JP6935937B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine using a gaming medium.

In gaming machines such as pachinko machines, various effects are performed using an image display device equipped with a liquid crystal screen, an audio output device (speaker), an electric accessory, and the like, and devised to enhance the interest of the player.
For example, an effect pattern is determined based on the result of a lottery of a symbol performed when a game ball enters the starting port, and an effect image is generally displayed on an image display device according to this effect pattern. (See Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2015-062748

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

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention can execute a special game determining means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player, and a plurality of effects depending on the result of the determination. A first aspect in which the effect executing means and a plurality of operable operating means are provided, and each of the plurality of effects is expected to execute the special game, and the special aspect is higher than the first aspect. a second aspect not to be expected that the game is executed, there is the presentation execution means includes an operation instruction production which displays an instruction display for instructing the player to operate the operation means on the display device, The plurality of operating means executed in the first aspect in response to the operation of the first operating means among the plurality of operating means when the plurality of effects are executed in the first aspect. A first specific effect in which at least one of the effects is the second aspect, and a second operating means different from the first operating means when the plurality of effects are executed in the first aspect. In response to the operation of, the second specific effect in which the plurality of effects executed in the first aspect are all the second aspect can be executed, and the instruction display is the operation instruction. an instruction statement indicating the operation of the operation means corresponding to the effect to the player, characterized in that it comprises a, an instruction image simulating the operation means corresponding to the operation instruction effect.

Since it is configured as described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of improving the interest of gaming.

It is a front view of the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic plan view which shows a part of the pachinko gaming machine 1. It is a perspective view which showed an example of the back surface side of the gaming machine which concerns on this embodiment. It is a block diagram which showed the structure of the game control device provided in the game machine which concerns on this embodiment. It is a block diagram of an image control board. It is a figure which showed an example of the jackpot determination table. It is a figure which showed an example of the symbol determination table which determines the stop symbol of a special symbol. It is a figure which showed an example of the hit ordinary symbol determination table. It is a figure which showed an example of the variation pattern determination table for the non-time saving game state. It is a figure which showed an example of the variation pattern determination table for the time saving game state. It is a figure which showed an example of the pre-judgment table for preliminarily judging the result of a big hit lottery. It is a flowchart explaining the main processing by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the timer interrupt process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the input control process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the 1st start port detection switch input process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the pre-determination process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the special figure special electric control process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the special symbol memory determination process by a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the main processing by an effect control board. It is a flowchart explaining the timer interrupt process by an effect control board. It is a flowchart explaining the command analysis process 1 by the effect control board. It is a flowchart explaining the command analysis process 2 by the effect control board. It is a flowchart explaining the effect input control process by an effect control board. It is a flowchart explaining the main processing by an image control board. It is a flowchart explaining the interrupt process of an image control board. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation effect pattern table in the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a figure explaining the advance notice production table for executing the dialogue advance notice effect. It is a figure explaining the flow of the production including the reset button effect performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment (No. 1). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production including the reset button effect performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment (No. 2). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production including the reset button effect performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment (No. 3). It is a figure which shows the 1st mode of the reset button effect (the 1). It is a figure which shows the 1st mode of the reset button effect (the 2). It is a figure which shows the 1st mode of the reset button effect (the 3). It is a figure which shows the 1st mode of the reset button effect (the 4). It is a figure which shows the 1st mode of the reset button effect (the 5). It is a figure which shows the 2nd mode of the reset button effect. It is a figure explaining the case where the effect is not reset even if an appropriate button is operated in the reset button effect. It is a figure explaining the case where the effect which was reset to a low expectation mode changes to a high expectation mode again. It is a figure explaining the case where the effect is not reset because an appropriate button is not operated in the reset button effect. It is a flowchart explaining the reset button effect executed by the CPU of the image control board. It is a figure explaining the instruction image displayed on the operation instruction screen in the reset button effect of this embodiment.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings.
<Composition of gaming machines>
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a part of a pachinko gaming machine 1, and FIG. 3 is a back surface side of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example, and is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game control device provided in the game machine according to the present embodiment.
In the gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, an inner frame (opening / closing frame) 3 can be opened and closed on an outer frame 2 attached to an island structure of a game hall, and a glass frame 4 can be opened and closed on the inner frame 3. It is installed.
A window 4a is formed in the glass frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b is attached to the window 4a. A game board 10 having a board surface on which the game ball is launched is mounted on the inner frame 3, and a game area 10a in which the game ball can roll and flow down between the board surface of the game board 10 and the transparent plate 4b on the front side thereof. Is formed. The transparent plate 4b is, for example, a glass plate, and is detachably fixed to the glass frame 4.

Further, the glass frame 4 is connected to the outer frame 2 via the hinge mechanism portion 5 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine), and the other end in the left-right direction with the hinge mechanism portion 5 as a fulcrum. The side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine) can be rotated in the direction of opening from the outer frame 2. The glass frame 4 covers the game board 10 together with the glass plate 4b, and rotates like a door with the hinge mechanism portion 5 as a fulcrum, whereby the inner portion of the outer frame 2 including the game board 10 can be opened. On the other end side of the glass frame 4, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 4 to the outer frame 2 is provided. The lock mechanism can be unlocked with a special key. Further, the glass frame 4 is provided with a door opening switch 136 (see FIG. 4) for detecting whether or not the glass frame 4 is opened from the outer frame 2.

A plate unit 7 having storage plates 6 (upper plate 6a and lower plate 6b) for storing game balls is provided in the lower part of the glass frame 4 (lower portion of the window 4a), and the plate unit 7 is provided with a player. An effect button 8 (FIG. 2) that can be pressed, a cross key 90 (FIG. 2) that allows the player to perform various selection operations, and an IC card inserted into a gaming ball lending device (card unit) (not shown). The ball lending button 95 (Fig. 2) for receiving the loan of the game ball from the balance, the return button 96 (Fig. 2) for receiving the return of the IC card, and the game ball stored in the lower plate 6b are used as the game machine. It is equipped with a discharge button 9 that discharges to the outside. Further, the plate unit 7 is provided with a ball removal button 97 (FIG. 2) that allows the game balls stored in the upper plate 6a to flow down with respect to the lower plate 6b.
The player can use the cross key 90 to adjust the volume of the effect sound output from the voice output device 34 and the amount of light of the following effect accessory device 32 and the effect lighting device 33.
For example, among the cross keys 90, the up and down keys can be used to adjust the amount of light, and the left and right keys can be used to adjust the volume.
Further, the plate unit 7 may be provided with an A effect button 100, a B effect button 101, and a C effect button 102 as other effect buttons used for the reset button effect described below.

The effect button 8 is effective only when, for example, a message for operating the effect button 8 is displayed on the image display device 31 described later. The effect button 8 is provided with an effect button detection switch 8a (see FIG. 4), and when the effect button detection switch 8a detects an operation of the player, a further effect is executed in response to this operation.
Further, the cross key 90 is provided with a cross key detection switch (up key detection switch 90a, lower key detection switch 90b, left key detection switch 90c, right key detection switch 90d) (see FIG. 4).

Further, the A effect button 100 may be provided with a button detection switch 100a, the B effect button 101 may be provided with a button detection switch 101a, and the C effect button 102 may be provided with a button detection switch 102a.
Regarding the A effect button 100, the B effect button 101, and the C effect button 102 as each effect button that can be used for the reset button effect, the effect button 8, the ball rental button 95, the return button 96, the ball removal button 97, and the discharge button 9 It may be possible to substitute other buttons including the above, and it is not always an indispensable configuration together with the button detection switches 100a to 102a.
As the reset button, any one of the effect button 8, the ball lending button 95, the return button 96, the ball removal button 97, and the discharge button 9 can be used, and all the reset button effects are performed using the effect button 8. You can also do it.

An operation handle 11 is provided on the lower right side of the glass frame 4. When the player touches the operation handle 11, the touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 4) in the operation handle 11 detects that the player touches the operation handle 11, and the launch control board described later. A touch signal is transmitted to 160. Upon receiving the touch signal from the touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 4), the launch control board 160 permits the firing solenoid 12a to be energized. Then, when the rotation angle of the operation handle 11 is changed, the gear directly connected to the operation handle 11 rotates, and the knob of the firing volume 11b (see FIG. 4) connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detection angle of the firing volume 11b is applied to the firing solenoid 12a provided in the game ball launching mechanism. Then, when a voltage is applied to the launching solenoid 12a (see FIG. 4), the launching solenoid 12a operates according to the applied voltage, and the game ball is played with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the operation handle 11. It is fired into the game area 10a of the board 10.

An outer rail R1 and an inner rail R2 are provided around the game area 10a on the game board 10. The outer rail R1 and the inner rail R2 guide the game ball launched from the game ball launching mechanism to the upper part of the game area 10a when the operation handle 11 is operated. The game ball guided to the upper part of the game area 10a falls in the game area 10a. At this time, the game ball will fall unpredictably due to the plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 10a.
A center member 12 is arranged substantially in the center of the game board 10. The center member 12 is provided with an image display device 31 composed of a liquid crystal display device and the like, and a production accessory device 32 imitating a “sword”.

Further, a first starting port 13 into which a game ball can enter is provided in the game area 10a on the lower center side of the center member 12. A second starting port 14 is provided below the first starting port 13. The second starting port 14 has an opening / closing door 14b, and is movably controlled in a first mode in which the opening / closing door 14b is maintained in the closed state and a second mode in which the opening / closing door 14b is in the open state. .. Therefore, when the second starting port 14 is in the first aspect, there is no chance of winning a game ball, and when it is in the second aspect, the chance of winning a game ball is increased.
In the present embodiment, when the second starting port 14 is controlled in the first aspect, the game ball is prevented from entering the second starting port 14. However, if there is less chance of the game ball entering the ball when it is controlled in the first aspect than when it is controlled in the second aspect, the second aspect is controlled when it is controlled in the first aspect. A game ball may enter the starting port 14. That is, the first aspect includes a state in which it is impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port 14.

The first start port 13 and the second start port 14 are provided with a first start port detection switch 13a (see FIG. 4) and a second start port detection switch 14a, respectively, for detecting the entry of a game ball. When these detection switches detect the entry of a game ball, a lottery for acquiring the right to execute the jackpot game described later (hereinafter referred to as "big hit lottery") is performed. Further, when the first start port detection switch 13a and the second start port detection switch 14a detect the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.
In the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 13 and the second start port 14, for example, three game balls are paid out. It is not always necessary to pay out when entering the ball. Further, the number of payouts may be different for each start port, for example, the number of payouts of the first start port 13 may be three and the number of payouts of the second start port 14 may be one.

Gates 15 through which game balls can pass are provided in the game areas 10a on both sides of the center member 12. The gate 15 is provided with a gate detection switch 15a (see FIG. 4) that detects the passage of the game ball, and when the gate detection switch 15a detects the passage of the game ball, a lottery of ordinary symbols described later is performed. ..
Further, in the game area 10a on the right side of the center member 12, a first large winning opening 16 and a second large winning opening 17 into which a game ball can enter are provided. For this reason, the operation handle 11 is largely rotated so that the game ball is not won in the first large winning opening 16 and the second large winning opening 17 unless the game ball is launched with a strong force.

The first large winning opening 16 is normally maintained in a closed state by the opening / closing door 16b, making it impossible for a game ball to enter. On the other hand, when the jackpot game described later is started, the opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the opening / closing door 16b functions as a saucer for guiding the game ball into the first big winning opening 16, and the game ball becomes the first. It is possible to enter the 1st big winning opening 16. The first prize opening 16a is provided with a first prize opening switch 16a, and when the first prize opening switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, a preset prize ball (for example, 15 prize balls) is provided. Game ball) is paid out.

The second large winning opening 17 is normally maintained in a closed state by a movable piece 17b, making it impossible for a game ball to enter. On the other hand, when the jackpot game described later is started, the movable piece 17b is activated and released, and the movable piece 17b functions as a guide path for guiding the game ball into the second big winning opening 17. The game ball can enter the second large winning opening 17. The second major winning opening 17 is provided with a second major winning opening switch 17a, and when the second major winning opening switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a preset prize ball (for example, 15 prize balls) is provided. Game ball) is paid out.
Further, a plurality of general winning openings 18 are provided in the game area 10a. When a game ball wins in each of these general prize openings 18, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 10 game balls) is paid out.
At the bottom of the game area 10a, a game ball that has not entered any of the general winning opening 18, the first starting opening 13, the second starting opening 14, the first major winning opening 16, and the second major winning opening 17. An out port 19 is provided for discharging the water.

The image display device 31 displays an image during standby when the game is not being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, when the game ball enters the first start port 13 or the second start port 14, the effect symbol 35 that notifies the player of the lottery result is displayed in a variable manner.
The effect symbol 35 is, for example, three symbols (numbers) of the first symbol (left symbol), the second symbol (right symbol), and the third symbol (middle symbol) that are scrolled and displayed, and the corresponding symbol 35 is displayed after a lapse of a predetermined time. It stops scrolling and displays a specific pattern (number) in an array.
As a result, while scrolling the symbols, the player is given the impression that the lottery is currently being performed, and the lottery result is notified to the player by the symbols displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variable display of the effect symbol 35, the player is given a high expectation that he may win a big hit.

Further, although not shown, the image display device 31 displays a fourth symbol in addition to the effect symbol 35. The fourth symbol is a symbol showing a fluctuating state of the effect symbol 35 used for notifying the lottery result by the jackpot lottery process.
The fourth symbol does not necessarily have to be displayed on the image display device 31, and a fourth symbol display lamp may be separately provided for display.
A pair of left and right lighting devices 33 for directing are mounted on the upper part of the glass frame 4. Each of the effect lighting devices 33 is provided with a plurality of lights, and various effects are performed while changing the irradiation direction and emission color of the light of each light.

Further, the effect lighting device 33 is provided with a plurality of lights, and various effects are performed while changing the irradiation direction and emission color of the light of each light.
Further, although not shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an audio output device 34 (see FIG. 5) composed of speakers, and in addition to the above-mentioned effect devices, BGM (background music), SE (sound effect) etc. are output, and the production by sound is also performed.
Below the left side of the game area 10a are a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold display 23, and a second special symbol hold display 24, which will be described later. , Ordinary symbol hold display 25, round count display 26, and other display areas 27 are provided.

The first special symbol display device 20 notifies the result of a big hit lottery performed when a game ball enters the first starting port 13, and is composed of a plurality of LEDs. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is played by displaying the special symbol (lighting mode) corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am trying to notify the person. The special symbol displayed in this way is not immediately displayed, but is stopped and displayed after being displayed (blinking) for a predetermined time.
More specifically, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13, a jackpot lottery is performed, but the result of this jackpot lottery is not immediately notified to the player, and a predetermined time is set. The player will be notified when the lapse has passed. Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.
The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying the result of a big hit lottery performed when a game ball enters the second starting port 14, and the display mode thereof is the above-mentioned first special symbol. It is the same as the display mode of the special symbol in the display device 20.

The ordinary symbol display device 22 is for notifying the result of a lottery of ordinary symbols performed when the game ball passes through the gate 15. As will be described in detail later, when a predetermined hit is won by the lottery of the ordinary symbols, the ordinary symbol display device 22 lights up, and then the second starting port 14 is controlled in the second mode for a predetermined time. As for this normal symbol, the lottery result is not immediately notified when the game ball passes through the gate 15, and the normal symbol fluctuates, such as blinking the normal symbol display device 22 until a predetermined time elapses. I am trying to display it.

Further, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14 and the big hit lottery cannot be performed immediately, such as during the variable display of the special symbol or during the special game described later, certain conditions are met. Under the jackpot lottery right is reserved. More specifically, the right of the jackpot lottery in which the game ball enters the first starting port 13 and is reserved is reserved as the first hold, and the game ball enters and is reserved in the second starting port 14. The right to the jackpot lottery is reserved as a second hold.
For each of these reservations, the upper limit reservation number is set to 4, and the reservation number is displayed on the first special symbol reservation indicator 23 and the second special symbol reservation indicator 24, respectively.
The maximum number of reserved symbols is also set to 4, and the number of reserved symbols is the same as that of the first special symbol reservation indicator 23 and the second special symbol reservation indicator 24. It is displayed on the vessel 25.
The round number display 26 is for notifying the number of rounds of the round game performed during the special game described later.

As shown in FIG. 3, on the back surface of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 27, and the like are provided. Further, the power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine and a power switch (not shown). If the power switch is operated during the game, all the effects performed on the gaming machine are finished, and the wording "power is being restored" is displayed on the image display device 31. After the power is restored, the color change of the variable icon and other effects that occurred before the operation before the power switch are lost.

Next, the effect button 8 will be described.
The effect button 8 is incorporated in the central portion of the plate unit 7.
The effect button 8 is configured to be able to advance and retreat over a normal operation position (not shown), a pressing position retracted below the normal operation position, and a protruding operation position protruding upward from the normal operation position. .. Further, the effect button 8 is configured so that the pressing operation can be performed from an arbitrary position including the normal operation position and the protruding operation position to the pressing position.
In this specification, the detailed structure of the effect button 8 is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-116168, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

<Configuration of game control device>
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a game control device for controlling the progress of the game in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described.
In FIG. 4, the main control board 110 controls the basic operation of the game. The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 114 composed of a main CPU 111, a main ROM 112, and a main RAM 113, and an input port and an output port (not shown) for main control.
Based on the input signal from each detection switch, the main CPU 111 reads the program stored in the main ROM 112 and performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device and display, or depending on the result of the arithmetic processing. Send commands to other boards. The main RAM 113 functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing of the main CPU 111.

A first start port detection switch 13a, a second start port detection switch 14a, a gate detection switch 15a, a large winning opening detection switch 16a, and a general winning opening detection switch 18a are connected to the input side of the main control board 110. The detection signal of the game ball at each switch is input.
To the output side of the main control board 110, a start port opening / closing solenoid 14c that opens / closes the movable piece 14b of the second starting port 14 and a large winning opening opening / closing solenoid 16c that opens / closes the opening / closing door 16b of the winning opening 16 are connected. ing.
Further, on the output side of the main control board 110, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold display 23, and a second special symbol hold display are displayed. 24, a normal symbol hold display 25, and a round count display 26 are connected to output various signals via an output port.
Further, on the output side of the main control board 110, an external information signal required for managing the game machine in a hall computer or the like of a game store is output to the game information output terminal board 27.
The game information output terminal board 27 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated by the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of a game store. The game information output terminal board 27 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

The main ROM 112 of the main control board 110 stores a program for game control, which will be described later, data necessary for various games, and a table.
Further, the main RAM 113 of the main control board 110 has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, the main RAM 113 includes a normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, a normal symbol hold storage area, a first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, a second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area, and a determination storage area. , 1st special symbol storage area, 2nd special symbol storage area, high probability game count (X) storage area, time saving game count (J) storage area, round game count (R) storage area, open count (K) storage area , The number of balls (C1) storage area of the large winning opening, the game state storage area, the game state buffer, the stop symbol data storage area, the effect transmission data storage area, and the like are provided. The game state storage area includes a time-saving game flag storage area, a high-probability game flag storage area, a special figure special electric processing data storage area, and a normal figure general electric processing data storage area. The above-mentioned storage area is only an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or during standby. The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 121, a sub ROM 122, and a sub RAM 123, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120 in one direction. ..
The sub CPU 121 reads the program stored in the sub ROM 122, performs arithmetic processing, and performs arithmetic processing based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 110 and input signals input via the lamp control board 140. Based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150. The sub RAM 123 functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 121.

The sub ROM 122 of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for various games, and a table.
For example, a variation effect pattern determination table (not shown) for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, and an effect symbol pattern determination for determining a combination of the effect symbol 35 to be stopped and displayed. A table (not shown) and the like are stored in the sub ROM 122. It should be noted that the above-mentioned table merely lists characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment as an example, and many other tables and programs are provided in the progress of the game.

The sub RAM 123 of the effect control board 120 has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 123 includes a command reception buffer, a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, a determination storage area (0th storage area), a first hold storage area, and a second hold storage area. , A storage area for the number of payout balls for production, etc. is provided. The above-mentioned storage area is only an example, and many other storage areas are provided.
Further, the effect control board 120 is equipped with an RTC (real-time clock) 124 that outputs the current time. The sub CPU 121 inputs a date signal indicating the current date and a time signal indicating the current time from the RTC 124, and executes various processes based on the current date and time.

The payout control board 130 controls the launch of the game ball and the payout control of the prize ball. The payout control board 130 includes a payout CPU 131, a payout ROM 132, and a payout RAM 133, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be able to communicate in both directions. The payout CPU 131 reads the program stored in the payout ROM 132 and performs arithmetic processing based on the input signals from the payout ball counting switch 135 and the door opening switch 136 that detect whether or not the game ball has been paid out. Based on the process, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110.

Further, a payout motor 134 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls and rental balls to a player is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130.
The payout CPU 131 reads a predetermined program from the payout ROM 132 and performs arithmetic processing based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, and controls the payout motor 134 of the prize ball payout device to perform a predetermined prize. Pay out the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM 133 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the payout CPU 131.
Further, it is confirmed whether a game ball lending device (card unit) (not shown) is connected to the payout control board 130, and if the game ball lending device (card unit) is connected, the launch control board 160 is used to launch the game ball. Send launch control data that allows it.
Further, a dish full tank detection switch 400 is connected to the payout control board 130.

The plate full tank detection switch 400 is a switch for detecting that the storage plate (lower plate 61b) of the game ball is full.
When the ball rental button 95 provided on the plate unit 7 is operated, the game ball (ball rental) is paid out and stored in the upper plate 6a.
When a large number of game balls are paid out by operating (continuously hitting) the ball rental button 95 a plurality of times, the upper plate 6a is filled with the game balls. When the ball removal button 97 is pressed, the game ball of the upper plate 6a flows into the lower plate 6b. When the lower plate 6b is full and this is detected by the plate full tank detection switch 400, the wording "Please pull out the game ball" is displayed on the image display device 31.
When the discharge button 9 is operated in that state, the game balls stored in the lower plate 6b are discharged to the outside of the game machine, and the full tank state is released. As a result, the phrase "please pull out the game ball" is deleted from the image display device 31.

Alternatively, the plate full tank detection switch 400 is a switch for detecting that the storage plate (upper plate 61a) of the game ball is full.
When a large number of game balls are paid out by operating (continuously hitting) the ball rental button 95 a plurality of times, the upper plate 6a is filled with the game balls. Then, when this is detected by the plate full tank detection switch 400, the wording "Please pull out the game ball" is displayed on the image display device 31.
In this state, when the ball removal button 97 is operated, the game balls stored in the upper plate 6a flow down to the lower plate 6b, and the full state of the upper plate 6a is eliminated. Then, when this is detected by the plate full tank detection switch 400, the display of the phrase "please pull out the game ball" displayed on the image display device 31 is canceled.

The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and an effect button detection switch 8a is connected to the input side thereof. When the operation of the effect button 8 is detected by the effect button detection switch 8a, the detection signal is output to the effect control board 120.
Further, the effect accessory device 32 and the effect lighting device 33 (not shown in FIG. 1) are connected to the lamp control board 140.
The lamp control board 140 controls energization of a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor for operating the effect accessory device 32 based on the data transmitted from the effect control board 120.
Further, the lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 33 and controls the drive of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In the present embodiment, since the effect button 8 is configured to protrude, the effect accessory device 32 includes the effect button 8.

The image control board 150 is connected to the effect control board 120 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and an image display device 31 and an audio output device 34 are connected to the output side thereof.
When the launch control board 160 receives the launch control data from the payout control board 130, the launch control board 160 permits the launch and launches the game ball with a launch force corresponding to the operation amount of the operation handle 11.
The power supply board 170 converts the power supply voltage supplied from the power supply plug 171 into a predetermined voltage and supplies it to each control board.

<Structure of image control board>
Here, the configuration of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image control board.
The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 151, a host RAM 152, a host ROM 153, a CGROM 154, a crystal oscillator 155, a VRAM 156, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 200 in order to control the image display of the image display device 31.
Further, as will be described later, the VDP 200 includes a voice control circuit 300 for controlling the voice output in the gaming machine.

The host CPU 151 gives an instruction to display the image data stored in the CGROM 154 in the VDP 200 on the image display device 31 based on the effect pattern designation command to be described later received from the effect control board 120. Such an instruction is given by setting data in the control register 201 of the VDP 200 and outputting a display list composed of drawing control commands.
Further, when the host CPU 151 receives the V blank interrupt signal or the drawing end signal from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 performs interrupt processing as appropriate.
Further, the host CPU 151 also instructs the voice control circuit 300 included in the VDP 200 to output predetermined voice data to the voice output device 34 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.
The host RAM 152 is built in the host CPU 151, functions as a work area for data during arithmetic processing of the host CPU 151, and temporarily stores the data read from the host ROM 153.

Further, the host ROM 153 is composed of a mask ROM, and is a program for controlling the host CPU 151, a symbol array information in which the symbol number of the effect symbol and the type of the effect symbol 35 are associated with each other, and a display for generating a display list. The list generation program, the animation pattern for displaying the animation of the production pattern, the animation scene information, etc. are stored.
This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. In addition, information such as weight frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. are stored in the animation scene information. doing.

The CGROM 154 is composed of a flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, mask ROM, etc., and compresses and stores image data (sprite, movie), etc., which is a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 × 32 pixels). ing. The pixel information is composed of color number information that specifies a color number for each pixel and an α value that indicates the transparency of the image.
Further, the CGROM 154 stores the palette data in which the color number information for designating the color number and the display color information for actually displaying the color are associated with each other without compression.
The CGROM 154 may be configured to compress only a part of the image data without compressing all the image data. Further, as the movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.
In addition, a large amount of voice data is also stored in the CGROM 154 as will be described later.
The crystal oscillator 155 outputs a pulse signal to the clock generation circuit 205 of the VDP 200, and divides the pulse signal to synchronize with the system clock and the image display device 31 for the VDP 200 to control the clock generation circuit 205. A synchronization signal or the like is generated to achieve the above.

The VRAM 156 is composed of an SRAM having a high speed of writing or reading image data.
Further, the VRAM 156 draws or displays an image, a display list storage area 156a for temporarily storing the display list output from the host CPU 151, and an expansion storage area 156b for storing the image data expanded by the expansion circuit 206. It has a first frame buffer 156c and a second frame buffer 156d for the purpose. Palette data is also stored in the VRAM 156.
The two frame buffers 156c and 156d are alternately switched between the "drawing frame buffer" and the "display frame buffer" at each start of drawing.

The VDP 200 is a so-called image processor, reads image data from one of the frame buffers (display frame buffer) based on an instruction from the host CPU 151, and based on the read image data, a video signal (RGB signal or the like). Is generated and output to the image display device.
However, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the VDP 200 is not only an image processor but also has an audio output function.
Further, the VDP 200 includes a control register 201, a CG bus I / F202, a CPUI / F203, a clock generation circuit 205, an extension circuit 206, a drawing circuit 207, a display circuit 208, a memory controller 209, and voice control. It includes a circuit 300.

The control register 201 is a register for the VDP 200 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to the control register 201. The host CPU 151 can write and read data to the control register 201 via the CPUI / F203.
The control register 201 includes a system control register that makes basic settings necessary for the VDP 200 to operate, a data transfer register that makes settings necessary for data transfer, and drawing that makes settings for drawing control. Six types of registers, a bus interface register that sets the settings required for bus access, an decompression register that sets the settings required for decompressing the compressed image, and a display register that sets the display control. It has a register.

The CG bus I / F202 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 154, and image data from the CG ROM 154 is input to the VDP 200 via the CG bus I / F 202.
Further, the CPUI / F203 is an interface circuit for communication with the host CPU 151, and the host CPU 151 outputs a display list to the VDP200, accesses a control register, and various types from the VDP200 via the CPUI / F203. The host CPU 151 inputs an interrupt signal.

The data transfer circuit 204 transfers data between various devices.
Specifically, data transfer between the host CPU 151 and VRAM 156, data transfer between CGROM 154 and VRAM 156, and data transfer between various storage areas (including frame buffers) of VRAM 156 are performed.
The clock generation circuit 205 inputs a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 155 and generates a system clock that determines the arithmetic processing speed of the VDP 200. In addition, a synchronization signal generation clock is generated, and the synchronization signal is output to the image display device via the display circuit.
The decompression circuit 206 is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 154, and stores the decompressed image data in the expansion storage area 153b.
The drawing circuit 207 is a circuit that performs sequence control by a display list composed of drawing control command groups.

The display circuit 208 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating the color data of the image as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the "display frame buffer" in the VRAM 156, and the generated video signal (the generated video signal). This is a circuit that outputs an RGB signal) to the image display device 31. Further, the display circuit 208 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the image display device 31 to the image display device 31.
In the present embodiment, as the video signal, the RGB signal obtained by converting the digital signal into an analog signal is output to the image display device 31, but the video signal may be output as the digital signal.

The memory controller 209 controls to switch between the "drawing frame buffer" and the "display frame buffer" when the host CPU 151 gives an instruction to switch the frame buffer.
The voice control circuit 300 reads a predetermined program based on the command transmitted from the effect control board 120, and controls the voice output in the voice output device 34.
The voice control circuit 300 outputs voice using the voice data stored in the CGROM 154. In this case, the CGROM 154 includes a sound source ROM for storing audio data.
The sound source ROM may be separately provided in the VDP 200 instead of being provided in the CGROM 154. In this case, since the audio data is not stored in the CGROM 154 with a fixed capacity and more image data can be stored, the effect using the video can be made more colorful and impressive.
Further, the voice control circuit 300 is not included in the VDP 200 and may be independently provided in the image control board 150. In that case, the sound source ROM may be included in the voice control circuit 300.

Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 112 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 11.
<Big hit judgment table>
6 (a) and 6 (b) are diagrams showing an example of a jackpot determination table referred to when determining whether or not the stop result of special symbol variation is a jackpot. FIG. 6 (a) is a diagram. The jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device, FIG. 6B, is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device. In the tables of FIGS. 6 (a) and 6 (b), although the winning probabilities of small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

The jackpot determination table shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B is composed of a low-probability random number determination table and a high-probability random number determination table, and refers to the game state, and is a low-probability random number determination table or a high-probability random number determination table. A determination table is selected, and any one of "big hit", "small hit", and "loss" is determined based on the selected table and the extracted random number value for special symbol determination.
For example, according to the low-probability random number determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 6A, two special symbol determination random number values are determined to be "big hits". On the other hand, according to the high-probability random number determination table, 20 special symbol determination random number values are determined to be "big hits".
Further, in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 6A, four special symbol determination random numbers are used regardless of whether the low probability random number determination table or the high probability random number determination table is used. The numerical value is determined to be a "small hit".
Then, in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 6A, if the random value is other than the above, it is determined to be "missing".
Since the random number range of the random number value for special symbol determination is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined as a jackpot at a low probability in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device is 1 / 299.5, which is a high probability. Sometimes the probability of being judged as a big hit is 10 times, which is 1 / 29.95. Further, the probability of being determined as a small hit is 1 / 149.75 in both the low probability and the high probability.

On the other hand, in the jackpot determination table of the second special symbol display device shown in FIG. 6B, the random value for special symbol determination, which is determined to be a jackpot at low probability and high probability, is the same as that of the first special symbol display device. However, the random value for special symbol determination determined to be a small hit is different from the jackpot determination table in the first special symbol display device. For example, in the big hit determination table in the second special symbol display device, "small hit" is determined only when the random value for special symbol determination is "50".
Therefore, in the low-probability random number determination table in the second special symbol display device, the probability of being determined as a big hit at low probability is 1 / 299.5, as in the low-probability random number determination table in the first special symbol display device. , The probability of being judged as a big hit at the time of high probability is 10 times, which is 1 / 29.95. On the other hand, the probability of being determined as a small hit is 1/599 in both the low probability and the high probability.

<Collision detection table>
FIG. 6C is a diagram showing a hit determination table that is referred to when determining whether or not to hit the stop result of the normal symbol variation.
The hit determination table shown in FIG. 6C is composed of a random number determination table in the non-time-saving game state and a random number determination table in the time-saving game state, and refers to the game state, and is a random number determination table in the non-time-saving game state or a time-saving game. A random number determination table at the time of state is selected, and it is determined whether it is "hit" or "miss" based on the selected table and the extracted random number value for hit determination.
In the collision detection table shown in FIG. 6 (c), the probability that the normal symbol is determined to be a hit in the non-time-saving game state is 1/20, and the probability that the normal symbol is determined to be a hit in the time-saving game state is 19/20. Is.

<Design determination table>
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol of a special symbol.
FIG. 7A is a jackpot symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of a jackpot, and FIG. 7B is a small hit symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of a small hit. (C) is a loss symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of loss. Further, in more detail, each symbol determination table is configured for each special symbol display device, and is composed of a symbol determination table for the first special symbol display device and a symbol determination table for the second special symbol display device.

In the jackpot symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7A, the jackpot symbol random value is referred to. Then, when the jackpot symbol is determined by the first special symbol display device 20, if the random number value for the jackpot symbol is "0" to "59", "01" (first special symbol 1) is determined as the stop symbol data. do. Further, at the start of the change of the special symbol, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "01H" as the information of the special symbol are generated based on the determined type of the special symbol (stop symbol data).

Further, when the jackpot symbol is determined by the first special symbol display device 20, if the random number value for the jackpot symbol is "60" to "69", "02" (first special symbol 2) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "02H" are generated, and if the random value for the jackpot symbol is "70" to "99", "03" (first special symbol 3) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "03H" are generated.
Further, when the second special symbol display device 21 determines that the jackpot is a jackpot, if the random number value for the jackpot symbol is "0" to "69", "04" (second special symbol 1) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, the effect symbol designation commands "E1H" and "01H" are generated, and if the random value for the jackpot symbol is "70" to "99", "05" (second special symbol 2) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, the effect symbol designation commands "E1H" and "02H" are generated.

Next, in the small hit symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7B, the random value for the small hit symbol is referred to. Then, when the first special symbol display device 20 determines that the small hit is made, "11" (special symbol for small hit) is determined as the stop symbol data regardless of the random value for the small hit symbol. Then, at the start of the change of the special symbol, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "0AH" are generated based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data).
Further, at the time of the small hit of the second special symbol display device 21, "12" (special symbol for small hit) is determined as the stop symbol data regardless of the random value for the small hit symbol, and the effect symbol designation commands "E1H" and " Generate "0AH".

Next, in the lost symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7 (c), when the first special symbol display device 20 determines that the lost symbol is lost, "00" (special symbol 0 (lost) is determined as the stop symbol data, and the special symbol is special. At the start of symbol fluctuation, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "00H" are generated. If the second special symbol display device 21 determines that the command is lost, "00" (special symbol 0 (special symbol 0)) is used as the stop symbol data. Loss) is determined, and when the special symbol starts to fluctuate, the effect symbol designation commands "E1H" and "00H" are generated.
Since the game state and the jackpot mode after the end of the jackpot are determined by the type of the special symbol (stop symbol data), it can be said that the type of the special symbol determines the gaming state and the jackpot mode after the end of the jackpot game. ..

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a hit normal symbol determination table referred to when determining a normal symbol based on the stop result of the normal symbol fluctuation, and FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a hit determination random value value. The ordinary symbol determination table referred to when it is determined to be a hit, FIG. 8B is an ordinary symbol determination table to be referred to when it is determined to be lost by the determination of the random value for hit determination.
In the ordinary symbol determination table shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, a random number value (0 to 10) for an ordinary symbol is referred to.
When the normal symbol random value of the normal symbol display device 22 is determined to be a hit in the hit determination table, the normal symbol random values are "0" and "1" as shown in FIG. 8A. If there is, the long open symbol is determined, and if the normal symbol random value is "2" to "10", the short open symbol is determined.
In the case of a long open symbol, "01" is determined as the stop symbol data, and when the fluctuation of the normal symbol starts, the normal symbol designation commands "E8H" and "01H" are generated. If it is determined to be a short open symbol, "02" is determined as the stop symbol data, and when the fluctuation of the normal symbol starts, the normal symbol designation commands "E8H" and "02H" are generated.

On the other hand, when the normal symbol random value of the normal symbol display device 22 is determined to be lost in the collision detection table, the normal symbol random value is "0" to "10" as shown in FIG. 8 (b). The loss symbol is determined regardless of the value.
In the case of a lost symbol, "00" is determined as the stop symbol data, and when the fluctuation of the normal symbol starts, the normal symbol designation commands "E8H" and "00H" are generated.

<Variation pattern determination table>
9 and 10 are diagrams showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol, and FIG. 9 is a variation pattern referred to in a non-time saving gaming state (for low probability non-time saving gaming state). It is an example of the determination table, and FIG. 10 is an example of the variation pattern determination table referred to in the time-saving game state (low-probability time-saving game state, high-probability time-saving game state).
Specifically, depending on the fluctuation pattern determination table, the type of the special symbol display device, the random value for determining the special symbol (winning or losing the jackpot), the random value for the jackpot symbol (big hit symbol), the presence or absence of the time-saving game state, and the special symbol. The fluctuation pattern is determined based on the number of holds, the random value for reach determination, and the random value for the fluctuation pattern (random value for special figure fluctuation).
The variation pattern is determined at the start of variation of the special symbol, and a variation pattern specification command is generated based on the determined variation pattern. This variation pattern designation command is transmitted from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120 in the output control process.

Since the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to always reach when it is a big hit or a small hit, it is configured so that the reach determination random value is not referred to when it is a big hit or a small hit.
The "reach" referred to in the present embodiment means that after a part of the combination of the effect symbols 35 for notifying the transition to the special game is stopped and displayed, the remaining part of the effect symbols 35 continue the variable display. To say. For example, when the combination of the three-digit effect symbols 35 of "777" is set as the combination of the effect symbols 35 for notifying the shift to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 35 are stopped and displayed at "7". , The state in which the remaining effect symbols 35 are displayed in a variable manner.

Further, when the variation pattern designation command is "E6H" as the MODE, the game ball enters the first starting port 13, and the variation pattern determined at the start of the variation of the special symbol of the first special symbol display device 20. When the mode is "E7H", the game ball enters the second starting port 14, and when the special symbol of the second special symbol display device 21 starts to fluctuate. Indicates that the command is a fluctuation pattern specification command corresponding to the determined fluctuation pattern. The DATA of the fluctuation pattern designation command indicates a specific fluctuation pattern number. That is, the fluctuation pattern specification command is also information indicating the fluctuation pattern.

<Variation pattern determination table for non-time saving game state>
The configuration of the variation pattern determination table for the non-time saving gaming state shown in FIG. 9 will be described.
In the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9, variation patterns 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 are used as variation patterns of the special symbols of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21. 10, 11, 12, and 13 are set.
Based on the type of special symbol display device, special symbol judgment random value (big hit win or lose), jackpot symbol random value (big hit symbol), special symbol hold number, reach judgment random value, and variable pattern random value. Among these fluctuation patterns, one fluctuation pattern is selected by the allocation shown in FIG.

For example, in the variation pattern 1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the variation time of 40,000 ms, after the normal reach effect is executed, the probability variation jackpot (probability variation game state after the jackpot). Corresponds to the production that becomes a big hit).
Further, in the variation pattern 2, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the variation time of 60,000 ms, after the normal reach effect is executed, the SP reach effect is developed. , Corresponds to the production that becomes a probable change jackpot.
Further, in the variation pattern 3, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the variation time of 70,000 ms, the normal reach effect is executed, and then the SPSP reach effect is developed. Corresponds to the production that will be a probable change jackpot.
The other variation patterns are also associated with the effect content performed at the time of the variation effect (of the effect symbol 35) by the effect control board 120.
In particular, fluctuation patterns 10 to 13 correspond to the case of loss.

<Variation pattern determination table for time-saving game state>
The configuration of the variation pattern determination table for the time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 10 will be described.
In the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, variation patterns 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30 are used as variation patterns of the special symbols of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21. , 31, 32, 33 are set.
Based on the type of special symbol display device, special symbol judgment random value (big hit win or lose), jackpot symbol random value (big hit symbol), special symbol hold number, reach judgment random value, and variable pattern random value. Among these fluctuation patterns, one fluctuation pattern is selected by the allocation shown in FIG.
The variation pattern shown in FIG. 10 is also associated with the effect content performed at the time of the variation effect (of the effect symbol 35) by the effect control board 120.

<Preliminary judgment table for special symbols>
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a pre-determination table for preliminarily determining the result of the jackpot lottery.
In the pre-judgment table shown in FIG. 11, the type of the special symbol display device (the type of the start port detection switch that detects that the game ball has won the start port), the special symbol determination random value, and the jackpot symbol random value. , The winning information for determining the result of the jackpot lottery in advance is generated based on the reach determination random value, the fluctuation pattern random value, and the fluctuation pattern determined based on these. Then, based on the generated prize information, a start prize designation command for determining the result of the jackpot lottery in advance is generated.

In the pre-determination table shown in FIG. 11, prize information 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are set as prize information for the first special symbol display device 20.
Further, as the winning information for the second special symbol display device 21, the winning information 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 are set.
Based on the type of special symbol display device, random value for special symbol judgment (win or lose of big hit), random value for big hit symbol (big hit symbol), random value for reach judgment and random value for variable pattern, these winning information One of the winning information is selected by the allocation shown in FIG.

For example, the winning information 1 corresponds to a production that, when this winning information is selected, becomes a probabilistic jackpot after executing the normal reach effect in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the fluctuation time of 40,000 ms. ..
Further, the prize information 2 is obtained after the normal reach effect is executed and then the SP reach effect is developed in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the fluctuation time of 60,000 ms when the prize information is selected. Corresponds to the production that will be a probable change jackpot.
Further, when this prize information is selected, the prize information 3 is obtained after the normal reach effect is executed and then the SPSP reach effect is developed in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the fluctuation time of 70,000 ms. Corresponds to the production that will be a probable change jackpot.
The other prize information is also associated with the content of the effect performed at the time of the variable effect (of the effect symbol 35) by the effect control board 120.
In particular, the winning information 7 to 10 corresponds to the case of loss.

Here, the start prize designation command is composed of 1-byte MODE data for identifying the classification of the command and 1-byte DATA data indicating the content (function) of the command. In the present embodiment, when the MODE data is "E8H", the start winning designation command corresponding to the winning of the game ball is shown in the first starting port 13, and when the MODE data is "E9H", the second starting port is shown. 14 shows a start winning designation command corresponding to the winning of the game ball.
Further, during the time-saving game, regardless of whether the special symbol determination random value in the first special symbol display device 20 is a big hit, a small hit, or a loss, when the game state is the time-saving game state, the first start port 13 is used. The winning information corresponding to the winning of the game ball and the start winning designation command are not generated.

The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is a type of gaming machine that gives priority to symbol variation corresponding to the second special symbol display device 21. In this type of gaming machine, as a result of prior determination as to whether or not the random value for special symbol determination in the first special symbol display device 20 in which the symbol variation is non-priority during the time-saving game is a big hit, the target is When the player is notified that it is a big hit and that it is a big hit by a preliminary determination effect, the player is notified that there is a big hit in the first special symbol display device 20 in which the symbol variation is not prioritized. By winning a game ball at the second starting port where the symbol variation is prioritized, the jackpot lottery in the second special symbol display device 21 is held while the jackpot of the first special symbol display device 20 is held. Can receive. In this case, the gambling of the gaming machine becomes extremely high, which is not appropriate.
Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, the setting of the winning information corresponding to the winning of the game ball in the first starting port 13 which is the non-priority side during the time saving game and the generation of the starting winning designation command are generated. I try not to do it.

As described above, in the special symbol pre-judgment table, "big hit", "small hit", and "loss" are determined by the special symbol judgment random value, and whether it is "long hit" or "short hit" depending on the big hit symbol random value. The type of special game is determined.
Further, "presence or absence of reach" and the like are determined by the reach determination random value.
The fluctuation pattern is determined based on the type of the special symbol display device, the random value for special symbol determination (winning or losing the jackpot), the random value for the jackpot symbol (big hit symbol), the random value for reach determination, and the random value for the fluctuation pattern. NS.
Therefore, from the DATA data of the start prize designation command, it is possible to determine the type of jackpot, the fluctuation pattern, and the presence or absence of reach before the start of fluctuation of the special symbol. In addition, since a big hit always accompanies a "reach", it can be determined that a reach occurs because of the big hit.

<Explanation of game status>
Next, the game state when the game progresses will be described.
In the present embodiment, the game proceeds in any of the "low-probability gaming state", "high-probability gaming state", "time-saving gaming state", and "non-time-saving gaming state".
However, when the gaming state is the "low-probability gaming state" or the "high-probability gaming state" while the game is in progress, it is always in the "time-saving gaming state" or the "non-time-saving gaming state". That is, there are cases where the "low-probability gaming state" is the "time-saving gaming state", cases where the "low-probability gaming state" is the "non-time-saving gaming state", and "high-probability gaming state". There will be cases where the game is in a "short-time game state".

In the present embodiment, the "low probability gaming state" means that the jackpot winning probability is 1 / in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that the game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14. The gaming state set to 299.5. Winning a big hit here means acquiring the right to execute a "long hit game" or a "short hit game" described later.
On the other hand, the "high probability gaming state" refers to a gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot is set to 1 / 299.5. Therefore, in the "high-probability gaming state", it is easier to acquire the right to execute the "long-hit game" or the "short-hit game" than in the "low-probability gaming state".

In the present embodiment, the "non-time saving game state" means that in a lottery of ordinary symbols performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the gate 15, the time required for the lottery is set to 10 seconds and the game is open for a long time. A game in which the total opening time of the second starting port 14 when the symbol is determined is set to 4.2 seconds, and the total opening time of the second starting port 14 when the short opening symbol is determined is set to 0.2 seconds. The state.
On the other hand, the "time saving game state" is a lottery of ordinary symbols performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the gate 15, and the time required for the lottery is set to 1 second, and the long open symbol is used. Refers to a gaming state in which the total opening time of the second starting port 14 is set to 5 seconds when is determined, and the total opening time of the second starting port 14 is set to 3 seconds when the short opening symbol is determined.

In addition, in the "time-saving game state", the probability of winning in a lottery of ordinary symbols is higher than in the "non-time-saving game state". Therefore, in the "time-saving game state", the second starting port 14 is more likely to be controlled in the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the gate 15 than in the "non-time-saving game state". As a result, in the "time-saving game state", the player can proceed with the game without consuming the game ball, and the game efficiency can be significantly improved as compared with the non-time-saving game state.

Further, in the "time-saving game state", a fluctuation pattern (variation time) is set so that the number of lottery of special symbols within a unit time is faster than in the non-time-saving game state. That is, in the "time-saving game state", the lottery of special symbols is performed more efficiently than in the "non-time-saving game state".
For example, in the "non-time saving game state", it is difficult for the game ball to win the second starting port 14, so that the first special symbol changes mainly due to the winning of the game ball to the first starting port 13. Therefore, in the "non-time saving game state", the fluctuation pattern at the time of (normal) loss of the first special symbol is set to "3 seconds".

On the other hand, in the "short-time game state", since the game ball is likely to win the second starting port 14, the second special symbol changes mainly due to the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 14.
Therefore, in the "time saving game state", the fluctuation pattern at the time of (normal) loss of the second special symbol is set to "2 seconds".
With this configuration, in the "time-saving game state", most of the time required for one change of the second special symbol is "2 seconds", whereas in the "non-time-saving game state", it is sufficient. , The time required for one change of the first special symbol is "3 seconds", which is longer than that in the "time saving game state".
Therefore, the special symbol lottery can be performed more quickly in the "time-saving game state" than in the "non-time-saving game state".

Further, in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the ratio of winning a jackpot that is advantageous to the player when the game ball enters the second starting port 14 is higher than when the game ball enters the first starting port 13. Because of the higher value, it is easier to win a jackpot that is advantageous to the player during the short-time game than during the normal game.
During such a time-saving game state, a right-handed operation instruction for prompting the game ball to launch (right-handed) the game ball aiming at the right side area of the game board 10 can be given by screen display or voice. When the player launches the game ball aiming at the right area of the game board 10 according to the launch instruction, the game proceeds by winning a prize in the second starting port 14.
In addition, when the game ball is launched aiming at the left side area of the game board 10 and the game ball enters the first starting port 13 during the short game state even though the operation instruction is given. , You may give a right-handed operation instruction again.
In addition, the probability of winning in the lottery of ordinary symbols may be set so as not to change regardless of the game state of "non-time saving game state" or "time saving game state".

Next, the progress of the game in the game machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described.
<Main processing of main control board>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the main process by the main control board.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 111, and the main CPU 111 performs the following main processing.
First, in step S10, the main CPU 111 performs an initialization process. In this process, the main CPU 111 reads the boot program from the main ROM 112 and initializes the flags and the like stored in the main RAM 113.
In step S20, the main CPU 111 performs a game random value update process for updating the fluctuation pattern random value and the reach determination random value.
In step S30, the main CPU 111 updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for the big hit symbol, and the initial random number value for the small hit symbol.
After that, the main CPU 111 repeats the processes of steps S20 and S30 until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

<Timer interrupt processing on the main control board>
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a timer interrupt process by the main control board.
The reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110 generates clock pulses at predetermined intervals (4 milliseconds, hereinafter referred to as "4 ms"), so that the timer interrupt process described below can be performed. Will be executed.
First, in step S101, the main CPU 111 saves the information stored in the register in the stack area.
Next, in step S102, the main CPU 111 updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, and updates the normal electric opening time counter. Performs time control processing for updating various timer counters such as processing.
Specifically, the main CPU 111 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the normal power release time counter.

In step S103, the main CPU 111 performs random number update processing of the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the hit determination random number value.
Specifically, 1 is added to each random number counter to update the random number counter. If the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is returned to 0, and if the random number counter makes one round, the random number is updated from the value of the initial random number at that time.
In step S104, the main CPU 111 performs an initial random number counter update process for updating the random number counter by adding 1 to the initial random number counter for special symbol determination, the initial random number counter for the jackpot symbol, and the initial random number counter for the small hit symbol. conduct.

In step S105, the main CPU 111 performs an input control process.
In this input control process, the main CPU 111 inputs to each switch of the first start port detection switch 13a, the second start port detection switch 14a, the gate detection switch 15a, the large winning opening detection switch 16a, and the general winning opening detection switch 18a. Determine if it was there. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16.
In step S106, the main CPU 111 performs a special figure special electric control process for controlling a special symbol and a special electric accessory. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 17 to 18.
In step S107, the main CPU 111 performs a normal symbol normal electric control process for controlling a normal symbol and a normal electric accessory.

In step S108, the main CPU 111 performs a payout control process.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 111 checks whether or not a game ball has won a prize in the large winning opening 16, the first starting opening 13, the second starting opening 14, and the general winning opening 18, and if there is a winning. Sends a payout quantity designation command corresponding to each to the payout control board 130.
More specifically, the general winning opening prize ball counter, the large winning opening winning ball counter, and the starting opening winning ball counter are checked, and the payout number designation command corresponding to each winning opening is transmitted to the payout control board 130. After that, predetermined data is subtracted from the prize ball counter corresponding to the transmitted number of payouts specification command and updated.
In step S109, the main CPU 111 performs data creation processing of external information data, starting port opening / closing solenoid data, winning opening opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, ordinary symbol display device data, and storage number designation command.
In step S110, the main CPU 111 performs output control processing.
In this output control process, the main CPU 111 performs a port output process for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening opening / closing solenoid data, and the winning opening opening / closing solenoid data created in step S109.

Further, the main CPU 111 uses the special symbol display device data and the ordinary symbol created in step S109 to light the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21, and the ordinary symbol display device 22. Performs display device output processing that outputs display device data. Further, the main CPU 111 also performs a command transmission process for transmitting a command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 113.
In step S111, the main CPU 111 restores the information saved in step S101 to the register of the main CPU 111.

<Input control processing>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an input control process by the main control board.
First, in step S121, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 18a, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the general winning opening 18. When the detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 18a, the main CPU 111 adds predetermined data to the general winning opening winning ball counter used for the winning ball and updates it.
In step S122, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the detection signal from the large winning opening detection switch 16 has been input, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the large winning opening 16.
When the detection signal is input from the large winning opening detection switch 16a, the main CPU 111 adds and updates predetermined data to the large winning opening prize ball counter used for the winning ball, and also wins the large winning opening 16. The large winning opening ball entry counter (C1) for counting the game balls that have been played is added and updated by the counter in the storage area.

In step S123, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 13a is input, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the first start port 13, and determines the jackpot. Set the predetermined data to do. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.
In step S124, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the detection signal from the second start port detection switch 14a has been input, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the second start port 14.
When the detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 14a, the main CPU 111 performs the same process as in step S123.
However, in this second start port detection switch input process, "1" is added to the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area, and the extracted special symbol determination random value, jackpot symbol random value, and small hit The symbol random value and the reach determination random value are stored in the second special symbol storage area. That is, the first start port detection switch input process and the second start port detection switch input process differ only in the storage area for storing various data, and all other processes are the same.
In step S125, the main CPU 111 determines whether the gate detection switch 15a has input a signal, that is, whether or not the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 15.

<First start port detection switch input process>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a first start port detection switch input process by the main control board.
First, in step S131, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 13a has been input.
When the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 13a is input (Yes in step S131), the process is transferred to step S132, and when the detection signal from the first start port detection switch 13a is not input, the process is transferred to step S132. (No in step S131), the first start port detection switch input process is terminated.
In step S132, the main CPU 111 performs a process of adding and updating predetermined data to the start port prize ball counter used for the prize ball.
Next, in step S133, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the number of reservations set in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is less than 4. If the number of holds set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the process is transferred to step S134, and the process is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area. If the number of holdings is not less than 4, the first start port detection switch input process is terminated.

In step S134, the main CPU 111 acquires a random value for determining a special symbol, searches for a vacant storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and sets the vacant storage unit into the vacant storage unit. The acquired random value for determining a special symbol is stored.
In step S135, the main CPU 111 acquires a random value for the jackpot symbol, searches for a vacant storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and acquires the vacant storage unit in the vacant storage unit. Store the random value for the jackpot symbol.

In step S136, the main CPU 111 acquires a random value for the small hit symbol, searches for a vacant storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and sets the vacant storage unit into the vacant storage unit. The acquired random number value for the small hit symbol is stored.
In step S137, the main CPU 111 acquires the game random value (variable pattern random value and reach determination random value), and sequentially vacates the storage unit from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area. The search is performed, and the acquired random number values for games (random values for fluctuation patterns and random values for reach determination) are stored in a vacant storage unit.
In step S138, the main CPU 111 adds "1" to the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area and stores it.
In step S139, the main CPU 111 performs a pre-determination process (FIG. 16) in which each random number value acquired in steps S134 to S137 is determined based on the pre-determination table corresponding to the current gaming state.

<Preliminary judgment processing>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a pre-determination process by the main control board.
First, in step S151, the main CPU 111 determines the special symbol determination random value newly written in the special symbol reservation storage area based on the pre-determination table shown in FIG.
Next, in step S152, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the jackpot determination as a result of the jackpot determination in step S151 has been tentatively determined as a jackpot.
If it is tentatively determined to be a big hit (Yes in step S152), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to step S153, and if it is not tentatively determined to be a big hit (No in step S152), it shifts the process to step S156.
When the jackpot is tentatively determined in step S152, the main CPU 111 tentatively determines the type of special symbol (stop symbol data) by determining the newly written random number value for the jackpot symbol in step S153.

Next, in step S154, the main CPU 111 determines the newly written random number value for special symbol variation, and provisionally determines the variation pattern of the special symbol.
Next, in step S155, the main CPU 111 generates a start prize designation command corresponding to the tentatively determined special symbol type and the tentatively determined variation pattern, sets the command in the production transmission data storage area, and performs pre-determination processing. To finish.
The start prize designation command is provided so as to be identifiable in the same manner as the variation pattern designation command shown in FIGS. 9 to 10, and each information of big hit, small hit, and loss is associated with each other.
If it is not tentatively determined as a big hit in step S152 (No in step S152), the main CPU 111 makes a tentative determination as to whether or not it is determined as a small hit in step S156.

If it is not tentatively determined as a small hit in step S155 (No in step S155), the main CPU 111 determines the random number value for special figure variation in step S159 to tentatively determine the variation pattern of the special symbol. Then, in step S160, the main CPU 111 sets a start winning designation command (including a tentatively determined fluctuation pattern) indicating that the command is lost in the production transmission data storage area, and ends the pre-determination process.
On the other hand, if it is tentatively determined to be a small hit (Yes in step S156), the main CPU 111 determines the random number value for special symbol variation in step S157 to tentatively determine the variation pattern of the special symbol.
In step S156, a start winning designation command (including a tentatively determined variation pattern) indicating that it is a small hit, that is, a chance effect is set in the effect transmission data storage area, and the pre-determination process is terminated.
In the second start port detection switch input process shown in step S124 (FIG. 14), the main CPU 111 also refers to the pre-judgment table to generate prize information, and controls the start prize designation command based on the prize information. A pre-determination process for transmitting to the substrate 120 is performed.

By the above pre-determination process, when the game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14, the winning information can be transmitted to the effect control board 120 as a starting winning designation command.
Therefore, the sub CPU 121 of the effect control board 120 that has received the start prize designation command analyzes the start prize command and starts the change of the special symbol triggered by the winning of the game ball to the first start port this time. A predetermined effect can be executed in advance from the front.
However, this pre-determination process is determined according to the game state at the time when the game ball enters the starting ports 13 and 14, respectively. Therefore, if the game state is changed before the first hold or the second hold reserved by the entry is processed, the result of the jackpot determination process described later may be different from the result of the advance determination process. There is.

<Special figure special electric control processing>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating the special figure special electric control process by the main control board.
First, the main CPU 111 loads the value of the special figure special electric processing data in step S181, and refers to the branch address from the special figure special electric processing data loaded in step S182.
If the special symbol special electric processing data = 0 in step S183 (Yes in step S183), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to the special symbol storage determination process (step S184).
When the special figure special electric processing data = 0 in step S183 (No in step S183), the main CPU 111 determines in step S185 whether the special figure special electric processing data = 1.
If the special symbol special electric processing data = 1 in step S185 (Yes in step S185), the main CPU 111 shifts the processing to the special symbol variation processing (step S186).

In the special symbol variation process of step S186, when the variation time of the special symbol set in the special symbol memory determination process has elapsed, the special symbol set in the special symbol memory determination process is designated on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21. The symbol stop time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is stopped and displayed.
When the special figure special electric processing data = 1 is not set in step S185 (No in step S185), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data = 2 in step S187.
If the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 in step S187 (Yes in step S187), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to the special symbol stop processing (step S188).
In the special symbol stop processing in step S188, when the predetermined symbol stop time set in the special symbol variation processing has elapsed, if the special symbol displayed as stopped is a jackpot symbol, "3" is set in the special symbol special electric processing data. After that, set the opening command and opening time for the big hit, and if the special symbol displayed as stopped is the small hit symbol, set "4" in the special figure special electric processing data, and then set the opening command and opening for the small hit. Set the time.

When the special figure special electric processing data = 2 in step S187 (No in step S187), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data = 3 in step S189.
If the special figure special electric processing data = 3 in step S189 (Yes in step S189), the main CPU 111 shifts the processing to the jackpot game processing (step S190).
In the jackpot game process of step S190, when the opening of the jackpot is completed, the jackpot 16 is opened for a predetermined period according to the opening mode determination table (not shown) for the jackpot. After the opening of the large winning opening 16, the ending is performed for a predetermined period, and after the ending is completed, "5" is set in the special figure special electric processing data.

When the special figure special electric processing data = 3 is not set in step S189 (No in step S189), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data = 4 in step S191.
If the special figure special electric processing data = 4 in step S191 (Yes in step S191), the main CPU 111 shifts the processing to the small hit game processing (step S192).
In the small hit game process of step S192, when the opening of the small hit is completed, the large winning opening 16 is opened for a predetermined period according to the opening mode determination table (not shown) for the small hit. After the opening of the large winning opening 16, the ending is performed for a predetermined period, and after the ending is completed, "5" is set in the special figure special electric processing data.
If the special figure special electric processing data = 4 is not set in step S191 (No in step S191), the main CPU 111 determines that the special figure special electric processing data = 5, and shifts the processing to the special game end processing (step S193).
In the special game end process of step S193, after the game state after the big hit game is set to the probability change game state or the time-saving game state at the end of the big hit, "0" is set in the special figure special electric processing data.

<Special symbol memory judgment processing>
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a special symbol memory determination process by the main control board.
In step S201, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. Here, if the variation of the special symbol is being displayed, that is, if the special symbol time counter ≠ 0 (Yes in step S201), the special symbol storage determination process ends.
Further, if the fluctuation display of the special symbol is not in progress, that is, if the special symbol time counter = 0 (No in step S201), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to step S202 and stores the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area. Is 1 or more.
If the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is not 1 or more (No in step S202), the CPU 111 shifts the process to step S204, and the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is "1". If it is determined that the above is the case, the process is moved to step S203.
As a result, the second special symbol storage area is processed with priority over the first special symbol storage area.
In step S203, the main CPU 111 subtracts "1" from the value stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area and stores it.

In step S204, the main CPU 111 determines whether the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is 1 or more. If the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is not 1 or more (No in step S204), the process is transferred to step S215, and the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is “1” or more. If it is determined that (Yes in step S204), the process is transferred to step S205.
In step S205, the main CPU 111 subtracts "1" from the value stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area and stores it.
In step S206, the main CPU 111 uses a predetermined random number value (random value for special symbol determination, which is stored in the special symbol hold storage area corresponding to the special symbol hold number (U) storage area subtracted in steps S202 to S205. Random value for big hit symbol, random value for small hit symbol, random value for reach judgment, random value for fluctuation pattern) and start prize designation command shift processing. Specifically, a predetermined random value stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area and the start prize designation command are stored in the previous storage unit. Shift to.

Here, the predetermined random number value stored in the first storage unit and the start winning designation command are shifted to the determination storage area (0th storage unit). At this time, the predetermined random number value stored in the first storage unit and the start winning designation command are written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit) and already written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit). The stored data will be deleted from the special symbol hold storage area. As a result, the predetermined random number value used in the previous game and the start prize designation command are deleted. Further, after the shift, the MODE of the start prize designation command is processed so as to correspond to the storage area after the shift.
In step S207, the main CPU 111 uses the data (special symbol determination random value, jackpot symbol random value, small hit symbol) written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit) of the special symbol hold storage area in step S206. The jackpot determination process is executed based on the random value).
In the jackpot determination process of step S207, when it is determined that the jackpot has been won, the special symbol for the jackpot to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 is determined. If it is determined that the small hit has been won, the special symbol for the small hit to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 is determined, and in the case of the loss, the special symbol for the loss is determined.

In step S208, the main CPU 111 performs the fluctuation pattern determination process.
In the variation pattern determination process, first, the variation pattern determination table based on the current gaming state is determined with reference to the game state storage area of the main RAM 113. Specifically, the variation pattern determination table for the time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 10 is determined in the case of the time-saving gaming state, and the variation of the non-time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 9 is determined in the non-time-saving gaming state. Determine the pattern determination table.
After that, the variation pattern is determined based on the determined variation pattern determination table with reference to the special symbol determination random value, the jackpot symbol random value, the reach determination random value, and the variation pattern random value.
In step S209, the main CPU 111 sets the variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the production transmission data storage area.
In step S210, the main CPU 111 confirms the game state at the start of the fluctuation, and sets the game state designation command corresponding to the current game state in the production transmission data storage area.

In step S211 the main CPU 111 starts the variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21. That is, the variable display data of the special symbol is set in the processing area. As a result, when the information written in the processing area is related to the first hold (U1), the first special symbol display device 20 is blinked, and when the information is related to the second hold (U2), the second special symbol display is displayed. The device 21 will be blinked.
In step S212, when the main CPU 111 starts the fluctuation display of the special symbol as described above, the fluctuation time (counter value) based on the fluctuation pattern determined in step S208 is set to the special symbol time counter in the special symbol time counter. set. The special symbol time counter is subtracted every 4 ms in S110.
In step S213, the main CPU 111 sets the customer waiting determination flag to 00H. That is, the customer waiting determination flag is cleared. The customer waiting determination flag = "00H" indicates that the special symbol is currently being displayed in a variable manner or a special game is being played. On the other hand, when neither the variable display of the special symbol nor the special game is in progress, the customer waiting determination flag "01H" is stored. When the customer waiting determination flag = "01H" is stored, the customer waiting command is set in step S217, which will be described later, and it is transmitted to the effect control board 120 that the special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner or in a special game.

In step S214, the main CPU 111 sets the special symbol special electric processing data = 1 and ends the special symbol storage determination process.
In step S204, when it is determined that the first hold (U1) is "0", that is, when neither the first hold (U1) nor the second hold (U2) is reserved, the main CPU 111 Determines whether or not 01H is set in the customer waiting determination flag in step S215.
When 01H is set in the customer waiting determination flag (Yes in step S215), the special symbol memory determination process is completed, and when 01H is not set in the customer waiting determination flag (No in step S215). , The process is transferred to step S216.
In step S216, the main CPU 111 sets 01H to the customer waiting determination flag so that the customer waiting command is not set many times in step S217 described later.
In step S217, the main CPU 111 sets the customer waiting command in the production transmission data storage area, and ends the special symbol storage determination process.

Next, the process executed by the sub CPU 121 of the effect control board 120 will be described.
As described above, when the effect control board 120 receives the variation pattern command from the main control board 110, the effect corresponding to the received variation pattern command is determined and executed by lottery.

<Main processing of production control board>
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the main process by the effect control board.
In step S510, the sub CPU 121 performs an initialization process. In this process, the sub CPU 121 reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 122 and initializes and sets the flags stored in the sub RAM 123 in response to the power being turned on. When this process is completed, the process is moved to step S520.
In step S520, the sub CPU 121 performs the effect random number value update process. In this process, the sub CPU 121 performs a process of updating various random value values stored in the sub RAM 123. After that, the process of step S510 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

<Timer interrupt processing of production control board>
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a timer interrupt process by the effect control board.
Although not shown, a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120 generates a clock pulse at predetermined intervals (2 milliseconds), reads a timer interrupt processing program, and reads the effect control board 120. The timer interrupt process is executed.
First, in step S601, the sub CPU 121 saves the information stored in its own register to the stack area.
In step S602, the sub CPU 121 updates various timer counters used in the effect control board 120.
In step S603, the sub CPU 121 performs a command analysis process. In this process, the sub CPU 121 performs a process of analyzing the command stored in the receive buffer of the sub RAM 123. A specific description of the command analysis process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22.
When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. After that, the analysis process of the command received in step S603 is performed.

In step S604, the sub CPU 121 checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 8a input via the lamp control board 140, and performs the effect input control process related to the effect button 8. A specific description of the effect input control process will be described later with reference to FIG. 23.
In step S605, the sub CPU 121 transmits various data set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.
In step S606, the sub CPU 121 restores the information saved in step S601 to the register of the sub CPU 121.

<Command analysis processing>
21 and 22 are flowcharts for explaining the command analysis process by the effect control board. The command analysis process 2 shown in FIG. 22 is performed following the command analysis process 1 shown in FIG.
In step S611, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not there is a command in the receive buffer, and confirms whether or not the command has been received.
If there is no command in the receive buffer (No in step S611), the sub CPU 121 ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the receive buffer (Yes in step S611), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S621.

In step S621, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a customer waiting command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a customer waiting command (Yes in step S621), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S622, and if it is not a customer waiting command (No in step S621), the sub CPU 121 processes in step S631. To move.
In step S622, the sub CPU 121 performs a customer waiting effect pattern determination process for determining the customer waiting effect pattern. Specifically, the customer waiting effect pattern is determined, the determined customer waiting effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the information of the determined customer waiting effect pattern is transmitted to the image performance control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. Therefore, the data based on the determined customer waiting effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123.

In step S631, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a start winning designation command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a start prize designation command (Yes in step S631), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S632, and if it is not a start prize designation command (No in step S631), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S641. Move the process to.
In step S632, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the received start winning award designation command and executes the data update process corresponding to the start winning award designation command. The start prize designation command is associated with information related to a big hit, a small hit, and a loss that are tentatively determined by the pre-determination process. Therefore, here, the information about the newly reserved first hold (U1) or second hold (U2) is stored in the predetermined storage area of the sub RAM 123.

In step S633, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the start winning designation command and performs a hold display mode determination process of transmitting the hold display command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 in order to perform the hold display in a predetermined mode. As a result, the image display device 31 displays the current number of reserved items of the first hold (U1) and the second hold (U2).

In step S641, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a variation pattern specification command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a variation pattern specification command (Yes in step S641), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S642, and if it is not a variation pattern specification command (No in step S641), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S651. Move the process to.
In step S642, the sub CPU 121 performs a variation effect pattern determination process for determining one variation effect pattern from the plurality of variation effect patterns based on the received variation pattern designation command.

In step S643, the sub CPU 121 shifts the hold display data stored in the first hold storage area and the second hold storage area and the data corresponding to the start winning designation command, and the information of the hold display data after the shift. Is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, and the hold display mode update process is performed.

In step S651, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect symbol designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is the effect symbol designation command (Yes in step S651), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S652, and if it is not the effect symbol designation command (No in step S651), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S661. Move the process to.
In step S652, the sub CPU 121 performs an effect symbol determination process for determining the effect symbol 35 to be stopped and displayed on the image display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command. Specifically, the effect symbol designation command is analyzed to determine the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 35 according to the presence or absence of the jackpot and the type of the jackpot, and the determined effect symbol data is stored in the effect symbol storage area. Set to.

In step S661, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a symbol confirmation command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a symbol confirmation command (Yes in step S661), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S662, and if it is not a symbol confirmation command (No in step S661), the sub CPU 121 processes in step S671. To move.
In step S662, in order to stop and display the effect symbol 35, the sub CPU 121 sends the data based on the effect symbol data determined in step S652 and the stop instruction data for stopping and displaying the effect symbol to the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123. Performs the effect symbol stop processing to be set in.

In step S671, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a command for specifying a fluctuation pattern of a normal figure.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a normal map fluctuation pattern specification command (Yes in step S671), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S672, and if it is not a normal map fluctuation pattern specification command (No in step S671). ), The process is transferred to step S681.
In step S672, the sub CPU 121 performs a normal map variation effect pattern determination process for determining one normal map variation effect pattern from a plurality of normal map variation effect patterns based on the received normal map variation pattern designation command.

In step S681, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a long release start command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a long release start command (Yes in step S681), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S682, and if it is not a long release start command (No in step S681), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S681. Move the process to.
In step S682, the sub CPU 121 performs the effect processing during the long opening. Here, a notification effect is executed in order to notify the player that the second start port 14 will be opened for a long time (4.2 seconds) in the non-time saving game state.

In step S691, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a normal symbol confirmation command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a normal symbol confirmation command (Yes in step S691), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S692, and if it is not a normal symbol confirmation command (No in step S691), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S700. Move the process to.
In step S692, the sub CPU 121 sends the effect symbol data corresponding to the received normal symbol confirmation command and the stop instruction data for stopping and displaying the normal symbol effect symbol in the sub RAM 123 in order to stop and display the normal symbol effect symbol. Performs normal symbol fluctuation stop processing to be set in the transmission buffer.

In step S700, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a game state designation command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a game state specification command (Yes in step S700), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S701, and if it is not a game state specification command (No in step S700), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S711. Move the process to.
In step S701, the sub CPU 121 sets the game state based on the received game state designation command in the game state storage area in the sub RAM 123.
In step S711, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is an opening command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is the opening command (Yes in step S711), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S712, and if it is not the opening command (No in step S711), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S721. ..

In step S712, the sub CPU 121 performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern. Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the information of the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the board 140, the data based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123.
In step S721, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a big winning opening opening designation command indicating the start of a big hit round game.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a command for specifying the opening of the winning opening (Yes in step S721), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S722, and if it is not the command for specifying opening of the winning opening (No in step S721). ), The process is transferred to step S731.

In step S722, the sub CPU 121 performs the effect pattern determination process during the round to determine the jackpot effect pattern. Specifically, a production pattern during a round is determined for each round to be started, based on a command for designating the opening of a large winning opening, which has information on how many round games will start. Then, the determined effect pattern during the round is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the corresponding data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 in order to transmit the information of the effect pattern to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. ..
In step S731, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is a round end designation command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is a round end specification command (Yes in step S731), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S732, and if it is not a round end specification command (No in step S731), the sub CPU 121 moves to step S7341. Move the process to.
In step S732, the sub CPU 121 performs a paused effect pattern determination process for determining an effect pattern between each round.

In step S741, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the receive buffer is an ending command.
If the command stored in the receive buffer is the ending command (Yes in step S741), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S742, and if it is not the ending command (No in step S741), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S751. ..
In step S742, the sub CPU 121 performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern. Specifically, the hit end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the information of the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the board 140, the data based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123.

In step S751, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a big winning opening ball entry command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a large winning opening ball entry command (Yes in step S751), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S752, and if it is not a large winning opening entry ball command (No in step S751). ), Ends the command analysis process.
In step S752, the sub CPU 121 is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 in order to transmit the big winning opening ball entry command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

<Production input control processing>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating the effect input control process by the effect control board.
First, in step S831, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not there is a valid effect button detection signal from the effect button detection switch 8a based on the effect button detection command from the lamp control board 140. Here, if the sub CPU 121 determines that there is no effect button detection signal (No in step S831), the process ends, and if it determines that there is an effect button detection signal (Yes in step S831), step S832 Move to processing.

In step S832, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not the button operation effect execution enable flag = 01 is set in the storage area of the sub RAM 123. Here, if the button operation effect execution enable flag = 01 is not set (No in step S832), the sub CPU 121 ends the process and if the button operation effect execution enable flag = 01 is set (step). Yes) in S832, the process proceeds to step S833.

The button operation effect execution enable flag determines whether or not the effect corresponding to the operation can be executed based on the button operation, and the flag "01". If it is, it is possible to execute the effect corresponding to the operation, and if the flag is "00", it indicates that it is impossible to execute the effect corresponding to the operation, and the operation valid period of the effect button is set. The flag "01" is set at the start, and the flag "00" is set when the effect button is operated or the operation valid period ends without the effect button being operated.

In step S833, the sub CPU 121 sets the button operation effect execution command in the transmission buffer. This command is a command for causing the image control board 150 to execute an effect corresponding to the operation of the effect button 8.
Here, the sub CPU 121 transmits the command set in the transmission buffer in step S605 (see FIG. 20) after the effect input control process to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. The image control board 150 operates the image display device 31 and the audio output device 34 based on the received command, and the lamp control board 140 operates the effect accessory device 32 and the effect lighting device 33 based on the received command. Let me.

Next, the image control board 150 will be described.
In the image control board 150, when a command for effect is received from the effect control board 120, the host CPU 151 reads the audio output device control program from the host ROM 153 based on the received command for effect, and the audio in the audio output device 342. The host CPU 151 reads the animation control program from the host ROM 153 to control the image display in the image display device 31.

Here, the processing executed by the host CPU 151 on the image control board 150 will be described.

<Host CPU main processing>
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating the main process by the image control board.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the host CPU 151, and the host CPU 151 performs the following main processing.
First, in step S901, the host CPU 151 performs the initialization process. In this process, the host CPU 151 reads the main processing program from the host ROM 153 and instructs the initial settings of various modules of the host CPU 151 and the VDP 200 in response to the power being turned on.

In step S902, the host CPU 151 performs an effect pattern specification command analysis process for analyzing the effect pattern specification command (command stored in the receive buffer of the host RAM 152) transmitted from the effect control board 120.
When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. After that, the analysis process of the command received in step S902 is performed.

The effect pattern specification command analysis process confirms whether or not the effect pattern specification command is stored in the reception buffer. If the effect pattern specification command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process proceeds to step S903 as it is.
If the effect pattern specification command is stored in the reception buffer, a new effect pattern specification command is read, and one or more animation groups to be executed are determined based on the read effect pattern specification command, and each animation is determined. Determine the anime pattern from the group. Then, when the animation pattern is determined, the read effect pattern specification command is deleted from the transmission buffer.

In step S903, the host CPU 151 performs animation control processing. In this process, the addresses of various animation scenes are updated based on the "scene switching counter", "weight frame", and "frame counter" updated in step S921 described later and the animation pattern determined in step S902. do.
In step S904, the host CPU 151 sets the display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. Will be generated. Then, when the generation of the display list is completed, the host CPU 151 outputs the display list to the VDP 200. The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area 156a of the VRAM 156 via the CPUI / F203 in the VDP 200.

In step S905, the host CPU 151 determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01.
Here, as will be described later in FIG. 25 (b), the FB switching flag is FB if the previous display list drawing is completed in the V blank interrupt every 1/60 second (about 16.6 ms). The switching flag = 01. That is, in step S905, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing is completed.
If the FB switching flag = 01 (Yes in step S905), the host CPU 151 shifts the process to step S906, and if the FB switching flag = 00 (No in step S905), waits until the FB switching flag = 01. do.

In step S906, the host CPU 151 sets the FB switching flag = 00 (turns off the FB switching flag), and shifts the process to step S906.
In step S907, the host CPU 151 performs the drawing execution start process.
In this process, in order to instruct the VDP 200 to execute drawing on the already output display list, drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register. That is, the execution of drawing on the display list output in step S904 is instructed.
After that, the processes of steps S902 to S907 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt shown in FIG. 25 is generated.

<Interruption processing of image control board>
The interrupt process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG. 25.
The interrupt process of the image control board 150 includes at least a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal and a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal. There is.

<Host CPU drawing end interrupt processing>
FIG. 25A is a flowchart illustrating a drawing end interrupt process by the image control board.
When the drawing of a frame (1 frame) of a predetermined unit is completed, the VDP 200 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 151 via the CPUI / F203.
When the drawing end interrupt signal is input from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 executes the drawing end interrupt process.
In the drawing end interrupt process, in step S911, the host CPU 151 sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process. That is, the drawing end flag is turned on each time the drawing is completed.

<Host CPU V blank interrupt processing>
FIG. 25B is a flowchart illustrating the V blank interrupt process by the image control board.
The VDP 200 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the host CPU 151 via the CPUI / F203 every 1/60 second (about 16.6 ms).
When the host CPU 151 inputs a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 executes the V blank interrupt process.

In step S921, the host CPU 151 performs a process of updating various counters of the "scene switching counter", the "wait frame", and the "frame counter".
In step S922, the host CPU 151 determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not the drawing of the frame of the predetermined unit is completed.
If the drawing end flag = 01 (Yes in step S922), the host CPU 151 shifts the process to step S923, and if the drawing end flag = 01 (No in step S922), the host CPU 151 ends the current V blank interrupt process. do. That is, even if the V blank interrupt signal is input, if the drawing is not completed, the processing after step S923 is not performed.

In step S923, the host CPU 151 sets the drawing end flag = 00 (turns off the drawing end flag).
In step S924, the host CPU 151 gives an instruction to the memory controller 209 of the VDP 200 to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer”.
In step S925, the host CPU 151 sets the FB switching flag = 01 (turns on the FB switching flag), cancels the standby state in step S905 (see FIG. 24), and ends the current V blank interrupt process. do.

Next, the outline of the lamp control board 140 will be briefly described.
When the effect control board 120 receives the effect command, the lamp control board 140 reads out the effect device operation program based on the received effect command and controls the operation of the effect device 32. At the same time, the effect lighting device control program is read out based on the received effect command to control the effect lighting device 33.
Further, in the lamp control board 140, when a command for the effect button is received from the image control board 150 via the effect control board 120, the effect button operation program is read out based on the received command for the effect button, and the effect button is read. 8 is controlled.

<Variable production pattern determination table>
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a variation effect pattern determination table based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20 and the variation pattern of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 21.
The "variable effect pattern determination table" refers to, for example, one variable effect pattern determination table from among a plurality of variable effect pattern determination tables according to the current gaming state and the effect mode. Here, the variable effect pattern determination table is used. One of the determination tables will be illustrated and described.
It should be noted that the effect mode is a mode in which, for example, the background, BGM, options for variable effect, and the like are different, and can be appropriately shifted in order to eliminate the monotony of the game during the game.

The "variable effect pattern" is a specific effect mode in the effect means (image display device 31, effect accessory device 32, effect lighting device 33, audio output device 34) performed during the variation of the special symbol. To say. For example, in the image display device 31, the variation mode of the effect symbol 35 is determined by the variation effect pattern.

By the way, the "reach" in the present embodiment means a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 35 for notifying the transition to the special game is stopped and displayed, and the other effect symbols 35 are performing the variable display. .. For example, when the combination of the three-digit effect symbols 35 of "777" is set as the combination of the effect symbols 35 for notifying the shift to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 35 are stopped and displayed at "7". , The state in which the remaining effect symbols 35 are displayed in a variable manner.

As described with respect to the variation pattern determination table of FIGS. 9 and 10, "reach" includes "normal reach", "SP reach", and "SPSP reach" as its modes.
In the "normal reach", two effect symbols 35 (left symbol and right symbol) are temporarily stopped in the left side region and the right side region in the display unit of the image display device 31, and the remaining one effect symbol 35 fluctuates in the central region. It is a reach with low expectations. During "normal reach", the production symbol 35 is a symbol in which decoration is added to the number symbol.
The "SP reach" is a super reach with a higher expectation of winning a big hit (a special game is executed) than the above "normal reach", and mainly develops from the "normal reach".
The effect screen is changed to a special one, and the display mode of the effect symbol 35 is also changed. For example, the decorative symbol 35 has no decoration and only a number symbol. The music (BGM) output during the production is also different from that at the time of "normal reach".

Further, the "SPSP reach" is a reach with a higher expectation of winning a big hit (a special game is executed) than the "SP reach". It develops from "SP reach" or directly from "normal reach". A production screen, a movie, or the like that is different from the "SP reach" is displayed. The music (BGM) output during the production is also different from that at the time of "SP reach".

In "SPSP Reach", a winning button effect is performed using the effect button 8 in the final stage. This winning button effect is an effect that explicitly indicates to the player the winning of the jackpot by voice or operation of the accessory in response to the operation of the effect button 8.
In the winning button effect, a button image for prompting the player to operate the effect button 8 is displayed. Such button images may be faded in to more catch the player's attention and raise expectations.
When the result of the button operation 8 is lost (when the effect button 8 is operated by the winning button effect performed by the loss fluctuation), the effect mode that was in the SPSP reach is before the reach development at the start of the next change. Is returned to the initial state of.

Specifically, the variable icon that had changed color from the default color to red or gold during "SPSP reach" or until it became "SPSP reach" was lost as a result of the winning button effect. In the next variation made in, it returns to the default color.
In addition, the background in which the zone band is not displayed in the next fluctuation performed after the result of the winning button effect is lost, which was displayed on the background screen in which the zone band was displayed due to the zone effect during the SPSP effect. You are back on the screen.
The effect symbols 35 displayed in the reach mode are arranged in a lost line when the result of the winning button effect is lost, and in the next fluctuation, the fluctuation display is started from the high-speed fluctuation.
The BGM output during the "SPSP reach" becomes silent as an example when the result of the hit button effect is lost, and in the subsequent fluctuation, the output is started from the BGM for high-speed fluctuation.
In addition, the expected degree of jackpot is suggested by the number of charge points accumulated by repeatedly hitting the effect button 8 (for example, the jackpot is confirmed when points are accumulated up to 100), and points are accumulated up to 70, for example. When the winning button effect is performed in this state and the result is lost, the number of charge points has returned to 0 at the start of the next fluctuation.
Further, in the winning button performed by the fluctuation of winning the jackpot, a success sound indicating the jackpot is output from the voice output device 34 in response to the operation of the effect button 8, and in the winning button performed by the fluctuation of the loss, the effect button 8 is output. A failure sound indicating a loss is output from the voice output device 34 in response to the operation of.
In particular, when the fluctuation that has developed to SPSP reach is lost as a result of the winning button effect, the title of the gaming machine is included before the start of the next fluctuation for the purpose of calming the player's feelings after the fluctuation ends. An eye-catching image may be displayed.

In the explanation of the effect pattern determination table below, only "line notice" is mentioned as a notice effect that accompanies the variable effect, but this is not the case, and various other effects and notice effects are mentioned. It goes without saying that it can be done.

The variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 26 is configured such that the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, the effect random number value 1, and the variation effect pattern are associated with each other.
The sub CPU 121 acquires the effect random value value 1, refers to the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 26, and is based on the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 and the acquired effect random value value 1. Determine the variable production pattern. Then, the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variable effect pattern is transmitted to the host CPU 151 of the image control board 150.

The variation effect pattern specified in the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 26 and the effect contents thereof will be described.
The case where the fluctuation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates fluctuation patterns 1 and 21 will be described.
If the effect random number value 1 is "0" to "49", the variable effect pattern 1 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 1 is an effect content that becomes a probabilistic jackpot after executing the normal reach. No dialogue notice will be given.
If the effect random number value 1 is "50" to "99", the variable effect pattern 2 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 2 is an effect content that becomes a probabilistic jackpot after executing the normal reach. No dialogue notice is given.

The case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 2 and 22 will be described.
If the effect random number value 1 is "0" to "24", the variable effect pattern 11 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 11 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Perform a dialogue notice production. Once the effect symbol 35 is temporarily stopped in a lost manner, it does not perform a revival effect that becomes a big hit by re-variating.
If the effect random number value 1 is "25" to "49", the variable effect pattern 12 is selected.
For example, the variable effect pattern 12 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the revival production will be performed.
If the effect random number value 1 is "50" to "74", the variable effect pattern 13 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 13 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Performs dialogue notice production and revival production.
If the effect random number value 1 is "75" to "99", the variable effect pattern 14 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 14 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the revival production will be performed.

The case where the fluctuation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the fluctuation patterns 3 and 23 will be described.
If the effect random number value 1 is "0" to "11", the variable effect pattern 21 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 21 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Perform a dialogue notice production. Once the effect symbol 35 is temporarily stopped in a lost manner, it does not perform a revival effect that becomes a big hit by re-variating.
If the effect random number value 1 is "12" to "23", the variable effect pattern 22 is selected.
For example, the variable effect pattern 22 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the revival production will be performed.
If the effect random number value 1 is "24" to "35", the variable effect pattern 23 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 23 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Performs dialogue notice production and revival production.
If the effect random number value 1 is "36" to "47", the variable effect pattern 24 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 24 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the revival production will be performed.

If the effect random number value 1 is "48" to "59", the variable effect pattern 25 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 25 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. The dialogue will be announced, but the revival will not be performed.
If the effect random number value 1 is "60" to "71", the variable effect pattern 26 is selected.
For example, the variable effect pattern 26 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the revival production will be performed.
If the effect random number value 1 is "72" to "83", the variable effect pattern 27 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 27 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Performs dialogue notice production and revival production.
If the effect random number value 1 is "84" to "99", the variable effect pattern 28 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 28 is an effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and becomes a probabilistic jackpot. Neither the dialogue notice production nor the resurrection production will be performed.

As shown in FIG. 26, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 5 and 25, the variation effect is produced regardless of the values “0” to “99” of the effect random value 1. Select pattern 31. The variable effect pattern 31 is an effect content indicating, for example, a small hit or a short hit.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 6 and 26, variation effect patterns 41 and 42 are selected.
Each of these variable effect patterns 41 and 42 is an effect content that usually becomes a big hit after performing the same reach effect and advance notice effect as the variable effect patterns 1 and 2, respectively.
When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 7, 27, variation effect patterns 51, 52, 53, 54 are selected.
Each of the variable effect patterns 91 to 94 is an effect content that is usually a big hit after performing the same reach effect and advance notice effect as the variable effect patterns 11 to 14.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 8 and 28, variation effect patterns 61 to 68 are selected.
Each of these variable effect patterns 61 to 68 is an effect content that usually becomes a big hit after performing the same reach effect and advance notice effect as the variable effect patterns 41 to 48.
When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation pattern 10, the variation effect patterns 71 and 72 are selected. The effect content of the variation effect pattern 151 is, for example, a normal variation effect (normal loss).
The variable effect pattern 71 is an effect content that is normally lost, and a serif notice effect is performed. The variable effect pattern 72 is an effect content that is normally lost, and no serif advance notice is performed.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 15 and 30, the variation effect pattern 81 is selected. The effect content of the variation effect pattern 92 is, for example, a shortened variation effect (shortening loss).
Further, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 11 and 31, variation effect patterns 91 and 92 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 91 and 92 are production contents that are lost after performing the same reach effect and advance notice effect as the variable effect patterns 1, 2, 41, and 42.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 12 and 32, variation effect patterns 101 and 102 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 101 and 102 are the effect contents that are lost after the same reach effect and advance notice effect as those of the variable effect patterns 11, 12, 51 and 52 are performed.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 13 and 33, variation effect patterns 111 to 116 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 111 to 116 are the effect contents that are lost after the same reach effect and advance notice effect as those of the variable effect patterns 21, 22, 25, 26, 61, 62, 65, 66.
In addition to the commands corresponding to the variable effect patterns, the effect pattern specification commands include "effect pattern specification command corresponding to the customer waiting effect pattern", "effect pattern specification command corresponding to the hit start effect pattern", and "big hit effect". Various effect pattern specification commands such as "effect pattern designation command corresponding to the pattern" and "effect pattern designation command corresponding to the hit end effect pattern" are transmitted to the image control board 150.

In addition, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a "pseudo continuous effect" can be executed as a notice effect.
The pseudo-continuous effect is a notice that the effect symbol 35 is temporarily stopped and then re-variated once or a plurality of times during the one-variation display of the special symbol to simulate the multiple variation display. It is a production. It is said that the greater the number of re-variations, the higher the expectation of a big hit.
The "pseudo-continuous production" can be executed before the normal reach (before the reach is established) or during the normal reach. In particular, in the pseudo-continuous production performed during the reach, the effect symbol 35 suitable for the reach mode is temporarily stopped together with the special symbol and then re-variated (high-speed fluctuation).
When a variable effect pattern for performing pseudo-continuous effect is selected based on the effect pattern determination table, the number of re-variations (number of steps) of the pseudo-continuous effect can be determined by using another effect table (not shown). ..
For example, in the case of performing "pseudo-continuous production", in the variable production that develops to normal reach, the pseudo-continuous production that re-variates once is performed, and in the variable production that develops to SP reach and SPSP reach, once or twice. Performs a pseudo-continuous production that re-variates.
It should be noted that the number of steps of the "pseudo-continuous effect" may be defined in the variable effect pattern instead of being separately determined using the effect table.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in addition to the effect based on the above-mentioned variable effect pattern table, the reset button effect described in detail below is executed.
In a gaming machine, in order to enhance the effect of the effect, it is possible to make the player expect a big hit by changing various effects performed during the variable effect from a normal mode to a mode in which a big hit is expected. It is done.
When the jackpot judgment result is a big hit, it is more likely to change to a mode in which a jackpot is expected compared to the case of loss, and when the jackpot judgment result is a loss, the production is in a mode in which a jackpot is expected compared to the case of a jackpot. Hard to change.
In such a gaming machine, many productions have changed to a mode in which a jackpot is expected, and if a loss occurs in a state where a jackpot is excessively expected, the player is greatly disappointed and the game is played. It may also affect motivation.

The reset button effect is an effect for the player to be able to suppress excessive expectations by resetting the effect of changing to a mode in which a jackpot is expected to a normal state by himself / herself.
Basically, the reset button effect may be appropriately executed in all the variation effects related to the variation effect pattern determination table, particularly when the number of effects in the high expectation mode becomes a predetermined number or more.
Alternatively, even if the number of effects in the high expectation mode exceeds a predetermined number, it may be determined separately whether or not to execute the reset button effect by using a random number for determination, and the reset button effect is not necessarily performed in all the effects. It does not have to be executed.
The reset button effect can be performed at any of the timings of normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a notice effect table for executing the dialogue notice effect.
As described above, the dialogue notice is a pre-reach notice production performed before the reach.
The dialogue notice is an effect in which the character speaks a specific line in response to the operation of the effect button, and does not mean that the jackpot is confirmed or suggests the degree of expectation of the jackpot.
When it is decided to execute the dialogue notice by the effect pattern determination table of FIG. 26, the first half part of the dialogue notice is determined based on FIG. 27 (a).
When the fluctuation pattern on which the fluctuation effect pattern is based is related to normal fluctuation, normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach, the selection ratio is 25% each, and the dialogue patterns 1-1, 1-1, 1-3, 1-4 is selected.
In the first half part of the dialogue patterns 1-1 to 1-4, the character CH1 is "What should I do ...", "Um ...", "I'm in trouble ...", "Yeah ..." It is the content to say the lines such as.

Further, the latter half part of the dialogue notice is selected based on FIG. 27 (b).
In the second half part, the line pattern 2-1 that the character CH2 is "may be reach", the line pattern 2-2 that the character CH2 is "more than reach", the line pattern 2-3 that the character CH2 is "more than SP reach", and the character. Any of the dialogue patterns 2-4 that CH2 is "SPSP reach or higher" is selected at a different selection ratio depending on the variation pattern on which the variation effect pattern is based.

When the fluctuation pattern on which the fluctuation effect pattern is based is related to normal fluctuation, the selection ratio of the dialogue patterns 2-1 to 2-4 is 0%, and the latter half part itself is not executed.
When the fluctuation pattern on which the fluctuation effect pattern is based is related to normal reach, the dialogue pattern 2-1 is selected at a selection rate of 90%, the dialogue pattern 2-2 is selected at a ratio of 10%, and the dialogue pattern 2-3, Dialogue patterns 2-4 are not selected.
When the fluctuation pattern on which the fluctuation effect pattern is based is related to SP reach, the dialogue pattern 2-1 is selected at a selection rate of 20%, the dialogue pattern 2-2 is selected at a ratio of 30%, and the dialogue pattern 2-2 is selected at a ratio of 50%. The dialogue pattern 2-3 is selected, and the dialogue pattern 2-4 is not selected.

When the fluctuation pattern on which the fluctuation effect pattern is based is related to SPSP reach, the dialogue pattern 2-1 is selected at a selection rate of 10%, the dialogue pattern 2-2 is selected at a ratio of 20%, and the dialogue pattern 2-2 is selected at a ratio of 30%. The dialogue pattern 2-3 is selected, and the dialogue pattern 2-4 is selected at a selection rate of 50%.
The dialogue of the second half part is displayed on condition that the effect button 8 is operated within the valid period while the dialogue of the first half part is displayed.
In the stage before reach, it suggests the development stage of the production to the player according to the operation of the effect button 8, and does not directly suggest the jackpot expectation.

The characteristic configuration of the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described below.
28 to 30 are diagrams for explaining the flow of the effect including the reset button effect performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment.
As the reset button, one or a plurality of effect buttons 8 can be provided, and these can be used as the reset button.
Further, it is also possible to provide a plurality of effect buttons provided for the reset button effect separately from the effect button 8 and perform the reset button effect by them.

In addition, the flow of the effect described below is, as an example, the variable effect patterns 21 and 111 in the effect pattern determination table of FIG. Is based on.
Then, it is assumed that the reset button effect is executed when the conditions are satisfied again.
As a condition, the reset button effect can be executed, for example, when three or more effects of the high expectation mode described later are executed at the same time.

In FIG. 28A, the effect symbol 35 is stopped and displayed on the image display device 31.
In FIG. 28B, the variable display is started when the game ball wins, for example, in the starting winning opening 13. In addition to the effect symbol 35, the image display device 31 displays the variation icon 36 indicating the variation. At this point, the display color of the variable icon 36 is the default color. Further, the audio output device 35 starts outputting the BGM-1.
The gaming machine of the present embodiment has BGM-1, BGM-2, BGM-3, and BGM-4 as BGM output during fluctuation.
The BGM-1 is a BGM output from the voice output device 35 during high-speed fluctuation after the effect symbol 35 starts to fluctuate and before the effect symbol 35 becomes the reach mode and the reach effect is started.
The BGM-2 is a BGM output from the audio output device 35 during normal reach after the effect symbol 35 fluctuates at high speed.
The BGM-3 is a BGM output from the audio output device 35 during SP reach.
BGM-4 is a BGM output from the audio output device 35 during SPSP reach.
Fluctuations without reach production have the lowest expectation of being a big hit (not a big hit), and fluctuations that develop to normal reach are expected to be big hits compared to fluctuations without reach production.
In addition, fluctuations that develop to SP reach are expected to be big hits compared to fluctuations that develop to normal reach.
Furthermore, the fluctuation that develops to SPSP reach is expected to be a big hit compared to the fluctuation that develops to SPSP reach.
Therefore, the degree of expectation indicated by the BGM itself output during fluctuation is as follows.
That is, the BGM-1 output during high-speed fluctuation has the lowest expectation, the BGM-2 output during normal reach has a higher expectation than the BGM-1, and the BGM-3 output during SP reach has a higher expectation. Expectations are higher than BGM-2, and BGM-4 output during SPSP reach has higher expectations than BGM-3.
Therefore, BGM-4 has a higher degree of expectation than BGM-1, BGM-2, and BGM-3, and is a high-expectation mode of BGM output during fluctuation.
BGM-1, BGM-2, and BGM-3 are low expectation modes of BGM output during fluctuation, which have low expectations as compared with BGM-4.
The effect symbol 35 during high-speed fluctuation, the fluctuation icon 36 of the default color, and BGM-1 are all in a low expectation mode in which this fluctuation is not expected to be a big hit.
If this fluctuation is a fluctuation related to a normal fluctuation, it will be lost as it is and the fluctuation will end.

In FIG. 28 (c), the first half of the dialogue notice based on the table of FIG. 27 (a) is started.
For example, in the image display device 31, the character CH1 speaks the line "Um ...", and the operation instruction image of the effect button 8 and the remaining time gauge are displayed.
In FIG. 28 (d), if the effect button 8 is operated before the operation valid period represented by the remaining time gauge ends, the latter half of the dialogue notice as the result display is started in FIG. 28 (e). NS. In the second half, based on the table of FIG. 27 (b), the character CH2 speaks a line such as "SP reach or higher" or "SPSP reach or higher".
If the effect button 8 is not operated before the valid period represented by the remaining time gauge ends, the latter half of the dialogue notice as the result display is skipped and is not performed.

In FIG. 28 (f), the variable icon 36 has changed from the default color to red.
The pending change of the fluctuation icon 36 is more likely to occur when the fluctuation is a big hit than when the fluctuation is a loss. Therefore, the variable icon 36 that has changed to red is a high expectation mode in which it is expected that the icon of the default color as the low expectation mode will be a big hit.
In this example, the red variable icon 36 is a high expectation mode of the variable icon. This is referred to as the high expectation aspect (1).

In FIG. 29 (a), the right and left symbols of the effect symbol 35 temporarily stop at the same symbol to enter the reach mode, and have developed into a normal reach.
The effect symbol 35 in the reach mode is a high expectation mode that is expected to be a big hit as compared with the effect symbol 35 that was in the high-speed fluctuating state in FIGS. 28 (b) to 28 (f). The effect symbol 35 in the reach mode is a high-expectation mode of the effect symbol. This is referred to as the high expectation aspect (2).
BGM has been switched to BGM-2 during normal reach. This BGM-2 is a low expectation mode of BGM, which shows a higher expectation than the previously output BGM-1, but a lower expectation than the BGM-4 described above.

The production then develops into SP reach in FIG. 29 (b).
BGM was switched to BGM-3 during SP reach. This BGM-3 shows a higher expectation than the BGM-2 that has been output so far, but shows a lower expectation than the above-mentioned BGM-4, which is also a low expectation mode of the BGM.
In FIG. 29 (c), an effect indicating that the zone effect is entered is performed.
In FIG. 29 (d), the production develops into SPSP reach. Along with that
BGM switched to BGM-4 during SP reach. As described above, the fluctuations that have evolved to SPSP reach have higher jackpot expectations than the fluctuations that have evolved to SP reach, the fluctuations that have evolved to normal reach, and the fluctuations that have not reached. Therefore, the BGM-4 output during the SPSP reach has a higher expectation of a big hit than the above-mentioned BGM-1, BGM-2, and BGM-3, and is a high expectation aspect of the BGM. This is referred to as the high expectation aspect (3).

Further, in FIG. 29 (d), a band display 37 accompanied by a word such as "in the XX zone" indicating the zone currently staying is displayed on the background screen.
The specific zone effect related to the zone band display 37 is more likely to enter when it becomes a big hit than when it becomes a loss.
In the zone effect, even when the band display 37 indicating that the zone effect is performed, the background screen is changed, the decoration of the effect pattern is changed, and the like, and the same content as the others is performed, the zone effect is performed. It is a production that suggests that the degree of expectation is higher than that. When the symbol is changed by the fluctuation pattern that causes the reach effect with high expectation, the execution of the zone effect can be selected.
Therefore, the background screen having the zone band display 37 is a high expectation mode that is expected to be a big hit as compared with the background screen not having the zone band display 37. In this example, the background screen having the zone band display 37 is a background screen in a high expectation mode. This is referred to as the high expectation aspect (4).

At this point, four high-expectation modes have been produced from (1) to (4), and the player's expectation for the jackpot is very high.
In this way, in the gaming machine, in order to enhance the effect of the effect, the player is expected to win the jackpot by changing the various effects performed during the variable effect from the normal mode to the mode in which the jackpot is expected. Is being done.
When the jackpot judgment result is a big hit, it is more likely to change to a mode in which a jackpot is expected compared to the case of loss, and when the jackpot judgment result is a loss, the production is in a mode in which a jackpot is expected compared to the case of a jackpot. Hard to change.
Since many productions have changed to a mode that expects a big hit, if a loss occurs in a state where it is excessively expected to be a big hit, the player's disappointment will be great and it may affect the motivation to play. be.
In the reset button effect, the player resets the effect that has changed to the high expectation mode to the normal state (low expectation mode) by his / her own operation, thereby suppressing excessive expectations by himself / herself and in an appropriate state. It is a production to make it.

In FIG. 30A, a fade-in image 45 that encourages the completion of the button image is displayed immediately before the reset button effect performed in FIG. 30C.
Reset button Before the start of the effect, a fade-in image 45 suggesting that the effect can be reset (the effect button can be operated) is displayed in a fade-in manner.
The fade-in image 34 is accompanied by the phrase 46, "I think we can reset it soon ...". The fade-in image 45 is a button image divided into a plurality of parts, and when the button image is completed from these images, the effect in the high expectation mode is reset.

When the reset button effect is not performed, the win result (big hit or loss) is shown in FIG. 30 (d) without displaying the fade-in image 45 of FIG. 30 (a) and performing the reset button effect of FIG. 30 (c). ) Is displayed and the fluctuation ends.
After the fade-in image 45 of FIG. 30 (a) is displayed, the fluctuation may end with the display of the winning result in FIG. 30 (d) without completing the button image.
After the fade-in image of FIG. 30 (a) is displayed, when the button image is completed in FIG. 30 (b), the reset button effect is performed in FIG. 30 (c), and the winning result is displayed in FIG. 30 (d). The fluctuation ends.

The gaming machine of the present embodiment includes a button effect such as a reset button effect accompanied by displaying such a fade-in image, and a button effect not accompanied by displaying the fade-in image.
The button effect without the fade-in image is exactly the above-mentioned dialogue notice.
It can be said that the reset button production that resets the production in the high expectation state and maintains the appropriate degree of one's own expectation is a very important production for enjoying the game, but it is performed as a reach notice before the reach development. The dialogue notice does not directly suggest the degree of expectation of a big hit, and cannot be said to be an important production.
That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the important effect is accompanied by the display of the fade-in image, and the button effect such as the less important dialogue notice is not accompanied by the fade-in image. In important productions, it is desirable to display a fade-in image that attracts the player's attention in order to encourage the player to actively operate the buttons, but if it is not an important production, it is necessary to give such attention. Because there is no.

The reset button effect will be described in detail below.
31 to 35 are views showing the first aspect of the reset button effect.
The reset button effect of the first aspect is a selective reset effect that can selectively reset the effect of the high expectation mode.
The reset button used in the reset button effect of the first aspect is the A effect button 100, including the case where the effect button 8 is used.
When the reset button effect is started, the operation instruction screen 40 is displayed on the image display device 31 as shown in FIG. 31. In the figure, the operation instruction screen 40 is displayed so as to cover the background screen and the design for convenience, but in reality, it can be displayed small so as not to hide it.
As the BGM, the BGM-4 in the high expectation mode is output.
On the operation instruction screen 40, an instruction image 41 instructing a button indicating a button to be operated, an instruction word 42 "press the A button to reset the effect", and an effect in which a resettable high expectation mode is listed are listed. Listing 43 and is displayed.

Each component of the operation instruction screen 40 is not included in the frame of the operation instruction screen 40, and may be displayed independently in the screen. The operation instruction screen 40 is just an example.
From the effects listed in the effect list 43, a desired effect can be selected by using the cross key (up / down key) 90, and the effect can be determined by using the effect button 8. With this method, it is possible to select a plurality of effects in a high expectation mode.
Instead of displaying the effect list 43, the effect displayed on the image display device 31 may be selectable by using the cross key 90.

In FIG. 31, the effect list 43 lists the effects of the high expectation modes (1) to (4) described with reference to FIGS. 28 to 30. Of course, not all of these are displayed in the production list 43. Other effects in the high expectation mode may be displayed depending on the effects performed by the gaming machine.
When resetting by individually selecting an effect, the effect is reset by pressing the A effect button 100 (single-shot operation, repeated hit operation, long press operation) while the effect to be reset is selected. ..
In the reset button effect of the first aspect, the effect performed when an appropriate effect button is operated in a state where any of the effects in the highly expected mode is selected is described below using FIGS. 32 to 35. explain.

As shown in FIG. 32 (a), (1) when the A effect button 100 is operated as shown in FIG. 32 (b) with the variable icon selected, it is shown in FIG. 32 (c). As a result, the notice screen 50 including the notice word 51 saying "The production will be reset!" Is displayed. The notice wording 51 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed on the notice screen 50.
After the notice screen 50 or the notice word 51 is hidden, as shown in FIG. 32 (d), the variable icon 26 displayed in the red high expectation mode becomes the default color in the low expectation mode. Be returned. At the same time, the voice output device 34 outputs a notification sound that "reset has been accepted".

As shown in FIG. 33 (a), when the (2) reach symbol is selected and the A effect button 100 is operated as shown in FIG. 33 (b), as shown in FIG. 33 (c). , The notice screen 50 including the notice word 51 saying "The production will be reset!" Is displayed. The notice wording 51 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed on the notice screen 50.
After the notice screen 50 or the notice word 51 is hidden, as shown in FIG. 33 (d), the effect symbol 35 displayed in the reach mode, which is the high expectation mode, is, for example, in the low expectation mode. It is returned to a certain high-speed fluctuation. At the same time, the voice output device 34 outputs a notification sound that "reset has been accepted".

As shown in FIG. 34 (a), when (4) BGM is selected and the A effect button 100 is operated as shown in FIG. 34 (b), as shown in FIG. 34 (c), when the A effect button 100 is operated. The notice screen 50 including the notice word 51 saying "The production will be reset!" Is displayed. The notice wording 51 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed on the notice screen 50.
After the notice screen 50 or the notice wording 51 is hidden, as shown in FIG. 34 (d), the BGM which was the high expectation mode BGM-4 is changed to the low expectation mode, for example, BGM-. It is returned to 3. At the same time, the voice output device 34 outputs a notification sound that "reset has been accepted".

As shown in FIG. 35 (a), when the appropriate A effect button 100 is operated as shown in FIG. 35 (b) with the (4) zone band display selected, FIG. 35 (c) shows. As shown, the notice screen 50 including the notice word 51 "The effect will be reset!" Is displayed. The notice wording 51 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed on the notice screen 50.
After the notice screen 50 or the notice wording 51 is hidden, as shown in FIG. 35 (d), the background screen accompanied by the zone band display 37, which is a high expectation mode, is a low expectation mode. The screen is returned to the background screen without the zone band display 37. At the same time, the voice output device 34 outputs a notification sound that "reset has been accepted".

After the operation instruction screen 40 of FIGS. 32 to 35 is displayed, if the player cannot operate the effect button due to forgetting to operate or erroneous operation, the operation instruction screen 40 is displayed forever. It is inconvenient for the progress of.
Therefore, in such a case, when a predetermined time elapses after the display of the operation instruction screen 40 is started (after the start of the reset button effect), the effect in the high expectation mode is reset and the operation instruction screen 40 is executed. The effect list 43, the operation instruction image 41, and the instruction wording 42 included in the above are hidden.
At this time, all the effects in the high expectation mode may be reset, or the effects selected as reset targets (in the effect list 43) when a predetermined time has elapsed. May be good.
In the selection reset effect, a gauge indicating the operation validity period of the effect button may be provided.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a second aspect of the reset button effect.
The reset button effect of the second aspect is a full reset effect that can reset all the effects of the high expectation mode.
The reset button used in the reset button effect of the second aspect will be described as the B effect button 101 including the case where the effect button 8 is used.
When the reset button effect is started, the operation instruction screen 40 is displayed on the image display device 31 as shown in FIG. 36 (a).
As the BGM, the BGM-4 in the high expectation mode is output.
In the figure, the operation instruction screen 60 is displayed so as to cover the background screen and the design for convenience, but in reality, it can be displayed small so as not to hide it.
On the operation instruction screen 60, an instruction image 61 instructing a button indicating a button to be operated and an instruction word 62 "press the B button to reset all effects" are displayed.
The instruction image 61 and the instruction wording 62 constituting the operation instruction screen 60 are not included in the frame of the operation instruction screen 60, and may be displayed independently on the screen. The operation instruction screen 60 is just an example.

As shown in FIG. 36 (b), when the B effect button 101 is repeatedly hit or held down, as shown in FIG. 36 (c), the notice word 71 stating "The effect is reset!" The notice screen 70 including the notice screen 70 is displayed. The notice wording 71 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed on the notice screen 80.
After the notice screen 70 or the notice word 71 is hidden, as shown in FIG. 36 (d), the variable icon 26 displayed in the red high expectation mode becomes the default color in the low expectation mode. Be returned.
Further, the effect symbol 36 displayed in the reach mode, which is the high expectation mode, is returned to the high-speed fluctuation, which is the low expectation mode.
Further, the BGM which was the BGM-4 which is the high expectation mode is returned to the BGM-1 which is the low expectation mode according to, for example, the effect symbol 35 which has become a high-speed fluctuation.
Further, the background screen with the zone band display 37, which is a high expectation mode, is returned to the background screen without the zone band display 37, which is a low expectation mode.

In addition, the image display device 35 displays a completion display 38 with the words "all resets completed!" Indicating that the effect has been reset, and the audio output device 34 notifies that "reset has been accepted". Sound is output.
The button operation in the full reset effect is a single-shot continuous hit operation or a long press operation of the B effect button 101.
After that, when another C effect button 102 is operated, the completion display 38 in FIG. 36 (d) may be hidden.
In the same manner as above, if the player cannot operate the effect button due to forgetting to operate or erroneous operation after the operation instruction screen 60 is displayed, if the operation instruction screen 60 is displayed forever, the game progresses. It is inconvenient.
Therefore, in such a case, after the display of the operation instruction screen 60 is started (after the start of the reset button effect), when a predetermined time elapses, all the effects in the high expectation mode are reset and the operation is performed. The instruction screen 60 is hidden.
When all the effects are reset by the operation of the B effect button 101, the notice screen 70 or the notice wording is performed after the operation of the B effect button 101 in FIG. 36 (b) and before the reset in FIG. 36 (d). 71 may not be displayed.

Next, a case will be described in which the effect is not reset even if the effect button is operated in the reset button effect.
FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating a case where the effect is not reset even if the effect button is properly operated in the reset button effect.
As shown in FIG. 37 (a), the A effect button 100 was operated as shown in FIG. 37 (c) with (1) the variable icon selected in the effect list 43.

However, the variable icon 36 may be hidden during a part or all of the SPSP reach, and the variable icon 36 is hidden in FIG. 37 (b).
At the start of the reset button effect in FIG. 37 (a), the red variable icon 36 was displayed and was included in the effect list 43.
However, after that, even if the A effect button 100 is operated while the variable icon 36 is hidden, the reset cannot be performed substantially.
Therefore, in FIG. 37 (d), (1) the notification sound "Reset was not accepted" is output without resetting the variable icon.

In addition, if the high expectation mode in the effect selected as the reset target has not already been performed when the A effect button 100 is operated, the reset is not accepted without resetting. A notification sound is output.
For example, when the A effect button 100 is operated, the BGM-4 is switched to BGM-1 to 3 or the zone band display is hidden for the convenience of the effect regardless of the reset button effect. In such a case, the notification sound "Reset was not accepted" is output without resetting.
In addition, in FIG. 37A, a plurality of effects having high expectations are selected from (1) to (4), some of which are resettable and the rest are non-resettable. In such a case, after resetting the resettable effect, a notification sound "Some effects could not be reset" may be output.
Alternatively, the notification sound "Reset was not accepted" may be output without performing any reset.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the effect once reset to the low expectation mode may change to the high expectation mode again.
FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating a case where the effect reset to the low expectation mode changes to the high expectation mode again.
The case of full reset production will be described as an example. As shown in FIG. 38 (a), by operating the B effect button 101 in the full reset effect, all the effects that were in the high expectation mode are reset to the low expectation mode.

After that, in FIG. 38 (b), the effect symbol 35 was temporarily stopped in a lost manner, the middle symbol was re-variated in FIG. 38 (c), and the jackpot symbol was derived in FIG. 38 (in).
This occurs when the variable effect pattern of "with resurrection" is selected from the effect pattern determination table of FIG. 26.
In such a case, the effect that was reset to the low expectation mode at the start of the revariation is changed to the high expectation mode again.
For example, the variation icon 36 changes from the default color in the low expectation mode to red in the high expectation mode.
Further, the effect symbol 35 may change from the high-speed fluctuation of the low expectation mode to the reach mode of the high expectation mode.
The BGM that has returned to the low expectation mode BGM-1 may be changed to the high expectation mode BGM-4.

The same is basically true for the selection reset effect, but among the plurality of effects that were in the high expectation mode, there are effects that have been reset to the low expectation mode and effects that have not been performed. Therefore, at the time of the revival effect, the effect reset to the low expectation mode by the selection reset effect is changed to the high expectation mode again.

FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating a case where the effect is not reset because an appropriate button is not operated in the reset button effect.
As shown in FIG. 39 (a), while the selection reset effect is being executed, the operation of the A effect button 100 is required on the operation instruction screen 40 in a state where any effect in the effect list 43 is selected. Nevertheless, when the B effect button 101 is operated in FIG. 39 (b), the effect in the selected high expectation mode is not reset.
Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (c), the warning display screen 80 having the warning wording 81 "Please operate the correct button" is displayed. The warning wording 81 may be displayed independently instead of being displayed in the warning display screen 80.
After that, as shown in FIG. 39 (d), the operation instruction screen 40 is displayed, and the appropriate operation of the A effect button 100 is awaited.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 39 (e), although the operation of the B effect button 101 is required on the operation instruction screen 60 during the execution of the full reset effect, the A effect button is shown in FIG. 39 (f). When 100 is operated, the effect in the high expectation mode is not reset.
Then, as shown in FIG. 39 (g), the warning display screen 80 having the correct warning wording 81 "Please operate the button" is displayed.
After that, as shown in FIG. 39 (d), the operation instruction screen 60 is displayed, and an appropriate operation of the B effect button 101 is waited for.

FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating a reset button effect executed by the CPU of the image control board.
In step S1001, the host CPU 151 determines whether or not to execute the reset button effect.
Whether or not the reset button effect is executed can be determined, for example, by whether or not the number of effects in which the high expectation degree mode is achieved exceeds a predetermined number.
When it is determined that the reset button effect is determined (Yes in step S1001), the CPU 151 displays an operation instruction screen prompting the operation of the button in step S1002.
Then, in step S1003, the CPU 151 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation instruction screen is displayed.
If it is determined that the time has not elapsed (No in step S1003), the CPU 151 determines in step S1004 whether or not the effect button has been operated.
If it is determined that the button has not been operated (No in step S1004), the CPU 151 returns to step S1003 and determines whether or not the effect button has been operated.

If it is determined that the effect button has been operated (Yes in step S1004) before the time elapses (before the effect button is set to Yes in step S1003), the CPU 151 determines whether or not the correct effect button operation has been performed in step S1005. To judge.
If it is determined that the effect button operation is not correct (No in step S1005), the CPU 151 displays in step S1013 that the correct effect button operation should be performed, and returns the process to step S1003.
If it is determined that the effect button operation was correct (Yes in step S1005), or if time has passed without the correct effect button operation being performed (Yes in step S1003), all the effects cannot be reset at that point. Determine if it exists.
When it is determined that all the effects cannot be reset (Yes in step S1006), the CPU 151 hides the operation instruction screen in step S1014, and outputs a voice indicating that the effects cannot be reset in step S1015. This reset button production ends.

When it is determined that all the effects are not resettable, that is, when there is a resettable effect (No in step S1006), the CPU 151 hides the operation instruction screen in step 1007 and hides the operation instruction screen in step S1008. A display indicating that the effect will be reset is displayed (however, as described above, even if not all the effects cannot be reset, the reset may not be performed at all).
Then, in step S1009, the CPU 151 resets the effect mode of the selected high-expectation mode or all the high-expectation modes of the effect that can be reset to the low-expectation mode.

Next, in step 1010, the CPU 151 displays that the effect has been reset and outputs audio.
After that, in step S1011, the CPU 151 determines whether or not another button operation has been performed.
When it is determined that the effect button operation has been performed (Yes in step S1011), the CPU 151 ends the display in step S1012 to the effect that the effect displayed in step 1010 has been reset.
It should be noted that the reset button effect may be executed on the condition that the fluctuation being performed is a loss fluctuation.

As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the operation instruction screens 40 and 60 are displayed, if the player cannot operate the effect button 8 or the effect button due to forgetting to operate or erroneous operation, the operation is performed. If the instruction screens 40 and 60 are displayed forever, it is inconvenient for the progress of the game.
Therefore, in such a case, after the display of the operation instruction screens 40 and 60 is started (after the start of the reset button effect) and a predetermined time elapses, a selected part of the effects in the high expectation mode is selected. Alternatively, all resets are executed to hide the operation instruction screens 40 and 60.

As described above, even if the effect button operation is not performed, the button effect that displays the result after a lapse of a predetermined time and ends is an effect that depends on the fluctuation time.
This is because the content to be displayed as a variable effect cannot be contained within the variable time unless the result is displayed after finishing at a predetermined timing. In the case of the reset button effect, in particular, the effect of the target to be reset ends or disappears, and the reset can be performed as described above. With such a meaning, the effect is reset as a result display even if the effect button is not pressed.
In addition, the effect of producing a result effect even if such a button operation is not performed is an important effect in itself, and the player is made to perform a continuous hit operation and a long press operation.

On the other hand, in the dialogue notice as another button effect performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment, if the effect button 8 is not operated within a predetermined valid time after the operation instruction is displayed, the result is displayed ( Do not do the second half part). Such an effect is an effect that does not depend on the fluctuation time. Even if the result is not displayed (second half part), the dialogue notice does not affect the fluctuation effect itself, and the content to be displayed as the variation effect does not fall within the variation time.
In such an effect that does not produce a result effect unless the effect button 8 is operated, which is not relatively important, a single press operation of the effect button 8 is performed.

When the volume light amount is adjusted using the cross key 90, a gauge image corresponding to the volume / light amount adjustment value is displayed on the image display device 31 in response to the operation of the cross key 90.
The gauge image disappears after a predetermined time has passed from the start of display. Only when the cross key is operated, the gauge image corresponding to the next adjustment value is displayed, and the display is continued.
In that respect, the display effect performed together with the operation of adjusting the volume and light intensity of the gaming machine belongs to the same category as the dialogue notice, etc., in which the result is displayed for the first time by operating the effect button.

Further, the so-called button effects include those with edge-free control and those with non-edge-free control. The effect button 8 provided in the gaming machine, and the other A effect button 100, B effect button 101, and C effect button 102 are input. When the signal is in the ON state, the operation input is started, and when the signal is in the OFF state, the operation input is ended.
After the input signal is turned off, it is turned on again to accept the continuous striking operation.
When the ON state of the input signal continues, the long press (continuous hit) operation is accepted.
In the button effect of "edge-free control", the operation state is determined by the pros and cons of the ON state of the signal without considering the rising edge of the input signal (change from OFF state to ON state), so before the start of the long push button effect. If the button is turned on, the long press operation is accepted (the operation is recognized).
Even if there is no change from the OFF state to the ON state, the button may be in the ON state at the start of the effect, and it is not necessary to re-input the ON after the start of the effect.

On the other hand, in the "non-edge free control" button effect, the operation state is determined by the rising edge of the input signal (change from the OFF state to the ON state), so the operation can be performed even if the button is turned on before the start of the effect. Is not accepted as it is and you have to re-enter ON.

As a typical example of edge-free control button effect, there is a so-called "back button effect".
In the "back button effect", by repeatedly hitting (hold down) the effect button 8 without any button operation instruction during SPSP reach, the color of the predetermined decorative lamp provided in the gaming machine is gradually changed from blue to green to red. By changing it like this, it implicitly suggests reach development expectation and jackpot expectation.
In the "back button effect" performed by edge-free control, even if the effect button 8 is started before the SPSP reach development when the same effect is started (button operation becomes effective), the button is pressed again after the start of the back button effect. A long press operation is performed without pressing again.
The reason why edge-free control is used for "back button production" is that the role of "back button production" is auxiliary, unlike the production that directly conveys the jackpot expectation to the player, such as the production design of the reach mode and various reach productions. It is in the point that it is a thing.
In such an auxiliary effect, it is not necessary to require delicate control for determining the operation state based on the rising edge of the input signal as in the non-edge free control.
This is because even if the player casually keeps putting his / her hand on the effect button 8 and the "back button effect" is activated against the player's intention, there is no great influence on the game.

In addition, some button effects performed on the gaming machine of the present embodiment, such as a dialogue notice, are also performed by edge-free control.
The reason why the dialogue notice is performed by edge-free control can also be sought from its role.
As mentioned above, the dialogue notice given as a reach notice before the reach development does not directly suggest the jackpot expectation, and cannot be said to be an important production. This is because even if the player casually keeps putting his / her hand on the effect button 8 and the latter half of the "line notice" is displayed, there is no great influence on the game. Therefore, there is no need to require delicate control for determining the operation state based on the rising edge of the input signal, unlike the non-edge free control, even in the "line notice".
The reset button effect of the present embodiment is this non-edge free control button effect.
Therefore, even if the effect button is operated before the reset button effect is started, the effect in the high expectation mode is not reset to the low expectation mode.
If edge-free control is adopted for the reset button effect of the present embodiment, the effect may be reset against the player's intention by keeping the hand on the button. On the other hand, by adopting non-edge free control for the reset button effect, even if you keep putting your hand on the button before the start of the reset button effect, the effect will be reset unless you operate the button again after the start of the reset button effect. Not done.
Therefore, it is possible to prevent the resetting of the effect against the player's intention.

FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating an instruction image displayed on the operation instruction screen in the reset button effect of the present embodiment.
It can be applied to both the instruction image 41 used in the selective reset effect and the instruction image 61 used in the all reset effect.
The instruction images 41 and 61 include a default image that imitates a mode that the effect button shown in FIG. 41 (a) can take, and an image that imitates a mode that the effect button cannot take.
The mode that the effect button cannot take is, for example, a mode (charged button) in which the effect button shown in FIG. 41 (b-1) is charged with electricity, or an effect button as shown in FIG. 41 (b-2). Is a form of wearing flames.
Regardless of which mode of the instruction image is used for the operation instruction, the effect of the high expectation mode can be reset to the low expectation mode by operating the effect button.

In the reset button effect, by displaying the mode that the effect button can and cannot take as the instruction image 41 and the instruction image 61, it is possible to perform the reset button effect that is rich in appearance.
Further, for example, when the three effects have a high expectation mode, the instruction image has an electrically charged mode as shown in (b-1), and the four effects have a high expectation mode. For the production, the instruction image of the flame-clad mode as shown in (b-2) is used so that the instruction image visually shows the number of productions that have a high expectation mode. Then, it becomes possible to accurately convey the importance of resetting to the player.

Further, as shown in FIG. 41 (c), the instruction image 41 and the instruction image 61 include the first instruction images 41A and 61A that imitate the buttons in the state in which they are not operated, and the buttons in the state in which they are operated. An animation is displayed by the imitated second instruction images 41B and 61B.
That is, the button is operated by alternately switching and displaying the first instruction images 41A and 41B, which are non-operation button images, and the second instruction images 41B, 61B, which are operation button images, at the same position as the button image. Express the state of the image.
More specifically, when displaying the instruction images 41 and 61, the first instruction image is displayed so that a part of the first instruction image and at least a part of the second instruction image are displayed at the same position. The effect display for displaying the second instruction image is repeated a plurality of times.
By doing so, it is possible to effectively notify the player that the effect button is in an operable state and that an effect that requires operation is being performed, and prompt the player to operate the button.

Since it is configured as described above, in the gaming machine, many productions have changed to a mode in which a jackpot is expected, and if a loss occurs in a state where a jackpot is excessively expected, the player's Where there is a great deal of disappointment and may affect the motivation to play, it is possible for the player to perform a reset button effect that resets the effect that the jackpot is expected to the normal state by himself, which is excessive. Expectations can be suppressed, and the sense of expectation given to the player can be set to an appropriate state.

As the image display device of the gaming machine 1, a liquid crystal display device, a rear projector, or any other display device can be adopted.
Further, the display mode of the image display device of the present invention can be applied not only to pachinko machines but also to slot machines, other game machines having a display device, and game machines in general.

1 game machine, 10 game board, 13 1st start port, 14 2nd start port, 31 image display device, 35 decorative design, 110 main control board, 111 main CPU, 112 main ROM, 113 main RAM, 120 production control board , 121 sub CPU, 122 sub ROM, 123 sub RAM, 140 lamp control board, 150 image control board, 151 host CPU, 152 host RAM, 153 host ROM

Claims (1)

A special game determination means for determining whether or not to perform a special game that is advantageous to the player,
An effect execution means capable of executing a plurality of effects according to the result of the determination,
With multiple operating means that can be operated,
Each of the plurality of effects has a first aspect in which the special game is expected to be executed, and a second aspect in which the special game is not expected to be executed more than the first aspect. There is
The effect executing means is
And the operation instruction directed to display the instruction display to indicate the operation of the operation means to the player on the display device,
The plurality of operating means executed in the first aspect in response to the operation of the first operating means among the plurality of operating means when the plurality of effects are executed in the first aspect. The first specific effect in which at least one of the effects is the second aspect, and
The plurality of effects executed in the first aspect in response to the operation of a second operating means different from the first operating means when the plurality of effects are executed in the first aspect. The second specific production in which all the productions of the above are the second aspect, and
Is feasible and
The indication displayed game characterized in that it comprises an instruction statement indicating the operation of the operation means corresponding to the operation instruction directing the player, and a instruction image simulating the operation means corresponding to the operation instruction presentation Machine.

Images