed on the entire display area of the sub-liquid crystal 114B. The sub-background P21 is an image similar to the background P11 but different in color from each other.

Then, as shown in FIG. 35 (e), the blackout effect is executed. Further, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period (silence period).

In the main liquid crystal 114A of the illustrated example, the background P11 and the fourth symbol P23, which are monochromatic images, are displayed. On the other hand, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, only the sub background P21 which is a monochromatic image is displayed. The background P11 (sub-background P21) in the illustrated example is a black image displayed on the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub-liquid crystal 114B). This sub-background P21 is the same image as the background P11.

Then, as shown in FIG. 35 (f), the high expectation effect is executed. Further, in the illustrated high expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. That is, the speaker 156 outputs a music B different from the music A that was output before the sound suppression period (see FIG. 35 (e)). In other words, the sound output from the speaker 156 changes before and after the sound suppression period.

In the illustrated high expectation effect, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, and the explosion image P31 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub decorative symbol P18, the sub background P21, and the sub explosion image P32 are displayed. Here, the explosion image P31 (sub-explosion image P32) is an image showing a flame spreading from the central portion of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B) toward the outer periphery of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B). Further, the explosion image P31 and the sub-explosion image P32 suggest that there is a high possibility that a jackpot game will be performed. Further, in the illustrated example, the explosion image P31 and the sub-explosion image P32 are images that are similar (related) to each other.

Then, as shown in FIG. 35 (g), the button operation effect is executed. Further, the music B is output from the speaker 156.
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the operation instruction image P16, and the explosion image P31 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, in the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub decorative symbol P18, the sub background P21, and the sub explosion image P32 are displayed. The image displayed on the sub liquid crystal 114B is not similar to the image displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A in that the image corresponding to the operation instruction image P16 is not included. Further, in this button operation effect, the fourth symbol P23 is not displayed. As a result, the player can be more concentrated on the button operation effect.

Then, as shown in FIG. 35 (h), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound. For example, the sound "Zusharn!" Is output.
In the illustrated fixed stop effect, the background P11 and the decorative symbol P12 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, the sub background P21 and the sub decorative pattern P18 are displayed on the sub liquid crystal 114B. The decorative symbol P12 and the sub-decorative symbol P18 in the illustrated example are images including the number “777”. In this fixed stop effect, the fourth symbol P23 is not displayed.

By the way, in the above description, it has been explained that the fourth symbol P23 is not displayed in the button operation effect shown in FIG. 35 (g) and the fixed stop effect shown in FIG. 35 (h). The fourth symbol P23 may be displayed.

[Modification 7]
36 (a) to 36 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 36 (a) to 36 (h). In this modified example, one image display unit 114 is provided instead of two image display units (main liquid crystal 114A and sub liquid crystal 114B).

As shown in FIG. 36 (a), in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display are displayed on the image display unit 114. P24 is displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Here, the right-handed display P19 suggests that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a state advantageous to the player (right-handed state) by hitting right (by changing the hitting force of the game ball). It is an image.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36B, the introduction effect is executed. Specifically, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the horizontal image P26 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the introduction sound is output from the speaker 156. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 36 (f)) is turned off and stopped.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (c), the blackout effect is executed. Specifically, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period. Further, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24, which are monochromatic images, are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 36 (f)) is turned off and stopped. At this time, the LED provided on the display 130 (see FIG. 1) is in a state of being lit in a predetermined lighting mode. In other words, while the board lamp 116 is turned off, all the LEDs provided on the display 130 are not turned off (the state remains turned off). As described above, in the blackout effect, some of the lamps provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100 are turned off, and the other lamps are turned on.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (d), the high expectation effect is executed. Further, in this high expectation effect, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period.
In the high expectation effect of the illustrated example, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the special character image P36 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 36 (f)) is turned off and stopped. The special character image P36 is an image in which a character appears. This special character image P36 is an image that is displayed only when the high expectation effect is executed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (e), the high expectation effect is continuously executed. Further, in the illustrated high-expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the high-expectation sound, which is an effect sound for notifying that the jackpot game is likely to be performed, and then outputs the music B. That is, the speaker 156 outputs a sound different from the music A that was output before the sound suppression period (see FIG. 36C). In other words, the sound output from the speaker 156 changes before and after the sound suppression period. In the illustrated example, the speaker 156 outputs a sound of "churn!" In the voice of the character shown in the special character image P38 as a high expectation sound. Further, in the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 36 (e), the board lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 36 (f)) is turned off and stopped.

In the illustrated high expectation effect, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the special character image P38 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The special character image P38 is an image in which a character appears. Further, the special character image P38 is an image in which an effect image is added to the special character image P36 shown in FIG. 36 (d). The characters included in the special character image P38 and the special character image P36 are the same. Further, the special character image P38 can be captured as an image similar to the special character image P36. Further, the fourth symbol P23 is displayed after the symbols are aligned and stopped. Specifically, it is an image including the number "777". The fourth symbol P23 is a combination when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (f), the high expectation effect is further continuously executed. Further, in the illustrated high expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) lights up (blinks). In addition, the movable accessory 115 starts operation.

Specifically, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A3). At this time, the movable accessory 115 is arranged to cover a part of the image display area of the image display unit 114. Further, the movable accessory 115 rotates on the front surface of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A4).

Further, the movable accessory 115 emits light in a special mode (special light emission) different from the normal light emitting mode in which light is emitted in a single color, for example. In the illustrated example, light is emitted with a so-called rainbow pattern in which the emission color changes to multiple colors (7 colors). Here, the light emission with the rainbow pattern is a mode in which a plurality of colors constituting the rainbow, for example, each color of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and purple emits light in order.

In addition, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the effect image P39 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The effect image P39 is an image that is displayed on the outer peripheral region of the movable accessory 115 when viewed from the player, and excites the effect of the movable accessory 115. This effect image P39 is displayed, for example, in a rainbow pattern.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (g), the movable accessory 115 rises, and the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound. For example, the sound "Zusharn!" Is output.
In the illustrated fixed stop effect, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the decorative symbol P12 in the illustrated example is an image including the number “777”.

Then, as shown in FIG. 36 (h), the opening effect is executed according to the determination result of the special symbol lottery. In addition, the speaker 156 outputs an opening sound.
Here, the opening effect is an effect executed in the above-mentioned opening operation. In the illustrated opening effect, the background P11, the right-handed display P19, and the opening image P37 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The opening image P37 is an image including a character string of "Super Bonus" indicating the type of the jackpot game.

By the way, in the above example, in the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 36 (e), the jackpot is notified by aligning the symbols and stopping at the fourth symbol P23. The effect of aligning the symbols in the fourth symbol P23 is executed before the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 shown in FIG. 36 (g).

Further, in the above example, in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 36 (b), the blackout effect shown in FIG. 36 (c), and the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 36 (d), the board lamp 116 and the movable accessory When the 115 is turned off, the game board 110 (see FIG. 1) is maintained in a dark state. As a result, the introduction effect or the blackout effect can be executed more effectively.

Further, in the above example, the right-handed display P19 disappears in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 36 (b). That is, the right-handed display P19 disappears when the horizontal image P26 is displayed. Further, the display of the right-handed display P19 is restricted until the opening operation is started. As a result, the player can be more concentrated on the production such as the introduction production and the blackout production.

Here, in the above example, the time from the start of the symbol variation (see FIG. 36 (a)) to the start of the sound suppression period (see FIG. 36 (c)) is from the start of the sound suppression period. It is shorter than the time until the end of the sound suppression period. Further, the time from the start of the fluctuation to the start of the introduction effect (see FIG. 36B) is shorter than the time from the start of the sound suppression period to the end of the sound suppression period. The time from the end of the sound suppression period (see FIG. 36 (c)) to the final stop of the decorative symbol P12 (see FIG. 36 (g)) is the sound suppression period from the start of the sound suppression period. Is longer than the time it takes to finish. As a result, by providing a sound suppression period at the beginning (first half) of the period in which the symbol change is performed, the player can be more concentrated on the symbol change. Further, by darkening the game board 110 (see FIG. 1) immediately after the start of the symbol variation (early after the start), it is possible to perform an unexpected effect.

Further, after maintaining the sound suppression period in the blackout effect shown in FIG. 36 (c) and the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 36 (e), the character voice is generated as the high expectation sound as shown in FIG. 36 (e). Output is executed. In this way, by outputting the character sound from the state where the sound is not output from the speaker 156, the player can be more concentrated on the high expectation sound.

In addition, unlike the illustrated example, in the case of the configuration having the movable sub liquid crystal 114B (see FIG. 35 (d)), the sub liquid crystal 114B in the blackout effect shown in FIG. 36 (c) is black as the sub background P21. It is controlled so that the image is displayed and the state is stopped.

Further, in the above description, it has been explained that the right-handed display P19 is hidden when the blackout effect is executed, but the display of the right-handed display P19 is maintained when the blackout effect is executed. You may. Further, when the display of the right-handed display P19 is maintained when the blackout effect is executed, the size, position, color, and transparency of the right-handed display P19 may be changed. For example, when the blackout effect is started, the right-handed display P19 may be made smaller, the right-handed display P19 may be moved, or the right-handed display P19 may be made into a color that is difficult to see. Here, as a mode for reducing the visibility of the right-handed display P19, an image covering the right-handed display P19 may be displayed in a layer higher than the right-handed display P19.

Further, unlike the illustrated example, blackout occurs when the remaining number of STs (special times) for maintaining a probabilistic change or a time saving state is displayed during a predetermined number of fluctuations of a special symbol. The remaining number of times of this ST may be hidden when the effect is executed. Further, the display of the remaining number of STs may be maintained when the blackout effect is executed. Further, when maintaining the display of the remaining number of STs, the size and position of the display of the remaining number of STs, or the color and transparency may be changed. For example, when the blackout effect is started, the display of the remaining number of STs may be reduced, the display of the remaining number of STs may be moved, or the display of the remaining number of STs may be displayed in a color that is difficult to see. Here, as a mode for reducing the visibility of the display of the remaining number of STs, an image covering the display of the remaining number of STs may be displayed in a layer higher than the display of the remaining number of STs.

[Modification 8]
FIGS. 37 (a) to 37 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 37 (a) to 37 (h). In this modified example, one image display unit 114 is provided instead of two image display units (main liquid crystal 114A and sub liquid crystal 114B).

As shown in FIG. 37 (a), in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the number of holds are displayed on the image display unit 114. P24 is displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (b), the button operation effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156. In the illustrated example, the background P11, the operation instruction image P16, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the image display unit 114.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (c), the accessory movement effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A3) and rotates on the front surface of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A4). Further, the movable accessory 115 emits light in a normal light emitting mode such as blinking in white.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (d), the movable accessory 115 rises, and the reach effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.
In the illustrated example, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the movable accessory 115 rises, stops at an upper position, and emits light in a normal light emitting mode.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (e), the introduction effect is executed. Specifically, the background P11, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the horizontal image P26 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the introduction sound is output from the speaker 156. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 37 (c)) is turned off and stopped.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (f), the blackout effect is executed. Specifically, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period. Further, the image display unit 114 displays a background P11 which is a monochromatic image, a right-handed display P19, a fourth symbol P23, and a hold number display P24. Further, the panel lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is turned off. Further, the movable accessory 115 (see FIG. 37 (c)) is turned off and stopped.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (g), the high expectation effect is executed. Further, in the illustrated high expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. Further, the board lamp 116 (see FIG. 1) is lit (blinking). Further, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A3) and rotates in front of the image display unit 114 (see arrow A4). Further, the movable accessory 115 emits light in a special mode (special light emission) different from the normal light emitting mode. The background P11 and the effect image P39 are displayed on the image display unit 114, and the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are not displayed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 37 (h), the movable accessory 115 rises, and the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound. For example, the sound "Zusharn!" Is output. The image display unit 114 displays a background P11, a right-handed display P19, a fourth symbol P23, and a hold number display P24.

By the way, in the above example, the board lamp 116 and the movable accessory 115 are turned off by the introduction effect shown in FIG. 37 (e) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 37 (f), so that the game board 110 (FIG. 1) is turned off. See) remains dark. As a result, the blackout effect can be executed more effectively.

Further, in the high expectation effect shown in FIG. 37 (g), the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are not displayed on the image display unit 114. In other words, at the start of the operation of the movable accessory 115 (the end of the blackout effect), the display of the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 is suppressed on the image display unit 114. As a result, the player can be more concentrated on the high expectation production.

Here, as an effect example different from the illustrated example, when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is lost, it is not necessary to operate the movable accessory 115 after executing the blackout effect shown in FIG. 37 (f). As a result, when the blackout effect shown in FIG. 37 (f) is executed, it is possible to make the player expect whether or not the movable accessory 115 is executed next.

[Modification 9]
38-1 (a) to (h) and 38-2 (i) to (k) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 38-1 (a) to (h) and FIGS. 38-2 (i) to (k).

In this modification, it is assumed that one image display unit 114 is provided instead of two image display units (main liquid crystal 114A and sub liquid crystal 114B). Further, unlike the example shown in FIG. 33, the hold number display P24 is not displayed. Further, in this modification, a plurality of lamps (not shown) indicating the number of holdings are provided, and a prize is given to each of the first starting port 121 (see FIG. 1) and the second starting port 122 (see FIG. 1). The display mode of the lamp (for example, the number of lamps to be lit) changes according to the number of reserved lamps.

As shown in FIG. 38-1 (a), it is assumed that the fixed stop effect is executed when the change of the previous special symbol is completed. At this time, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone notice image P41 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A. In the hold display P13, the fourth hold display from the left is a display mode with a higher degree of expectation as compared with the first to third hold displays from the left.

Here, the zone notice image P41 is an image that gives notice (notification) that the zone effect will be executed. The zone effect is an example of a notice effect (look-ahead effect) executed based on the pre-determination result of the pre-determination process. In this zone effect, for example, the background P11 changes to a special image from the start of the variation display of the next special symbol to the variation of the special symbol related to the pre-reading target hold (the fourth hold display from the left in the illustrated example). This is an effect suggesting that there is a high possibility that the background P11 will be a big hit in the variable display while the background P11 is changing to a special image. In the illustrated example, it is suggested that there is a high possibility of a big hit in the variable display while the zone image P43 (described later) is displayed. The zone notice image P41 in the illustrated example includes the character string "Waiting for zone!".

As shown in FIG. 38-1 (b), in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone notice image P41 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Will be done. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-1 (c), the introduction effect is executed. Specifically, the background P11, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone notice image P41 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the introduction sound 1 is output from the speaker 156. As the introduction sound 1, for example, a sound effect such as "Zuhune" is output. Further, the background P11 in the illustrated example is displayed as a monochromatic image (black image).

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-1 (d), the introduction effect is continuously executed. Specifically, the background P11, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, the horizontal image P26, and the zone notice image P41 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, the introduction sound 2 is output from the speaker 156. Unlike the introduction sound 1, the introduction sound 2 outputs a sound effect such as “push”.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-1 (e), the blackout effect is executed. Specifically, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period. Further, the background P11, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone notice image P41, which are monochromatic images, are displayed on the image display unit 114.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-1 (f), the high expectation effect is executed. Further, in the illustrated high-expectation effect, the speaker 156 outputs the music B and the high-expectation sound is output. As this high-expected sound, for example, a sound effect such as "Kyuinkyuin" is output.

In the illustrated high expectation effect, the background P11, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone start image P42 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The zone start image P42 is an image that notifies that the zone effect is started. The illustrated zone start image P42 includes the character string “zone entry”.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-1 (g), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. The background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone image P43 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The zone image P43 is an image that notifies that the zone effect is being executed. The illustrated zone image P43 is a band-shaped image displayed in the image display area of the image display unit 114. Further, in the illustrated example, the decorative symbol P12 includes the number "543", and is a combination when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is lost.

Then, after the next (second) variation of the special symbol is started, the fixed stop effect is executed as shown in FIG. 38-1 (h). Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. The background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone image P43 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, in the illustrated example, the decorative symbol P12 includes the number "124", and is a combination when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is lost.

Then, after the next (third) variation of the special symbol is started, the fixed stop effect is executed as shown in FIG. 38-2 (i). Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music B. The background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the zone image P43 are displayed on the image display unit 114. Further, in the illustrated example, the decorative symbol P12 includes the number "611", and is a combination when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is lost.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-2 (j), in the state where the next (fourth) special symbol change is started, the image display unit 114 has a background P11, a decorative symbol P12, a hold display P13, and a third. 4 The symbol P23 and the zone image P43 are displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music B.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38-2 (k), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound. For example, the sound "Zusharn!" Is output.
In the illustrated fixed stop effect, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, and the fourth symbol P23 are displayed on the image display unit 114. The decorative symbol P12 and the fourth symbol P23 in the illustrated example are images including the number “777”.

By the way, in the above example, as shown in FIGS. 38-1 (a) to 38-1 (e), the display of the zone notice image P41 is maintained. As a result, the player can be surely notified that the zone effect is executed.
Further, in the above example, as shown in FIGS. 38-1 (c) and 38-1 (d), the introduction effect is executed in two stages. As a result, the blackout effect executed following the introduction effect can be further excited.

Further, in the above example, the blackout effect shown in FIG. 38-1 (e) is executed prior to the zone effect executed in FIGS. 38-1 (f) and later. This blackout effect can be regarded as an effect that notifies that the zone effect is executed. Further, the illustrated blackout effect can be regarded as an effect for notifying that a high expectation effect (fixed effect) is executed.

Further, in the above description, it has been explained that the hold number display P24 is not displayed, but the hold number display P24 may be displayed.
Further, in the above description, it has been described that the blackout effect is executed when the zone effect is executed, but for example, the blackout effect may be executed when the mode effect is executed. Here, the mode effect is an effect executed according to a plurality of set scenes (modes) on the effect. In this mode effect, when the mode transition condition is satisfied, the mode shifts to one of the plurality of modes, and the effect unique to that mode is executed.

[Modification 10]
39 (a) to 39 (h) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 39 (a) to 39 (h). In this modification, the decorative symbol P12 has a plurality of display modes. That is, only the decorative design P12 (see FIG. 39 (b)) in which the image of the character is displayed in addition to the characters such as numbers and alphanumeric characters and the characters such as numbers and alphanumeric characters are displayed. It is displayed by switching between the decorative symbol P12 (see FIG. 39 (f)) in the display mode having low decorativeness.

First, as shown in FIG. 39A, in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. NS. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39B, in the main liquid crystal 114A, the reach effect in which the symbols on both sides of the decorative symbol P12 are aligned is executed. At this time, the decorative symbol P12 is a highly decorative display mode. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (c), the SP reach effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156. At this time, the decorative symbol P12 is displayed in small dimensions in the corners (upper left and upper right corners) of the image display area on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, the decorative pattern P12 is a display mode having low decorativeness. In other words, the decorative symbol P12 moves and switches from a highly decorative display mode to a less decorative display mode when the SP reach effect is executed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (d), the introduction effect is executed. Further, the introduction sound is output from the speaker 156. Further, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 while maintaining the extinguished state (see arrow A3). Then, the movable accessory 115 is in a state of being stopped in front of the image display unit 114. In the main liquid crystal 114A, the background P11, the fourth symbol P23, the hold number display P24, and the horizontal image P26 are displayed. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub horizontal image P27 are displayed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (e), the blackout effect is executed. Further, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period (silence period). At this time, the movable accessory 115 is turned off, and the state of being stopped in front of the image display unit 114 is maintained. Further, the main liquid crystal 114A displays the background P11 which is a monochromatic image, the fourth symbol P23 and the hold number display P24, and the sub liquid crystal 114B displays only the sub background P21 which is a monochromatic image.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (f), the movable accessory 115 rises while maintaining the extinguished state, and the low expectation degree effect is executed. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156. At this time, the decorative symbol P12 is a display mode with low decorativeness.

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (g), a temporary stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. At this time, the decorative symbol P12 is a display mode with low decorativeness. The speaker 156 outputs a stop sound. For example, the speaker 156 outputs a sound of "Chun!".

Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (h), the fixed stop effect using the decorative symbol P12 is executed. At this time, the decorative symbol P12 is a highly decorative display mode. Further, the speaker 156 is in a silent state, for example.

By the way, in the above example, the movable accessory 115 is operated by the introduction effect shown in FIG. 39 (d). As a result, the blackout effect can be further enhanced. Further, in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 39 (d) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 39 (e), the blackout effect can be executed more effectively by keeping the movable accessory 115 turned off. ..

In the above example, as a low expectation effect, it was explained in FIG. 39 (f) that the state in which the movable accessory 115 is turned off is maintained when the movable accessory 115 rises. In addition, unlike the illustrated example, when the high expectation effect is executed after the blackout effect shown in FIG. 39 (e), the movable accessory 115 may be raised while emitting light. For example, the movable accessory 115 may be made to emit light with a rainbow pattern.

[Modification 11]
40 (a) to 40 (e) are diagrams for explaining a modification of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect.
Next, a modified example of the effect executed in the variable period sound effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 40 (a) to 40 (e). In this modification, as a whiteout effect, a monochromatic image (for example, white) is displayed in the entire display area of the main liquid crystal 114A (sub liquid crystal 114B), and other decorative symbols P12, operation instruction image P16, and the like are displayed. Display the images together.

First, as shown in FIG. 40A, in the state where the symbol variation is started, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the hold display P13, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 are displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. NS. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. Further, the speaker 156 outputs the music A.

Then, as shown in FIG. 40 (b), the whiteout effect is executed in the main liquid crystal 114A. Specifically, the background P11, which is a monochromatic image, is displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, on the main liquid crystal 114A, the fourth symbol P23 and the hold number display P24 are displayed. Further, in the illustrated example, the operation instruction image P16 is displayed. At this time, the sub-background P21 and the sub-character image P22 are displayed on the sub-liquid crystal 114B. The sub-background P21 is an image other than a monochromatic image. Further, the speaker 156 is controlled so as to have a sound suppression period.

Then, as shown in FIG. 40 (c), in the main liquid crystal 114A, the symbol on the left side of the decorative symbol P12 is temporarily stopped. At this time, the background P11 is an image other than the monochromatic image. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. The sub-background P21 is an image other than a monochromatic image. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.

Then, as shown in FIG. 40 (d), in the main liquid crystal 114A, the central symbol in the decorative symbol P12 is temporarily stopped. At this time, the background P11, which is a monochromatic image, is displayed on the main liquid crystal 114A. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub character image P22 are displayed. The sub-background P21 is an image other than a monochromatic image. Further, the music A is output from the speaker 156.

Then, as shown in FIG. 40 (e), in the main liquid crystal 114A, the decorative symbol P12 is fixedly stopped after the right symbol in the decorative symbol P12 is temporarily stopped. At this time, a monochromatic image is maintained on the background P11. Further, on the sub liquid crystal 114B, the sub background P21 and the sub decorative symbol P18 are displayed. The sub-background P21 is an image other than a monochromatic image. Further, the sub-decorative symbol P18 is an image corresponding to the decorative symbol P12. Further, the speaker 156 outputs a definite sound.

Here, the decorative symbol P12 shown in FIG. 40 (e) temporarily stops at the chance. Here, the chance eye is a mode in which the decorative symbol P12 is stopped and displayed in a specific combination (for example, a combination of different symbols of the same color), and is an aspect of the advance notice effect.
Then, in the illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 40 (d), when the central symbol in the decorative symbol P12 is temporarily stopped and expected to be stopped at the chance, a whiteout effect is produced as a fanning effect. Is executed.

As shown in FIG. 40D and the like, when the decorative symbol P12 is displayed on the background P11 which is a monochromatic image, the decorative symbol P12 may be displayed in a mode that is difficult to see.

〔others〕
By the way, the execution mode of the introduction effect may be changed according to the degree of expectation. For example, the higher the degree of expectation, the longer the execution time (scale) of the introduction effect may be. Further, the sound output by the speaker 156 may be different for each degree of expectation. Further, the horizontal image P26 displayed on the image display unit 114 or the like may be different for each degree of expectation. For example, the horizontal image P26 may have different colors depending on whether the degree of expectation is high or low.

Similarly, the execution mode of the blackout effect may be changed according to the degree of expectation. For example, the higher the degree of expectation, the longer the execution time (scale) of the blackout effect may be. Further, the sound output by the speaker 156 may be different for each degree of expectation. Further, the background P11 displayed on the image display unit 114 or the like may be different for each degree of expectation.

Here, the execution time (scale) of the introduction effect is short. For example, the execution time of the introduction effect is shorter than the execution time of the blackout effect. Specifically, the execution time of the introduction effect is half or less, more preferably one tenth or less of the execution time of the blackout effect. The execution time of the blackout effect may be shorter than the time from the start of the symbol variation to the introduction effect.

Further, unlike the above description, each of the hold display P13, the right-handed display P19, the fourth symbol P23, and the hold number display P24 is displayed on the image display unit 114 or the like when the introduction effect is executed. However, it may not be displayed.

Further, it has been explained that the movable accessory 115 is turned off and stopped at the time of executing the introduction effect, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the movable accessory 115 may be lit and moving. Further, although it has been explained that the board lamp 116 is turned off at the time of executing the introduction effect, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the board lamp 116 may be lit.

Further, in the above description, it has been described that the light emitting mode of the panel lamp 116 is controlled in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 36B and the like and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 36C and the like. Here, the frame lamp 157 (see FIG. 1) may be controlled in the same manner as the panel lamp 116. For example, in the introduction effect shown in FIG. 36 (b) and the blackout effect shown in FIG. 36 (c), the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 may be turned off.

Further, in the above description, it has been described that the blackout effect is performed by using the background P11 as a single color image, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a monochromatic image that covers the entire image display area of the image display unit 114 may be superimposed and displayed on the layer above the decorative pattern P12. As a result, the monochromatic image is displayed so as to be visible on the front side of the background P11 and the decorative pattern P12.

Although not shown, as another example of the high expectation effect, the character images may be displayed one by one on the image display unit 114 after the blackout effect is completed. That is, it may be a mode that suggests that the degree of expectation is higher than the case where this effect is not executed by executing the effect that the character images are displayed in order.

Further, the probability that the music output by the speaker 156 changes after the blackout effect may be set according to the fluctuation time. Specifically, when a long special symbol fluctuation time is set, the music may be set so that the music is more likely to change after the blackout effect than when a short special symbol fluctuation time is set. By setting in this way, it is possible to execute an effect having a long special symbol fluctuation time and raise the expectation of the player.

By the way, in the above description, the description is given as the effect of the sound executed when the symbol changes, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, during the jackpot game, for example, during the round of the jackpot 125, the above-mentioned sound production may be executed. For example, in the case of a jackpot game, if a fall lottery for ending the probability change state is performed and a mode is adopted in which the mode shifts to the normal mode when the fall lottery is won, the speaker 156 is used according to the result of the fall lottery. The sound output from may be changed. In other words, the fall may be notified by the sound output from the speaker 156.

Further, the above-described embodiment and modification can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine that displays a lottery result at the time of inserting a gaming medium in a combination of symbols when a plurality of reels are stopped.
Further, although various embodiments and modifications have been described above, it is of course possible to combine these embodiments and modifications.
Further, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

100 ... Pachinko game machine (an example of a game machine)
114 ... Image display unit (an example of image display means)
156 ... Speaker (an example of sound output means)
200 ... Game control unit (example of special game determination means, symbol display means)
300 ... Production control unit (an example of production control means)

Claims (1)

A special game determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game that is advantageous to the player when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and
A symbol display means for changing the symbol based on the determination result by the special game determination means and then stopping and displaying the determination result in a mode indicating the determination result.
Sound output means to output sound and
Image display means for displaying images on the screen,
Equipped with a luminous body that can emit light,
The image display means displays a predetermined image in a predetermined period after the start of the variation of the symbol, and displays the variation and the stop of the effect symbol along with the variation display and the stop display of the symbol by the symbol display means.
The sound output means outputs a first effect sound during the fluctuation of the symbol, and when the predetermined period is started, the start sound is a sound different from the start of the fluctuation of the symbol to the start of the predetermined period. Is output, the state in which the sound is suppressed during the predetermined period is maintained, and after the end of the predetermined period, a second production sound different from the first production sound is output.
The luminous body is maintained in a darker state than before the start of the predetermined period in the predetermined period, and becomes brighter than the predetermined period after the end of the predetermined period.
When it is determined that the special game is to be executed, after the second effect sound is output after the end of the predetermined period, the sound output means outputs a specific sound along with the stop display of the symbol, and the above-mentioned The image display means stops and displays the effect symbol,
When it is determined that the special game is not executed, after the second effect sound is output after the end of the predetermined period, the sound output means can output the specific sound along with the stop display of the symbol. A gaming machine characterized in that the image display means stops and displays the effect symbol while suppressing the volume of the sound.

Images