JP6967395B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes a predetermined lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game.

Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, a gaming machine that notifies a time when a ball can be entered or the like is known according to a lottery result. For example, there is known a gaming machine that notifies the launch timing of a gaming ball in order to facilitate V winning of the gaming ball during a specific time (V effective time) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, a gaming machine for notifying the opening timing of an ordinary electric accessory during the jackpot mode is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2001-170265 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-313161

According to the former prior art, it is possible to hit the game ball according to the notification, so that it is possible to avoid the end condition of the specific game state being satisfied to some extent before the game ball is V-winning. Conceivable. Further, according to the latter prior art, it is possible to adjust the launch of the game ball based on the advance notice, so that it is possible to increase the number of prize balls acquired due to the opening of the ordinary electric accessory. Will be.

However, even if there is a time when the accessory etc. is opened and it becomes possible to enter the ball, it may not be appropriate to always notify the time at the same time as opening depending on the game state, so even if it is at that time. If it is necessary to determine the game state of the game and switch the notification control method each time, there is a problem that the control process becomes complicated.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of simply executing a control process.

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

SOLUTION: The gaming machine of the present invention makes it difficult for a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery and a game ball to flow in when a predetermined movable member is in a closed position when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game. A variable ball entry device that enables the inflow of game balls when the movable member is displaced from the closed position to the open position, and the movable member is moved to the closed position and the open position according to the result of the predetermined lottery. A variable ball entry device control means that controls the opening operation that displaces between the movable members and causes the length of the opening time that causes the movable member to be displaced to the open position to differ depending on the game mode, and the opening operation. Information output means that outputs start information at the start of the opening operation and outputs end information at the end of the opening operation, and control of the opening operation triggered by the elapse of a predetermined waiting time after the start information is output. The control information is set to the disclosure state, and the control information is set to the non-disclosure state when the end information is output.

In the gaming machine of the present solution, for example, the gaming progresses according to the following flow.
(1) When a game ball is launched, it flows down in the game area while being guided by obstacle nails, windmills, structures, etc., and in the process, it passes through some area or enters various entrances. do. When the game ball passes / enters the starting area (starting gate, starting winning opening), a lottery opportunity occurs.

(2) When a lottery opportunity occurs during the game, the lottery execution means executes a predetermined lottery (ordinary symbol lottery, special symbol lottery).

(3) In the game area of (1) above, a variable ball entry device (a normal electric accessory having a starting winning opening and a special electric accessory having a large winning opening) is provided. The variable ball entry device has a movable member that is displaced between the open position and the closed position. The inflow of the game ball into the variable ball entry device is difficult when the movable member is in the closed position, whereas it is possible or easy when the movable member is in the open position.

(4) The variable ball entry device control means controls the opening operation (displacement between the open position and the closed position) of the movable member of the above (3) according to the result of the predetermined lottery of the above (2). At the same time, the length of the opening time (time in which the movable member is displaced to the closed position) is set as the game mode (for example, the game state at that time such as a time shortened state or a non-time shortened state, and the type of the corresponding winning symbol. It will be different depending on the mode and progress of the game.

(5) The information output means outputs start information (normal power release command, special power release command) indicating to that effect at the start of the release operation of (4) above. In addition, the information output means outputs end information (normal electric closing command, special electric closing command) indicating that fact at the end of the opening operation.

(6) When the predetermined waiting time elapses after the start information of the above (5) is output, the information disclosure means sets the control information related to the control of the opening operation of the above (4) into the disclosure state (for example, variable input). Light the lamps located near or inside the ball device, behind the board, etc.). Further, when the end information of the above (5) is output, the control information is set to the non-disclosure state (for example, the lamp is turned off).

If the opening time is long, it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the variable ball entry device (it becomes easier for the ball to enter the ball). The ease of entering a game ball changes depending on the game mode. In a game mode in which the opening time is long, the possibility that the game ball can be put into the variable ball entry device is increased, so that it is advantageous for the player to hit the game ball aiming at the variable ball entry device. .. Therefore, by disclosing the control information indicating that the situation is advantageous to the player, the player can be made aware of such a situation.

However, if it is assumed that the control information that differs depending on the game mode is disclosed based on the game mode, the situation is judged by referring to various values related to the game mode, and the situation is advantageous. If they match, control such as disclosing information must be performed, and the control naturally becomes complicated.

On the other hand, the gaming machine of this solution means that the control information is disclosed (disclosure is started) when a predetermined time elapses after the start information (normal power release command, special power release command) is output with the start of the opening operation. However, when the end information (general electric closing command, special electric closing command) is output with the end of the opening operation, the control information is set to the non-disclosure state (disclosure is terminated). That is, in the present solution means, the determination of whether or not the control information is in the disclosure state (whether or not the control information is disclosed) is determined based on the output start information and end information.

Therefore, according to the present solution, the disclosure of control information that differs depending on the game mode is controlled based on the output start information and end information without making a judgment based on the value related to the game mode, and the disclosure process is performed. Can be done concisely. Further, according to the present solution, when outputting the start information and the end information, it is sufficient to uniformly output the start information and the output information in any game mode, so that the output processing of the start information and the end information is performed. Can be executed concisely. Further, since the disclosure process and the information output process are simply executed in this way, it is possible to reduce the load associated with these processes.

SOLUTION: In the game machine of the present solution means, in the solution means 1, the variable ball entry device control means is difficult to generate even if the game ball can flow in for the length of the opening time according to the game mode. The opening operation is controlled as a short opening time, or as a long opening time in which the inflow of the game ball is easy to occur longer than the short opening time, and the information disclosure means is started by the information output means. The control information is set to the disclosure state when the waiting time exceeding the short opening time has elapsed since the information was output.

According to the present solution, the following features are added.
(7) The variable ball entry device control means of the above (4) controls the opening operation by making the length of the opening time different between the short opening time and the long opening time according to the game mode. The short opening time is an extremely short time (for example, 0.06 seconds) in which it is difficult to generate the inflow even if the game ball can flow in, and the long opening time is longer than the short opening time. It is a relatively long time (for example, 0.9 seconds) in which the inflow of water is likely to occur.

(8) The information disclosure means of the above (6) applies a time exceeding the short opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) as a predetermined waiting time, and after the start information of the above (5) is output, the above (7). ) When the time exceeding the short opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) elapses, the control information regarding the control of the opening operation is set to the disclosed state (for example, the lamp is turned on).

When the opening operation is controlled by the long opening time, the control information is switched to the disclosed state after the lapse of time exceeding the short opening time after the start information is output, and then the control information is not disclosed when the end information is output. Switch to. That is, in this case, the control information is disclosed for a time (for example, 0.7 seconds) obtained by subtracting the time exceeding the short opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) from the long opening time (for example, 0.9 seconds). Will be.

On the other hand, when the opening operation is controlled by the short opening time, the control information is switched to the disclosure state after the lapse of time exceeding the short opening time, so that the waiting time until the state of the control information is switched has not elapsed. The end information is output to. Therefore, in this case, the control information is not in the disclosed state and is maintained in the non-disclosure state.

According to the present solution, by applying a time exceeding the short opening time to a predetermined waiting time, when the opening operation is controlled by the long opening time, the control information is disclosed for a certain period of time. On the other hand, when the opening operation is controlled in a short opening time, the control information can be maintained in a non-disclosure state. Further, according to the present solution, the switching of the disclosure state, which is different depending on the game mode, is controlled based on the output start information and end information, and the disclosure process is executed more concisely. Can be done.

SOLUTION: In the gaming machine of the present solution means, in the solution means 2, the information disclosure means is controlled by the variable ball entry device control means with the length of the opening time as the short opening time. In this case, the end information is output before the control information is set to the disclosure state, so that the control information is maintained in the non-disclosure state without being set to the disclosure state.

According to the present solution, the following features are added.
(9) When the opening operation of the above (4) is controlled in a short opening time, the information disclosure means of the above (8) outputs end information prior to the timing of putting the control information into the disclosure state. Therefore, as a result, the control information is maintained in the non-disclosure state without being in the disclosure state.

According to the present solution, when the opening operation is controlled in a short opening time, the control information is left in the non-disclosure state, so that it is not necessary to switch the disclosure state. Therefore, it is possible to more simply control switching to a different mode of disclosure depending on the game mode.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the control process can be simply executed.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows the game board unit alone. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable winning apparatus 31. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable winning apparatus 31. It is a front view which shows the part of a game board unit enlarged. It is a block diagram which shows various electronic devices equipped in a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of an interrupt management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a switch input event processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of the special symbol game processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol change preprocessing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the 2nd special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process during the special symbol stop display. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the opening pattern setting table by a symbol at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the procedure example of a large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the opening pattern setting table at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening and closing operation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 2nd prize opening opening and closing operation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the specific area opening / closing operation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process at the time of passing a specific area. It is a figure which shows an example of the opening pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through a specific area. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st big prize opening opening and closing operation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end processing. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of the ordinary symbol game processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation time of a normal symbol and the opening pattern of a variable start winning apparatus. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 1st special symbol fluctuates in a normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in a normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 1st special symbol fluctuates in a drive mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in a drive mode. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the effect image corresponding to the variable display and the stop display of a special symbol (1/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the effect image corresponding to the variable display and the stop display of a special symbol (2/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach effect executed at the time of a big hit (1/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach effect executed at the time of a big hit (2/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach effect executed at the time of a big hit (3/3). It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of a big role middle production performed during a big hit game (1/4). It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of a big role middle production performed during a big hit game (2/4). It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of a big role middle production performed during a big hit game (3/4). It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of a big role middle production performed during a big hit game (4/4). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of a drive mode (1/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of a drive mode (2/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of a drive mode (3/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the effect example when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in a normal mode (1/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the effect example when the 2nd special symbol fluctuates in a normal mode (2/2). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the flow | flow mode of a game ball when it is intentionally hit right in a normal mode. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of an effect control process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the working memory effect management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect symbol management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect symbol change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a firing position designation process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process at the time of a variable winning apparatus operation. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the ordinary lamp drive processing. It is a timing chart which shows the change of the lighting state with the lapse of time of the lamp around the variable start winning device in a non-time shortening state. It is a timing chart which shows the change of the lighting state with the lapse of time of the lamp around the variable start winning apparatus in the time shortening state.

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

[Overall configuration of gaming machines]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, gaming machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the frontmost side of the player when viewed from the front facing the player. The inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outside of the inner frame assembly 7.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Structure on the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for directing. Of these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decorative lamp 48, and the upper right lighting unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decorative lamp 50. In addition, the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower side of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right lighting unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46, the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, etc. are arranged so as to surround the glass unit (without reference numeral).

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

Further, in the center of the plate receiving unit 6, an effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The effect switching button 45 is, for example, a form in which a push-type circular button and a rotary joggling (jog dial) are combined around the push-type circular button. The player can switch the effect content (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or for example, some effect (for example, during a pattern change or a big hit game). It is possible to generate a notice effect, a probable change promotion effect, a promotion effect during a major role, etc.).

[Backside configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a payout device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a payout control board unit 176. , The back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer (not shown), external terminal boards 160, power cord (power plug) 164, which constitute the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, are used. A ground wire (earth terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), etc. are installed. The electronic devices will be described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

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

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

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

[Structure of board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position thereof, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left side portion, a right side portion, and a lower portion centering on the effect unit 40. Further, in the game area 8a, a middle start winning opening 26, a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, 25, a variable starting winning device 28 (variable ball winning device), and a first variable winning device 30 are placed around the effect unit 40. , The second variable winning device 31 and the like are distributed and installed. Of these, the middle start winning opening 26 is located in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a. A starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 25, a variable starting winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, and a second variable winning device 31 are arranged in this order from the top on the right side portion (so-called right-handed area) of the game area 8a. Has been done.

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of its flow, enters (wins) the middle start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 25, or opens. The ball enters the variable start winning device 28 at the time, the first variable winning device 30 at the time of opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 at the time of opening operation. Here, the game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a may enter the middle start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. The game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a passes through the starting gate 20, enters the normal winning opening 25, enters the variable starting winning device 28 during the opening operation, or enters the variable starting winning device 28 during the opening operation. There is a possibility that the ball may enter the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. The game ball that has entered the middle start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 25, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31 is a game board (combining the game board unit 8). It is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in a plate material, a transparent plate, etc.).

In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a hit manner), and accordingly, the right starting winning opening 28b is reached. Allows you to enter the ball (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a right starting winning opening 28b that opens toward the front surface, and a tongue piece type opening / closing member 28a (movable member) is provided at the lower end position of the right starting winning opening 28b. (So-called "Beroden Chu"). The opening / closing member 28a reciprocates in the front-rear direction of the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, the opening / closing member 28a is in the closed position (or non-operating position) in a state of being retracted to the back of the board surface, and at this time, the right start winning opening 28b is open to the front surface side of the board surface, but the game ball is along the opening surface. It is difficult to enter the right-starting winning opening 28b (the possibility that the game ball can enter is extremely low). On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the opening / closing member 28a is slidably displaced (protruded) from the back of the board to the front side, and the right starting winning opening 28b is opened (ball can be entered). During this period, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the game ball can be entered, and the opening / closing member 28a can receive the game ball flowing down along the board surface and generate the entry into the right starting winning opening 28b. (Variable start winning means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28a also functions as a member for guiding the entry of the game ball into the right starting winning opening 28b. Further, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically a mode that does not extremely obstruct the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b at the time of opening). However, the game ball does not always enter the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) at the time of opening operation, and the winning ball occurs randomly to the last. The variable start winning device 28 is opened (operated) for, for example, 0.06 seconds in the non-time shortened state, and is opened for 0.9 seconds in the time shortened state. Even if the opening / closing member 28a protrudes within the opening time of about 0.06 seconds (unless special conditions are applied), most game balls cannot enter the right starting winning opening 28b. On the other hand, if the opening time is about 0.9 seconds (under the application of special conditions), the game ball received by the opening / closing member 28a protruding toward the front side of the board can easily enter the right starting winning opening 28b. be. In any case, a lottery will be triggered by a valid entry into the right-starting winning opening 28b.

The first variable winning device 30 operates when the specified conditions are satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit, or when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game). , It is possible to enter the ball into the first large winning opening 30b (special electric accessory, special winning event generating means). The first variable winning device 30 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is displaced from the closed position to the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward, and it is difficult to enter the first large winning opening 30b at this time (the first large winning opening 30b is closed). Is. When the first variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to collapse to the right with the lower end edge portion thereof as a hinge, and the first large winning opening 30b is opened (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state where the game ball can flow in, and the event of entering the first large winning opening 30b can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball into the first large winning opening 30b. The arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically a mode that does not extremely obstruct the flow of the game ball toward the first variable winning device 30 (the first large winning opening 30b at the time of operation). However, the game ball does not always enter the first variable winning device 30 at the time of operation, and the winning balls occur randomly.

The second variable winning device 31 operates when a special condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit), and enables the ball to enter the second large winning opening 31b (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed). Special electric accessory, second special prize event generation means). The second variable winning device 31 may be operated when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit.

The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged on the right side of the effect unit 40, and has, for example, one opening / closing member 31a. The first variable winning device 30 described above employs a type of device (single-bladed tulip-type attacker) in which the opening / closing member 30a is tilted to the right, whereas the second variable winning device 31 has an opening / closing member 31a. A type of device that slides inside the board is used (sliding attacker). Then, the opening / closing member 31a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. The opening / closing member 31a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a, so that the opening / closing member 31a is moved to the second large winning opening 31b. It is difficult to enter the ball (the second big winning opening 31b is closed). Then, when the second variable winning device 31 is activated, the opening / closing member 31a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the second large winning opening 31b is opened (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is not difficult, and the event of entering the second large winning opening 31b can be generated.

[Specific area]
Further, a specific area 31x is provided inside the second variable winning device 31. The specific area 31x is an area in which the game ball is difficult to pass when the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, and the specific area slide member 31c is in the open state when the second variable winning device 31 is in the open state. This is the area through which the game ball can pass when it is pulled into the inside of the board. The details of the second variable winning device 31 will be described later.

Further, although not particularly shown, the second variable winning device 31 (opening / closing member 31a) may be formed with a game ball rolling speed reducing portion that reduces the rolling speed of the game ball. The game ball rolling speed reduction portion makes the inclination of the opening / closing member 31a gentle, or forms alternating protrusions for advancing the game ball in a zigzag position at a position on the opening / closing member 31a through which the game ball passes. It can be realized. As a result, many game balls can be entered into the second variable winning device 31 during the small hit game.

In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and the game ball that has not won a prize is finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. In addition, the middle start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 25, the variable starting winning device 28 (right starting winning opening 28b), the first variable winning device 30 (first large winning opening 30b), the second variable winning device 31 ( All the game balls driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls that have entered the second large winning opening 31b, the specific area), are collected on the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 to the outside of the frame through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join the supply route of the island facility (not shown).

4 and 5 are views showing the details of the second variable winning device 31.
In the second variable winning device 31, the second large winning opening 31b is arranged below the slide-type opening / closing member 31a. The inside of the second prize opening 31b has a downward slope to the left, and a passage extends downward at the left end. A second count switch 85 is arranged in the passage extending downward, and the second count switch 85 counts the number of game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31.

Then, the passage extending downward is divided into two routes beyond that. One first passage 31d extends downward as it is, and the other second passage 31e branches to the left side.
A slide member 31c for a specific area is arranged in the first passage 31d, and a specific area 31x is arranged downstream of the first passage 31d. A specific area switch (not shown) is arranged inside the specific area 31x.
On the other hand, no special member is arranged in the second passage 31e, and the discharge hole 31y is arranged downstream of the second passage 31e.

The slide member 31c for a specific area operates when a special condition is satisfied (after the lapse of the first time and before the lapse of the second time after the operation of the second variable winning device 31), and the slide member 31c for the specific area is moved to the specific area 31x. Allows the passage of game balls. The slide member 31c for a specific area slides along the front-rear direction of the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a specific area solenoid (not shown). For example, after the lapse of the first time, 0.2 seconds have passed since the second variable winning device 31 was activated, and after the lapse of the second time, 1.8 seconds after the second variable winning device 31 was activated. After the lapse of time.

When the specific region solenoid is in the OFF state, the slide member 31c for the specific region blocks the first passage 31d, so that it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific region 31x. On the other hand, when the specific region solenoid is turned on, the slide member 31c for the specific region is pulled inside the board surface, so that the game ball can easily pass through the specific region 31x.

Next, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4A, the slide-type opening / closing member 31a is pulled inside the board surface, and the game ball enters the second large winning opening 31b. In the illustrated example, four game balls are advancing toward the second large winning opening 31b. Here, it is a state immediately before the first game ball is detected by the second count switch 85.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the first game ball has reached the slide member 31c for a specific area. The second and third game balls are advancing toward the second count switch 85. The fourth game ball is about to enter the second big winning opening 31b.

As shown in FIG. 4 (C), at this time, the slide member 31c for a specific area is not pulled inward (because it is not operating), so that the first game ball is a slide for a specific area. The traveling direction is changed to the left side by the member 31c, and the traveling direction is changed to the second passage 31e. In this case, the first game ball is collected by the discharge hole 31y.

As shown in FIG. 5 (D), it is assumed that the slide member 31c for a specific area is pulled inside the board surface at this point (during operation). In this case, the second game ball passes through the front side of the slide member 31c for a specific area and proceeds to the first passage 31d. Then, the second game ball passes through the specific area 31x and is detected by the specific area switch.

As shown in FIG. 5 (E), the third game ball also passes through the front side of the slide member 31c for the specific region and proceeds to the first passage 31d. In this case, the third game ball passes through the specific area 31x and is detected by the specific area switch.

As shown in FIG. 5 (F), it is assumed that the operation of the slide member 31c for the specific area is completed at this point, and the slide member 31c for the specific area protrudes to the front side of the board surface. In this case, the fourth game ball is guided to the left side by the slide member 31c for a specific area and advances to the second passage 31e. Then, the fourth game ball is collected by the discharge hole 31y.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower left position in the window 4a).
The game board unit 8 is provided with, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 (ordinary symbol display means) and a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a at a lower right position in the window 4a, and a first special symbol display device 34 (first special symbol display device 34). 1 special symbol display means), a second special symbol display device 35 (second special symbol display means), a first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided. There is.

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

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

Further, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display, for example, a variable state and a stopped state of the special symbol by a 7-segment LED (with dots) (design display means, first). Symbol display means, second symbol display means). In addition, the special symbol display devices 34 and 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

Further, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a are each 0 to 4 depending on the display mode composed of, for example, a combination of turning off or lighting the two lamps (LEDs) and blinking. Displays the number of stored memory (means for displaying the number of stored memory). For example, in the display mode in which both of the two lamps are turned off, 0 storage numbers are displayed, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, one storage number is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp blinks. In the display mode in which two storage numbers are displayed and one lamp is blinking and the other lamp is lit, three storage numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are blinking together, the storage number is displayed. It displays 4 pieces, and so on.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a changes to the display mode after being increased one by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the above-mentioned middle start winning opening 26, the occurrence of the entry is memorized. The display mode changes to the display mode after decreasing by one each time the change of the special symbol is started with the entry of the ball as a trigger (up to 4). Further, the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is one by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b), the occurrence of a winning ball is memorized. It changes to the display mode after the increase (up to 4), and changes to the display mode after the decrease by 1 each time the change of the special symbol is started triggered by the entry of the ball. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is not lit (the number of storages is 0), the first special symbol is already in a state where the fluctuation can be started (when the stop is displayed), and the middle start winning opening 26 The display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the ball. Further, when the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is not lit (the number of storages is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening) is in a state where the second special symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). Even if the game ball enters 28b), the display mode does not change. That is, the number of storages (maximum of 4) represented by the display modes of the special symbol operation storage lamps 34a and 35a is that of the incoming ball for which the change of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not started yet at that time. It represents the number of times.

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

[Other configurations of the game board: see Fig. 3]
The effect unit 40 is provided with various decorative parts 40b and 40c inside the effect unit 40, in addition to the upper edge portion 40a functioning as a guide member for changing the flow direction of the game ball. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by its three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light by, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). .. In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed in the upper part of the inside of the effect unit 40, and the liquid crystal display 42 includes an effect symbol (this symbol) corresponding to a special symbol, a fourth symbol, and the like. Various production images are displayed, including a storage marker (holding display). As described above, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the structure of the board surface (design of the cell board (not shown) and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40.

Further, a drum unit 200 is installed in the lower part inside the effect unit 40.
The drum unit 200 includes a left reel 201, a middle reel 202, and a right reel 203, and a pseudo effect symbol (7 symbols, a panda symbol, a cherry symbol, etc.) is displayed on each reel. For example, when seven symbols of the same color are displayed on the middle line, which is an effective line, it indicates that a big hit result has been obtained in the special symbol lottery. Each reel of the drum unit 200 is a movable body that can be moved at a plurality of moving speeds.

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

In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) (not shown) is attached to the inside of the upper center of the effect unit 40 together with a movable body 40f (for example, a heart-shaped decoration) for effect. The movable body 40f for the effect can perform an effect accompanied by the operation of a tangible object in addition to the effect using the image by the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter. By such an effect using the movable body 40f, it is possible to exert an appealing power different from the effect using a two-dimensional image.

[Control configuration]
Next, the configuration related to the control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices mounted on the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that is the center of control operation, and the main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of a game in the pachinko machine 1. There is. The main control device 70 is built in the main control board unit 170.

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

The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. Further, the game board unit 8 has a middle start winning opening switch 80 and a right starting winning opening corresponding to the middle starting winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. A switch 82, a first count switch 84 and a second count switch 85 are provided. The starting winning opening switches 80 and 82 are for detecting the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 26 and the variable starting winning opening device 28 (right starting winning opening 28b). Further, the count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the first variable winning device 30 (the first large winning opening 30b) and counting the number thereof. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the second variable winning device 31 (the second major winning opening 31b) and counting the number thereof.

In addition, a specific area switch 83 is provided corresponding to the specific area 31x. A specific area switch 83 is provided at a position corresponding to the specific area 31x inside the second large winning opening 31b, and the specific area switch 83 detects that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the ordinary winning openings 22 and 25. Here, a configuration in which a common winning opening switch 86 is used for all the ordinary winning opening 22 and 25 is given as an example. For example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the winning opening on the left side is installed. The switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the normal winning openings 22 and 25 located on the left side of the board, and the right winning opening switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the ordinary winning opening 25 located on the right side of the board. May be.

In any case, the winning detection signal and the passing detection signal of these switches 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in the present embodiment, the winning detection signal and the passing detection signal from the gate switch 78, the specific area switch 83, the count switch 84, and the winning port switch 86 pass through the panel relay terminal plate 87. The panel relay terminal plate 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

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

Further, the game board unit 8 includes a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device 31, and a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a first large winning opening solenoid corresponding to the specific area 31x, respectively. 90, a second large winning opening solenoid 97 and a specific area solenoid 99 are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, 99 operate (excite) based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72, and are the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the specific area 31x, respectively. To open and close. The solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 are also relayed by the panel relay terminal plate 87, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further, the acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator having a built-in sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, etc. (not shown), and the acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the speakers 54, 55 on the glass frame and the outer frame speaker 56. To output sound.

In the present embodiment, the glass frame illuminated board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and the drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame illuminated board 136 to various lamps 46. It is applied to ~ 52 and the speakers 54, 55, 56. Further, the above-mentioned effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is transmitted to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated board 136. Entered. Here, an example in which the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136 is given, but when the above-mentioned saucer illuminated board is installed, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the saucer illuminated board. May be good. In addition, a panel illuminated board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body motor 57 is connected to the panel illuminated board 138 in addition to the board lamp 53. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). The drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the board lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57, respectively, via the panel illuminated circuit board 138. The movable body motor 57 may be a solenoid.

[Drum unit]
Further, a drum unit 200 is connected to the effect control device 124.
The drum unit 200 includes a left reel 201, a middle reel 202, and a right reel 203 arranged coaxially.
The left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 are each formed in an annular shape, and a reel band having a plurality of pseudo-directed symbols attached in a row at intervals is wound around the left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203, respectively. .. The left reel 201, the middle reel 202, and the right reel 203 have a rotation axis at the center thereof, and can be rotated or reversely rotated about the rotation axis.

Further, the drum unit 200 is provided with a stepping motor (not shown) corresponding to each reel and a position detection mechanism (not shown) corresponding to each reel. The position detection mechanism may be arranged inside the stepping motor or may be arranged outside the stepping motor. The position detection mechanism can be configured by, for example, a light-shielding plate, a photo sensor, or the like.

The stepping motor is driven by a drum unit control device (driver, IC) (not shown) that controls the drum unit 200. The drum unit control device drives each reel according to the movable body data transmitted from the effect control device 124. Further, the drum unit control device transmits a detection signal to the effect control device 124 in response to the detection of the position (for example, the origin position) of each reel detected by the position detection mechanism.

Then, the effect control device 124 generates movable body data to be transmitted to the stepping motor corresponding to each reel based on the detection signal transmitted from the drum unit control device, and controls the operation of each reel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8 and 9 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends a return command (for example, a model specification command, a special symbol probability state specification command, an operation memory number increase effect command, an operation memory number decrease effect command, and a number of times cut) to the effect control device 124. (Counter remaining number command, special game status specification command, etc.) is sent. In response to this, the effect control device 124 determines the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, the effect display mode of the number of working memories, the acoustic output content, and various lamps) that were being executed when the power was cut off last time. (Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

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

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

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

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

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

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

When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 9 (connection symbol A → A).

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

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) excluding jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) and hit determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to ordinary symbols). Is generated on the program. These software random numbers are updated by the loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11), but the initial value of the loop counter (all) is updated every time the random number value makes one cycle in this process. Random numbers do not have to be the target). The initial value update random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value update random number is updated. It should be noted that the reason why the step S120 is executed after the interrupt is prohibited in the step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 11), so that it overlaps with this (conflict). ) To prevent. As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is even faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the initial values of the big hit decision random number and the hit decision random number.

Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits interruption and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among the software random numbers. This process is performed with the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check process]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of the procedure for the power failure occurrence check process.
Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power failure. This check condition can be set, for example, as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power supply cutoff detection signal is continuously output.

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

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

Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the test signal terminal and the output port buffer corresponding to the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the grand prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

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

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

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76, which is the backup target (sum addition target), is stored in the RAM 76 even after the main power supply is turned off. Further, the retained memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management process (timer interrupt process)]
Next, the interrupt management process (timer interrupt process) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the interrupt management process. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described step by step.

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

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

Step S202: The main control CPU 72 also executes the initial value update random number update process. The content of the process is the same as that described above.

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

Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the gate switch 78, the middle start winning opening switch 80, the right starting winning opening switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, and the specific area switch 83. The event that occurred during the game is determined based on the passage detection signal from the player, and another process is executed according to the event that occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event processing will be described later using yet another flowchart.

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

Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol game process and the normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or controls the execution of the first special symbol display device 34 and the first special symbol. 2 The variable display and the stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display result. Further, in the normal symbol game processing (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variation display and the stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To control. The details of the special symbol game processing and the normal symbol game processing will be described later using yet another flowchart.

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

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

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

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

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

Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 has a normal symbol display device 33, a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, a first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and a second special symbol. It controls the lighting state of the working memory lamp 35a, the game status display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the above-mentioned special symbol game processing (step S205) or normal symbol game processing (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which a symbol variation display, a stop display, an operation memory number display, a game state display, or the like is performed).

Step S211: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes an output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208) to the port. Further, the main control CPU 72 is a drive signal and a test signal of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, the second special winning opening solenoid 97, and the specific area solenoid 99 stored in the port output request buffer. Etc. and output to the port.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether there is a command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (command required for effect control) in the command buffer, and if there is an untransmitted command, the command to be output is output. Output to the port.

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

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

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

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

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 11). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described step by step.

Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery trigger has occurred) from the middle start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 to execute the first special symbol storage update process. The specific contents of the process will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery trigger has occurred) from the right-starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 to execute the second special symbol storage update process. Similarly, the specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

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

Step S20: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal is input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second major winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21 to execute the second major winning opening counting process. In the second big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 during the big hit game (during the small hit game). On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S22: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 to execute the normal symbol storage update process. In the normal symbol storage update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current normal symbol operating storage number is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol. do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operation storage number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S26.

Step S26: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the passage detection signal is input from the specific area switch 83 corresponding to the specific area 31x in the second special winning opening 31b. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 to execute a process of turning on the specific area preliminary flag. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11).

[1st special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol storage update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described step by step.

Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (set number) of the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) commonly used in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and the jackpot determined random number and the jackpot symbol are in each section. Random numbers can be stored as a set (set) one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol operation storage number. The first special symbol operation storage number counter is stored in, for example, the operation storage number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value thereof. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

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

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

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

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

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

Step S37: In the case other than during the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the special symbol lottery and the fluctuation time are set in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number, and the fluctuation pattern determination random number of the first special symbol acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively. This is for determining the content of the production (so-called "look-ahead"). In this process, the result of the pre-determination of the first special symbol is set in the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command.

Step S38: When the acquisition-time effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper byte (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the first special symbol". Since the lower bytes of the special figure destination determination effect command (information on whether or not the command is correct or information on the fluctuation time) are set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), the upper bytes are combined with the lower bytes here. By doing so, for example, a command with a length of one word will be generated.

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

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the first special symbol. In this process, the special figure destination determination effect command generated in step S38, the operation memory number increase effect command generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning sound control command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 (. Memory count notification means).

When the above procedure is completed or the number of first special symbol operation storages has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol storage update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described step by step.

Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol operation storage number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 or later.

Step S41: The main control CPU 72 adds one second special symbol operation storage number (increments the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) based on the value of the counter added here. Will be.

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of the second lottery element, means for acquiring the lottery element). The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S32 (FIG. 13) described above.

Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S33 (FIG. 13) described above.

Step S44: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number related to the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). The acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. Is stored as a set (second lottery element storage means, storage means). The storage method is the same as in step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

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

Step S46: When it is not during the big hit (step S45a: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the second special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol acquired in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for judgment. In this process, the result of the pre-determination of the second special symbol is set in the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command.

Step S47: When the acquisition time effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper byte portion (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the second special symbol". Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S46), here, for example, one word length is obtained by synthesizing the upper byte with the lower byte. Command will be generated.

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

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the second special symbol. As a result, regarding the second special symbol, a special figure destination determination effect command, an operation memory number increase effect command, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like are transmitted to the effect control device 124 (memory number notification means). Further, when the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12).

[Production judgment processing at the time of acquisition]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition-time effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 13, step S46 in FIG. 14) (preliminary determination). means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when the ball enters the middle start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when the ball enters the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to the process relating to the first special symbol or the process relating to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the content of the process will be described according to each procedure.

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

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the random number value for the first determination. The random number to be loaded here is stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol storage update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). ..

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

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

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14). On the other hand, in the determination of step S54 above, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random numbers for each symbol stored in the first special symbol storage update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54, and it is determined from the result which winning symbol corresponds to. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S78.

Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as a lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. For example, if the special symbol destination judgment value corresponds to "a symbol that does not shift to the time shortened state" (a predetermined condition is not satisfied for winning), "00H" is set and corresponds to "a symbol that shifts to the time shortened state". If (the predetermined condition for winning is satisfied), "01H" is set (game state setting means). In any case, by setting the data for the lower byte here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

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

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol storage update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14).

[Special symbol game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game processing. The special symbol game process includes execution selection process (step S1000), special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), special symbol change process (step S3000), special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and variable winning device management process. (Step S5000) is a configuration including a group of subroutines (program modules). Here, first, the basic flow of the special symbol game processing will be described along with each processing.

Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

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

Step S2000: In the special symbol change preprocessing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the change display of the special symbol. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (No. 0 to No. 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, thereby displaying the variation of the special symbol.

Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Here as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, and a stop display of a special symbol is performed.

Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big hit or small hit mode (a mode other than the non-winning mode) in the previous special symbol stop display process. The big hit game or the small hit game is started according to the mode in which the special symbol is stopped and displayed.

[Big hit game]
For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 15-round jackpot, a jackpot game (a special game advantageous to the player) is executed. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the first large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a certain period of time (for example, for 29 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 15 times). The first variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this period, by intensively winning the game balls to the first variable winning device 30, the player is given an opportunity to collectively acquire a large number of prize balls (special game execution means). It should be noted that the opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of a big hit is referred to as "round", and if the number of continuous operations is 15 times in total, these may be collectively referred to as "15 rounds". In the present embodiment, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided in the 15-round jackpot. In addition to the 15-round jackpot, a plurality of types of 4-round jackpot, 2-round jackpot, and the like may be provided as the types of jackpot.

Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the opening / closing of the first variable winning device 30 for one round. The value of the round count counter is incremented by 1 each time the operation is terminated. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the jackpot game (major role) only for that round.

Then, when the big hit game is finished, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (time shortened state, special game state) after the big hit game is finished based on the game state flag (time shortening function operation flag) (time shortening state transition means, Game state setting means). In the "time reduction state", the time reduction function is activated, the lottery probability of the normal symbol operation lottery is set from the normal probability (low probability) to the high probability, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened and the variable start prize is won. The opening time of the device 28 is extended and the number of times of opening is increased (so-called electric chew support is performed).

[Small hit]
Further, in the present embodiment, a small hit is provided as a winning type other than the non-winning. When the small hit is won, the small hit game is performed separately from the big hit game, and the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes (special game execution means). For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit, a small hit game (a special game advantageous to the player) is executed. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the second large winning opening solenoid 97 operates for a certain period of time (for example, for 1.8 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of operations (for example, once or multiple times). It is excited, and the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (operation of a special electric accessory). During this period, by intensively winning the game balls to the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to acquire a certain amount of prize balls (special game execution means).

Further, in the variable winning device management process during the small hit game, the specific region solenoid 99 is excited for a certain period of time (for example, 1.6 seconds) for a preset number of operations (for example, once), thereby for the specific region. The slide member 31c opens and closes in a fixed pattern. By passing the game ball through the specific area 31x during this period, the player is given an opportunity to start the big hit game. That is, whether or not the big hit game is started in the variable winning device management process is determined by whether or not the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In the present embodiment, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided in the small hit, and when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, the big hit game according to the winning type is started.

Further, even if the small hit game ends without the game ball passing through the specific area 31x, the "time reduction function" does not operate, so that the privilege of shifting to the "time reduction state" is not given (hence). It is not a prerequisite for.) (Except when the maximum number of times is reached).

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned "15 round jackpot", "16 round jackpot" is provided as a plurality of winning types. The "15 round big hit" is started when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big hit mode, while the "16 round big hit" is stopped and displayed when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, and the game ball is displayed during the small hit game. Is started when the specific region 31x has passed. Of the 16 rounds of big hits, the first round corresponds to the operation of the second variable winning device 31, and the remaining 15 rounds correspond to the operation of the first variable winning device 30. However, in this embodiment, a big hit other than 16 rounds and 15 rounds may be provided.

The above-mentioned winning types correspond to the types of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that are stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, "15 round big hit" corresponds to the big hit of "1st winning symbol" to "3rd winning symbol", and "16 round big hit" corresponds to the small hit of "4th winning symbol" to "6th winning symbol" ( It corresponds to the big hit when passing through the specific area 31x). Therefore, in the following, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as the "winning symbol".

[1st winning symbol]
In the process of displaying the stop of the special symbol, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "first winning symbol", the big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the fifth round. From the 6th round to the 15th round (final round), the first large winning opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, an opening time of 0.5 seconds at the longest). Therefore, the big hit game of the "first winning symbol" is a big hit game in which five rounds of balls (prize balls) can be given to the player. Further, when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur in one round, the first large winning opening 30b is closed without waiting for the lapse of the longest opening time (hereinafter, the same applies). .. If the "first winning symbol" is applicable in the "non-time reduction state (non-special game state)", the game shifts to the "non-time reduction state" even after the jackpot game ends, but the "time reduction state". If the "1st winning symbol" is applicable, the "time reduction function" is activated after the jackpot game is completed, so that the "time reduction state" is entered.

[2nd winning symbol]
When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "second winning symbol" in the processing during the special symbol stop display, the big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the fifth round. From the 6th round to the 15th round (final round), the first large winning opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, an opening time of 0.5 seconds at the longest). Therefore, the big hit game of the "second winning symbol" is a big hit game in which the player can be given 5 rounds of balls (prize balls). Then, after the jackpot game is completed, the "time reduction function" is activated to shift to the "time reduction state".

[Third winning symbol]
When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "third winning symbol" in the processing during the special symbol stop display, the big hit game is executed (special game execution means). In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the fifteenth round. Therefore, the big hit game of the "third winning symbol" is a big hit game in which 15 rounds of balls (prize balls) can be given to the player. Then, after the jackpot game is completed, the "time reduction function" is activated to shift to the "time reduction state".

[4th winning symbol]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "fourth winning symbol", the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, It shifts from the small hit game state to the big hit game state. In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the second round, and this continues until the sixth round. From the 7th round to the 16th round (final round), the first large winning opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, an opening time of 0.5 seconds at the longest). Therefore, in the big hit game in the case of falling under the "fourth winning symbol", it is possible to give the player five rounds of balls (prize balls). Then, after the jackpot game is completed, the "time reduction function" is activated to shift to the "time reduction state".

[Fifth winning symbol]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "fifth winning symbol", the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, It shifts from the small hit game state to the big hit game state. In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the second round, and this continues until the eleventh round. From the 12th round to the 16th round (final round), the first large winning opening 30b is opened once for a short time (for example, an opening time of 0.5 seconds at the longest). Therefore, in the big hit game in the case of falling under the "fifth winning symbol", it is possible to give the player 10 rounds of balls (prize balls). Then, after the jackpot game is completed, the "time reduction function" is activated to shift to the "time reduction state".

[6th winning symbol]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the "sixth winning symbol", the small hit game is executed, and when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, It shifts from the small hit game state to the big hit game state. In this case, the first large winning opening 30b is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the second round, and this continues until the 16th round. Therefore, in the big hit game corresponding to the "sixth winning symbol", it is possible to give the player 15 rounds of balls (prize balls). Then, after the jackpot game is completed, the "time reduction function" is activated to shift to the "time reduction state".

In any case, if it corresponds to the "first winning symbol" in the "non-time shortening state", it shifts to the "non-time shortening state" after the big hit game ends, and the "second winning symbol" or the "third winning symbol" If it corresponds to, it shifts to the "time reduction state" after the big hit game is completed.
Further, in the "time shortened state", if it corresponds to the "first winning symbol", "second winning symbol" or "third winning symbol", the game shifts to the "time shortened state" after the big hit game is completed.

Further, regardless of whether the game is in the "non-time shortened state" or the "time shortened state", when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big hit game is started during the small hit game, the winning symbol is "No. 1". Regardless of which of the 4 winning symbols to the 6th winning symbol, the game shifts to the "time reduction state" after the big hit game is completed.

In this way, when a small hit is won by an internal lottery and a specific area is passed during the small hit game, the big hit game is executed, and after the big hit game is completed, the gaming machine shifts to a time shortening state according to the type of the winning symbol. , So-called 1 type 2 type mixed type gaming machine.

[Special symbol change pre-processing]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of special symbol change preprocessing. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the first special symbol operation memory number or the second special symbol operation memory number remains (is greater than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the demo setting process of step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a command for demo effect. The demo effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. At the time of return, it returns to the end address as described above (the same applies thereafter).

On the other hand, if the value of the working memory counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2200.

Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random numbers, big hit symbol random numbers, etc.) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections (only the first special symbol is applicable), the main control CPU 72 reads the random numbers in order from the first section, erases (consumes) them, and then erases (consumes) the remaining random numbers by 1. Move (shift) to the previous section one by one. The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads out the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for the internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is given priority over the first special symbol. It should be noted that the program may be a program in which random numbers are simply read out in the order in which they are stored, without setting priorities for each special symbol. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts and subtracts one value of the working memory counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that shifts the random number) stored in the RAM 76. The latter value is set to "the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation". As a result, in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11), the display mode of the stored number by the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is changed (decreased by 1). .. After completing the steps up to this point, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned special symbol storage area shift process. In the previous special symbol change preprocessing, when the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than "0" (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 17), the main control CPU 72. Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the working memory corresponding to the second special symbol remains. That is, in the present embodiment, the working memory corresponding to the second special symbol is preferentially consumed over the first special symbol. This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol is 1 or more (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates a second special symbol as a special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting "02H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2214: On the other hand, when the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol is 0 (step S2210: No), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the target special symbol for shifting the storage area. do. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting "01H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 for the target special symbol specified in either step S2212 or step S2214 above. The specific contents of the processing are as described in the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target for shifting the storage area this time is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working storage counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the “number of working memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the working memory counter after subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the "working memory number at the start of fluctuation" may be set after adding the values of the working memory counters.

Step S2222: Further, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the special symbol to be shifted the storage area this time is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number reduction effect command for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a command having a length of one word, but its configuration is in contrast to the above-mentioned "effect command when the number of working memories is increased". That is, the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is the value of the lower byte (for example, "00H" to "03H") indicating the number of working memories after the decrease with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte indicating the command type. ") Is added, and the value of the lower byte is further added (logical sum) with an added value (for example," 10H ") meaning" decrease in the number of working memories due to consumption ". Therefore, for the lower byte, the second digit becomes "1" by ORing the added value "10H", and this value indicates that it is the "result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories". It becomes a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memories "4" (command notation is "14H") up to the previous time is reduced by one, and as a result, the number of working memories this time is "3" (command). The notation indicates that it has become "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it is the result of one decrease in the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") up to the previous time. , It means that the number of working memories this time is "2" to "0" (command notation is "12H" to "10H"). The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2226: When the target of this time is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number reduction effect command for the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, "BBH") indicating that it is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the working memory number reduction effect command set in step S2224 or step S2226 to the effect control device 124 (storage number notification means).
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 17).

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of jackpot values, and determines whether or not the read random value is included in this range (first special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution). Means, lottery execution means). If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

When the above jackpot flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of small hit values in the same jackpot determination process, and determines whether or not the read random value is included in this range (first). Special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution means). The "small hit" here is something other than a non-winning (missing), but has a different property from the "big hit". That is, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (a turning point of the game) to shift to the above-mentioned "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. The "small hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating only the second variable winning device 31 (the condition for operating the conditional device is not satisfied). Further, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the "small hit", it is positioned to develop into a "big hit" (the condition for operating the condition device is satisfied). In any case, if the read random value is included in the small hit value range, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, but the big hit judgment table and the small hit judgment table for each state are prepared in advance. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be made while comparing with the random number value.

In the present embodiment, in the first special symbol lottery, the winning probability of the big hit is set to 1/224, and the winning of the small hit is not set. Further, in the second special symbol lottery, the probability of winning a big hit is set to 1/224 of the same, and the probability of winning a small hit is set to 1/4. Therefore, in the second special symbol lottery, it is easier to win a small hit than a big hit. In order to satisfy the winning probability of the big hit and the winning probability of the small hit, the range of the big hit value and the range of the small hit value are set by the main control CPU 72 and compared with the read random value.

Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the value (01H) is set in the jackpot flag in the previous jackpot determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2402.

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

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process at the time of disconnection. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11).

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

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

Here, since the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection differs depending on whether or not it is in the above-mentioned "time reduction state", the main control CPU 72 loads the game state flag in this process, and the current state is "time reduction state". Check if it is in "state". Further, even if it is not in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is, for example, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, except when the fluctuation for executing the reach effect is performed. (For example, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is 0 → about 12.5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is about 1 → about 8 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display). 2 pieces → about 5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display 3 pieces → about 2.5 seconds). It should be noted that the stop display time of the symbol at the time of detachment is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the fluctuation pattern. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the jackpot determination result is missed (when other than non-winning), but when the determination result is a jackpot (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). , The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

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

[Winning symbol at the time of big hit]
In this embodiment, three types of winning symbols are prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The breakdown of the first winning symbol is "first winning symbol" or "second winning symbol", and the breakdown of the second winning symbol is only "third winning symbol". In addition, each winning symbol of these winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "first winning symbol", "first winning symbol A", "first winning symbol B", "first winning symbol C", and so on.

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

[First special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for each winning symbol are shown in the left column, and the distribution values "50" and "50" are the ratios when the denominator is 100. Equivalent to. Further, in the second column from the left, a "first winning symbol" and a "second winning symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting the "first winning symbol" is 50/100 (= 50%), and the ratio of selecting the "second winning symbol" is 100 minutes. 50 (= 50%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using the big hit symbol random number.

In any case, when the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. Select the winning symbol with. Further, in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among them, the MODE value "B1H" of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values "01H" and "02H" of the lower byte represent the types of the corresponding winning symbols in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, when the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol and "first winning symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described by "B101H". It will be.

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

[Number of time reductions]
In the right column of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the time reduction number (limit number of times) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown. In the present embodiment, when the "first winning symbol" is hit during normal times (in a non-time shortened state), the number of time reductions is not given. On the other hand, if the "first winning symbol" is applicable during the time reduction (in the time reduction state), the time reduction number of times is given 4 times (or 8 times).

In addition, in the case of falling under the "second winning symbol", the number of time reductions is given 4 times (or 8 times) regardless of whether it is during normal or time reduction. The number of time reductions is not limited to the above value, and may be 1 to 3 times, or 5 times or more (9 times or more).

Here, "4 times (or 8 times)" means that when the total number of fluctuations of the second special symbol is 4 times or the total number of fluctuations of the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol is 8 times, the time is reached. It means that the shortened state ends.

[Second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

Also in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value "100" corresponds to the ratio when the denominator is 100. .. Similarly, in the second column from the left, the "third winning symbol" corresponding to each distribution value is shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting the "third winning symbol" is 100/100 (= 100%).

When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol by the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is specified as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Here, too, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value "B2H" of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the second special symbol. It shows that it is. Further, the EVENT value "01H" of the lower byte represents the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol and the "third winning symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described by "B201H". ..

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

[Number of time reductions]
In the right column of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the time reduction number (limit number of times) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown. In the present embodiment, when the "third winning symbol" is applicable, the number of time reductions is given 4 times (or 8 times) regardless of whether the time is normal or the time reduction.

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

Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of a big hit. In this process, when the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is the "second winning symbol" or the "third winning symbol", the main control CPU 72 is in the flag area of the RAM 76. The time reduction function operation flag as a certain game state flag is set to ON (01H) (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means, game state setting means). When the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the "first winning symbol" in the non-time shortened state, the time shortening function operation flag is reset to OFF (00H), and the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the "first winning symbol" in the time shortened state. In this case, the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set to ON (01H).

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

Next, the processing at the time of a small hit will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol at the time of a small hit (stop symbol number at the time of a small hit) based on the random number of the big hit symbol. Here as well, the relationship between the big hit symbol random value and the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is defined in advance in the small hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means). In the present embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of a small hit is determined by using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately. Further, in the present embodiment, the small hit is not set for the first special symbol, but is set only for the second special symbol.

[Winning symbol at the time of small hit]
In this embodiment, three types of winning symbols are prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a small hit. The breakdown of the three types is "4th winning symbol", "5th winning symbol", and "6th winning symbol". In addition, these winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "4th winning symbol", "4th winning symbol A", "4th winning symbol B", "4th winning symbol C", and so on.

[Second special symbol stop symbol selection table at small hit]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

Also in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value "33", "33", "34" has a denominator. It corresponds to the ratio when it is set to 100. Similarly, in the second column from the left, the "fourth winning symbol", the "fifth winning symbol", and the "sixth winning symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a small hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting the "fourth winning symbol" is 33/100 (= 33%), and the ratio of selecting the "fifth winning symbol". Is 33/100 (= 33%), and the ratio of selecting the "sixth winning symbol" is 34/100 (= 34%).

As a result of this small hit, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selectively determines the winning symbol by the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. In the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is specified as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Here, too, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value "B2H" of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is a small hit of the second special symbol. It shows that it is a thing. Further, the EVENT values "02H", "03H", and "04H" of the lower byte represent the types of the corresponding winning symbols in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, when the "fourth winning symbol" is selected as the winning symbol as a result of this small hit, the stop symbol command is described by "B202H".

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

[Number of time reductions]
In the fourth column (right column) from the left of the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, and the big hit game is started, and the big hit game is started. The value of the number of time reductions given after the end is shown. In the present embodiment, when the "4th winning symbol", "5th winning symbol" or "6th winning symbol" is applicable, the number of time reductions is 4 times (or 8) regardless of whether the time is normal or the time reduction. Times) Granted.

[See Fig. 17: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit time variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variable time value in the variable timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the small hit is set only for the second special symbol lottery, and at the time of the small hit, a fluctuation pattern having a fluctuation time for the small hit is selected. A small hit may be set for the first special symbol lottery.

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

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol variation start process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (at the time of loss / at the time of hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets the fluctuation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. Further, the variation start command is generated for each symbol, such as the first special symbol variation start command and the second special symbol variation start command. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 16: Processing during special symbol change, processing during special symbol stop display]
In the special symbol change processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the change timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer is changed according to the passage of time (the count number of the clock pulse or the value of the interrupt counter). Decrement the value of the counter. Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the fluctuation display of the special symbol as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. Then, when the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

Further, in the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2404, step S2407, step S2410 in FIG. 17). Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. When the stopped symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 clears the symbol changing flag.

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the process during special symbol stop display. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

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

Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has expired based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the next interrupt cycle, and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process.

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

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

Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set. When the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4350.

[At the time of winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to "variable winning device management process". The main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting various functions to be inactive in this process. Specifically, the time saving function is not activated. As a result, before the special game (major role) is started, the normal state (non-time reduction state) is entered.

When the above procedure is completed at the time of a big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed except at the time of big hit.
That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4600.

Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next confirms whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and the value is simply off (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4602.

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

Step S4605: On the other hand, when the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number-cut counter. In the "count cut counter", the counter value related to the "time reduction state" is set in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76. In this embodiment, a so-called time reduction function for cutting the number of times is adopted, and when shifting to the "time reduction state", the first number of times cut counter value related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 4 times). , The second time cut counter value regarding the time shortening state is set to a specified value (for example, 8 times).

Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value (first count cut counter value or second count cut counter value) is 0. At this time, if the number-of-count counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, when the number-of-count counter value is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (1 subtracts) the first count cut counter value and the second count cut counter value. Specifically, when the stop display of the second special symbol is being displayed, both the first count cut counter value and the second count cut counter value are decremented, and when the stop display of the first special symbol is being displayed. Decrements only the second count cut counter value.

Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result of any of the number-cutting counter values (first number-cutting counter value or second number-cutting counter value) is 0. As a result of the subtraction, if none of the counter values for cutting the number of times is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, when any of the number-cutting counter values is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets the flag when the number-cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, the number-of-times counter value related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 4 times or 8 times). For this reason, the second special symbol missed variation (including the small hit variation at that time when the specific area is not passed) is executed four times in the time shortened state (the specified condition is satisfied regarding the number of times). Then, the time saving function activation flag is reset. On the other hand, even if the first special symbol is displaced four times in the time reduction state, the time reduction function activation flag is not reset, and then the time reduction function operation flag is not reset, and then the first special symbol or the second special symbol four times in the time reduction state. When the deviation fluctuation is executed (the specified condition is satisfied regarding the number of times), the time reduction function activation flag is reset. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the stop display of the special symbol is performed (setting end means). After completing the above procedure, the process returns to the special symbol game processing.

[Display output management process]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes special symbol display setting process (step S1200), normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), status display setting process (step S1220), working memory display setting process (step S1230), and continuous operation count display setting. It is a configuration including a subroutine group of the process (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the working memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34 and the second as described above. Generates a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation storage number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the time saving state display lamp 38e according to the value of the time saving function operation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the time saving function operation flag when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 is set to the time saving state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. A lighting signal is output to the corresponding LED. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the firing position designation display lamp 38f according to the special game management status. For example, when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is activated by a big hit game or a small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation display lamp 38f. Output. Further, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 gives a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation display lamp 38f in addition to the time saving state display lamp 38e described above. Is output. The launch position designation display lamp 38f is lit from the start of the big hit game to the end of the "time reduction state" when shifting to the "time reduction state" after the jackpot game, and is not lit by the end of the "time reduction state". (OFF).

Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for any of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the continuous operation count status. At this time, the target for outputting the lighting signal is any of the indicator lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the jackpot symbol specified by the value of the continuous operation count status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "16 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing "16 rounds (16R)". Further, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "15 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing "15 rounds (15R)".

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes the game process selection process (step S5100), the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), the large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300), the large winning opening closing process (step S5400), and the end. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S5500).

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

[Large winning opening opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of a big hit or a small hit, respectively. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set. As a result of this confirmation, when the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5203. On the other hand, when the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), that is, when the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5204.

Step S5203: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. In this process, the opening pattern of the big winning opening corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of big hit is set based on the opening pattern setting table for each symbol at the time of big hit. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5205.

Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process. In this process, the opening pattern of the large winning opening is set based on the opening pattern setting table for each symbol at the time of small hit. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5205.

Step S5205: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Large winning opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

Step S5210: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Here, the "condition device" is a device whose operation is a necessary condition for the operation of the accessory continuous actuating device, and the "accessory continuous actuating device" is the first variable winning device 30 or the second. It is a device that can continuously operate the variable winning device 31. It should be noted that the "conditional device" and the "continuous operation device for accessories" can also be used as control flags. Therefore, unless this condition device is operating, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 do not operate in the big hit game. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5212.

Step S5212: The main control CPU 72 sets "start of big win (during big hit game)" as an internal state flag on control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. In this embodiment, a value representing "15 rounds" is set in the continuous operation number status regardless of the type of the jackpot symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. The state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5214.

Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 executes the opening pattern selection process for each symbol at the time of a big hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the open pattern setting table for each symbol at the time of a big hit, and selects an open pattern corresponding to the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, and represents, for example, a setting such as the number of execution rounds, the opening time, and the interval time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5216.

[Open pattern setting table for each symbol at the time of big hit]
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of an open pattern setting table for each symbol at the time of a big hit. This open pattern setting table for each big hit symbol defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the variable winning device (first variable winning device 30 or second variable winning device 31) to be operated for each round for each different winning symbol related to the special symbol. Is. Specifically, the following opening patterns for the large winning openings are defined for each winning symbol.

[1st winning symbol]
When the first winning symbol is applicable, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 15, and 5 of them are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. In addition, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds during no rounds).

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the first winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifth round is in each round for 29.0 seconds. It operates and the first big winning opening 30b is opened (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winning balls is confirmed. The same shall apply hereinafter), and the first variable winning device 30 is from the 6th round to the 15th round. Opens for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, if the first winning symbol is applicable, it is possible to obtain substantially five rounds of balls.

[2nd winning symbol]
When the second winning symbol is applicable, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 15, and 5 of them are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. In addition, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds during no rounds).

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the second winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifth round takes 29.0 seconds during each round. The first large winning opening 30b is opened by operating, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened for 0.5 seconds from the sixth round to the fifteenth round. Therefore, if the second winning symbol is applicable, it is possible to obtain substantially five rounds of balls.

[Third winning symbol]
When the third winning symbol is applicable, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, of which 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. Then, in the round with a ball, the opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round is 29.0 seconds. The interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the third winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 from the first round to the fifteenth round takes 29.0 seconds during each round. It operates and the first big winning opening 30b is opened. Therefore, if the third winning symbol is applicable, it is possible to obtain substantially 15 rounds of balls.

As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the big winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol by referring to the opening pattern setting table for each big hit symbol.

[Refer to Fig. 26: Big winning opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
Step S5216: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated for each round (1st round to the final round) during the jackpot game to the 1st variable winning device 30 based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. do. In this embodiment, since the opening pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (1st winning symbol to 3rd winning symbol) at the time of big hit is 1 round to the final round, the 1st big winning opening 30b is opened. The operation of the first variable winning device 30 is set. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5218.

Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the jackpot game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. In this embodiment, 15 rounds are set as the number of execution rounds of the open pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of big hit. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5220.

Step S5220: The main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) for each opening of the big winning opening for each round at the time of big hit. In this embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (first winning symbol to third winning symbol) at the time of big hit. For example, in the case of the first winning symbol, the opening time for opening the first big winning opening 30b is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with a payout, and the first big winning opening 30b for the round without a payout. The opening time is set to 0.5 seconds. Therefore, if the value of the release timer is set to about 29.0 seconds, the opening time is a sufficient time (for example, firing) at which the ball easily enters the first large winning opening 30b during one opening. The time for firing 10 or more game balls by the control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if the value of the opening timer is set to about 0.5 seconds, the opening time is a time during which it is difficult to enter the first large winning opening 30b during one opening. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5222.

Step S5222: The main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a standby time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of a big hit. In this embodiment, the interval timer of the open pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (1st winning symbol to 3rd winning symbol) at the time of big hit is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds during no round). ) Is set. For example, after the opening of the first big winning opening 30b between the first round and the second round is completed and the first round is closed once, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5224.

Step S5224: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation count command. The continuous operation count command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5218). Therefore, based on the number of execution rounds "15R" of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbols (1st winning symbol to 3rd winning symbol) at the time of big hit, the continuous operation number command generates a value representing "15 rounds". .. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above.

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Large winning opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S5252: The main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit game in progress)" as an internal state flag on the control. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the small hit game is in progress. The state command indicating that the small hit game is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5254.

Step S5254: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit opening pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the small hit opening pattern setting table and selects an opening pattern. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, and represents, for example, a setting such as the number of times of opening, the opening time, the interval time, and the opening time of the specific area 31x. ing. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5256.

[Open pattern setting table for small hits]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of an open pattern setting table at the time of a small hit. This small hit opening pattern setting table defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the variable winning device (second variable winning device 31). In this embodiment, one open pattern is set at the time of a small hit, but a plurality of open patterns may be specified for each winning symbol.

When it corresponds to a small hit, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the second variable winning device 31. Further, the number of times the second variable winning device 31 is opened is two, and the opening time of one time is 0.9 seconds. The interval time is set to, for example, about 1.0 second.

The opening start time of the specific region 31x (timing at which the specific region solenoid 99 is turned on to operate the slide member 31c for the specific region) is 0.2 seconds after the opening start of the second variable winning device 31.
Further, the opening end time of the specific area 31x (timing at which the specific area solenoid 99 is turned off to deactivate the slide member 31c for the specific area) is 1.8 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31. ..

[See Fig. 28: Large winning opening pattern setting process for small hits]
Step S5256: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the second variable winning device 31. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated during the small hit game in the second variable winning device 31 based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5258.

Step S5258: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of opening. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times of opening to be executed during the small hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, two times are set as the number of times the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit is opened. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5260.

Step S5260: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) for each opening of the large winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, 0.9 seconds is set based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5262.

Step S5262: The main control CPU 72 sets the small hit time interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a standby time (interval timer) between the openings of the large winning openings based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, the interval timer is set to a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5264.

Step S5264: The main control CPU 72 sets an release timer for the specific area 31x (specific area slide member 31c). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) of the specific area 31x during the small hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, the specific area 31x is opened 0.2 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31, and the specific area 31x is closed 1.8 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31. Will be done.

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 25).

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the large winning opening. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current internal state is “in a big role”. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer of the RAM 76, and the current internal state is "" depending on whether or not the "big win (big hit game)" flag is set as the internal state flag for control. Check if it is a big role. The flag of "during big win (during big hit game)" is set by the main control CPU 72 during the previous process (during the process of setting the big winning opening pattern at the time of big hit: step S5212) and during the process when passing through a specific area described later. .. As a result of this confirmation, when the current internal state is "Major role" (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5306. On the other hand, when the current internal state is not "Major role" (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5304.

Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes the second prize opening opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the second variable winning device 31 in order to open and close the second winning opening 31b based on the set opening pattern (applied to the second winning opening solenoid 97). (Output the drive signal) processing is performed. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S5306: The main control CPU 72 executes the first large winning opening opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the first variable winning device 30 in order to open and close the first winning opening 30b based on the set opening pattern (applied to the first winning opening solenoid 90). (Output the drive signal) processing is performed. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 24).

[2nd prize opening opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second prize opening opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

Step S5310: The main control CPU 72 opens the second large winning opening 31b. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state. Further, at the time of the first opening in the round, the main control CPU 72 generates the special electric 2 opening command here. Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312.

Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the release timer set in the previous process (step S5260 or step S5264 in the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 28)). In this process, in addition to the opening timer for opening the second special winning opening 31b, a countdown for the opening timer (opening start time, opening end time) for opening the specific area 31x is performed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314.

Step S5314: The main control CPU 72 executes the specific area opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the slide member 31c for the specific area in order to open / close the specific area 31x based on the set opening pattern (outputs a drive signal applied to the specific area solenoid 99). Perform processing. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5316.

Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the second special winning opening 31b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the open timer for the second large winning opening 31b during the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the second special winning opening 31b is completed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5322. On the other hand, when the opening time of the second special winning opening 31b is not completed (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5318.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won a prize in the second variable winning device 31 (large winning opening during opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the second count switch 85 within the opening time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5320.

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening at the time of a small hit. If the count number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the above steps S5310 to S5320.

If it is determined in step S5316 above that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5320 that the count number has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5322. Since the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 1.8 seconds) for the release at the time of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally indicates that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5316 that the opening time has ended before confirmation.

Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 closes the second grand prize opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is stopped. As a result, the second variable winning device 31 returns from the open state to the closed state. Further, at the time of closing corresponding to the final opening in the round, the main control CPU 72 generates a special electric 2 closing command here. Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5324.

Step S5324: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the specific area passage flag is ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76, and confirms whether or not the specific area passing flag is ON depending on whether or not the value of the specific area passing flag is 01H. As a result of this confirmation, when the specific area passage flag is ON (Yes), that is, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x while the second large winning opening 31b during the small hit game is open, the main The control CPU 72 then executes step S5326. On the other hand, when the specific area passage flag is not ON (No), that is, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 31x while the second large winning opening 31b during the small hit game is open, the main control The CPU 72 then executes step S5327a. The specific area passage flag may be set to ON in the specific area opening / closing operation process (step S5314).

Step S5326: The main control CPU 72 executes a process when passing through a specific area. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device based on the fact that the game ball passes through the specific area 31x while the second large winning opening 31b during the small hit game is open. , The process of continuously operating the first variable winning device 30, that is, the process of starting the big hit game (special game execution means via special game, special game execution means). The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5328.

Step S5327a: The main control CPU 72 executes the interval standby process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the previous process (step S5265 of the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 28)). Then, when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5327b. Although not particularly shown here, the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device that is the caller from step S5327a for each interrupt until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0). It returns to the end address of the process (FIG. 24). Then, when the large winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, step S5327a is directly executed instead of starting from the first step S5310.

Step S5327b: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the second large winning opening opening count counter. The value of the second large winning opening opening count counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0.

Step S5327c: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the second large winning opening opening count counter after the increment has reached the number of times set in the current round. Here, the reason why the "number of times set in the current round" is determined is to correspond to the opening pattern of, for example, "the second variable winning device 31 is opened a plurality of times during one small hit". Is. In particular, when such an opening pattern is not adopted, the "number of times set in the current round" is set to once in each round, so that the counter value is set by one opening / closing operation. Since the set number of times is reached (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5328.

On the other hand, when the opening pattern of "opening the second variable winning device 31 multiple times during one small hit" is adopted, the counter value has still reached the set number of times at the end of one opening. There will be no (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, so the above steps S5310 to S5327b are repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the open count counter progresses in step S5327b, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (step S5327c; Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5328.

Step S5328: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening closing process, and returns to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 30). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 then executes the large winning opening closing process.

Each command generated in step S5310 and step S5322 is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11) executed with the timer interrupt as a trigger. Further, in this procedure example, the special electric 2 opening command is generated at the time of the first opening in the round of the second big winning opening 31b, and the special electric 2 closing command is the final closing in the round of the second big winning opening 31b. Although it is configured to be generated at times, the special electric power 2 opening command is generated every time the second special winning opening 31b is opened in step S5310, and the special electric power 2 is generated every time the second large winning opening 31b is closed in step S5322. It may be configured to generate a close command every time.

[Specific area opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the specific area opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

Step S5330: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has started. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the release timer for the release start time related to the release of the specific area 31x, which has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312), is 0, thereby confirming whether or not the value of the release timer is 0. Check if the 31x opening time has started. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is started (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5332. On the other hand, if the opening time of the specific area 31x has not been started (No), or if it has already been opened, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5334.

Step S5332: The main control CPU 72 opens the specific area 31x. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the specific region solenoid 99 is output. As a result, the slide member 31c for the specific area operates, and the specific area 31x shifts from the closed state to the open state. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5334.

Step S5334: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area 31x. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the storage area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area spare flag is ON. As a result of this confirmation, when it is confirmed that the specific area reserve flag is ON and the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5336. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the specific area reserve flag is OFF and the game ball has not passed through the specific area 31x (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5338.

Step S5336: The main control CPU 72 sets the specific area passage flag to ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and sets the value of the specific area passage flag to 01H. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5338. The specific area passage flag and the specific area reserve flag are reset at the end of the big hit game.

Step S5338: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has expired. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the release timer for opening the specific area 31x, which has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312), is 0, so that the opening time of the specific area 31x is set. Check if it is finished. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is completed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5340. On the other hand, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is not completed (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the second large winning opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

Step S5340: The main control CPU 72 closes the specific area 31x. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the specific region solenoid 99 is stopped. As a result, the slide member 31c for a specific area returns from the open state (operating state) to the closed state (non-operating state).

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second large winning opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

[Processing when passing through a specific area]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for processing when passing through a specific area. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

Step S5350: The main control CPU 72 resets the small hit flag. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and resets the value of the small hit flag to 00H. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5352.

Step S5352: The main control CPU 72 ends the small hit game. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 erases "small hit game in progress" from the internal state flag, and ends the small hit game on the control process (small hit end). The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5354.

Step S5354: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 can be continuously operated, and the big hit game can be started. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5356.

Step S5356: The main control CPU 72 sets "starting big role (during big hit game)" as an internal state flag on control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the winning symbol. In this embodiment, a value representing "16 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status regardless of the type of winning symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. The state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5358.

Step S5358: The main control CPU 72 executes the opening pattern selection process for each symbol when passing through a specific area. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the opening pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through a specific area, and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol when a small hit is applied. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5360.

Step S5360: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is a variable winning device that operates every round (2 rounds to the final round) during the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. The type is set to the first variable winning device 30. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5362.

Step S5362: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. In this embodiment, 16 rounds are set as the number of execution rounds of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbols (4th winning symbol to 6th winning symbol) related to the special symbol when all the small hits are applicable. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5364.

Step S5364: The main control CPU 72 sets a jackpot release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (opening timer) for each opening of the big winning opening for each round at the time of big hit. In this embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (4th winning symbol to 6th winning symbol) related to the special symbol when the small hit is applied. For example, in the case of the 4th winning symbol, the opening time for opening the 1st big winning opening 30b is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with the payout, and the 1st big winning opening 30b for the round without the payout. The opening time is set to 0.5 seconds. Therefore, if the value of the release timer is set to about 29.0 seconds, the opening time is a sufficient time (for example, firing) at which the ball easily enters the first large winning opening 30b during one opening. The time for firing 10 or more game balls by the control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if the value of the opening timer is set to about 0.5 seconds, the opening time is a time during which it is difficult to enter the first large winning opening 30b during one opening. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5366.

Step S5366: The main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a standby time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of a big hit. In this embodiment, the interval timer of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (4th winning symbol to 6th winning symbol) related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit is 1.0 second (between no balls and no rounds). Is set to 5.0 seconds). For example, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set after the opening of the first large winning opening 30b between the second round and the third round is completed and once closed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5368.

Step S5368: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation count command. The continuous operation count command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5362). Therefore, based on the number of execution rounds "16R" of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (4th winning symbol to 6th winning symbol) related to the special symbol when it corresponds to a small hit, the continuous operation count command is "16 rounds". A value representing is generated. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5370.

Step S5370: The main control CPU 72 executes a time reduction function setting process for each symbol when passing through a specific area. In this process, when the winning symbols related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit are "4th winning symbol" to "6th winning symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the time reduction function operation flag to ON (time). Shortened state transition means, time shortening function operating means, game state setting means). In the present embodiment, when the game ball corresponds to the "fourth winning symbol" to the "sixth winning symbol" and passes through the specific area 31x, the time is always shortened. Only the winning symbols may be shifted to the time reduction state.

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second large winning opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 31).

[Open pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through a specific area]
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of an open pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through a specific area. This open pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through a specific area defines an opening / closing operation pattern of the first variable winning device 30 for each round for each different winning symbol related to a special symbol when a small hit is hit. Specifically, the following opening patterns for the large winning openings are defined for each winning symbol.

[4th winning symbol]
When the game ball corresponds to the fourth winning symbol and passes through the specific area 31x, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. The number of execution rounds is 16. Since the number of execution rounds includes the operation of the second variable winning device 31 opened by a small hit, the big hit game to be started from now on includes 15 rounds in which one round is subtracted from 16 rounds. It is the number of rounds in the actual jackpot game (hereinafter, the same applies to the 5th winning symbol and the 6th winning symbol). In addition, 5 of the 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. In addition, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds during no rounds).

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is the fourth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the opening of the second variable winning device 31 in the small hit is set as the first round. Therefore, from the 2nd round to the 6th round, the 1st variable winning device 30 operates during each round for 29.0 seconds to open the 1st big winning opening 30b, and from the 7th round to the 16th round, the first The 1 variable winning device 30 is opened for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, when the game ball corresponds to the 4th winning symbol and passes through the specific area 31x, it is possible to obtain 5 rounds of balls.

[Fifth winning symbol]
When the game ball corresponds to the fifth winning symbol and passes through the specific area 31x, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 (the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game is 15), and 10 of them are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round in a round with a ball is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. In addition, the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds during no rounds).

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is the fifth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the opening of the second variable winning device 31 in the small hit is set as the first round. Therefore, from the 2nd round to the 11th round, the 1st variable winning device 30 operates during each round for 29.0 seconds to open the 1st big winning opening 30b, and from the 12th round to the 16th round, the first The 1 variable winning device 30 is opened for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, when the game ball corresponds to the fifth winning symbol and passes through the specific area, it is possible to obtain 10 rounds of balls.

[6th winning symbol]
When the game ball corresponds to the sixth winning symbol and passes through the specific area 31x, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 (the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game is 15), of which 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. The opening time for opening the first large winning opening 30b per round is 29.0 seconds, and the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

In this way, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is the sixth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 is 29. It operates during each round for 0 seconds to open the first prize opening 30b. Therefore, when the game ball corresponds to the sixth winning symbol and passes through the specific area, it is possible to obtain 15 rounds of balls.

As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the large winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit, with reference to the opening pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through the specific area. Will be done.

[First prize opening opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the first special winning opening. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S5380: The main control CPU 72 opens the first grand prize opening 30b by the main control CPU 72. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state. Further, at the time of the first opening in the round, the main control CPU 72 generates the special electric 1 opening command here. Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5382.

Step S5382: The main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 was set in the previous process (step S5220 of the big hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 26) or step S5364 of the process when passing through a specific area (in FIG. 33)). Executes the countdown of the open timer. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5386.

Step S5386: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the first large winning opening 30b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the open timer for the first large winning opening 30b after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the first special winning opening 30b is completed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5392. On the other hand, when the opening time of the first special winning opening 30b is not completed (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5388.

Step S5388: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won a prize in the first variable winning device 30 (large winning opening during opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 within the opening time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5390.

Step S5390: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round during the big hit). If the count number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the above steps S5380 to S5390.

If it is determined in step S5386 above that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5390 that the number of counts has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5392. Since the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 0.5 seconds) when the ball is released at the time of a big hit and there is no ball output, the main control CPU 72 normally counts in step S5390. In most cases, it is determined in step S5386 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the predetermined number has been reached.

Step S5392: The main control CPU 72 closes the first grand prize opening 30b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state. Further, at the time of closing corresponding to the final opening in the round, the main control CPU 72 generates a special electric 1 closing command here. Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5394.

Step S5394: The main control CPU 72 executes the interval standby process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 was set in the previous process (step S5222 of the big hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 26) or step S5366 of the process when passing through a specific area (in FIG. 33)). Executes the countdown of the interval timer. Then, when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5395. Although not particularly shown here, the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device that is the caller from step S5394 for each interrupt until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0). It returns to the end address of the process (FIG. 24). Then, when the large winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, step S5394 is directly executed instead of starting from the first step S5380.

Step S5395: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter. The value of the open count counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0.

Step S5396: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the number of times set in the current round. Here, the reason why the "number of times set in the current round" is determined is to correspond to the opening pattern of, for example, "opening the first variable winning device 30 multiple times in one round during the big hit". Is. Since such an opening pattern is not particularly adopted in this embodiment, the "number of times set in the current round" is set to once in each round. Therefore, normally, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5398.

When the pattern of repeating the opening / closing operation a plurality of times in one round is adopted as described above, the counter value has not reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, so the above steps S5380 to S5390 are repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the open count counter proceeds in step S5395, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5398.

Step S5398: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening closing process, and returns to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 30). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 then executes the large winning opening closing process.

Each command generated in step S5380 and step S5392 is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11) executed with the timer interrupt as a trigger. Further, in this procedure example, the special electric 1 opening command is generated at the time of the first opening in the round of the first big winning opening 30b, and the special electric 1 closing command is the final closing in the round of the first big winning opening 30b. Although it is configured to be generated at times, the special electric 1 opening command is generated every time the first large winning opening 30b is opened in step S5380, and the special electric 1 is generated every time the first large winning opening 30b is closed in step S5392. It may be configured to generate a close command every time.

[Large winning opening closure process]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening closing process. This large winning opening closing process is for continuing or terminating the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is in a big win (big hit game), and if it is in a big win (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5402.

Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the value of the round number counter is "1" at the stage where the first round is completed and the second round is approached. If the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game and the big hit game is started after the small hit is completed, the opening of the second big winning opening 31b at the time of the small hit is treated as the first round, and the big hit is performed. The first round in which the game is started is treated as the second round.

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the round number counter after the increment has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the round number counter after incrementing, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (14 or 15 after 1 subtraction) ( No), then step S5405 is executed.

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

Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process.

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

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the next jump destination, the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24). Then, after the execution of the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the large winning opening closing process is executed, the main control CPU 72 again executes the large winning opening closing process, and the above steps S5402 to S5408 are repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (15 or 16 times).

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

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

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

[At the time of small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the value of the open count counter is incremented.

Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the set open count. The number of times of opening is set in the previous small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5258 in FIG. 28). If the value of the open count counter has not reached the set open count (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the next jump destination, the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 24). Then, after the execution of the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the large winning opening closing process is executed, the main control CPU 72 again executes the large winning opening closing process, and the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) are performed to step S5416. , Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of opening times reaches the set number of opening times.

When the actual number of times of opening at the time of a small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5414.

Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (= 0) the open count counter, the next jump destination is set to the end process.

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

〔End processing〕
FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the termination process. This termination process is for adjusting the conditions for terminating the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the jackpot flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5503. do.

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

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag is 01H (whether it is set). This flag is used for the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing, and the time reduction function setting process for each symbol when passing through the specific area during the previous specific area passage process (FIG. 17). It is set in step S5370) in 33.

Step S5512: Then, when the value of the time reduction function operation flag is 01H (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, 4 times (or 8 times)) (game state setting means). The value of the set time reduction number is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The time reduction number set here is the upper limit number of times for shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol in the subsequent games. In the present embodiment, in order to manage the number of time reductions, two types of time reduction counter values (first number of times cut counter value and second number of times cut counter value) are prepared. Here, the first count cut counter value is a variable that is decremented (subtracted by 1) each time the second special symbol fluctuates once, and "4" is set as an initial value. The second special symbol value is a variable that is decremented each time the first special symbol or the second special symbol fluctuates once, and "8" is set as an initial value. If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is not 01H (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512 (game state setting means for setting a non-special game state).

Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state specification command based on the flag. Specifically, with the reset of the jackpot flag or the end of the major winning combination, a state specification command indicating "normal" is generated as the game state. If the time reduction function activation flag is set, a state specification command indicating "time reduction in progress" is generated as an internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

The procedure up to this point is for a big hit, but in the case of a small hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

Step S5520, Step S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets (00H) the value of the small hit flag, and also deletes "small hit game in progress" from the internal state flag. In the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of clearing the flag.

Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening pattern setting process.

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Ordinary symbol game processing]
Next, the details of the normal symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the normal symbol game processing.

The normal symbol game process includes execution selection process (step S1001), normal symbol change pre-process (step S2001), normal symbol change process (step S3001), normal symbol stop display process (step S4001), and variable start winning device management. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S5001). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the normal game management process will be described step by step.

Step S1001: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2001 to S5001). For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the normal symbol game process in the "jump table" as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (normal game management status value). For example, if the normal symbol has not yet started the variation display, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol variation preprocessing (step S2001) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the normal symbol change pre-processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol change processing (step S3001) as the next jump destination, and if the normal symbol change processing has been completed, the next As the jump destination of, the normal symbol stop display processing (step S4001) is selected.

In the present embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the "jump table" to select the process, but apart from such a selection method, a "process flag", a "process selection flag", or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects the process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU calls each process in a row, and in the first step thereof, conditional branching (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of the present embodiment, the main control CPU 72 However, there is no need to call each process one by one.

Step S2001: In the normal symbol change preprocessing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the change display of the normal symbol. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number value triggered by the game ball passing through the start gate 20 in the normal symbol memory update process (step S24 in FIG. 12) during the switch input event process. (Ordinary symbol hit determination random number) is read out, and first, it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery) (ordinary symbol lottery execution means, lottery execution means). Then, processing such as determination of a stop symbol and determination of a fluctuation pattern is executed according to the result of the determination (hit or miss).

Step S3001: In the process during normal symbol change, the main control CPU 72 causes the normal symbol to be displayed in a variable manner. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs an ON or OFF drive signal changed with the passage of time to a plurality of lamps constituting the normal symbol display device 33 while counting down the variable timer. By controlling the drive of the lamp in this way, the normal symbol is variablely displayed on the normal symbol display device 33 (symbol display device).

Step S4001: In the normal symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 causes the normal symbol to be stopped and displayed. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 sends a drive signal for turning on or off the plurality of lamps constituting the ordinary symbol display device 33 according to the mode of the stop symbol (a mode of hitting or losing) determined in step S2001. Output. At this time, the pattern of the drive signal is constant according to the hit or miss mode. For example, in the hit mode, all the lamps are turned on, while in the hit mode, only one lamp is turned on. By doing so, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed. It should be noted that this lighting mode is only an example, and the stop display may be performed by another mode.

Step S5001: The variable start winning device management process (variable ball entry device control means) is selected when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the hit mode (for example, all the lamps are lit) in the previous normal symbol stop display processing. Will be done. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a hit manner, the main control CPU 72 operates the variable start winning device 28 assuming that the operating conditions are satisfied in this process. At this time, the main control CPU 72 generates a normal power opening command when the right starting winning opening 28b is opened (at the time of opening), and issues a general power closing command when the right starting winning opening 28b is closed (at the end of opening). Generate. In the present embodiment, since the number of times of opening the right start winning opening 28b in one operation of the variable start winning device 28 is one, the opening start coincides with the opening time, and the opening ends coincides with the opening time. It is in time. In other words, the Fuden open command and the Fuden close command are generated once for each operation of the variable start winning device 28, respectively.

Here, the right start winning opening 28b may be opened a plurality of times (for example, twice) for each operation of the variable start winning device 28, and in that case, the opening start coincides with the first opening. , The end of opening coincides with the closing of the final (for example, the second). Therefore, when the right start winning opening 28b is opened a plurality of times for each operation of the variable start winning device 28, the normal power opening command is generated at the first opening, and the normal power closing command is the final time (for example, 2). It will be generated at the time of closing the second time). It should be noted that the normal electric opening command may be generated every time the right starting winning opening 28b is opened, and the general electric closing command may be generated every time the right starting winning opening 28b is closed.

In any case, each generated command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11) executed with the timer interrupt as a trigger (information output means). An example of the effect using the Fuden open command and the Fuden close command will be described in detail later with reference to another drawing.

While the variable start winning device 28 is in operation, the jump destination is set in the variable start winning device management process (step S5001) in the previous execution selection process (step S1001), and the variation display of the normal symbol is not performed. Further, in the variable start winning device management process, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 is excited a predetermined number of times (for example, once), whereby the variable starting winning device 28 operates in a set pattern and the right starting winning device is won. It is possible to generate a prize in the mouth 28b.

[Variation time of normal symbol / Opening pattern of variable start winning device]
FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of the fluctuation time of the normal symbol and the opening pattern of the variable start winning device 28.

In FIG. 39 (A): It is a table which shows an example of the fluctuation time of a normal symbol. The fluctuation time of a normal symbol is set to a long time of, for example, 30 seconds in the non-time shortened state, whereas it is set to a very short time of, for example, 0.5 seconds in the time shortened state. Further, the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to 65535/65536 (≈1/1) regardless of whether or not the time is shortened.

FIG. 39 (B): is a diagram showing an example of an opening pattern of the variable start winning device 28. In the non-time shortened state, the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b is set to a very short time (short opening) of, for example, 0.06 seconds, and the short opening is performed once. Even if it is possible to put the game ball into the right-start winning opening 28b, it is very difficult for the game ball to actually enter (the opening / closing member 28b protrudes toward the front side to receive the game ball. To return to the closed position earlier.). On the other hand, in the time shortened state, the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b is set to a relatively long time (long opening) of, for example, 0.9 seconds, and the long opening is performed once, so that the game ball is played. It is possible to easily enter the ball into the right-start winning opening 28b (it is possible to generate a ball).

Therefore, in the time-reduced state, it is possible to put a large number of game balls into the right-starting winning opening 28b while changing the normal symbol in a short time, and a lottery opportunity corresponding to the second special symbol is efficiently generated ( It is possible to increase the memory of the lottery element).

[Game flow (1)]
FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the first special symbol fluctuates in the normal mode.
When starting the game with the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from the [F1] normal mode (park mode). The "normal mode" is a "low probability non-time reduction state (non-special game state)", the winning probability of the special symbol is the "low probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol is the "low probability state". ..

[F1] When a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 during a game in the normal mode (when the memory of the first special symbol exists while the memory of the second special symbol does not exist). ), [F2] The first special symbol fluctuates.

[F3] If the first special symbol lottery results in "missing", [F1] the normal mode is restarted.

[F4] The first special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)", and if it corresponds to the [F5] first winning symbol, the [F6] jackpot game is executed, but [F1] shifts to the normal mode. do.

[F4] The first special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)", and if [F7] the second winning symbol is applicable, the [F6] jackpot game is executed and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode. [F8] The drive mode is a "low probability time shortening state (special game state)", the winning probability of the special symbol is the "low probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol is the "high probability state".

[Game flow (2)]
FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the second special symbol fluctuates in the normal mode.
[F1] When the game ball enters the right-start winning opening 28b during the game in the normal mode (when the memory of the second special symbol exists), [F12] the second special symbol changes.

[F13] If the second special symbol lottery results in "missing", [F1] the normal mode is restarted.

[F14] The second special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)", and if the [F15] third winning symbol is applicable, the [F6] jackpot game is executed and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F17] fourth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F19] fifth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F20] sixth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

[Game flow (3)]
FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the first special symbol fluctuates in the drive mode.
[F8] When the game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26 during the game in the drive mode (when the memory of the first special symbol exists while the memory of the second special symbol does not exist). ), [F2] The first special symbol fluctuates.

[F3] If it becomes "missing" in the first special symbol lottery, it will be restarted from the state of [F8] drive mode. However, in the case of the time saving final fluctuation at which the time shortening state ends, the mode shifts to the normal mode by the end of this deviation fluctuation (symbol stop display time elapsed = fixed stop display) (setting end means).

[F4] The first special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)", and if the [F5] first winning symbol is applicable, the [F6] jackpot game is executed and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode (F8). Game state setting means).

[F4] If the first special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)" and the [F7] second winning symbol is applicable, the [F6] jackpot game is executed and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode (F8). Game state setting means).

In this way, if you win a big hit in the first special symbol lottery while staying in the drive mode (time shortened state), no matter what winning symbol corresponds to, after the big hit game ends, the drive mode (Game state setting means).

[Game flow (4)]
FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the second special symbol fluctuates in the drive mode.
[F8] When the game ball enters the right start winning opening 28b during the game in the drive mode (when the memory of the second special symbol exists), the [F12] second special symbol changes.

[F13] If the second special symbol lottery results in "missing", the operation is restarted from the [F8] drive mode. However, in the case of the time saving final fluctuation at which the time reduction state ends, the mode shifts to the normal mode at the end of this out-of-time fluctuation.

[F14] The second special symbol lottery results in a "big hit (winning probability 1/224)", and if the [F15] third winning symbol is applicable, the [F6] jackpot game is executed and the mode shifts to the [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F17] fourth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F19] fifth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

[F16] The second special symbol lottery results in a "small hit (winning probability 1/4)", which corresponds to the [F20] sixth winning symbol, and [F18] when the game ball passes through a specific area during the small hit game. [F6] The jackpot game is executed, and the mode shifts to [F8] drive mode.

In this way, if you win in the second special symbol lottery, regardless of whether you are staying in the normal mode (non-time reduction state) or the drive mode (time reduction state), after the big hit game is over, , Move to drive mode.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 and the operation of the drum unit 200 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the internal lottery of the jackpot is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the fluctuation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lit / blinking by the 7-segment LED, they are not visually appealing. Similarly, the mode of the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 is also a symbolic design by a 7-segment LED or the like, and also “ It has little visual impact as a "winning symbol". Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect and a stop display effect are performed using the liquid crystal display 42 and the drum unit 200.

In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display 42 displays the effect symbol Hz (this symbol), the markers M1, the markers M2, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, the background image corresponding to the stay mode, the image related to the notice effect, and the like. , A pseudo-effect symbol such as 7 symbols is displayed on the drum unit 200.

The effect symbol Hz displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 includes, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, and these are left on the screen (lower right position) of the liquid crystal display 42.・ Displayed side by side in the middle and right. Numbers "1" to "9" are displayed on each effect symbol. Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all form a symbol sequence (effect symbol arrangement) in which the numbers are arranged in descending order of "9" to "1". Such symbol rows are displayed in a variable manner so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction. It should be noted that the symbol sequence is latent, and in the present embodiment, one effect symbol in each symbol sequence is displayed on the screen (the same applies thereafter).

There are three pseudo-effect symbols displayed on the drum unit 200: a pseudo-left effect symbol displayed on the left reel 201, a pseudo-middle effect symbol displayed on the middle reel 202, and a pseudo-right effect symbol displayed on the right reel 203. These are included and are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the display area of the drum unit 200. Each reel includes 7 symbols, a panda symbol, a cherry symbol, a bamboo symbol, a hood symbol, and the like, and as each reel rotates, the pseudo-effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

44 and 45 are continuous views showing an example of an effect image corresponding to a variable display and a stop display of a special symbol. It should be noted that here, regarding the fluctuation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (missing), an example of the fluctuation display effect and the stop display effect performed by using the liquid crystal display 42 and the drum unit 200 is shown. This variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed from the start of the variable display of the special symbol (here, the first special symbol) to the stop display (including the fixed stop). Further, the stop display effect is an effect indicating that the special symbol has been stopped and displayed and that the result of the internal lottery at that time has been displayed. Here, first, before explaining the specific contents of the control process, the basic flow of the variation display effect and the stop display effect for each variation adopted in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before fluctuation display]
In FIG. 44 (A): For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (a state in which the demonstration effect is not in progress), there are three columns of effect symbol Hz in the lower right region of the liquid crystal display 42. It is displayed. At this time, the effect symbol Hz is also stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

Further, in the area on the lower left side of the liquid crystal display 42, a marker (with reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is displayed. ing. These markers M1 and M2 indicate the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating storage lamp 35a) corresponding to the respective display numbers. It is represented, and the number of displayed items increases or decreases in accordance with the change in the number of working memories during the game. Further, in the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (○) in order to facilitate visual discrimination, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart. It is displayed as a figure of. In the illustrated example, all four markers M1 are lit and displayed to indicate that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and all the markers M2 are hidden (indicated by a broken line). Indicates that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0.

Further, a fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are attached in the figure) is displayed in the lower right area of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are "fourth effect symbols" following the above-mentioned left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the variation display of the effect symbol Hz. It should be noted that the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are merely colored simple marks (for example, a figure of "□"), and for example, a variable display can be expressed by changing the display color. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

Further, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the detachment (for example, a white display color). This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed in response to the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. It is a thing. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually "big hit" or "small hit" instead of "missing", the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are displayed in the corresponding modes (for example, blue display color, red display color, etc.). Is displayed as stopped.

On the other hand, on the effective line in the middle of the drum unit 200, a "panda symbol" corresponding to "off" is displayed.

[Start of variable display production]
In FIG. 44 (B): For example, each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 scrolls and fluctuates to produce a variation display. Is started (means for executing the design effect). In the figure, the variation display of the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200 and the variation display of the effect symbol Hz are simply indicated by a downward arrow.

A background image is displayed in the central area of the liquid crystal display 42, and this background image represents the scenery of the park. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, a "normal mode". The "normal mode" is a low-probability non-time reduction state (non-special game state). In addition to this, various modes are provided for production, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode. The difference between these modes corresponds to the internal "time saving state". Although not particularly shown here, the advance notice effect may be performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example.

Further, during the variable display of the effect symbol Hz, the fourth symbol Z1 is variablely displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variable display by changing the display color. ..

[Stop the left effect design]
In FIG. 44 (C): For example, after a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, first, the pseudo left effect symbol of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 are left. The symbol stops changing. In this example, "7 green symbols" are stopped as pseudo left effect symbols at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200, and the number "8" is used as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbol to be represented is stopped.

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 44 (B) above, the number of working memories of the oldest first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, so that it is located on the leftmost side in conjunction with it. The number of displayed markers M1 has been reduced by one. That is, a total of four working memory numbers of the marker M1 existed by then, but the marker M1 which is the earliest (oldest) memory number display is hidden, and the effect consumed by the internal lottery is combined. Will be. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the total number of working memories has been reduced to three, and the working memory corresponding to any special symbol (in this case, the first special symbol) is consumed. It is possible to teach working memory in an easy-to-understand manner.

Then, in the example of FIG. 44 (C), since the working memory at the head in the storage order is consumed and the remaining three are, the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are one for each one. The production is performed to shift in the direction (here, to the left). As a result, it is possible to accurately express the context of the change in the number of working memories in the production, and to intuitively and easily teach the player that "the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one". can.

[Stop right production design]
In FIG. 45 (D): Next, the "panda symbol" is stopped as a pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200, and the number is used as the right effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The production symbol representing "3" is stopped.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 45 (E): The stop display effect is executed in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. When the result of the internal lottery this time is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of non-winning (missing), the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200 and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 are the same. The stop display effect is performed in the form of non-winning (missing). That is, in the illustrated example, the "panda symbol" is stopped as a pseudo-middle effect symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200, and the number "1" is used as the middle effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The production symbol that represents is stopped. In this case, the combination of the pseudo effect symbols displayed on the effective line in the middle of the drum unit 200 is the deviation of "green 7 symbols"-"panda symbol"-"panda symbol", and the effect symbol of the liquid crystal display 42. Since the combination of Hz is the deviation of "8"-"1"-"3", it is expressed in the production that this fluctuation corresponds to the normal "outside". At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the detachment (for example, a white display color).

The above is an example of a variable display effect and a stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed for each change. Through such an effect, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for winning, and finally to clearly teach the result of the internal lottery in the effect.

[Example of production at the time of big hit]
FIGS. 46 to 48 are continuous diagrams showing the flow of reach effect executed at the time of a big hit. Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, an example of the advance notice effect (pre-reach advance notice effect, post-reach advance notice effect) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

In the following reach effect, after the variation display by the variation pattern at the time of big hit is performed on the first special symbol display device 34, for example, the first special symbol is an embodiment of "first winning symbol" or "second winning symbol". (For example, 7-segment LED "self", "yo", "mouth", "Snake", "F", "E", "L", "Γ", etc.) is executed until it is stopped and displayed (for example. Reach production execution means).

[Variable display effect]
In FIG. 46 (A): Each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating in substantially synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol), and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 scrolls and fluctuates. By doing so, the variable display effect is started.

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (1st stage)]
In FIG. 46 (B): When a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the first stage pre-reach advance notice effect using the character's picture image (picture card) is performed on the liquid crystal display 42. This pre-reach advance notice effect is a advance notice effect in which the mode changes gradually from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The picture image used in this pre-reach advance notice effect is displayed so as to appear from the left edge of the screen (other appearance modes may be used). The "pre-reach notice" is a production that announces the possibility of reach and the possibility of a big hit. By executing such a "pre-reach advance notice effect", it is possible to obtain an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation that "it may develop into reach = the possibility of a big hit increases".

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 46 (C): After the first stage mode of the pre-reach advance notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach advance notice effect mode is subsequently advanced to the second stage. Here, as the second stage pre-reach advance notice effect, an effect using a picture image of a character different from the previous one is performed. Specifically, another picture image appears additionally from the right edge of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed picture image. Further, the pattern image displayed at this time is larger in size than the previously displayed pattern image. Then, the character represented by the picture image emits a line (for example, "become a reach"), which is also produced by acoustic output.

The pre-reach advance notice effect (second stage) using such a second pattern image goes one step further from the pre-reach advance notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 46 (B) above. It's an advanced type. The mode of "pre-reach notice effect" that develops in this way is generally referred to as "step-up notice" or the like. Here, an example is given in which a second-stage picture image appears in the pre-reach advance notice effect, but in an effect mode in which the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage picture images appear one after another and are displayed. There may be. Further, for example, each time the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage picture images appear and are displayed one after another, the size may be expanded. Even at this stage, the variable display effect continues. In any case, it is possible to suggest to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) of a big hit due to this change by advancing the change of the mode of the pre-reach advance notice effect to more stages. (For example, progressing to the 5th stage suggests the maximum degree of expectation, etc.).

[Stop of left effect design]
In FIG. 47 (D): When approaching the middle stage of the variable display effect, the pseudo left effect symbol of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 and the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop the fluctuation. In this example, "7 red symbols" are stopped as pseudo left effect symbols at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200, and the number "7" is used as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbol to be represented is stopped.

[Occurrence of reach state]
In FIG. 47 (E): Then, the pseudo right effect symbol of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200 and the right effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop the fluctuation. In this example, "7 red symbols" are stopped as pseudo-right effect symbols at the middle position of the right reel 203 of the drum unit 200, and the number "7" is used as the right effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbol to be represented is stopped. As a result, the reach state of "7 red symbols"-"changing"-"7 red symbols" is generated in the simulated effect symbol of the drum unit 200, and "7" is generated in the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. "-" Floating "-" 7 "reach state has occurred. In addition, a production such as "reach!" Is output at the same time. After the reach state occurs, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed. Regarding the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42, the display state may be "changing"-"changing"-"changing" without generating a clear reach state.

[Preliminary production after reach occurs]
In FIG. 47 (F): After a while when the reach state occurs, on the liquid crystal display 42, for example, an image representing a “heart” figure forms a group and passes diagonally on the screen. It will be done. In this case, since the image of the "heart group" is suddenly displayed on the screen as if flowing, it is possible to enhance the visual appeal to the player. By executing the advance notice effect after the occurrence of such a visually lively reach, the effect of giving the player a greater sense of expectation can be obtained.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 48 (G): Following the notice effect after the reach occurs, a "pumpkin ghost" as an enemy character appears on the left side of the screen on the liquid crystal display 42, and a "male character" as a ally character appears on the right side of the screen. "Appears, and the character" VS "appears in the center of the screen.

In FIG. 48 (H): At the end of the reach production, the "pumpkin ghost" delivers innumerable punches, and the "male character" responds with a chop. If the "male character" wins in this state, it will be a big hit, and if the "male character" is defeated, it will be a loss.

[Stop display production (production at the time of winning)]
In FIG. 48 (I): When the "male character" is displayed large and the "pumpkin ghost" is displayed small along with the characters "victory !!", it means that it is a big hit. Then, substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, the pseudo-medium effect symbol of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200 and the medium effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 stop the fluctuation. In this example, the "red 7 symbol" is stopped at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200 as a pseudo right effect symbol, and the number "7" is used as the middle effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbol to be represented is stopped. The fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to a big hit (for example, a red display color).

At the time of non-winning (at the time of loss), "Pumpkin ghost" is displayed large and "Male character" is displayed small along with the characters "Defeat ...". In this case, the "panda symbol" is stopped as a pseudo right effect symbol at the middle position of the middle reel 202 of the drum unit 200, and the effect representing a number other than the number "7" as the middle effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The symbol is stopped.

[Direction during a major role]
49 to 52 are continuous views partially showing an example of a big role playing effect performed during a big hit game. It should be noted that the following large-scale production is an production performed on the liquid crystal display 42.

[Start of big hit game]
In FIG. 49 (A): When the big hit game is started, for example, character information such as "BIG BONUS" is displayed on the screen, and a production image (for example, a female character) peculiar to the big hit game is displayed. ..

["Right-handed" display during major roles (information display means)]
Further, in the present embodiment, since the first variable winning device 30 is arranged in the right side portion in the game area 8a, the right side portion in the game area 8a is designated as the launch position (launch direction) of the game ball during the big role. It is supposed to be. Therefore, the above-mentioned firing position designation display lamp 38f is lit and displayed under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the firing position designation command indicating “right-handed” is transmitted to the effect control device 124. In response to this, guidance information (arrow indicating the right direction, characters of "right-handed", etc.) prompting "right-handed" is displayed in the display screen on the effect control by the effect control CPU 126).

[1st round]
In FIG. 49 (B): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, five circles are displayed along with the character information of "BIG BONUS" in the upper left part of the screen. Then, the ○ mark located on the far left is displayed in red, and the remaining four ○ marks are displayed in white. As a result, it is possible to get a ball in 5 rounds, the current round is the first of those 5 rounds, and a circle is marked every time one round in which a ball can be obtained progresses. It is possible to teach the player that it is displayed in red.

Here, the number of "○" marks increases according to the winning symbols. For example, when the winning symbol is the "first winning symbol" or the "second winning symbol", the number of "○" is "5", but the winning symbol is the "third winning symbol". In this case, the number of "○" is "15".

[5th round]
In FIG. 49 (C): After that, the jackpot game progresses smoothly, and for example, when the game shifts to the fifth round, for example, all five circles are displayed in red. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that all the rounds in which the ball can be obtained in the fifth round are completed.

[Direction during no round]
In FIG. 49 (D): Then, when the round in which the ball can be obtained (fifth round) is completed, the no-ball round is started. When the no-ball round is started, for example, a character information such as "drive mode challenge" is displayed on the screen, and an effect during the no-go round is executed. It is possible to inform the player whether or not to shift to the drive mode after this big hit game by this production during the no-round round.

In FIG. 50 (E): Then, as the production progresses during the no-round round, for example, character information such as "If you hit the button repeatedly to drop the heart character, you will enter the drive mode!" Is displayed. The production is executed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player whether or not to enter the drive mode depending on whether or not the movable body 40f falls.

[Button press effect]
In FIG. 50 (F): For example, an image imitating the effect switching button 45 is displayed on the front in the screen, and the character information "continuous hitting !!" is displayed on the upper part of the effect switching button 45. As a result, the player can be urged to repeatedly hit the effect switching button 45. Further, when the player presses the effect switching button 45, the effect switching button 45 indicating the pressed state is displayed.

[Successful button press]
In FIG. 50 (G): Then, when the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is the winning symbol that shifts to the drive mode (for example, when it corresponds to the "second winning symbol"), the player presses the effect switching button 45. By repeatedly hitting, the button pressing success effect of dropping the movable body 40f to the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed. This makes it possible to teach the player that he / she has succeeded in the game of repeatedly hitting the effect switching button 45.

In FIG. 50 (H): In addition, a female character appears, and character information such as "Great success! Congratulations" is displayed. This makes it possible to teach the player to enter the "drive mode".

[Time reduction state rush production]
In FIG. 51 (I): Then, the effect of displaying the character information such as "Enter drive mode!" Is executed by using the end time (ending time) of the big hit game. This makes it possible to teach the player that the "drive mode" is about to start. In addition, character information such as "Please hit right as it is" is displayed along with an arrow indicating the right direction, and it is possible to teach the player that the game proceeds by hitting right even in the "drive mode".

[End of big hit game, time shortened state]
In FIG. 51 (J): When the jackpot game is completed and the internal state (game state) is set to the time shortened state, the stay mode is set to the "drive mode", and the background image is the car on which the female rides. It will be changed to an image that expresses the state of traveling on the ground. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a time shortened state different from the normal state.

[Display information]
In addition, during the "drive mode" (time shortened state), the game ball is efficiently passed through the start gate 20 by firing the game ball in the right area of the game area 8a, and the winning is obtained by the lottery corresponding to the normal symbol. It is possible to open the variable start winning device 28 for a long time (opening time 6.0 seconds). As a result, it is possible to frequently generate a lottery opportunity corresponding to the second special symbol during the "drive mode". Therefore, in the present embodiment, the information of "right-handed" is constantly displayed in the display screen during the "drive mode", and it is an advantageous (necessary) gaming state for the player to "right-handed". That is known (information display means). The information is displayed by displaying an arrow pointing to the right together with the character "right-handed" in the band area B at the upper edge of the screen and displaying an animation so as to flow to the right.

[Button press failure effect]
In FIG. 52 (K): On the other hand, when the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is not the winning symbol that shifts to the drive mode (for example, when it corresponds to the “first winning symbol”), in FIG. 50 (F). After the button press effect, a female character appears, and an effect is executed in which character information such as "Sorry. Next is Ganbarou!" Is displayed. This makes it possible to teach the player not to enter the "drive mode".

[End of big hit game, normal state]
In FIG. 52 (L): Then, when the jackpot game ends and the internal state (game state) is set to the normal state, the stay mode is set to the "normal mode" and the background image is changed to an image representing the park. Will be done. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a normal state different from the time shortened state. In addition, a female character will appear, and a production will be performed that utters a line such as "Please return to left-handed". As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the game proceeds in a state of returning to the left-handed state. Therefore, in this case, the "right-handed" information is not displayed.

[Example of drive mode (time reduction state)]
53 to 55 are continuous views showing an example of a drive mode effect. In order to facilitate understanding of the game state, the variable start winning device 28 and the game ball are also shown on the right side of each figure.

In FIG. 53 (A): In the drive mode, the background image is changed to an image representing a state in which a car in which a female rides is traveling on the ground. Further, the above-mentioned "right-handed" information is always displayed in the band area B in the screen. The combination of the pseudo effect symbols displayed on the effective line in the middle of the drum unit 200 is the winning item of "7 red symbols"-"7 red symbols"-"7 red symbols", and the effect of the liquid crystal display 42. The combination of symbol Hz is the winning item of "7"-"7"-"7". This shows the outcome at the time of winning. At this time, since the variable start winning device 28 is not operating (the right starting winning opening 28b is closed or closed), the lamps arranged around the variable starting winning device 28 are in the extinguished state. .. In the following description, the lamp (for example, LED) arranged around the variable start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) is abbreviated as "Public lamp" (information disclosure means).

[Start of change of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 53 (B): At the time of the first hit with the first special symbol, the memory of the first special symbol is often stored, and the memory of the second special symbol is generally not stored. In the illustrated example, four memories (marker M1) of the first special symbol are stored. Therefore, when the drive mode is entered in such a situation, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Further, in the time shortened state, when the player executes a right-handed hit, the game ball passes through the start gate 20, and when a winning is obtained by a lottery corresponding to the normal symbol, the variable start winning device 28 is displayed after the stop display of the normal symbol. Since the right-starting winning opening 28b is opened for a long time (opening for 0.9 seconds) after operation, it is easy to enter the right-starting winning opening 28b during opening, and the second special symbol has priority for the second and subsequent fluctuations. Will be fluctuated. In this way, when the right-starting winning opening 28b is opened for a long time, that is, when the right-starting winning opening 28b is opened in the time-reduced state, the general electric lamp is turned on. By turning on the normal lamp, it is possible to disclose (or teach, notify) to the player that it is advantageous (necessary) to put the game ball into the right start winning opening 28b. In addition to lighting the general lamp (board lamp 53), it is advantageous to display images, character information, etc. on the display screen of the glass frame decorative lamp 52 or the like provided in the integrated door unit 4 or the liquid crystal display 42. The state may be disclosed.

If the memory of the first special symbol is not accumulated, when the working memory corresponding to the second special symbol is generated by entering the right starting winning opening 28b, the working memory is consumed and the second special symbol is consumed. The first variation of is executed. Then, when the variation display of the first special symbol is started as in this time, the drum unit 200 starts to rotate accordingly, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fourth symbol Z1 also start to fluctuate. Here, in the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol, it is assumed that it corresponds to the loss.

[End of change of 1st special symbol]
In FIG. 53 (C): When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of being off, the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200, the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 of the liquid crystal display 42 are also off. It is stopped and displayed in the mode of. During this time, it is assumed that the player executes a right-handed hit, a plurality of game balls pass through the start gate 20, the variable start winning device 28 is opened, and four game balls enter the right start winning opening 28b. .. In this case, four memories (marker M2) of the second special symbol are accumulated. If the player continues to perform a right-handed strike during this period, as described above, when the right-starting winning opening 28b is opened, the normal lamp lights up and the ball easily enters the right-starting winning opening 28b. , The memory of the second special symbol does not accumulate more than four.

In FIG. 54 (D): Since the memory of the second special symbol is digested with priority over the memory of the first special symbol, the internal lottery is next executed using the memory of the second special symbol. Then, when the variation display of the second special symbol is started, the drum unit 200 starts rotating accordingly, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fourth symbol Z2 also start variation. If the player continues to perform a right-handed strike during this period, the normal lamp lights up when the right-starting winning opening 28b is opened, and the ball is easily entered into the right-starting winning opening 28b. Here, it is assumed that a small hit is won in the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol.

[Start small hit, open second prize opening]
In FIG. 54 (E): Then, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the small hit mode, the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200 (combination of "cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol"). , The effect symbol Hz (combination of "5"-"2"-"6" of the liquid crystal display 42) and the fourth symbol Z2 (green display color) of the liquid crystal display 42 are also stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit. .. As a result, the small hit game is started, and the second big winning opening 31b is opened. Then, the effect that the car on which the female character is riding speeds up and moves to the right side of the screen is executed. Although not shown here, the normal symbol lottery is won by passing the game ball through the start gate 20 during the small hit game, and when the right start winning opening 28b is opened for a long time, the normal lamp is lit. Become.

In FIG. 54 (F): When the small hit game is started, a production in which the hermit character utters the line "Aim at the attacker in the lower right" is executed. As a result, it is possible to convey to the player that the game ball must be entered into the second variable winning device 31.

[Passing through a specific area]
In FIG. 55 (G): The second variable winning device 31 shifts to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is the fourth winning symbol. do. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart symbol with the letter V and emits a line such as "I did it! BIG BONUS !!". Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that the big hit game (BIG BONUS) is to be started from now on.

[End of small hit, start of big hit game]
In FIG. 55 (H): After that, the small hit game ends, and the second variable winning device 31 (second large winning opening 31b) is closed. Further, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, the big hit game is started. In this example, a female character peculiar to the jackpot game appears, character information such as "BIG BONUS" is displayed, and a production in which the female character emits the same lines is executed. On the display screen, character information such as "Please hit right as it is" is displayed along with an arrow indicating the right direction, and it is possible to teach the player that the big hit game proceeds by hitting right as it is. Further, the right-handed display in the band area B in the screen is continuously performed. During the big hit game, the time saving function does not operate, and even if the player passes through the start gate 20 and wins the normal symbol lottery, the right start winning opening 28b is not opened for a long time, so that the normal lamp is turned off.

After that, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 49, and the same production during the jackpot game as described above is started, and the jackpot game progresses. For example, if the winning symbol at the time of a small hit related to the 2nd special symbol corresponds to the 4th winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 5 rounds of balls, and 5 rounds of balls are obtained. Later, an effect of entering the drive mode is executed through a button press effect and a button press success effect. In addition, if the winning symbol at the time of a small hit related to the 2nd special symbol corresponds to the 5th winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 10 rounds of balls, and 10 rounds of balls are obtained. Later, an effect of entering the drive mode is executed through a button press effect and a button press success effect. Furthermore, if the winning symbol at the time of a small hit related to the 2nd special symbol corresponds to the 6th winning symbol, it is possible to substantially obtain 15 rounds of balls, and 15 rounds of balls are obtained. Later (or during acquisition), the effect of entering the drive mode is executed through the button press effect and the button press success effect. In addition, when the big hit game is executed in the drive mode, it is confirmed that the game will shift to the drive mode next time, so when the player wins in the drive mode without executing the button pressing effect or the button pressing success effect. You may perform a special big role production.

56 and 57 are continuous views showing an example of effect when the second special symbol fluctuates in the normal mode. Such a situation occurs mainly when the memory of the second special symbol is accumulated, although it is different in the final fluctuation of the time shortened state. Immediately after the time reduction state ends and the mode is switched to the normal mode (non-time reduction state), a player who is unaware of the change in the gaming state may continue to hit right without malicious intent.

[During display of fluctuations in special symbols]
(A) in FIG. 56: When the variation display of the second special symbol is started in the normal mode, the drum unit 200 starts rotating accordingly, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 and the fourth symbol Z2 also change. To start. At this time, since the time is not shortened, the right-handed display is not performed on the screen. Further, even if the normal symbol lottery is won by passing through the start gate 20, the normal electric lamp does not light (the right start winning opening 28b is not opened for a long time). As a result, the player who has continued to hit right can be made aware of the change in the gaming state.

[Zone display effect]
In FIG. 56 (B): When a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the character information "Renso zone" is displayed in the upper region of the liquid crystal display 42. Since the situation here is not in a time-reduced state, even if the player passes through the start gate 20 and wins in the normal symbol lottery, the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b is short enough to make it difficult to enter the ball. Since it is 0.06 seconds), it is unlikely that a ball will enter the right-start winning opening 28b, and most game balls are variable without being received by the opening / closing member 28a protruding toward the front side of the board within the opening time. It flows down below the start winning device 28. Therefore, such a consecutive villa zone cannot basically increase the memory of the second special symbol, and becomes a chance zone in which the second special symbol fluctuates up to four times.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 56 (C): Here, it is assumed that a small hit is won in the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol. Then, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the small hit mode, the pseudo effect symbol of the drum unit 200 (combination of "cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol"-"cherry symbol") and the liquid crystal display 42 are produced. The symbol Hz (combination of "2"-"2"-"3") and the fourth symbol Z2 (green display color) of the liquid crystal display 42 are also stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit. In this case, the effect that the animal character raises the "mark on which the number 7 is displayed" is executed, and an image suggesting right-handedness is displayed at the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. In addition, the right-handed display in the band area B is also performed, but the time shortening function is still not activated, and even if the normal symbol lottery is won by passing through the start gate 20, the right-start winning opening 28b is long. Since it is not opened, the normal lamp remains off.

[Start small hit, open second prize opening]
In FIG. 57 (D): Then, when the small hit game is started, the second big winning opening 31b is opened, and the car on which the female character is riding speeds up and moves to the right side of the screen. Will be executed.

[Passing through a specific area]
In FIG. 57 (E): The second variable winning device 31 shifts to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is the fourth winning symbol. do. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart symbol with the letter V and emits a line such as "I did it! BIG BONUS !!". Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that the big hit game (BIG BONUS) is to be started from now on.

[End of small hit, start of big hit game]
In FIG. 57 (F): After that, the small hit game ends, and the second variable winning device 31 (second large winning opening 31b) is closed. Further, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game, the big hit game is started. In this example, a female character peculiar to the jackpot game appears, character information such as "BIG BONUS" is displayed, and a production in which the female character emits the same lines is executed. On the display screen, character information such as "Please hit right as it is" is displayed along with an arrow indicating the right direction, and it is possible to teach the player that the big hit game proceeds by hitting right as it is. Further, the right-handed display in the band area B in the screen is continuously performed. In addition, the time shortening function does not operate during the big hit game, and even if you pass the start gate 20 and win the normal symbol lottery, the right start winning opening 28b will not be opened for a long time, so the normal lamp will continue to be off. NS. After that, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 49, and the same production during the jackpot game as described above is started, and the jackpot game progresses.

FIG. 58 is a continuous view showing an example of the flow-down mode of the game ball when the game ball is intentionally hit to the right in the normal mode. As described above, since the normal mode is not in the time shortened state, it is desirable to advance the game by hitting the game ball (performing a left-handed hit) aiming at the middle start winning opening 26. However, under such a situation, there is rarely a player who intentionally performs a right-handed strike in an attempt to allow the game ball to enter the right-start winning opening 28b during a short-time opening.

[Before fluctuation display]
(A) in FIG. 58: For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate, there are three rows of effect symbols Hz (potential symbol rows) in the lower right region of the liquid crystal display 42. It is displayed. At this time, the effect symbol Hz is also stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Further, even if the normal symbol lottery is won by passing through the start gate 20 at this time, the normal electric lamp does not light because the time is not shortened (the right start winning opening 28b is not opened for a long time).

[Start of variable display production]
In FIG. 58 (B): Each reel of the drum unit 200 starts rotating in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 scrolls and fluctuates to start the variation display effect. Will be done. At this time, even if the player passes through the starting gate 20 and wins the normal symbol lottery, the opening time of the right starting winning opening 28b is short (0.06 seconds) to the extent that it is difficult to enter the ball. It is unlikely that a ball will enter the 28b, and most of the game balls will flow down the variable start winning device 28 without being received by the opening / closing member 28a protruding toward the front side of the board surface within the opening time.

[Stop the left effect design]
FIG. 58 (C): After a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) elapses, first, the pseudo left effect symbol of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200 and the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42 are displayed. Stop the fluctuation. In this example, "7 green symbols" are stopped as pseudo left effect symbols at the middle position of the left reel 201 of the drum unit 200, and the number "8" is used as the left effect symbol of the effect symbol Hz of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbol to be represented is stopped. Even after this, during the game in the normal mode, most of the game balls driven into the right-handed area move to the lower side of the variable start winning device 28 without being received by the opening / closing member 28a protruding toward the front side of the board within the opening time. Flow down.

As described above, in the normal mode, even if the normal symbol lottery is won by passing through the start gate 20, the normal electric lamp does not light and the right-handed display is not performed on the screen. Further, even if a right-handed hit is intentionally executed during a game in the normal mode and the player passes through the start gate 20 to win the normal symbol lottery, the right-start winning opening 28b is in a state where the ball can be entered. Since it is only open for a short time (0.06 seconds) to the extent that it is difficult to actually generate a ball, it is extremely difficult to generate a ball in the right starting winning opening 28b.

Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects (including various displays and disclosures) will be described. The above-mentioned variable display effect, reach effect, pre-reach advance notice effect, memory number display effect, major role effect, effect using the liquid crystal display 42 and the drum unit 200, and the like are all controlled through the following control processes.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from, for example, a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt in a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a cycle of several tens of μs to several ms) during the execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), launch position designation process (step S403), drum unit effect management process (step S404), and so on. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for display output processing (step S405), lamp drive processing (step S406), acoustic drive processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 for each type. The commands for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a normal power open command, a normal power close command, a special symbol destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) operation memory number increase effect command, and (special symbol). ) Production command when the number of operation memories decreases, start opening winning sound control command, demo production command, lottery result command, fluctuation pattern command, fluctuation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, status specification command, special power release command, There are special electric closure command, round number command, launch position specification command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, fluctuation pattern destination judgment command, stop display time end command, etc.

Step S401: In the operation storage effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the above-mentioned storage number display effect and the pre-reading advance notice effect using the marker M1. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2, and the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable. It controls the content of the effect when the winning device 31 is opened and closed. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern for various advance notice effects (pre-reach advance notice effect, post-reach advance notice effect, etc.). As described above, in the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 displays the effect contents (effect symbol Hz, fourth symbol Z1, Z2, markers M1, M2, effect contents related to the important role production, etc.) displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. The process of determining the content of the notice effect) is executed. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

Step S403: In the launch position designation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the launch position designation display (display of "right-handed") according to the game state, and also generates a lottery opportunity by entering the right start winning opening 28b. It controls the disclosure that it is possible (highlighting of "right-handed"), the occurrence of a lottery opportunity by actually entering the right-starting winning opening 28b, and the disclosure that the accumulation of working memory is realized. ..

Step S404: In the drum unit effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of controlling the drum unit 200 based on the effect content determined in the effect symbol management process. As described above, in the drum unit effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of determining the effect content (effect content related to the pseudo effect symbol, content related to the movement of the drum unit 200) to be displayed on the drum unit 200.

Step S405: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) the basic control information of the effect content (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , Working memory effect pattern number, look-ahead notice effect pattern number, variation effect pattern number, change notice effect number, background pattern number, etc.) are instructed. As a result, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect execution means).

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

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

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

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

Through the above-mentioned effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect content in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described according to a procedure example.

Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect control CPU 126 has received the effect command when the number of working memories increases. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command for increasing the number of working memories is saved. When it is confirmed that the effect command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. If it cannot be confirmed that the effect command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect of displaying the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol or the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect control CPU 126 has received the operation memory number reduction effect command. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is saved. When it is confirmed that the effect command for reducing the number of working memories is saved (step S704: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it cannot be confirmed that the effect command for reducing the number of working memories is saved (step S704: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories is reduced. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect of extinguishing the marker M1 or the marker M2 corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery, and causes the remaining markers M1 and M2 not consumed by the internal lottery to the left. Perform the effect of sliding.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 59).

[Production design management process]
FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes execution selection process (step S500), effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), effect symbol change process (step S504), effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and variable winning device operation. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along with each process.

Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variation display effect has not been started yet, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change preprocessing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol change pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change process (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol change process has been completed, the next step. Select the effect symbol stop display processing (step S506) as the jump destination of. Further, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as the jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 16) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the effect symbol change pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display effect using the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type (type of winning symbol), variation pattern, etc.), and the effect pattern (reach) for the advance notice effect. Pre-occurrence advance notice pattern, post-occurrence advance notice pattern, etc.) can be selected. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls the demo effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

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

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

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is operated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect content during the small hit game or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the big role effect according to various conditions (for example, the winning type). The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

[Pre-processing for effect pattern fluctuation]
Next, FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned effect symbol change preprocessing. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demo effect command has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the demo effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the demo effect command is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes the demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demo effect pattern. The demo effect pattern defines the content of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called waiting state for customers.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the address at the end of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the content of the demo effect based on the demo effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S405 in FIG. 59) and the lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 59). do.

On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demo effect command is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of order (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. It is also possible to confirm whether or not the fluctuation this time is out of order based on the fluctuation pattern command and the stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. That is, if the current fluctuation pattern command corresponds to the out-of-order normal variation or the out-of-reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is out of order. Alternatively, if the stop symbol command this time specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the change this time is out of order.

Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), then the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not this fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of a big hit is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not saved (No), only the lottery result command at the time of small hit remains. In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. It is also possible to confirm whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit based on the fluctuation pattern command or the stop symbol command. That is, if the fluctuation pattern command of this time corresponds to the jackpot fluctuation, it can be determined that the fluctuation of this time is a jackpot fluctuation. Further, if the stop symbol command of this time corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the fluctuation of this time is a jackpot.

Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes the small hit time variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can refer to the effect pattern selection table (not shown) and select the effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. can. The effect pattern number may be prepared as a pair with the variation pattern command, or a plurality of effect pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

Further, when the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the change schedule (variation time) and stop of the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time. Determine the display mode and the like.

For example, the effect control CPU 126 changes the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 in the "drive mode" state at the time of the small hit fluctuation of the second special symbol in the time shortened state, and finally the effect corresponding to the small hit. A process of selecting an effect pattern for stopping and displaying the symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 is executed.
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 126 changes the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 while executing the zone display effect when the small hit of the second special symbol fluctuates in the non-time shortened state, and finally the effect corresponding to the small hit. A process of selecting an effect pattern for stopping and displaying the symbol Hz and the fourth symbol Z2 is executed.

The above procedure corresponds to a "small hit", but when it corresponds to a big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is a "big hit" in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes the jackpot variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. In the jackpot effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched according to the jackpot stop symbol.

In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is out of alignment in step S604 (Yes), it then executes step S612.

Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect time variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of disconnection based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of loss are classified into "out-of-time normal variation", "time-shortening out-of-time variation", "out-of-reach variation", and the like, and further, a fine reach variation pattern is defined in "out-of-reach variation". Which effect pattern number the effect control CPU 126 selects is determined based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

When the effect pattern number at the time of off is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the variation schedule of the effect symbol Hz and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 corresponding to the variation effect pattern number at that time (variation time and reach). The presence or absence of occurrence, the reach type and reach occurrence timing in the case of reach occurrence), and the mode of stop display (for example, "7"-"2"-"4", etc.) are determined. It should be noted that the method of determining the effect at the time of such a loss is the same at the time of a big hit.

When any of the processes of step S608, step S610, and step S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes the advance notice selection process (notice effect execution means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the advance notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the advance notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of the internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, time shortened state). As described above, the advance notice effect is to notify the player of the possibility that a reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or to notify the player that there is a possibility of a big hit or a small hit in the end. .. Therefore, the selection ratio of the advance notice effect is set low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the advance notice effect is set higher at the time of winning in order to raise the expectation of the player.

Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes the mode effect management process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image according to the stay mode. For example, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image corresponding to the normal mode when the internal state is the non-time shortened state, and switches to the drive mode when the internal state is the time shortened state. Executes the process of selecting the corresponding background image.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol changing process (step S504 in FIG. 61), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (symbol effect execution means). The notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here.

[Launch position designation process]
FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned launch position designation process. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 acquires the information of the firing position designation command. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and acquires the value of the firing position designation command.
Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the subsequent value of the acquired launch position designation command is “specified”. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 determines that "no designation" is made if the subsequent value of the launch position designation command is "00H", and "specified" if it is "01H". Here, if it is determined that "there is a designation" (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S810, and if it is determined that "there is no designation" (No), the process proceeds to step S804.

[In the case of "not specified"]
Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the launch position designation display is instructed at the present time. The "launch position designation display" is, for example, a right-handed display (FIG. 53, etc.) in the band area B in the screen. When the firing position designation display is instructed (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S808, and when not instructed (No), the process proceeds to step S806.

Step S808: The effect control CPU 126 executes the firing position designation cancellation process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs to cancel the firing position designation display. Here, "cancellation of the launch position designation display" means, for example, ending the right-handed display in the band area B in the screen, and instead instructing the display such as "Please return to the left" or instructing the voice output. It is a process to do.

Step S806: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the firing position designation display is being released. Since the above-mentioned "cancellation of the launch position designation display" is continuously performed for a certain period of time, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S808 when it is determined that the launch position designation display is being canceled (Yes). On the other hand, if it is determined that the launch position designation display is not being canceled (No), the process exits this process and the caller returns.

[When "specified" in step S802]
Step S810: The effect control CPU 126 executes the firing position designation display process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the execution of the right-handed display (FIG. 53, etc.) in the band area B in the screen.

Step S812: Next, the effect control CPU 126 executes the fluctuation history update process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 updates the history of the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

Step S814: Then, the effect control CPU 126 executes the specific firing designation process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 gives an instruction regarding "specific launch designation". The "specific launch designation" is a disclosure that, for example, the fact that a lottery opportunity can be generated by entering the right-starting winning opening 28b is greatly conspicuous in the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 ("right-handed"). (Highlight).
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the caller.

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the process when the variable winning device is operated. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S850: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the result of this fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the lottery result command, and confirms whether it corresponds to a big hit or a small hit. As a result of this confirmation, if the result of this fluctuation is a big hit (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S852. On the other hand, if the result of this variation is not a big hit (No), that is, if it is a small hit, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S854.

Step S852: The effect control CPU 126 executes the process when the jackpot variable winning device is activated. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game.

Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 stores various image data related to the effect pattern at the time of a big hit stored in the image ROM 154 of the effect display control device 144 (VDP152) in advance as a large role effect to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. The process of reading according to the winning symbol is executed.

Step S854: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit variable winning device operation time process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed from the start of the small hit to the end of the small hit.

Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern (for example, an effect in which a car on which a female character is riding speeds up) indicating that the small hit game has started at the start of the small hit game, and suggests a right-handed strike. If the game ball passes through a specific area during a small hit game, the effect pattern when passing through the specific area (a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V drawn on it). Executes the process of selecting the effect).

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 61).

[Public lamp drive processing]
FIG. 65 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the normal lamp drive process. The normal electric lamp drive process is a process of switching the lighting / extinguishing state of the lamp (normal electric lamp) arranged around the variable start winning device 28. "Public", which forms part of the names of the production commands and timers that appear in the following explanation, is an abbreviation for the common name "ordinary electric accessory" of the variable start winning device 28.

The normal lamp drive process is called and executed in the process of the lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 59). By executing the normal lamp drive process, it becomes possible to disclose to the player that it is advantageous (necessary) to put the game ball into the right start winning opening 28b. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S900: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the normal electric closing command has been received. More specifically, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the normal power closing command exists among the effect commands received in the command reception process (step S400 in FIG. 59) and stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130. Check if. The normal electric closing command is for effect transmitted by the main control CPU 72 to the effect control device 124 when the right start winning device 28b is closed (at the end of opening) in the variable start winning device management process (step S5001 in FIG. 38). Command. When the normal electric closing command is received (step S900: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S914. On the other hand, when the normal electric closing command is not received (step S900: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S902.

Step S902: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the normal power release command has been received. More specifically, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the normal power release command exists among the effect commands received in the command reception process (step S400 in FIG. 59) and stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130. Check if. The normal power release command is for effect transmitted by the main control CPU 72 to the effect control device 124 when the right start winning device 28b is opened (at the time of opening start) in the variable start winning device management process (step S5001 in FIG. 38). Command. When the normal power release command is received (step S902: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S904. On the other hand, when the general power release command is not received (step S902: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906.

Step S904: The effect control CPU 126 executes the timer setting process for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp. The timer for waiting for the lamp to turn on is a timer that measures the waiting time from receiving the command to release the lamp to turning on the lamp. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 sets, for example, 0.2 seconds as the value of the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp, and stores the value in the counter area of the RAM 130.

Step S906: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the value of the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp is larger than 0. If the value of the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal power lamp is larger than 0, the effect control CPU 126 can determine that the waiting time until the normal power lamp is turned on still remains. When the timer value is larger than 0 (step S906: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S908. On the other hand, when the timer value is 0 or less (step S906: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the process of the caller.

Step S908: The effect control CPU 126 executes a timer countdown process for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 counts down and updates the value of the normal lamp lighting wait timer set in step S904.

Step S910: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the value of the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp is 0. If the value of the updated timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal power lamp, which is counted down in the previous step S908, reaches 0, the effect control CPU 126 may determine that the waiting time until the normal power lamp is turned on has ended. can. When the timer value is 0 (step S910: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S912. On the other hand, when the timer value is not 0 (step S910: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the process of the caller.

Step S912: The effect control CPU 126 executes the normal lamp lighting process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 turns on the normal electric lamp by outputting a driving signal for lighting to the general electric lamp. By this process, for example, disclosure (disclosure of control information) using the universal lamp shown in FIGS. 53 (B) to 54 (D) is executed.

Step S914: The effect control CPU 126 executes the process of initializing the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 clears the value of the timer for waiting for the lighting of the normal lamp to zero and stores it in the counter area of the RAM 130.

Step S916: The effect control CPU 126 executes the normal electric lamp extinguishing process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 turns off the normal power lamp by outputting a drive signal for turning off the normal power lamp.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the calling lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 59).

The Fuden lamp in the present embodiment is not provided exclusively for disclosure regarding the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b), but is provided in common with other uses (for example, a board surface). Lamp 53). While the Fuden lamp is not used for other purposes, the Fuden lamp drive process is executed to execute the disclosure regarding the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) using the Fuden lamp. On the other hand, if it becomes necessary to execute right-handed notification (guidance) using, for example, a Fuden lamp during the period from the reception of the Fuden open command to the reception of the Fuden close command, the importance Priority is given to higher right-handed notification. This control is performed outside the normal lamp drive process (caller). With such control, it is possible to effectively utilize the shared lamp and to execute the disclosure regarding the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) without obstructing the higher priority notification.

[Superiority of this embodiment]
By executing the above-mentioned procedure example, the normal power closing command is received between the time when the normal power opening command is received and the time (for example, 0.2 seconds) set in the normal power lamp lighting wait timer elapses. If not, the Fuden lamp lights up until the Fuden closing command is received, and the Fuden lamp goes off when the Fuden closing command is received. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, in the time shortened state in which the right starting winning opening 28b is opened for a long time, the waiting time for lighting the normal electric lamp (for example, 0.9 seconds) from the opening time of the right starting winning opening 28b (for example, 0.9 seconds). It is advantageous (necessary) to let the game ball enter the right start winning opening 28b because the normal electric lamp can be turned on for the time (for example, 0.7 seconds) after deducting (0.2 seconds). It becomes possible to disclose this to the player.

On the other hand, if the Fuden closing command is received after the Fuden opening command is received and before the waiting time for the Fuden lamp to turn on elapses, the Fuden lamp does not light. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, in the non-time shortened state in which the right start winning opening 28b is short-opened, the right starting winning opening is before the waiting time for lighting the normal lamp (for example, 0.2 seconds) elapses. Since the opening time of 28b (for example, 0.06 seconds) is completed and the normal power closing command is received, the normal power lamp can be kept off from beginning to end. It is possible to disclose to the player that it is not advantageous (necessary) to put the game ball into the starting winning opening 28b.

According to the present embodiment, the control of the normal power lamp, which differs depending on the game state, is the normal power release command and the normal power close, which are transmitted from the main control CPU 72 without making a judgment based on the value related to the game state. In addition to the commands, since it can be realized based on these reception timings, the control by the effect control CPU 126 for disclosing the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) is briefly implemented and the control thereof is implemented. It is possible to efficiently execute the control process.

Further, by configuring the control by the effect control CPU 126 in such a configuration, the main control CPU 72 is in a gaming state (non-time reduction state, time reduction) when transmitting the normal power opening command and the normal power closing command to the effect control device 124. Since it is not necessary to determine the state), these effects commands can be transmitted unconditionally in all states. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the control executed by the main control CPU 72 when transmitting the effect command can be simply implemented and the control process can be efficiently executed, and as a result, the processing load of the main control CPU 72 can be executed. Can be reduced.

In addition, the above-mentioned procedure example is a procedure including confirmation of the reception status of the production command related to the lighting control of the Fuden lamp and the counting of the lighting waiting time, and is in a situation where the lighting control of the Fuden lamp is unnecessary. When the normal lamp drive process is called, the configuration is such that it is possible to return to the caller's process without executing the actual process via only the branch process. Not limited to this procedure example, for example, the normal power lamp drive process configured by the procedure not including the above step S914 (the normal power lamp lighting wait timer initialization process) is performed after receiving the normal power release command. It may be called only until the closing command is received, or may be configured to execute the above step S916 (Public lamp extinguishing process) only in the time shortened state.

In addition, for example, the Fuden lamp drive process is configured to consist only of procedures related to the lighting control of the Fuden lamp (control to switch on / off), and the other procedures are executed outside the Fuden lamp drive process. May be good. In such a configuration, the procedure executed on the outside did not receive the normal power closing command between the time when the normal power release command was received and the time set in the normal power lamp lighting wait timer elapsed. In this case, the Fuden lamp drive process is called to execute the Fuden lamp lighting control, while the Fuden lamp is closed before the time set in the Fuden lamp lighting wait timer elapses after receiving the Fuden lamp release command. When a command is received, the control is such that the normal lamp drive process is not called. As a result, in the time shortened state, every time the right start winning opening 28b is opened, the normal electric lamp drive process can be called and the general electric lamp can be turned on for a certain period of time. In addition, in the non-time reduction state, no matter how many times the right start winning opening 28b is opened (no matter how many times the normal power release command is transmitted), the normal power lamp drive process is not called at all, so the normal power lamp is turned off. The state can be maintained.

[Changes in the lighting status of the general lamp (non-time reduction status)]
FIG. 66 is a timing chart showing changes in the lighting state of the normal lamp with the passage of time in the non-time shortened state. In the non-time shortened state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is very long (for example, 30 seconds), while the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b is very short (for example, 0.06 seconds), so visibility is taken into consideration. , In the figure, some of the changing times are omitted. Hereinafter, they will be described in order in chronological order.

[Time t0]
In FIG. 66 (B): At this point, the normal symbol is stopped.

[Time t1]
In FIG. 66 (B): The fluctuation of the normal symbol starts. This fluctuation is triggered by the fact that the gate switch 78 detects the passage of the game ball through the start gate 20 at the time point shown in (1) in the figure. This variation lasts for some long time (eg 30 seconds).

[Time t2]
In FIG. 66 (B): The fluctuation time elapses, and the fluctuation of the normal symbol stops.

[Time t3]
In FIG. 66 (C): When the waiting time before opening of the variable start winning device 28 elapses, the variable start winning device 28 switches from the closed state to the open state, so that the right start winning opening 28b is opened. The right start winning opening 28b is opened for 0.06 seconds (time t3 to time t5).
In FIG. 66 (D): Further, at the timing when the right start winning opening 28b is opened, the main control device 70 transmits a normal power opening command to the effect control device 124.

[Time t4]
In FIG. 66 (E): The timer interrupt process executed immediately after the time t3 in the effect control device 124 receives the general power release command transmitted from the main control device 70.

[Time t5]
In FIG. 66 (C): When the opening time (0.06 seconds) of the right starting winning opening 28b elapses, the variable starting winning device 28 switches from the open state to the closed state, so that the right starting winning opening 28b is closed. ..
In FIG. 66 (D): Further, at the timing when the right start winning opening 28b is closed, the main control device 70 transmits a general electric closing command to the effect control device 124.

[Time t6]
In FIG. 66 (E): The timer interrupt process executed immediately after the time t5 in the effect control device 124 receives the normal power closing command transmitted from the main control device 70.

[Time t7]
In FIG. 66 (B): When the waiting time elapses after the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the next fluctuation of the normal symbol starts. This fluctuation is triggered by the fact that the gate switch 78 detects the passage of the game ball through the start gate 20 at the time point shown in (2) in the figure.

[Time t8]
In FIG. 66 (E): 0.2 seconds (waiting time for lighting the normal power lamp) has elapsed since the normal power release command was received at time t4.
In FIG. 66 (C): At this timing, the variable start winning device 28 has already been switched to the closed state (the right starting winning opening 28b is already closed).
In FIG. 66 (F): Therefore, the general electric lamp does not light.

In this way, in the non-time shortened state, the right start winning opening 28b is closed before the waiting time (0.2 seconds) for lighting the Fuden lamp elapses after the Fuden release command is received (Fujin). (The close command is received), so the normal lamp does not light up.

[Changes in the lighting status of the general lamp (shortened time)]
FIG. 67 is a timing chart showing a change in the lighting state of the normal lamp with the passage of time in the time shortened state. In the time-reduced state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is very short (for example, 0.5 seconds) as compared with the non-time-reduced state, so the time scale in FIG. 67 is different from that in FIG. 66 in consideration of visibility. ing. Hereinafter, they will be described in order in chronological order.

[Time t0]
In FIG. 67 (B): At this point, the normal symbol is stopped.

[Time t1]
In FIG. 67 (B): The fluctuation of the normal symbol starts. This fluctuation is triggered by the fact that the gate switch 78 detects the passage of the game ball through the start gate 20 at the time point shown in (1) in the figure. This variation ends in a short time (eg 0.5 seconds).

[Time t2]
In FIG. 67 (B): The fluctuation time elapses, and the fluctuation of the normal symbol stops.

[Time t3]
In FIG. 67 (C): When the waiting time before opening of the variable start winning device 28 elapses, the variable start winning device 28 switches from the closed state to the open state, so that the right start winning opening 28b is opened. The right start winning opening 28b is opened for 0.9 seconds (time t3 to time t6).
In FIG. 67 (D): Further, at the timing when the right start winning opening 28b is opened, the main control device 70 transmits a general power release command to the effect control device 124.

[Time t4]
In FIG. 67 (E): The timer interrupt process executed immediately after the time t3 in the effect control device 124 receives the general power release command transmitted from the main control device 70.

[Time t5]
In FIG. 67 (E): 0.2 seconds (waiting time for lighting the normal power lamp) has elapsed since the normal power release command was received at time t4.
In FIG. 67 (F): The Fuden lamp is turned on when the waiting time for lighting the Fuden lamp has elapsed.

[Time t6]
In FIG. 67 (C): When the opening time (0.9 seconds) of the right starting winning opening 28b elapses, the variable starting winning device 28 switches from the open state to the closed state, so that the right starting winning opening 28b is closed. ..
In FIG. 67 (D): Further, at the timing when the right start winning opening 28b is closed, the main control device 70 transmits a general electric closing command to the effect control device 124.

[Time t7]
In FIG. 67 (E): The timer interrupt process executed immediately after the time t6 in the effect control device 124 receives the normal power closing command transmitted from the main control device 70.
In FIG. 67 (F): The lamp is turned off when the command to close the utility is received.

[Time t8]
In FIG. 67 (B): When the waiting time elapses after the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the next fluctuation of the normal symbol starts. This fluctuation is triggered by the fact that the gate switch 78 detects the passage of the game ball through the start gate 20 at the time point shown in (2) in the figure.

In this way, in the time shortened state, when the waiting time (0.2 seconds) for turning on the Fuden lamp elapses after receiving the Fuden opening command, the Fuden lamp lights up, and then the Fuden closing command is received. And the general lamp goes out. As a result, for 0.7 seconds from the reception of the Fuden open command to the reception of the Fuden close command, in other words, from the opening time (0.9 seconds) of the right start winning opening 28b, the Fuden lamp The Fuden lamp lights for the time (0.7 seconds) after deducting the lighting waiting time (0.2 seconds).

As described above, according to the above-described embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, the main control CPU 72 issues commands for directing (general power opening command, normal power closing command) used for disclosing the variable start winning device 28 (right starting winning opening 28b). When transmitting, it is not necessary to make a judgment according to the game state (non-time reduction state, time reduction state), and the same command can be transmitted in all states. With such a configuration, the control process by the main control CPU 72 can be simply implemented and the control can be efficiently executed, and the processing load of the main control CPU 72 can be reduced.

(2) According to the present embodiment, the effect control CPU 126 discloses the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) differently depending on the gaming state (non-time shortening state, time shortening state). It is possible to control based on the command for effect (general power opening command, normal power closing command) transmitted from the main control CPU 72 and the reception timing thereof without making a judgment based on the value related to the game state. With such a configuration, it is possible to simply implement the control process by the effect control CPU 126 and efficiently execute the control.

(3) According to the present embodiment, the effect control CPU 126 turns on the normal power lamp after the waiting time for turning on the normal power lamp has elapsed after receiving the normal power release command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and closes the normal power. The lamp is turned off when the command is received, but the lamp is not turned on if the command to close the lamp is received before the waiting time for lighting the lamp has elapsed. Therefore, if the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b is less than or equal to the length of the waiting time for lighting the Fuden lamp (= during non-time reduction), the Fuden lamp is not turned on, and if not (= during time reduction), the lamp is not turned on. The normal electric lamp can be turned on for a certain period of time obtained by subtracting the waiting time for turning on the general electric lamp from the opening time of the right start winning opening 28b.

(4) According to the present embodiment, in the non-time shortened state in which the right starting winning opening 28b is short-opened, the time shortening state in which the right-starting winning opening 28b is long-opened while maintaining the off state of the normal electric lamp is maintained. In, since the normal electric lamp can be turned on for a certain period of time, it is advantageous (necessary) to put the game ball into the right start winning opening 28b depending on the on / off state of the normal electric lamp. It is possible to disclose (sensually recognize) the presence or absence to the player.

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

For example, in the above-described embodiment, the waiting time for lighting the normal electric lamp has been set to 0.2 seconds, but the waiting time for lighting the general electric lamp is the short opening time (for example, 0.06) of the right start winning opening 28b. It may be set to 0.07 seconds, for example, as long as it is longer than seconds).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the example of executing the lighting control of the universal lamp when the variable start winning device 28 is operated by using the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to apply the same control to the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31.

For example, when considering the case of applying to the first variable winning device 30, the opening time of the first large winning opening 30b is set to 29 seconds at the time of long opening and 0.5 seconds at the time of short opening. Therefore, in this case, the waiting time from receiving the release command to turning on the lamp (hereinafter, abbreviated as "special electric lamp") arranged around the first variable winning device 30 is 0.5. It may be set to a time longer than a second (for example, 1.0 second). As a result, while the special electric lamp is kept off when the first large winning opening 30b is opened short, the special electric lamp is kept off for a certain period of time (for example, 28 seconds) obtained by subtracting the lighting waiting time from the opening time of the first large winning opening 30b when the long opening is opened. The special electric lamp can be turned on. Therefore, it is disclosed to the player whether or not it is advantageous (necessary) to allow the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 30b depending on the lighting / extinguishing state of the special electric lamp (sensory recognition). It becomes possible.

In the above-described embodiment, a lamp provided in common with other uses is used as a universal lamp, and when disclosure regarding the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b) is required, these are prioritized over other uses. Although the example of using the lamp of the above has been described, it is also possible to use a lamp provided exclusively for disclosure regarding the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning opening 28b).

In the above-described embodiment, the disclosure of information according to the gaming state (non-time reduction state, time reduction state) has been described with the example of using the normal electric lamp, but the means used for information disclosure is not limited to the lamp. For example, the liquid crystal display 42 may be used to disclose information by images, characters, or the like (visual information), or the speakers 54, 55, 56 may be used to disclose information by voice (auditory information). It is possible.

In addition, when it becomes necessary to give right-handed notification (guidance) when disclosing information by a liquid crystal display 42, speakers 54, 55, 56, etc., which are means shared with other uses, the above-mentioned is described above. As in the case of the general-purpose lamp (using the board lamp 53 shared with other uses) in the embodiment, the right-handed notification with higher importance may be prioritized and executed. In addition, when disclosing information using means shared with other uses, disclosure regarding the opening of special electric power (opening of the first large winning opening 30b and the opening of the second large winning opening 31b) and opening of the general electric power (opening of the right starting winning opening 28b) If it becomes necessary to carry out both disclosures regarding the opening of special electric power, the disclosure regarding the opening of the special electric power may be prioritized.

In the above-described embodiment, different commands are used for each large prize when the large winning opening is opened / closed (when the first large winning opening 30b is opened / closed, the special electric 1 opening command / special electric 1 closing command, the second large winning opening 31b). Although the example of generating the special electric 2 open command / special electric 2 close command at the time of opening / closing of is described, the special electric 1 open command and the special electric 2 open command may have the same value, and the special electric 1 close command and the special electric 1 close command. The value may be the same as that of the special electric 2 closing command. That is, it is also possible to generate a common command (special electric opening command / special electric closing command) between the large winning openings when the large winning openings are opened / closed.

The images given in the other production examples are just examples, and these can be appropriately deformed. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values, and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately deformed.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory Lamp 35a 2nd special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 LCD display 45 Direction switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU
200 drum unit

Claims (2)

When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery and a lottery execution means
A variable ball entry device that makes it difficult for the game ball to flow in when the predetermined movable member is in the closed position and allows the game ball to flow in when the movable member is displaced from the closed position to the open position.
The opening time for controlling the opening operation of displacement of the movable member between the closed position and the open position according to the result of the predetermined lottery, and for keeping the movable member displaced to the open position. A variable ball entry device control means having a length different depending on the game mode and having either a predetermined short opening time or a long opening time longer than the short opening time.
An information output means that outputs start information at the start of the opening operation and outputs end information at the end of the opening operation.
A standby means for measuring a predetermined standby time that does not exceed the long opening time when the start information is received, and a standby means.
The information disclosure means for controlling the disclosure of control information relating to the control of the opening operation based on the information received from the information output means is provided.
The information disclosure means is
The control information is set to the disclosure state when the waiting time elapses after receiving the start information, while the control information is set to the non-disclosure state when the end information is received. A game machine. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The waiting time is
The length exceeds the short opening time,
The information disclosure means is
When the length of the opening time is the short opening time, the end information is received before the control information is set to the disclosed state, so that the control information is not set to the disclosed state and is not disclosed. A gaming machine characterized by maintaining in.

Images