JP7034605B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, a gaming machine in which a light guide plate is arranged in front of a liquid crystal screen and a background image displayed on the liquid crystal screen and a light emitting image of the light guide plate are used to perform an effect is known (for example). , Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-195579

Here, in the technique of Patent Document 1, the point that a plurality of reflection regions (a plurality of regions corresponding to a plurality of light sources) are provided on the light guide plate is not considered.
Therefore, when a plurality of reflection regions are provided on the light guide plate, the light emission image by the light guide plate cannot be clearly displayed.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a technique capable of clearly displaying a light emitting image by a light guide plate.

The present invention employs the following solutions to solve the above 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 solution means has a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game, an effect display device for displaying an effect related to the predetermined lottery, and the effect display device. A first light source, which is arranged in front of the light source and has a first reflection region and a second reflection region for reflecting incident light in a predetermined direction, and a plurality of light sources, and irradiates at least the first reflection region with light. A light source, a second light source including a plurality of light sources and irradiating at least the second reflection region with light, the plurality of light sources included in the first light source, and the plurality of light sources included in the second light source. Is a game machine provided with a light source control means for executing a lighting process of lighting the lights in the same order and in the same direction.

The gaming machine of the present solution has the following configurations.
(1) When a lottery opportunity occurs during the game (when the game ball enters the starting winning opening), a predetermined lottery (special symbol lottery) is executed.

(2) An effect display device for displaying the effect related to the predetermined lottery of the above (1) is provided. On the effect display device, effects such as a variable display effect, a notice effect, and a special game effect are displayed.

(3) A guide having a first reflection region and a second reflection region, which are arranged in front of the effect display device of the above (2) and reflect light incident from an end or the like in a specified direction (forward or backward). A light plate is provided. The light guide plate is arranged so as to cover the display screen of the effect display device. The first reflection region and the second reflection region are arranged side by side, for example, in the left-right direction.

(4) A first light source that includes a plurality of light sources (a plurality of LDEs and a light guide plate lamp) and irradiates at least the first reflection region of the above (3) with light is provided. The first light source may irradiate the second reflection region with light.
(5) A second light source that includes a plurality of light sources (a plurality of LDEs, a light guide plate lamp) and irradiates at least the second reflection region of the above (3) with light is provided. The second light source may irradiate the first reflection region with light. The number of light sources of the first light source is preferably the same as the number of light sources of the second light source.

(6) A lighting process in which a plurality of light sources included in the first light source and a plurality of light sources included in the second light source are lit in the same order (one by one) and in the same direction (to the left). Execute. For example, when the first light source includes five light sources arranged in the left-right direction and the second light source includes five light sources arranged in the left-right direction, the first light source first. Turn on the rightmost light source and the rightmost light source of the second light source, then turn off the rightmost light source of the first light source and the rightmost light source of the second light source, and then turn off the second light source. The second light source from the right side of the first light source and the second light source from the right side of the second light source are turned on, and so on. Let me do it.

According to the present solution, in order to execute a lighting process for lighting a plurality of light sources included in the first light source and a plurality of light sources included in the second light source in the same order and in the same direction, the first method is performed. The light source and the second light source are lit in the same lighting pattern, and the adjacent light sources are not lit at the same time. As a result, the light emission does not interfere with each other due to the adjacent light sources, and even when a plurality of reflection regions are provided on the light guide plate, the light emission image by the light guide plate can be clearly displayed.

SOLUTION: In any of the above-mentioned solutions, the gaming machine of the present solution means that at least a part of the first reflection region and the second reflection region are arranged adjacent to each other, and the first one. Not only the reflection surface toward the first light source but also the reflection surface toward the second light source is arranged in the reflection region, and the reflection surface toward the second light source is arranged in the second reflection region. Not only that, the gaming machine is characterized in that a reflecting surface facing the first light source is also arranged.

In this solution, the following features are added.
(1) At least a part of the first reflection region and the second reflection region are arranged adjacent to each other (in contact with each other).
(2) In the first reflection region, not only the reflection surface toward the first light source but also the reflection surface toward the second light source (at or near the boundary line with the second reflection region) is arranged. ..
(3) In the second reflection region, not only the reflection surface toward the second light source but also the reflection surface toward the first light source (at or near the boundary line with the first reflection region) is arranged. ..

According to the present solution, a reflection surface facing both the first light source and the second light source is arranged in the first reflection region, and the first light source and the second light source are arranged in the second reflection region. Since the reflecting surfaces directed to both of the light sources are arranged, as a result, it is possible to form a reflecting surface that straddles the boundary between the first reflecting region and the second reflecting region. As a result, in the vicinity of the boundary line between the first reflection region and the second reflection region, the player's line of sight may be deviated from the eye point (reference setting position, center position in the left-right direction of the gaming machine). However, the light emitting image displayed by the light guide plate is not divided, and the light emitting image by the light guide plate can be displayed neatly.

Solution 3: In any of the above-mentioned solutions, the game machine of the present solution has the first light source and the second light source as the plurality of light sources, from the first light emitting unit to the nth (n is 2 or more). The first light source and the first to nth light emitting parts of the second light source are arranged side by side in order toward a predetermined direction, and the first light source includes the light emitting part. From the first reflecting surface toward the first light emitting portion of the first light source to the nth reflecting surface toward the nth light emitting portion of the first light source are arranged in order toward the predetermined direction. In the second reflection region, from the first reflection surface toward the first light emitting portion of the second light source to the nth reflection surface toward the nth light emitting portion of the second light source is the predetermined direction. It is a gaming machine characterized in that it is arranged in order in the opposite direction.

In this solution, the following features are added.
(1) The first light source and the second light source include a first light source to an nth (n is a natural number of 2 or more) light sources as a plurality of light sources.

(2) The first light source and the first light source to the nth light source of the second light source are arranged side by side in order in a predetermined direction (direction toward the left side).

(3) In the first reflection region, the direction from the first reflection surface of the first light source toward the first light source to the nth reflection surface of the first light source toward the nth light source is the predetermined direction of (2) above. They are arranged in order toward.

(4) In the second reflection region, the direction from the first reflection surface of the second light source toward the first light source to the nth reflection surface of the first light source toward the nth light source is the predetermined direction of (2) above. They are arranged in order in the opposite direction (toward the right side).

According to the present solution, the first reflection surface to the nth reflection surface of the first reflection region and the first reflection surface to the nth reflection surface of the second reflection region are arranged in opposite directions, respectively. Therefore, even if the lighting patterns of the first light source and the second light source are the same, the appearance pattern of the light emitting image by the light guide plate can be the opposite pattern, and the lighting pattern is novel but as intended. A luminescent image can be made to appear.

According to the present invention, even when a plurality of reflection regions are provided on the light guide plate, the light emission image by the light guide plate can be clearly displayed.

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 game board unit 8, the light guide plate 250 and the liquid crystal display 42. It is a figure which shows the detail of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the reflection area of a light guide plate 250. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the operation of a light guide plate 250 and a peripheral device. 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 figure which shows the opening operation pattern of a variable winning apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state) at the time of loss. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of loss (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table (high probability time shortening state) at the time of loss. 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 big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability time shortening state). It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process during 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 prize device management process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening and closing operation processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening closing process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end process at the time of a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the variable prize device management process at the time of a small 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 flowchart which shows the procedure example of the opening and closing operation processing of a large winning opening at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the procedure of closing a large winning opening at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end processing at the time of a small hit. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed in the pachinko machine 1. 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. It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach effect which is executed at the time of a big hit (winning) when it corresponds to "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in a non-time shortening state. It is a continuous figure which partially shows the production example of the big role middle production executed at the time of winning in the normal mode (1/3). It is a continuous figure which partially shows the production example of the big role middle production executed at the time of winning in the normal mode (2/3). It is a continuous figure partially showing the production example of the big role middle production executed at the time of winning in the normal mode (3/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of a fireworks rush. It is a continuous figure partially showing an example of a big role middle effect executed during a big hit game when it corresponds to a "16 round probability variation symbol". It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of a normal bonus production partially. It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the coast mode. It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (1/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (2/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (3/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (4/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (5/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (6/7). It is a continuous figure which shows the production example of the variable display effect including the heart effect (7/7). 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 the big hit time fluctuation effect pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the process at the time of operation of a variable winning device. It is a figure explaining the control sequence of the ACT control unit management process. It is a figure which shows the LED system correspondence table. It is a figure which shows the lighting pattern of the light guide plate lamp.

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 game ball is a medium having a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game ball acquired by the player. It can be converted into a game value based on the number of. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, 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 keyhole 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 keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. .. When all of these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the lock of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 is locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game field can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the saucer unit 6 is also opened to the front side 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, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface so that the game ball can flow down.

The saucer unit 6 has a shape that protrudes from the integrated door unit 4 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) the 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, game board) will be described later with reference to another drawing.

[Structure on the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for directing. Of these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decorative lamp 48, and the upper right lighting unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decorative lamp 50. In addition, the 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 50, 52, and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above execute the effect by, for example, 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 player can switch the effect content (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pressing the effect switching button 45 (operation input), for example, while the design is changing or the jackpot is confirmed. Alternatively, some kind of effect (notice effect, probabilistic promotion effect, promotion effect during a big role, etc.) can be generated during the big hit game.

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

[Backside configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a payout device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a payout control board unit 176. , The back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, 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 above-mentioned 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 portion (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.

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

In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position thereof, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left side portion, a right side portion, and a lower portion centering on the effect unit 40. The left side portion of the game area 8a is the first game area (left-handed area) used in the normal game state (low probability non-time reduction state), and the right side portion of the game area 8a is the advantageous game state (big hit game state). , Small hit game state, low probability time shortened state, high probability time shortened state, etc.) is the second game area (right-handed area, specific area). Further, in the game area 8a, the upper start winning opening 26, the starting gate 20, the normal winning openings 22, 24, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device are located around the effect unit 40. 31 etc. are distributed and installed.

Of these, the upper start winning opening 26 is arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a. Further, the starting gate 20 and the first variable winning device 30 are arranged on the right side portion of the game area 8a. Further, the variable start winning device 28 and the second variable starting winning device 31 are arranged in the lower portion of the upper starting winning opening 26.

The three ordinary winning openings 22 on the left side are arranged on the left side portion of the game area 8a, and the one ordinary winning opening 24 on the right side is arranged on the right side of the second variable winning device 31.

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a enters the upper start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 24, passes through the starting gate 20, and the variable starting winning at the time of opening operation in the process of its flow down. The ball enters the device 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation.

Here, the game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a may mainly enter the upper start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a mainly passes through the start gate 20, enters the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, or the variable starting winning device 28 during the opening operation. There is a possibility of entering the ball in, entering the normal winning opening 24, or entering the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation.

The game ball that has passed through the start gate 20 continuously flows down in the game area 8a, but the upper start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 24, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning opening The game ball that has entered the device 31 is collected on the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

Here, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when the game ball is to be inserted into the upper start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22, the area on the left side in the game area 8a (left-handed). It is necessary to hit a game ball into the area) (perform a so-called "left-handed").

On the other hand, when a game ball is to be entered into the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the normal winning opening 24, the area on the right side in the game area 8a (right-handed area). ), It is necessary to hit the game ball (execute the so-called "right hit").

The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and the ball can be entered into the lower starting winning opening 28a accordingly. (Ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 28b, and these opening / closing members 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface, for example, by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). The left and right opening / closing members 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the lower start winning opening 28a (there is no gap for the game ball to enter). On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right opening / closing members 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the opening width is expanded to the left and right to open the lower start winning opening 28a. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the game ball can be entered, and can generate the entry into the lower start winning opening 28a (variable start winning means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28b also functions as a member for guiding the entry of the game ball into the starting winning opening 28a.

The first variable winning device 30 operates when the specified conditions are satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode corresponding to the 9-round big hit, and when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the small hit). Then, it is possible to win a prize in the first special winning opening 30b (upper large winning opening) (special electric accessory, first special winning event generating means).

The first variable winning device 30 is a device arranged on the right side of the upper starting winning opening 26 (so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The first variable winning device 30 is a type of device in which the opening / closing member 30a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). Then, the opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. The opening / closing member 30a 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 30a, so that the opening / closing member 30a is moved to the first prize opening 30b. It is impossible to enter the ball (the first big winning opening 30b is closed). Then, when the first variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening / closing member 30a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, 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 inflow of the game ball is not impossible, and the event of entering the first large winning opening 30b can be generated.

The second variable winning device 31 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to a 16-round jackpot), and the second major winning opening 31b (lower major winning opening) (Special electric accessory, second special prize event generation means).

The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged below the variable starting winning device 28 (so-called lower attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 31a, and the opening / closing member 31a is, for example, a solenoid (not shown). By the action of the link mechanism using the above, it reciprocates in the front-back direction with respect to the board surface. As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 31a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is difficult to win the second prize opening 31b (the second prize opening 31b is closed). be. When the second variable winning device 31 is activated, the opening / closing member 31a is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower end edge portion as a hinge, 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 game balls is easy, and the event of winning a prize in the second large winning opening 31b can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 31a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball into the large winning opening.

The arrangement of the obstacle nails and the shape of the structure installed in the game board unit 8 are basically the variable starting winning device 28 (right starting winning opening 28a at the time of opening) and the first variable winning device 30 (above at the time of opening). The configuration is such that the flow of the game ball toward the large winning opening 30b) and the second variable winning device 31 (lower large winning opening 31b at the time of opening) is not extremely obstructed, but the variable starting winning device while the game ball is open. It is not always the case that the ball enters the 28 (right start winning opening 28a), the first variable winning device 30 (upper large winning opening 30b), and the second variable winning device 31 (lower large winning opening 31b). Occurs randomly.

The above-mentioned effect unit 40 is installed in the game board unit 8 from the center position to the right side portion. 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 (effect display device) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and the effect symbol (main effect symbol ME, sub effect symbol, first) corresponding to a special symbol is installed in this liquid crystal display 42. Various production images including 4 symbols) are displayed. The liquid crystal display 42 displays a variable display effect and a special game in-game effect related to the special symbol lottery (predetermined lottery). As described above, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the structure of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. Further, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin board (for example, an acrylic board), decorativeness is added by various decorative bodies (including movable bodies and light emitting bodies) arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. can do.

In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached to the inside of the effect unit 40 together with a movable body 40f (for example, a car 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 the effect using these movable bodies 40f, it is possible to exert an appealing power different from the effect using the two-dimensional image.

A logo display plate 60 is arranged behind the movable body 40f. The logo display plate 60 is a decoration on which a logotype portion reminiscent of the pachinko machine 1 is formed (for example, predetermined character information is displayed).

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

In addition, an out opening 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and the game balls that have not entered (winned) in various winning openings are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out opening 32. In addition, the game balls that have entered the normal winning openings 22 and 24, the upper starting winning opening 26, the lower starting winning opening 28a, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31 are also driven into the game area 8a. All the game balls that have been removed 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).

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a game board unit 8, a light guide plate 250, and a liquid crystal display 42.
The light guide plate 250 is a member that is arranged in front of the liquid crystal display 42 and emits predetermined light.
Further, the light guide plate 250 is a transparent rectangular member having light transmittance such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin.

The front surface of the light guide plate 250 is formed to be equal to or slightly larger than the opening 8c formed in the game board unit 8. Further, the light guide plate 250 is arranged so as to cover the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42.
The player can visually recognize the image displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 arranged behind the light guide plate 250 via the light guide plate 250.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing details of the light guide plate 250 and peripheral devices.
A first light source 200, a second light source 300, a third light source 400, and a fourth light source 500 are arranged on the upper side of the light guide plate 250.

The first light source 200 has five light guide plate lamps 201 to 205 (first light emitting unit to fifth light emitting unit) arranged as a plurality of light sources, and the second light source 300 has a plurality of light sources. Five light source lamps 301 to 305 (first light source unit to fifth light source unit) are arranged.

The third light source 400 has ten light guide plate lamps 401 to 410 (first light emitting unit to tenth light emitting unit) arranged as a plurality of light sources, and the fourth light source 500 has a plurality of light sources. Ten light source lamps 501 to 510 (first light source unit to tenth light source unit) are arranged.

Here, the third light source 400 can be regarded as the first light source, and the fourth light source 500 can be regarded as the second light source. Further, the light guide plate 250 may have a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 4, or may have a shape in which the lower right portion as shown in FIG. 5 is missing.

For example, a plurality of LED lamps (full-color LEDs) or the like are arranged in each light guide plate lamp. The light guide plate lamp is connected to the effect control device via wiring or a relay board (not shown), and is turned on or off based on a control signal output from the effect control device. When the light emitted from the light guide plate lamp enters the inside of the light guide plate 250, a light emitting image (three-dimensional effect light) is displayed on the light guide plate 250.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a reflection region of the light guide plate 250.
Four reflection regions are arranged on the light guide plate 250, and each reflection region reflects light incident from the end of the light guide plate 250 in the forward direction.
The first reflection region E1 is a left region (inner heart left region) inside the light guide plate 250, and is mainly irradiated with light by the first light source 200.
The second reflection region E2 is a right region (inner heart right region) inside the light guide plate 250, and is mainly irradiated with light by the second light source 300.

The third reflection region E3 is a region on the left side (outer heart left region) on the outside of the light guide plate 250, and is mainly irradiated with light by the third light source 400.
The fourth reflection region E4 is a right region (outer heart right region) on the outside of the light guide plate 250, and is mainly irradiated with light by the fourth light source 500.

The first reflection region E1 and the second reflection region E2 are arranged so that the upper portion and the lower portion of the heart shape are adjacent to each other. Further, in the third reflection region E3 and the fourth reflection region E4, the upper portion and the lower portion of the heart shape are arranged adjacent to each other.
The third reflection region E3 can be regarded as the first reflection region, and the fourth reflection region E4 can be regarded as the second reflection region.

7 to 23 are views showing the operation of the light guide plate 250 and peripheral devices.
As shown in FIG. 7, when the light guide plate lamp 201 of the first light source 200 is turned on, all of the three lines L1 (all of the half heart shapes) in the first reflection region E1 and 3 in the second reflection region E2. A part of the line R1 of the main line (a part of a half-heart shape) emits light. This is a light source lamp 201 of the first light source 200 at a position corresponding to the entire three-line line L1 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R1 in the second reflection region E2. This is because the first reflective surface formed toward the surface is formed. The irradiation range θ of each light guide plate lamp is about 70 degrees (hereinafter, the same applies). Further, when different reflective surfaces are formed in the same region, different reflective surfaces are formed in different layers (for example, different reflective surfaces are formed in the first layer and the second layer).

As shown in FIG. 8, when the light guide plate lamp 202 of the first light source 200 is turned on, the entire three-line line L2 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R2 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is a light guide plate lamp 201 of the first light source 200 at a position corresponding to the entire three-line line L2 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R2 in the second reflection region E2. This is because the second reflective surface formed toward the surface is formed. The three-line line L2 is a line outside the three-line line L1 (see FIG. 7), and the three-line line R2 is a line outside the three-line line R1 (see FIG. 7).

As shown in FIG. 9, when the light guide plate lamp 203 of the first light source 200 is turned on, the entire three-line line L3 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R3 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is a light source lamp 203 of the first light source 200 at a position corresponding to the entire three-line line L3 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R3 in the second reflection region E2. This is because the third reflective surface formed toward the surface is formed. The three-line line L3 is a line outside the three-line line L2 (see FIG. 8), and the three-line line R3 is a line outside the three-line line R2 (see FIG. 8).

As shown in FIG. 10, when the light guide plate lamp 204 of the first light source 200 is turned on, the entire three-line line L4 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R4 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is a light guide plate lamp 204 of the first light source 200 at a position corresponding to the entire three-line line L4 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R4 in the second reflection region E2. This is because the fourth reflective surface formed toward the surface is formed. The three-line line L4 is a line outside the three-line line L3 (see FIG. 9), and the three-line line R4 is a line outside the three-line line R3 (see FIG. 9).

As shown in FIG. 11, when the light guide plate lamp 205 of the first light source 200 is turned on, the entire three-line line L5 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R5 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is a light source lamp 205 for the first light source 200 at a position corresponding to the entire three-line line L5 in the first reflection region E1 and a part of the three-line line R5 in the second reflection region E2. This is because the fifth reflective surface formed toward the surface is formed. The three-line line L5 is a line outside the three-line line L4 (see FIG. 10), and the three-line line R5 is a line outside the three-line line R4 (see FIG. 10).

In this way, by lighting the light guide plate lamp 201 to the light guide plate lamp 205 of the first light source 200 in order, three (triple) heart shapes (all of the inner heart left region and the inner heart right region) are formed. The pattern of (part) can be gradually enlarged and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 12, when the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300 is turned on, a part of the three lines L1 (a part of the half heart shape) in the first reflection area E1 and the second reflection area E2. All of the three lines R1 (all of the half-heart shape) in the above emit light. This is formed in a part of the three-line line L1 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R1 in the second reflection region E2 toward the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300. This is because the first reflective surface is formed.

As shown in FIG. 13, when the light guide plate lamp 302 of the second light source 300 is turned on, a part of the three-line line L2 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R2 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is formed in a part of the three-line line L2 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R2 in the second reflection region E2 toward the light guide plate lamp 302 of the second light source 300. This is because the second reflective surface is formed.

As shown in FIG. 14, when the light guide plate lamp 303 of the second light source 300 is turned on, a part of the three-line line L3 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R3 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is formed in a part of the three-line line L3 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R3 in the second reflection region E2 toward the light guide plate lamp 303 of the second light source 300. This is because the formed third reflective surface is formed.

As shown in FIG. 15, when the light guide plate lamp 304 of the second light source 300 is turned on, a part of the three-line line L4 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R4 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is formed in a part of the three-line line L4 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R4 in the second reflection region E2 toward the light guide plate lamp 304 of the second light source 300. This is because the fourth reflective surface is formed.

As shown in FIG. 16, when the light guide plate lamp 305 of the second light source 300 is turned on, a part of the three-line line L5 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R5 in the second reflection region E2. And emit light. This is formed in a part of the three-line line L5 in the first reflection region E1 and the entire three-line line R5 in the second reflection region E2 toward the light guide plate lamp 305 of the second light source 300. This is because the fifth reflective surface is formed.

In this way, by lighting the light guide plate lamp 301 to the light guide plate lamp 305 of the second light source 300 in order, three (triple) heart shapes (a part of the inner heart left region and the inner heart right region) are turned on in order. The design of (all of) can be gradually enlarged and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the light guide plate lamp 201 of the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300 are turned on, all of the three lines L1 in the first reflection region E1 and the second line L1 are lit. All of the three lines R1 in the reflection region E2 emit light. As a result, the three heart-shaped patterns are completely displayed.

As shown in FIG. 18, when the light guide plate lamp 202 of the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamp 302 of the second light source 300 are turned on, all of the three lines L2 in the first reflection region E1 and the second line L2. All of the three lines R2 in the reflection region E2 emit light. As a result, three heart-shaped patterns having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 17 are completely displayed.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the light guide plate lamp 203 of the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamp 303 of the second light source 300 are turned on, all of the three lines L3 in the first reflection region E1 and the second line L3. All of the three lines R3 in the reflection region E2 emit light. As a result, three heart-shaped patterns having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 18 are completely displayed.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the light guide plate lamp 204 of the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamp 304 of the second light source 300 are turned on, all of the three lines L4 in the first reflection region E1 and the second line L4. All of the three lines R4 in the reflection region E2 emit light. As a result, three heart-shaped patterns having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 19 are completely displayed.

As shown in FIG. 21, when the light guide plate lamp 205 of the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamp 305 of the second light source 300 are turned on, all of the three lines L5 in the first reflection region E1 and the second line L5. All of the three lines R5 in the reflection region E2 emit light. As a result, three heart-shaped patterns having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 20 are displayed.

The above is the configuration and operation of the first light source 200 and the second light source 300. Although not particularly shown, the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500 also operate in the same manner as the first light source 200 and the second light source 300.

Then, as shown in FIG. 22, when the light guide plate lamp 401 of the third light source 400 and the light guide plate lamp 501 of the fourth light source 500 are turned on, the entire line L6 of the single line in the third reflection region E3 is lit. All of the single line R6 in the fourth reflection region E4 emits light. As a result, one heart-shaped pattern having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 21 is displayed. Similarly, from the combination of the light guide plate lamp 402 of the third light source 400 and the light guide plate lamp 502 of the fourth light source 500, the light guide plate lamp 405 of the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500 are guided. Up to the combination with the light plate lamp 505, one heart-shaped pattern that gradually increases in size is displayed.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 23, when the light guide plate lamp 410 of the third light source 400 and the light guide plate lamp 510 of the fourth light source 500 are turned on, the entire two-line line L10 in the third reflection region E3 and the entire line L10. All of the two lines R10 in the fourth reflection region E4 emit light. As a result, two heart-shaped patterns having a larger shape than the heart-shaped pattern shown in FIG. 22 are displayed. Similarly, from the combination of the light guide plate lamp 405 of the third light source 400 and the light guide plate lamp 505 of the fourth light source 500, the guide plate lamp 409 of the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500 are guided. Up to the combination with the light plate lamp 509, two heart-shaped patterns that gradually increase in size are displayed.

As described above, in the first reflection region E1, not only the first reflection surface corresponding to the line L1 of the three lines toward the light guide plate lamp 201 of the first light source 200 (see FIG. 7), but also the second light source 300. A first reflective surface corresponding to the three-line line R1 toward the light source lamp 301 is also arranged (see FIG. 12).

Further, in the second reflection region E2, not only the second reflection surface corresponding to the three-line line R1 toward the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300 (see FIG. 12), but also the induction of the first light source 200. A second reflective surface corresponding to the three-line line L1 toward the light plate lamp 201 is also arranged (see FIG. 7).

As shown in FIG. 5, the five light guide plate lamps 201 to 205 of the first light source 200 and the five light guide plate lamps 301 to 305 of the second light source 300 are located in the left direction (predetermined direction). They are arranged side by side in order.

Then, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, in the first reflection region E1, from the first reflection surface toward the light guide plate lamp 201 of the first light source 200 to the light guide plate lamp 205 of the first light source 200. Up to the fifth reflective surface to be directed are arranged in order toward the left (direction in which the left region of the inner heart expands).

Further, as shown in FIGS. 12 to 16, in the second reflection region E2, from the first reflection surface facing the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300 to the light guide plate lamp 305 of the second light source 300. Up to the fifth reflective surface to be directed are arranged in order toward the right direction (the direction in which the inner heart right region expands) opposite to the left direction.

FIG. 24 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower left position in the window 4a). That is, the game board unit 8 is provided with, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a at a lower left position in the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device 35. And a game state display device 38 is provided. Of these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, alternately lights two lamps (LEDs) to display the normal symbol in a variable manner, and turns on or off the lamp to stop and display the normal 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 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 fluctuation of the normal symbol has not yet started at that time.

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

Further, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a each have 0 to 4 lamps (LEDs), for example, 0 to 4 depending on the display mode composed of a combination of turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two lamps (LEDs). Displays the number of stored memory (means for displaying the number of stored memory). 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.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is displayed after being increased by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the upper start winning opening 26, the game ball enters the upper starting winning opening 26. It changes to the mode (up to 4), and each time the change of the special symbol is started with the ball entering, the display mode is changed by 1 each. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is increased by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28, the game ball enters the lower start winning opening 28a. (Up to 4 pieces), and each time the change of the special symbol is started with the entry of the ball as a trigger, the display state is changed by 1 piece. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is not lit (the number of storages is 0), the upper start winning opening 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). 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 game ball is inserted into the variable start winning device 28 in a state where the second special symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). The display mode does not change even if the ball is used. That is, the number of storages (maximum of 4) represented by the display modes of the special symbol operation 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, LEDs corresponding to the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d, the time saving state display lamp 38e, and the launch position designation lamp 38f, respectively. 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.

[Control configuration]
Next, the configuration related to the control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 25 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 an upper start winning opening switch 80 and a lower starting winning opening corresponding to the upper 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 entry of the game ball into the upper starting winning opening 26 and the variable starting winning opening device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28a). Further, the first count switch 84 is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the first variable winning device 30 (first large winning opening) and counting the number thereof. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the second variable winning device 31 (second large winning opening 31b) and counting the number thereof.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 has a first winning opening switch 86 that detects the entry of a game ball into the normal winning opening 22, and a second winning opening switch that detects the entry of a game ball into the ordinary winning opening 24. It is equipped with 81. Regarding the three ordinary winning openings 22 on the left side, a configuration in which a common winning opening switch 86 is used is given as an example. For example, three winning opening switches are installed to play a game ball for each ordinary winning opening 22. The incoming ball may be detected individually.

In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 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 signals from the gate switch 78, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, the first winning opening switch 86, and the second winning opening switch 81 are It is transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and the panel relay terminal plate 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, connection terminals, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

The above-mentioned ordinary symbol display device 33, ordinary symbol operation 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, in the game board unit 8, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first large winning opening solenoid 90, and the second special winning opening solenoid 90 correspond to the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. A large winning opening solenoid 97 is provided. These solenoids 88, 90, and 97 operate (excite) based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72, and open / close (operate) the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. Let me do it. The solenoids 88, 90, and 97 are also relayed by the panel relay terminal plate 87, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

In addition, the glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the integrated door unit 4, and the plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the inner frame assembly 7. When the integrated door unit 4 is independently opened, 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.

A payout control device 92 is provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which the payout control CPU 94 is mounted, and the payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as ROM 96 and RAM 98 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and 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 paid-out game ball is sent to the above-mentioned 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 balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned on, and the full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, the payout control CPU 94 temporarily suspends further prize ball operations even if it receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and stores the remaining number of unpaid prize balls in the RAM 98. The memory of the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is turned off, and even if a power failure (including a momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the remaining number of unpaid prize balls will not be lost. ..

Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with a firing control board 108. Further, a ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the saucer unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, 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 saucer unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Further, the launch solenoid 110 strikes the game balls sent to the launch position, and continuously (intermittently) launches the game balls one by one toward the game area 8a as described above. The firing interval of the game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 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 launch stop switch 116 generates a launch 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, the 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 the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 to provide various lamps 46 to 52, the board lamp 53, and the guide. The processing is performed such that the lamp 201 for a light plate or the like is made to emit light, or the sound effect, the sound, or the like is actually output from the speakers 54, 55, 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, various lamps include a decorative / directing board lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8 and a light guide plate lamp 201. -510 (201-205, 301-305, 401-410, 501-510) are included. The board lamp 53 corresponds to the LED built in the above-mentioned effect unit, the LED built in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, etc., and the light guide plate lamps 201 to Reference numeral 510 corresponds to an LED for causing the light guide plate 250 to emit light. 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. Further, the above-mentioned jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame illuminated substrate 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated substrate 136. .. Here, an example in which the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136 is given, but when the above-mentioned saucer illumination board is installed, the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are used for the saucer illumination. It may be connected to the board.

In addition, the panel lighting board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and the movable body motor 57 and the light guide plate lamps 201 to 510 are connected to the panel lighting board 138 in addition to the board surface 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 surface lamp 53, the light guide plate lamps 201 to 510, and the movable body motor 57, respectively, via the panel illuminated board 138.

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, 200, etc. 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. included. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information regarding the effect (for example, the effect number) to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 receiving this transmits a concrete image for effect based on the basic information. Control the display.

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

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

26 and 27 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, a special symbol destination determination effect command, an operation memory count increase effect command, and an operation memory number) to the effect control device 124. (Decrease production command, count cut counter remaining number command, special game state specification command, etc.) are 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. 27 (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 backs up the work area of the RAM 76 when the output port buffer corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, the second special winning opening solenoid 97, etc. is cleared. Back up the entire contents except the valid judgment flag and the sum check buffer, and save the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup valid determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops the process (NOP). On the other hand, if the power cutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU is made to execute such a process when a power failure occurs as an 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) the 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. 29), 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. 29), 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. 29). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check process]
FIG. 28 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 cutoff detection switch input port, and confirms whether or not the main power 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: As described above, the main control CPU 72 is used as a test signal terminal and a command control signal in addition to the output ports corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, and the second special winning opening solenoid 97. Clear the corresponding output port buffer.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76 excluding the backup 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 the 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. 26).

[Interrupt management process (timer interrupt process)]
Next, the interrupt management process (timer interrupt process) will be described. FIG. 29 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 upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, the first winning opening switch 86, the second. Reads the input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal from the winning port switch 81.

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 determination of the event that occurred during the game is determined based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the upper start winning opening switch 80, and the lower starting winning opening switch 82. Then, another process is executed according to the event that has 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 upper start winning opening switch 80 or the lower 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 upper starting winning opening switch 80 or the lower 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. The details of the special symbol game processing will be described later using yet another flowchart.

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. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (a random number determined per normal symbol) acquired in the previous switch input event process (step S204) triggered by the passage of the start gate 20, and is in the normal symbol game process. Reads a random number value from the memory and determines whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol is variablely displayed by the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined hit mode, and then the main control CPU 72 presses the normal electric accessory solenoid 88. Exciting to operate the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece operating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a stop display of the normal symbol in a mode of deviation after the fluctuation display.

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

Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs a prize ball content command for transmitting the content of the number of prize balls to the effect control device 124 in the prize ball payout process. When a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (for 15 game balls). Generate a prize ball content command. Further, when the winning detection signal is input from the second winning opening switch 81 corresponding to the normal winning opening 24, the prize ball content command corresponding to the second profit (for four game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 29).

[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 lottery and the expected value of the total number of game balls (the average number of balls obtained in a series of periods from the first hit to the end of the time reduction state). It may be set. Furthermore, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the expected value of the total number of game balls won, the number of opening of the big winning opening, the opening time of the big winning opening, the maximum number of winning of the big winning opening, the number of winning balls of the big winning opening are specified. When the above condition is satisfied, a jackpot may be set in which the number of game balls acquired by one jackpot is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of acquired game balls.

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

In this 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. 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 port in which the drive signals, test signals, etc. of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, and the second special winning opening solenoid 97 stored in the port output request buffer are combined. Output.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 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 (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212 are executed as timer interrupt processes is given, but these processes are incorporated into the main loop of the CPU and executed. There are also known programming examples.

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

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. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 29). 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 upper 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 lower start 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 major winning opening of the first variable winning device 30. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 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, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S21a.

Step S21a: 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 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 S21b to execute the second major winning opening counting process. In the second big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 during the big hit game. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 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, acquires a random number per normal symbol. do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the number of normal symbol operation storages 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 winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 29).

[1st special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol storage update process (step S12 in FIG. 30). 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 determination 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. 30). 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. 29).

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. (Memory means, lottery element storage means). An order (for example, first to fourth) is set for the plurality of sections, and if all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored in order from the second section. The random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the 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. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed for the ball entering during the big hit.

Step S37: 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 internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the first special symbol acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for making a judgment (so-called "look-ahead"). The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

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

Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number increase effect command for 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. This process is for transmitting 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 to the effect control device 124. It is a thing (memory number notification means).

When the above procedure is completed or the number of first special symbol operation storages has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 30).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol storage update process (step S16 in FIG. 30). 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. 30). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage number 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. 31), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 29) 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. 31) 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. 31) 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. 31) 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. To memorize as a set (memory means). The storage method is the same as in step S35 (FIG. 31) 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 determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the incoming ball that also occurs during the big hit.

Step S46: When it is not during the 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. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

Step S47: After returning from the acquisition effect determination process, 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 symbol 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 is combined with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number increase effect command 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, preparations are made for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command, the operation memory number increase effect command, the start opening winning sound control command, and the like to the effect control device 124 with respect to the second special symbol (memory number notification means). .. Further, when the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 30).

[Production judgment processing at the time of acquisition]
FIG. 33 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. 31 and step S46 in FIG. 32). Execution means, look-ahead means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when the ball enters the upper 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 related to the first special symbol or the process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the content of the process will be described according to each procedure.

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

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the 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. 31) or the second special symbol storage update process (step S45 in FIG. 32). ..

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

Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the deviation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects prior determination information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) 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) as described above. In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of 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 after executing the determination result management process in step S82, and calls the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 30) or the second special symbol. The process returns to the memory update process (FIG. 31). 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 S56.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number 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. 31) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 32). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 above, and it is determined from the result whether the jackpot type corresponds to the "probability variation symbol" or the "normal symbol". The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol storage update process (FIG. 31) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 32).

[Special pattern game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 29) will be described. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game processing. The special symbol game processing includes execution selection processing (step S1000), special symbol change pre-processing (step S2000), special symbol change processing (step S3000), special symbol stop display processing (step S4000), and variable winning device at the time of big hit. The configuration includes a group of subroutines (program modules) for the management process (step S5000) and the small hit variable winning device management process (step S6000). 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 pre-processing 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 special symbol stop display processing (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 performs drive control 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 at the time of a big hit is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the big hit in the above-mentioned processing during the special symbol stop display. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 9-round jackpot or a 16-round jackpot, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot gaming state (special gaming state advantageous to the player). During the jackpot game, the jump destination is set in the jackpot 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 big hit variable winning device management process, the first big winning opening solenoid 90 operates continuously for a certain period of time (for example, for 29 seconds or 0.1 seconds or until the winning of 10 game balls is counted). It is excited over a number of times (for example, 6 times and 10 times), whereby the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). Further, after the operation of the first variable winning device 30, the second large winning opening solenoid 97 is set in advance for a certain period of time (for example, for 29 seconds or 0.1 seconds or until counting the winning of 10 game balls). It is excited over a number of continuous operations (for example, 3 times), whereby the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (operation of a special electric accessory). Further, in the case of a 16-round jackpot, after the operation of the second variable winning device 31, the first jackpot solenoid 90 counts for a certain period of time (for example, 29 seconds or 10 game balls). ), It is excited over a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 10 times), whereby the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a predetermined pattern (operation of a special electric accessory). During this period, by intensively winning the game balls to the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to win a large number of prize balls at once (special game). Execution means). It should be noted that the opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit is referred to as "round", and if the number of continuous operations is 16 times in total, these are referred to as "16 rounds". May be generically referred to. In this embodiment, not only the 16-round jackpot but also the 9-round jackpot is provided as the type of jackpot, but for the 16-round jackpot and the 9-round jackpot, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided. ) May be provided.

Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the big hit variable winning device management process, the first variable winning device 30 for one round is set. Alternatively, the value of the round number counter is incremented by 1 each time the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 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. 29). 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 (high probability state, time shortening state) after the big hit game is finished based on the game state flag (probability fluctuation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag) ( High probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous state transition means). In the "high probability state", the probability fluctuation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about 10 times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). Further, in the "time reduction state", the time reduction function is activated, the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes high probability as described above, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is set. Is extended and the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric chew support is performed). It should be noted that the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state" may be shifted to only one of them in terms of control, or may be shifted according to both of them.

Step S6000: The variable winning device management process at the time of a small hit is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit in the previous process during the special symbol stop display. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the small hit game state. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the small hit variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variation display of the special symbol is not performed. In the small hit game, although the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) in a predetermined opening time (for example, 0.1 seconds), most of the winnings in the first big winning opening occur. do not do.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for example, as a plurality of winning types, (1) "16 round probability variation jackpot", (2) "9 round normal jackpot", and (3) "9 round probability variation jackpot" are provided. A big hit other than 16 rounds and 9 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, "16 round probability variation jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot of "16 round probability variation symbol", "9 round normal jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot of "9 round normal symbol", and "9 round probability variation jackpot" corresponds to "9 rounds". Corresponds to the big hit of "probability variation pattern". Therefore, in the following, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as the "winning symbol".

[Opening operation pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of an opening operation pattern of the variable winning device. The contents of the opening of the large winning openings corresponding to each winning symbol will be explained.

[9 round normal design]
In the above special symbol stop display processing, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "9 round normal symbol", an opportunity to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). .. In this case, the first large winning opening of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this is nine rounds. Continue to the eyes. Therefore, in the big hit game of "9 rounds normal symbol", 9 rounds of balls (prize balls) are given to the player. In the case of "9 round normal symbol", even if the "time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "time reduction function" is activated after the big hit game is completed to "time". The privilege of shifting to the "shortened state" is given to the player.

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

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

In addition, in the case of the "9-round probability variation symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" is activated after the end of the big hit game, and the player is given the privilege of shifting to the "high probability state". Furthermore, in the case of "9 round probability variation symbol", even if the "time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "time reduction function" can be activated after the big hit game is completed. , The privilege of shifting to the "time reduction state" is given to the player.

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

In addition, in the case of corresponding to the "16 round probability variation symbol", the "probability fluctuation function" is activated after the end of the big hit game, and the privilege of shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player. Furthermore, in the case of "16 round probability variation symbol", even if the "time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "time reduction function" is activated after the big hit game is completed. , The privilege of shifting to the "time reduction state" is given to the player.

In any case, if the winning symbol corresponds to either the above "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol", the privilege of shifting the internal state to the "high probability time shortening state" after the big hit game is completed is a game. It is given to the person. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the "high probability time shortened state" and the winning symbol corresponds to either "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol", it is "high" even after the big hit game is completed. The "probability time shortened state" is continued (restarted). On the other hand, when the winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned "9 round normal symbol", the internal state shifts to the "low probability time shortened state" after the big hit game is completed.

Further, in the operation pattern shown in this table, the opening time, the interval time between rounds, and the ending time are the same "5.0 seconds", "1.5 seconds", and "7.0 seconds", respectively. .. The opening time is the waiting time from the start of the big hit game to the opening of the big winning opening, and the inter-round interval time is the waiting time set between the rounds and the ending. The time is a waiting time set after the final round of the jackpot game is completed.

[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 first variable winning device 30 opens and closes (special game execution means). That is, in the above-mentioned special symbol stop display processing, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of small hit, the small hit game (the first variable winning device 30 operates) in the normal probability state or the high probability state. The game to be played) is executed. In such a small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but the winning to the first large winning opening is hardly generated. In addition, even if the small hit game is completed, the "probability fluctuation function" does not operate and the "time reduction function" does not operate, so the system shifts to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state". No perks are granted (not a prerequisite for this). Also, even if you win a small hit in the "high probability state", the "high probability state" does not end after the small hit game ends, and even if you win the small hit in the "time reduction state", the small hit The "time reduction state" does not end after the winning game ends (except when the maximum number of times is reached). In the present embodiment, the game specification is such that a small hit is set, but the game specification may be such that a small hit is not set.

[Special symbol change pre-processing]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the 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. 29). 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 number, big hit symbol random number) 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, the main control CPU 72 reads the random numbers in order from the first section, erases (consumes) them, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. 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. 29), 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.

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 (lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time differs between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated), and in the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded by about 10 times compared to the normal probability state. To. Then, 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 (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 "high probability state" or "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the "small hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the first variable winning device 30 as in the "big hit". The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different or the same between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated). 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.

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 a big hit (for example, 01H is set) or a small hit (for example, 0AH is set) based on 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. 29).

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. 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 in the "time reduction state". Check if it exists. In the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is basically set to the shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) except when the reach fluctuation is performed (reduced fluctuation time determining means). ). Further, even if it is not in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is based on, for example, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, except when the reach is varied. It may be shortened (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 is 2 → 5). About seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 3 → 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. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of deviation) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of deviation in the stop symbol display timer.

In the present embodiment, when a non-winning result is obtained as a result of the internal lottery, control is performed such that, for example, a "reach effect" is generated and the result is lost, or a "reach effect" is not generated and the player is lost. It is supposed to be. Then, in the "disappearance variation pattern selection table", variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects, for example, "non-reach effect" and "reach effect", are defined in advance, and if non-winning is applicable, the variation pattern is defined. One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, and a super reach production.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of loss]
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time reduction state) at the time of loss.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when non-winning is applicable) in the low probability non-time reduction state (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "1" to "8" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "1" to "5" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "6" and "7" are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reach. Corresponding, the fluctuation pattern number "8" corresponds to the fluctuation pattern that is out of order after super reach. The fluctuation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation (hereinafter, the same applies).

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

Then, the main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value in order with the "comparison value" in the above fluctuation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the comparison value is used. Select the corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random value at that time is "190", the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101", so that the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value " 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state) at the time of loss.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) in the low probability time shortened state (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "21" to "28" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "21" to "25" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "26" to "28" are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reach. It corresponds. However, since the fluctuation pattern numbers "21" to "25" are non-reach fluctuations due to time-reduced fluctuations, a shortened fluctuation time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) is set as the fluctuation time in the normal state. ..

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

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability time shortened state) at the time of loss.
This selection table is a table used at the time of loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) in the high probability time shortened state (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "41" to "48" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "41" to "45" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "46" to "48" are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reach. It corresponds. However, the fluctuation pattern numbers "41" to "45" are extremely shortened fluctuation times (for example, about 0.5 seconds) as the fluctuation time in the normal state in order to realize high-speed fluctuation in the high probability time shortened state. Is set.

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

[See FIG. 36: Special symbol change preprocessing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is missed (when other than non-winning), but when the determination result is a big hit (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 jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type 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, which are selectively determined at the time of a big hit, are prepared. The breakdown of the three types is "9-round normal symbol", "9-round probable variation symbol", and "16-round probable variation symbol". It should be noted that each winning symbol of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "9 round normal symbol", "9 round normal symbol a", "9 round normal symbol b", "9 round normal symbol c", and so on.

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

[First special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 40 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 value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value "35", "60", "5" has the denominator as 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. Further, in the second column from the left, "9-round normal symbol", "9-round probable variation symbol", and "16-round probabilistic symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting "9 round normal symbol" is 35/100 (= 35%), and the ratio of selecting "9 round probability variation symbol" is 100 minutes. 60 (= 60%), and the ratio of selecting "16 round probability variation symbol" is 5/100 (= 5%). 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 and EVENT value. 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", "02H", and "03H" 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 "9 round normal symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described by "B1H01H". It will be.

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the 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 "9-round normal symbol" is applicable, the number of time reductions is 100 times. In addition, when it corresponds to either "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol", the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.

[Second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 41 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 "35", "15", "50" has a denominator of 100. Corresponds to the ratio in the case of. Similarly, in the second column from the left, "9-round normal symbol", "9-round probable variation symbol", and "16-round probabilistic symbol" corresponding to the distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting "9 round normal symbol" is 35/100 (= 35%), and the ratio of selecting "9 round probability variation symbol" is It is 15/100 (= 15%), and the ratio of selecting "16 round probability variation symbol" is 50/100 (= 50%).

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 and 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 values "01H", "02H", and "03H" of the lower byte represent the types of the corresponding winning symbols in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, if the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol and "16 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described by "B2H03H". ..

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124, 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. The number of time reductions is the same as the value shown in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table.

As described above, the selection ratio of the winning symbols differs between the first special symbol and the second special symbol, for example, for the following reasons. That is, when the state shifts to the "high probability time reduction state" or the "low probability time reduction state", the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time reduction function is not activated). The working memory for the second special symbol is more likely to be accumulated than the working memory for the first special symbol. In this case, if the selection ratio of the "16 round probability variation symbol" is increased for the second special symbol, it becomes easier to win the "16 round probability variation symbol" than in the normal case, so that the profit of the player can be increased accordingly. There is an advantage.

[See FIG. 36: 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.

In the present embodiment, when a 9-round jackpot or a 16-round jackpot is found as a result of the internal lottery, for example, a "reach effect" is generated in the production to control the jackpot. The "big hit fluctuation pattern selection table" defines fluctuation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of "reach effects", and if a 9-round jackpot or a 16-round jackpot is applicable, one of them is specified. The fluctuation pattern will be selected. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, and a super reach production. Basically, the super reach production has a longer fluctuation time and the expectation of winning is higher than the reach production such as the normal reach production and the long reach production. Further, at the time of winning in the state where the time reduction function is activated, even if the fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time (the fluctuation pattern without the reach effect) is selected without selecting the fluctuation pattern having a long fluctuation time. good.

[Example of jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability non-time reduction state (variation pattern defining means). In this embodiment, the variation pattern is not distinguished between the 9-round jackpot and the 16-round jackpot, but a dedicated variation pattern selection table may be used for each jackpot (hereinafter, the same applies). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "61" to "68" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The variation pattern numbers "61" to "66" correspond to the variation patterns that are hit by the super reach effect, and the variation pattern numbers "67" and "68" correspond to the reach effect (other than the super reach effect). Reach production) is performed and it corresponds to the fluctuation pattern that becomes a hit.

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

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low probability time shortened state (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "81" to "88" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

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

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

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability time shortened state (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, the "comparison value" and the "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "101" to "108" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "101" to "108" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit by the reach effect. It should be noted that, at the time of winning in the high probability time shortened state, a variation pattern that is a hit without the reach effect may be set.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random value with the "comparison value" in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random value at that time is "190", the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101", so that the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value " 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “102” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See FIG. 36: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of a big hit. In this process, when the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol", the main control CPU 72 probabilistically changes as a game state flag. The value (01H) of the function operation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability fluctuation function operation means). Further, when the type of the winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is "9 round normal symbol", the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag as the game state flag (low probability state setting means, Low probability state transition means, probability state setting means).

Further, in the main control CPU 72, the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is either "9 round normal symbol", "9 round probability variation symbol", or "16 round probability variation symbol". If there is, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag as the game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means).

Further, in the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the jackpot stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of 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 winning symbol (small hit stop symbol number) at the time of small hit based on the big hit symbol random number. 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 special symbol selection table at the time of the small hit (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.

[Winning symbol at the time of small hit]
In the present embodiment, there is only one type of winning symbol at the time of small hit, "double open small hit symbol". However, in addition to this, another type such as "1 time open small hit symbol" or "3 times open small hit symbol" may be prepared. As mentioned above, the "small hit" as a result of the internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state", so it is essential for this type of pachinko machine. It is possible to provide a "one-time open small hit symbol" without being bound by the provisions of "two rounds (two-time opening) or more".

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 first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined 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 reach fluctuation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or the fluctuation pattern equivalent to that in the case of off-normal fluctuation can be selected.

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 first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small hit stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of 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 the 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. 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. 34: 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. 36). 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.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 45 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 operation storage counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than "0" (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 36), 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 oldest existing working memory corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, if the storage area of the RAM 76 is accessed and the oldest working memory in the storage area does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 is next. The process 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 oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the special symbol whose storage area is to be shifted. .. 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 operation storage number reduction effect command set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the effect control device 124 (storage number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 36).

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 46 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. 34) 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 (variable 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. Here, the symbol stop command (variation stop command) is a command indicating that the fluctuation of the special symbol has stopped (the fluctuation time of the special symbol has ended). 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 the "big hit variable winning device management process". The main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting various functions to be inactive in this process. Specifically, the probability fluctuation function is deactivated and the time saving function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (major role) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time reduction state.

Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "starting a big role (during a big hit game)" as an internal state flag on the control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "16 round probability variation symbol", the value corresponding to "16 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol", a value representing "9 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. 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.

Step S4500: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation count command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type (stop symbol number) of the jackpot symbol determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 36). For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "16 rounds probability variation symbol", the continuous operation count command is generated as a value representing "16 rounds". Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "9 rounds". The generated continuous operation count command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above.

When the above procedure is completed at the time of the 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 small hit variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table. set.

Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit 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 is in progress. The state command indicating that the small hit is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number-cut counter. In the "count cut counter", the respective counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state". Although the number of times is cut here, the value of the number of times cut counter in the "high probability state" can be set to an extremely huge value (for example, 10,000 times or more). By setting such a huge value, it is possible to stochastically guarantee that the "high probability state" will continue until the next winning is obtained. In addition, when there is only a single "time reduction state" instead of the "high probability state", the number-of-counting counter is set to a standard numerical value (for example, 100 times).

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

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (1 subtracts) the number-of-count counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not 0. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the count cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, when the value of the number-of-times cut counter becomes 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. It is the probability fluctuation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag that is reset, but the value of the count-off counter that counts the high probability state in the "high probability state" is not practically 0. , It is the time saving function activation flag that is reset in practice. As a result, the time reduction state and the high probability state end after the stop display of the special symbol. After completing the above procedure, the process returns to the special symbol game processing.

[Display output management process]
Next, FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 29) 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 and outputs a drive signal applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a. It is a process to be done.

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d and the time saving state display lamp 38e, respectively, according to the values of the probability fluctuation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability fluctuation function operation flag when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d. The probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d keeps lighting until the jackpot game related to the special symbol is started, or until the probability fluctuation function is turned off after the fluctuation display of the special symbol is performed a specified number of times, and then the non-probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d is turned on. It can be switched (off) to the display. On the other hand, 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 time reduction status display lamp 38e, regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the firing position designation 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 the big hit game or the small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. .. Further, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f in addition to the time saving state display lamp 38e described above. Output. In addition, when the launch position designation lamp 38f shifts to the "time reduction state" after the big hit game, it lights from the start of the big hit game to the end of the "time reduction state", and does not light when the "time reduction state" ends. 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)". If the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "9 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing "9 rounds (9R)".

[Variable winning device management process at the time of big hit]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process at the time of big hit will be described. FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of a big hit. The jackpot variable winning device management process includes the jackpot game process selection process (step S5100), the jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5200), the jackpot opening / closing operation process (step S5300), and the jackpot opening / closing operation process. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for the winning opening closing process (step S5400) and the jackpot end processing (step S5500).

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

[Large winning opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a big hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed at the time of a big hit and the opening time of each. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a symbol-specific opening pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the opening pattern of the large winning opening (opening number of each round and opening time), interval time between rounds, and count number in one round (maximum) according to the corresponding winning symbol of this time. Set the number of winnings), opening time, ending time, etc. The opening pattern of the big winning opening for each winning symbol, the interval time between rounds, the opening time, and the ending time are as described in the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 35. The number of counts (maximum number of winnings) in one round is basically about 10, but winnings rarely occur during opening for an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds) (impossible). It's not, but it's extremely difficult).

Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the winning symbol at the time of the jackpot selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 36). Specifically, if the major classification "16 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16. Further, if "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 9. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value (“8” for 9 times, “15” for 16 times) on the program.

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

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

Step S5212: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening / closing operation process, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 48).

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing at the time of big hit]
FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a large winning opening opening / closing operation process at the time of a big hit. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

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

Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first prize opening or the second prize opening. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 or the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is output based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 35. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 49) is executed.

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

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

Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round during the big hit). If the count number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process. Then, when the jackpot variable winning device management process is executed next, the jump destination is set to the jackpot opening / closing operation process at the present stage, so that the main control CPU 72 performs the above steps S5301 to S5310. Run repeatedly.

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

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

Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the big winning opening interval timer set in the above-mentioned big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 in FIG. 49).

Step S5315: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the grand winning opening interval time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the large winning opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the large winning opening interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control The CPU 72 returns to the end address of the variable winning device management process (FIG. 48) at the time of a big hit. Then, when the big hit big winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the step S5314 is directly executed by jumping from the first step S5301. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the large winning opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5318.

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

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the number of times set in the current round. Here, the "number of times set in the current round" is determined, for example, "the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened a plurality of times in one round during the big hit". This is to correspond to the open pattern.

When the pattern of repeating the opening / closing operation a plurality of times in one round is not adopted, the "number of times set in the current round" in each round is set once in each round. Therefore, in each round, the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), so that the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

On the other hand, when the pattern of repeating the opening / closing operation a plurality of times in one round is adopted, 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 jackpot variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the jackpot opening / closing operation process at the present stage. Run repeatedly. As a result, the increment of the open count counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5322.

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

[Large winning opening closing process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the big winning opening closing process at the time of a big hit. This big hit big winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the round number counter after 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 (1 to 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 jackpot opening / closing operation process at the time of a big hit.

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

Next, when the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the jackpot opening / closing operation process, which is the next jump destination, in the jackpot game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 48). To execute. Then, after the execution of the big hit big winning opening opening / closing operation process, the big hit big winning opening closing process is executed, and the main control CPU 72 again executes the big hit big winning opening closing process, and the above steps S5402 to S5408 are performed. Run repeatedly. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (9 or 16 times).

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

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

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

[End processing at the time of big hit]
FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the jackpot end processing. This big hit end process is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of big hit. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

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

Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the end time at the time of a big hit has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the jackpot end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 48).

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

Step S5503, Step S5504: The main control CPU 72 resets (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" from the internal state flag here, and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control process. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation count status.

Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 36) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5508: When the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of probability fluctuations (for example, 10000 times). The set value of the number of probability fluctuations is stored in, for example, the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-mentioned number-cutting counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the special symbol variation (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, if a huge number of times of about 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance that non-winning will continue to that extent (the winning probability at high probability is, for example, 1/20 to 1/39). (Degree), in effect, the high probability state will continue until the next winning. On the contrary, when a practical upper limit is set in the high probability state, the number of probability fluctuations is set to a realistic number (for example, about 70 times) (so-called number-cut probability change). If the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 36) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5512: Then, when the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the time reduction number (for example, 100 times or 10000 times). The value of the set time reduction number of times is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The time reduction number set here is the upper limit number of times for shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol in the subsequent games. If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

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

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

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 34) 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 at the time of a big hit.

[Variable winning device management process for small hits]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit will be described.
FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit. The small hit variable winning device management process includes a small hit game process selection process (step S6100), a small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200), and a small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300). , The configuration includes a group of subroutines for the small hit large winning opening closing process (step S6400) and the small hit ending process (step S6500).

Step S6100: In the small hit game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of step S6200 to step S6500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the small hit variable winning device management process as the return destination address in the stack pointer. .. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 has not been started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. do. On the other hand, if the small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300) as the next jump destination, and the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process. If the opening / closing operation process of the winning opening is completed, the large winning opening closing process (step S6400) at the time of a small hit is selected as the next jump destination. Further, when the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process and the small hit large winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set continuous operation number, the main control CPU 72 performs the small hit end process (step) as the next jump destination. Select S6500). Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Large winning opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed at the time of a small hit and the time for each opening. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S6212: The main control CPU 72 sets the “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the "small hit opening pattern", for example, an opening pattern of "0.1 second opening" is set for the first time and the second time, respectively. Since there is no concept of "round" for "small hit", "opening pattern" is also described as "first opening" and "second opening".

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

Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit release timer. The value of the timer set here is the opening time for each operation when the first variable winning device 30 is operated. In this embodiment, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hit opening timer as described above, and in such an opening time, most of the prizes to the large winning opening occur during one opening. It will not be (difficult) for a short time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the firing interval of the game ball by the launcher unit).

Step S6218: The main control CPU 72 sets the small hit time interval timer. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time for each time when the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to, for example, about 2 seconds.

Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 53). Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S6300).

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing at the time of small hit]
FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the large winning opening at the time of a small hit. This process is for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

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

Step S6302: The main control CPU 72 opens the first grand prize opening. 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.

Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 54) is executed.

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

Step S6308: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won a prize in the first variable winning device 30 (the first major winning opening being opened) 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.

Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one opening at the time of a small hit). If the count number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 53). Then, when the small hit variable winning device management process is executed next, the jump destination is set to the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, so that the main control CPU 72 has the above steps S6301 to S6310. Repeat the procedure.

If it is determined in step S6306 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S6310 that the count number has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6312. Here, since the value of the release timer is set in a short time for the release at the time of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally steps before confirming that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S6310. In most cases, it is determined that the opening time has ended in S6306.

Step S6312: The main control CPU 72 closes the first grand prize opening. 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.

Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the interval timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the above-mentioned small hit large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6218 in FIG. 54).

Step S6315: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the interval time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 is variable at the time of small hit. The process returns to the end address of the winning device management process (FIG. 53). Then, when the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, the step S6314 is directly executed by jumping from the first step S6301. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6316.

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

[Large winning opening closing process at the time of small hit]
FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for closing a large winning opening at the time of a small hit. This small hit large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

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

Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the set open count. The number of times of opening is set in the previous large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6214 in FIG. 54). If the value of the open count counter has not reached the set open count (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 53).

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, which is the next jump destination, in the small hit game process selection process (step S6100 in FIG. 53). To execute. Then, after executing the small hit large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 again executes the small hit large winning opening closing process until the actual number of opening reaches the set number of opening (2 times). , The opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is repeatedly executed.

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

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

Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 53). As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the small hit end process is selected this time.

[End processing at the time of small hit]
FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the small hit end processing. This small hit end process is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of a small hit. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

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

Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the end time at the time of a small hit has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hit end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 53).

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

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

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

Step S6512: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 34) 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 small hit variable winning device management process.

[Game flow]
FIG. 58 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed in the pachinko machine 1.
When starting the game with the pachinko machine 1, [F1] the game is started from the normal mode. In the "normal mode", the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is the "low probability state", and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is the "low probability state". In this way, the [F1] normal mode is in the "low probability non-time shortened state". Therefore, by inserting the game ball into the upper start winning opening 26, the first special symbol starts to change and the game starts to change. It will proceed.

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

[F5] The coastal mode is a low probability time shortening state. In the [F5] coastal mode, if the winning result is not obtained and the [F6] special symbol fluctuates 100 times, the mode shifts to the [F1] normal mode.

In [F1] normal mode, if you win the jackpot of [F7] "9 round probability variation symbol", [F3] 9 round jackpot game (battle bonus production) is executed, and [F8] you win the battle of the big role production. Then, move to [F9] fireworks rush.

[F9] The fireworks rush is in a state of shortening the time with high probability, and the next big hit is stochastically guaranteed.

In the [F1] normal mode, if the [F10] "16 round probability variation symbol" jackpot is won, the [F11] 16 round jackpot game (special bonus effect) is executed, and the game shifts to the [F9] fireworks rush.
It should be noted that the above game flow shows an example of a typical game flow and does not cover all the game flows.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the internal lottery of the big hit 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. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect using an effect symbol is performed.

The main effect symbol ME as an effect symbol includes, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 on the left, middle, and right sides. (See Figure 1). The main production design ME is, for example, a design of a picture card with a character attached to the numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME all form a symbol sequence in which the numbers are arranged in descending order from "9" to "1". Such a pattern sequence is variablely displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in each of the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen.

FIG. 59 is a continuous diagram 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 variation display effect and the stop display effect (result display effect) performed by using the effect symbol is shown. This variable display effect is performed between the time when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol is used, but the second special symbol may be used) starts the variable display and the time when the stop display (including the fixed stop) is performed. It corresponds to a series of productions. Further, the stop display effect is an effect of expressing the stop display of the special symbol and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of the effect symbols. 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. 59 (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), a row of three main effect symbols ME is large in the center of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. It is displayed. Further, in the lower left of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a row of three sub-effect symbols SE, which are smaller in size than the main effect symbol ME, is displayed small. At this time, the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are also stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[Memory number display effect]
Further, in the pre-variation display area X1 at the lower part of the screen 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. Each of the markers M1 and M2 represents the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the number of displayed numbers of the first special symbol operating storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating storage lamp 35a). Therefore, 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, during the variable display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE, for example, the fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are attached in the figure) is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are the "fourth effect symbols" following the left, middle, and right effect symbols of the main effect symbol ME, and are synchronized with this during the variable display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE. It is displayed variable. 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. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 may be displayed by LEDs instead of being displayed on the liquid crystal screen.

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 for objectively clarifying that the stop display effect is correctly performed and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is, for example, "9 round big hit" or "16 round big hit" instead of "missing", the fourth symbol Z1 and Z2 are in the corresponding mode (for example, red display color). Is displayed as stopped. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 may be displayed by LEDs arranged on the board instead of being displayed on the liquid crystal screen.

[Start of variable display production]
In FIG. 59 (B): For example, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the variation display effect is started by scrolling the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (symbol effect). Execution means). That is, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the columns of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are arranged in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display effect is started by scrolling (flowing). Further, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed in the pre-variation display area X1 of the band-shaped portion in the lower portion of the liquid crystal display 42 before the start of the fluctuation, but are displayed in the lower left portion of the liquid crystal display 42 after the start of the fluctuation. It moves to the changing display area X2 by the pedestal image, and continues to be displayed until the change of the special symbol (main effect symbol ME and sub effect symbol SE) is stopped and displayed (the changing memory display effect). In the figure, the variable display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Further, during the variable display, the main effect symbol ME is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the background image is easily visible.

The background image in this case represents, for example, a landscape in which a female character dressed in a yukata sits on a chaise longue and relaxes as if it were a cool evening. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, a "normal mode". In the present embodiment, the "normal mode" corresponds to a normal state in which the time saving function is not activated and the probability fluctuation function is also inactive. In addition to this, various modes are provided for the production, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode (state display production execution means). The difference between these modes corresponds to an internal "time reduction state" or a "high probability 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, for example.

Further, during the variable display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE, the fourth symbol Z1 is variablely displayed on the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 is varied by changing the display color. It expresses the display.

[Stop the left effect design]
In FIG. 59 (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) elapses, the left effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME first stops the fluctuation. In this example, the effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "8" is stopped at the left side position of the screen. It should be noted that the background image is not shown here (the same applies thereafter).

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 59 (B) above, the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, so that the number of displayed markers M1 is increased accordingly. It has been reduced by one. For example, if there are four working memory numbers by then, only one oldest (oldest) memory number display in the marker M1 is moved to the changing display area X2, and the effect consumed by the internal lottery is also combined. Will be done. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the working memory number has been consumed for the first special symbol in terms of production.

Then, in the example of FIG. 59 (C), the marker M1 at the head in the storage order moves to the changing display area X2, so that the remaining three displays in the pre-changing display area X1 are displayed. The effect is that the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are shifted in one direction (here, to the left) by one each. As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories is accurately expressed in the production, and the player is told that "the working memory is consumed and reduced by one" and "the working memory is consumed and the special symbol is displayed." Can be taught intuitively and in an easy-to-understand manner.

[Stop right production design]
In FIG. 59 (D): Following the left effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME, the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME stops changing thereafter. In this example, the effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "3" is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Since it has already been confirmed that the reach state does not occur at this point, it is almost clear in appearance that this fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Here, reach fluctuations due to slip patterns, etc. are excluded. The "sliding pattern" is, for example, the production of the main production symbol ME that once stops the production symbol of the main production symbol ME that represents the number "7", and then the symbol row slides by one symbol and represents the number "8". The design stops, which leads to reach. Alternatively, once the effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "9" is stopped, the effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "8" is stopped by sliding the symbol row in the opposite direction by one symbol. However, there are also patterns that develop into reach. In addition, when the effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME, which represents a completely distant number such as "5", is temporarily stopped, a character appears on the screen and the symbol sequence is changed again, the number "8" is used. There is also a pattern in which the production symbol of the main production symbol ME that represents "stops and develops into reach."

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 59 (E): The middle effect symbol of the last main effect symbol ME is stopped in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the non-winning (missing) mode, the main effect symbol ME is also stopped and displayed in the non-winning (missing) mode. Is done. That is, in the illustrated example, it means that the middle effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. In this case, the combination of the main effect symbols ME is "8"-. Since it is the gap between "1" and "3", it is expressed in the production that this fluctuation corresponds to the normal "miss". At this time, the sub-effect symbol SE is stopped and displayed in the mode corresponding to the detachment (“8”-“1”-“3”) as in the main effect symbol ME. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the detachment (for example, a white display color).

Further, when the stop display effect is performed, the marker M1 that has moved to the changing display area X2 and continued to display is also hidden. Therefore, it is possible to intuitively and easily teach the player that "the change of the special symbol has been completed".

The above is an example of a variable display effect and a stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed by using the effect symbol 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.

Further, the above-mentioned example is for a non-winning case, but at the time of a big hit (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are big hits in the stop display effect. It is stopped and displayed in the mode. At this time, the stop display mode of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE is basically the winning symbol (first special symbol display device 34 or second special symbol display device 35) internally selected by the main control CPU 72. It is selected according to the stop display mode).

[Example of production at the time of big hit]
FIG. 60 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of the reach effect executed at the time of a big hit (winning) when the “9-round normal symbol” or the “9-round probability variation symbol” is applied in the non-time shortened state. When the "16 round probability variation symbol" is applicable, a dedicated reach effect may be executed, or a reach effect similar to the reach effect shown below may be executed. 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, for example, after the variation display is performed by the variation pattern at the time of a big hit in the first special symbol display device 34, the first special symbol is an embodiment of "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" ( For example, it is executed until it is stopped and displayed by the 7-segment LED "self", "yo", "mouth", "Snake", "F", "E", "L", "Γ", etc.). Direction execution means). In FIG. 60, the main effect symbol ME is shown simply by numbers. Further, the above-mentioned sub-effect symbols SE, markers M1 and M2, and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are not shown here. Hereinafter, the explanation will be given along with the flow of the production. Further, the following reach effect is a normal reach effect, but a super reach effect different from the following reach effect may be executed according to the selected fluctuation pattern.

[Variable display effect]
In FIG. 60 (A): For example, in substantially synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the rows of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are arranged in the vertical direction (for example, from above) on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display effect is started by scrolling to the bottom).

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (1st stage)]
In FIG. 60 (B): Next, in the relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach advance notice effect using the character's picture image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach advance notice effect is a 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 pattern image used in this pre-reach advance notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is variablely displayed on the screen, and is displayed so as to appear from the left edge of the screen, for example (other modes of appearance). It may be.). In addition, the "pre-reach notice" here means to give a notice of the possibility of reach or the possibility of a big hit before any of the effect symbols is stopped and displayed. 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. 60 (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. 60 (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 of the effect pattern is continued. 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. 60 (D): The variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped in the middle of the variable display effect. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number "5" is stopped at the position on the left side of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
In FIG. 60 (E): Then, following the left effect symbol, for example, the variable display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, since the effect symbol representing the number "5" is stopped at the position on the right side of the screen, the reach state of "5"-"changing"-"5" has occurred. Then, an image that emphasizes one line in the reach state is also displayed on the screen. In addition, a production such as "reach!" Is output at the same time. Furthermore, in this case, if the numbers "5" are aligned, the expectation of a big hit in the "9 round probability variation symbol" will be high. It is possible to make the player feel various tensions such as "Is it out of place?"

After the reach state occurs, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed (however, the result of winning has not been displayed yet at this point). In the reach effect, only the effect symbols corresponding to the tempered numbers (here, "5") are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect symbols may be displayed in a reduced state at each of the four corners of the screen.

[Notice production after reach occurs (1st time)]
In FIG. 60 (F): After a short time after the reach state occurs, for example, a post-reach notice effect (first time) is performed in which images representing "heart" figures form a group and pass diagonally on the screen. .. 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 notice, the effect of giving the player a greater sense of expectation can be obtained.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 60 (G): Following the advance notice effect after the first reach occurs, for example, an image representing the numbers "2" to "6" is displayed on the screen in a three-dimensional row, and the row is displayed. From the beginning (front), the images of numbers are erased from the screen in the order of "2", "3", "4", and so on. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (implying) or reminding the player that the number "5" is a "big hit" if it remains unerased until the end. Further, when the number "4" is erased and "5" remains in front of the screen, it means "big hit", and when the number "5" is also erased, it means "missing". In the case of off, for example, the number "6" is displayed on the screen after the number "5" is erased. Therefore, during this period, as the images are erased in the order of the numbers "2", "3", and "4", the player's sense of tension and expectation also increases. Then, if the number "4" is actually erased on the screen and the production progresses with the number "5" remaining on the screen, the possibility of a "big hit" increases, so the player feels nervous. Also rises at once.

[Notice production after reach occurs (second time)]
In FIG. 60 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it were split into a large copy, and the character utters some dialogue (or silently). After the reach occurs, a notice production (second time) will be performed. At this point, for example, the content of the reach effect is that "if the number" 5 "remains unerased, the possibility of a big hit of" 5 "-" 5 "-" 5 "increases". Therefore, by making a large image of the character appear at this timing, it is possible to obtain the effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that "it may be a big hit".

As a reach effect different from the above, for example, there is a development that "the numbers" 2 "to" 4 "are erased, and if the number" 5 "is left unerased at the end, it becomes a big hit". When the image of the character appears at such a timing, the effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that "the big hit may finally be near" can be obtained.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 60 (I): For example, the last middle effect symbol is stopped substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. In this example, the winning symbol internally corresponds to either "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol", but while the type of winning symbol is not disclosed, for example, "5" in the production. By stopping and displaying the effect symbol representing "" in the center of the screen, this time, an effect is performed to teach the player that it corresponds to either "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol". ..

In FIG. 60 (J): Then, for example, in substantially synchronization with the fixed stop display of the first special symbol, the fixed stop display is also performed for the stop display effect as the effect symbol. The stop display effect of the effect symbol is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a stop display effect, it is possible to teach the player that the final winning type has been confirmed in the effect. To put it the other way around, by performing an unclear stop display effect on the effect, it is not disclosed to the player whether "whether the 9-round normal symbol was won or the 9-round probability variation symbol was won". Can be left.

Further, if the result of the internal lottery is not won, the first special symbol, which is the target of the change this time, is stopped and displayed as a missed symbol, so that the effect symbol is also stopped and displayed in the same manner. In this case, by displaying numbers "4" and "6" other than "5" in the center of the screen, unfortunately, an effect is performed to inform that the change did not result in a big hit. It should be noted that such an effect is executed as an "out-of-reach effect".

[Example of production during a big role performed when winning in normal mode]
FIGS. 61 to 63 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of a large-scale production effect executed at the time of winning in the normal mode.

In this embodiment, when the character corresponds to the "9-round normal symbol", the effect that the ally character is defeated by the enemy character is executed in the large role production, and when the character corresponds to the "9-round probability variation symbol", the ally The effect that the character wins over the enemy character is executed. Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be explained step by step.

[1st round]
In FIG. 61 (A): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND1" is displayed on the screen, and the battle effect during the big role is started. In the illustrated example, the image of the ghost of the umbrella that is the enemy character is displayed on the left side of the screen, the image of the female character that is the ally character is displayed on the right side of the screen, and the image of the characters "VS" is displayed in the center of the screen. Is displayed. This makes it possible to teach the player that the battle production will start from now on.

Further, in the lower right corner position of the screen, an effect symbol corresponding to the winning symbol (here, the effect symbol of "5") is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that “the winning symbol was won in 5 production symbols”. In the second round of the big hit game, the same effect as in the first round is executed.

[3rd round]
In FIG. 61 (B): When the third round of the big hit game is started, the battle production during the big role specifically progresses. In the illustrated example, the ghost of the umbrella moves from the left side to the right side. Then, the female character is surprised by the ghost of the umbrella and runs away, and disappears to the right side of the screen.

[4th round]
In FIG. 61 (C): When the fourth round of the big hit game is started, the battle production during the big role specifically progresses. In the illustrated example, a female character takes out a fan (weapon), and a flame (aura) appears from the fan (weapon).

[5th round]
In FIG. 61 (D): Then, in the fifth round of the jackpot game, a ghost of an umbrella performs a special move that causes a long tongue to pop out from the mouth, and a female character greets the special move with a fan. If the ghost of the umbrella wins in this state, it means that it was a big hit with the "9 round normal symbol", and if the female character wins, it means that it was a big hit with the "9 round probability variation symbol". There is.

[6th round (when the 9th round normal symbol is won)]
In FIG. 62 (E): In the case of winning in the 9th round normal symbol, the defeat effect is executed in the 6th round. Specifically, along with the characters "Defeat ...", the ghost of the umbrella is displayed in a large size, and the female character is displayed in a small size (allied character defeat production).

[7th round (when the 9th round normal symbol is won)]
In FIG. 62 (F): In the case of winning in the 9th round normal symbol, the re-challenge promotion effect is executed in the 7th round. Specifically, a production is performed in which a female character utters a line such as "I will not lose next time!". This makes it possible to motivate the player to aim for a big hit again. In the 8th and 9th rounds of the big hit game, the same re-challenge promotion effect as in the 7th round is executed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 62 (G): At the timing (during the ending time) when the big hit game with the 9-round normal symbol ends, the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after this is executed. In the illustrated example, the text information "Enter coastal mode!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the coastal mode of the "low probability time shortened state" as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

[6th round (when the 9th round probability variation symbol is won)]
In FIG. 63 (H): On the other hand, in the case of winning in the 9th round probability variation symbol, the winning effect is executed in the 6th round. Specifically, the female character is displayed large and the ghost of the umbrella is displayed small along with the characters "Victory !!" (Friend character victory production).

[7th round (when the 9th round probability variation symbol is won)]
In FIG. 63 (I): In the case of winning in the 9th round probability variation symbol, the blessing effect is executed in the 7th round. Specifically, a production is performed in which the hermit character utters a line such as "Stunning!". As a result, it is possible to give the player a lingering impression that he has won the enemy character. In the 8th and 9th rounds of the jackpot game, the same blessing effect as in the 7th round is executed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 63 (J): At the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after this is executed. In the illustrated example, the text information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the "high probability time shortened state" fireworks rush as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

[Example of fireworks rush production]
FIG. 64 is a continuous diagram showing an example of producing a fireworks rush. This fireworks rush is a mode to be shifted after the big hit game when the big hit of "9 round probability variation symbol" or "16 round probability variation symbol" is applied. The fireworks rush is a high-probability time-shortened state, and is a chance zone that continues until the special symbol fluctuates 10,000 times unless a winning result is obtained after the big hit game. Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be explained step by step.

In FIG. 64 (A): For example, by performing the first variation display after the end of the big hit game, the variation display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE is performed in the state of "fireworks rush". The background image of the fireworks rush is a background image that expresses "a scene where fireworks are launched in the night sky" and "a female character watching fireworks" in order to deeply impress the player with the motif of fireworks. It has become. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variablely displayed in the upper right portion of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

In FIG. 64 (B): Then, the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are stopped and displayed due to the end of the first fluctuation (at the time of non-winning) after the end of the big hit game ("3"-" 1 "-" 7 "). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning mode (for example, a white display color).

In FIG. 64 (C): When the next fluctuation is started, the fluctuation display for the second time is performed after the end of the big hit game. In the high probability time shortened state, the variable start winning device 28 is operated frequently, so that as long as the player continues to hit right, the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect accompanying the variable display of the second special symbol The variable display of the symbol SE is often performed.

[Special bonus production]
FIG. 65 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a special bonus effect executed during a jackpot game in the case of corresponding to the “16 round probability variation symbol”.

[1 round]
In FIG. 65 (A): When the first round of the big hit game is started, the big hit production of the content corresponding to the progress of the game called "big hit in progress" is executed. In the big role production, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND1" is displayed on the screen. In addition, an effect symbol (here, the number "7") corresponding to the winning symbol is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that “the winning symbol was won in 7 production symbols”. In addition, the characters "special bonus" are displayed in the lower area of the display screen, and an image of a female character straddling a horse and performing a peace sign is displayed around the screen.

[16 rounds]
In FIG. 65 (B): After that, when the big hit game progresses smoothly and the final 16 rounds are entered, the character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND 16" is displayed on the screen and the big hit game is in progress. An effect image peculiar to is displayed. Further, in the lower right corner position of the screen, the effect pattern (number "7") as the above-mentioned "remaining eyes" is continuously displayed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 65 (C): At the timing when the big hit game ends, the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after that is executed. In the illustrated example, the text information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the "high probability time shortened state" fireworks rush as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

[Normal bonus production]
FIG. 66 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a normal bonus effect. The normal bonus effect is an effect performed during the jackpot game when the "9 round normal symbol" or the "9 round probability variation symbol" is applicable in the fireworks rush or the coastal mode.

[1 round]
In FIG. 66 (A): When the first round of the big hit game in the normal bonus production is started, the big role production of "9 rounds during the big hit game" corresponding to the progress of the game is executed at first. .. In the normal bonus effect, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND1" is displayed on the screen. In addition, an effect symbol (here, the number "2") corresponding to the winning symbol is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining stitch”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that “the winning symbol was won in 2 production symbols”. In addition, the characters "normal bonus" are displayed in the lower area of the display screen, and the image of the dog character is displayed in the center of the screen.

[9 rounds]
In FIG. 66 (B): After that, when the big hit game progresses smoothly and the final 9 rounds are entered, the character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND9" is displayed on the screen and the big hit game is in progress. An effect image peculiar to is displayed. Further, in the lower right corner position of the screen, the effect pattern (number "2") as the above-mentioned "remaining eyes" is still displayed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 66 (B): At the timing (during the ending time) when the big hit game in the "9-round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol" ends, the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after that is Will be executed. In the illustrated example, the text information "Enter coastal mode!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the coastal mode of the "low probability time shortened state" as a privilege after the big hit game ends. In addition, when it corresponds to "9 round normal symbol", unless it corresponds to a big hit, the coast mode ends with 100 fluctuations and shifts to normal mode, but it corresponds to "9 round normal symbol". If so, unless it corresponds to a big hit, the coastal mode ends with 100 fluctuations, and after that, it shifts to the fireworks rush.

[Example of coastal mode production]
FIG. 67 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the production of the coastal mode. This coastal mode is a mode in which the game is shifted after the jackpot game is completed when the "9-round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol" is applied in the time-reduced state. The coastal mode is a "low probability time reduction state" or a "high probability time reduction state". Hereinafter, the flow of the production will be explained step by step.

In FIG. 67 (A): After the jackpot game in the "9 round normal symbol" or "9 round probability variation symbol" in the time shortened state is completed, the first variation display is performed, and the state of the "coast mode". The main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are displayed in a variable manner. The background image of the coastal mode is a background image with images such as "sandy beach", "sea", and "mountain" as motifs in order to express the healing impression which is the concept of the coastal mode. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variablely displayed on the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

In FIG. 67 (B): Then, due to the end of this change (when not winning), the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE are stopped and displayed ("1"-"1"-"5". ). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning mode (for example, a white display color).

In FIG. 67 (C): Then, the next fluctuation is started. This coastal mode ends when the special symbol fluctuates 100 times without obtaining the winning result. When the coastal mode ends, it shifts to the normal mode with a low probability of non-time reduction. If the winning result is obtained in the coastal mode, the reach effect is executed and it becomes a big hit.

[Heart production]
68 to 74 are continuous views showing an example of a variable display effect including a heart effect.
Here, the heart effect is an effect of displaying a three-dimensional heart-shaped pattern (light emitting image) using the light guide plate 250. In the present embodiment, the heart effect is executed as an effect for determining the big hit, but it may be an effect suggesting a big hit, an effect during the big hit, a demonstration effect, or the like.

[Variable display effect]
In FIG. 68 (A): When the variation of the first special symbol starts, the variation display effect by the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE is started on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is variablely displayed on the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

[Stage progress notice production (1st stage)]
FIG. 68 (B): Next, during the execution of the variable display effect, the first stage progress advance notice effect (pre-reach advance notice effect) using the picture image (reference code SU1) of the female character is performed. This stage progress notice effect is a 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 stage progress notice effect is displayed in such a manner that it suddenly appears at a corner position of the liquid crystal screen. The "stage progress notice effect" referred to here is a notice effect of the content suggesting that the effect symbol may be stopped and displayed in the winning mode depending on the progress of the effect.

[Stage progress notice production (second stage)]
In FIG. 68 (C): Following the first stage progress notice effect, the second stage progress notice effect is executed. In the illustrated example, another female character SU2 additionally appears from the lower right position of the screen, and is displayed on the screen together with the previously displayed female character SU1.

[Stage progress notice production (3rd stage)]
In FIG. 69 (D): Following the second stage progress notice effect, the third stage progress notice effect is executed. In the illustrated example, the third female character SU3 from the upper left position of the screen additionally appears, and is displayed on the screen together with the previously displayed female characters SU1 and SU2.

[Stage progress notice production (4th stage)]
In FIG. 69 (E): Following the third stage progress notice effect, the fourth stage progress notice effect is executed. In the illustrated example, the fourth female character SU4 from the upper right position of the screen additionally appears, and is displayed on the screen together with the previously displayed female characters SU1 to SU3.

[Stage progress notice production (5th stage)]
In FIG. 69 (F): Following the fourth stage progress notice effect, the fifth stage progress notice effect is executed. In the illustrated example, the fifth female character SU5 appears in a large copy at the center position of the screen, and is displayed on the screen together with the previously displayed female characters SU1 to SU4. At this point, the left effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "5" is stopped and displayed at the middle position of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
In FIG. 70 (G): Following the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME is stopped and displayed. At this point, the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME representing the number "5" is stopped and displayed at the middle position of the screen. When the right effect symbol of the main effect symbol ME is stopped and displayed, the reach state of the numbers "5"-"changing"-"5" occurs in a horizontal line (on one line) on the screen. ing. Then, an image that emphasizes one line in the reach state is also displayed on the screen.

[Preliminary notice after reach]
In FIG. 70 (H): After a while after the reach state occurs, the effect that the movable body 40f completely drops to the central portion of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed (the effect of dropping the accessory). At this time, an image showing the appearance of a lightning bolt or an explosion is also displayed as a background image. This character drop effect is a production with a high expectation of a big hit among the post-reach advance notice effects, and can greatly improve the expectations of the player.

[Super reach production]
In FIG. 70 (I): The reach state continues even after the notice effect after reach is executed, and thereafter, it develops into a super reach effect. In the illustrated example, a reach development effect is performed in which a female character appears in a car. At the upper left corner position of the screen, the variable display effect is executed in a state where the main effect symbol ME is reduced ("5"-"changing"-"5"). Further, the sub-directed symbol SE does not reach the reach state, and maintains the fluctuating state as it is.

In FIG. 71 (J): The effect of stopping the car is executed, a female character appears from the car, and the effect of saying "I am the other party !!" is executed.

In FIG. 71 (K): An image of a "lantern ghost" appears on the left side of the screen, an image of a "female character" appears on the right side of the screen, and an image of the characters "VS" appears in the center of the screen. Is done. This makes it possible to teach the player that the match is about to begin.

In FIG. 71 (L): A production is performed in which a "lantern ghost" opens its mouth wide and performs a "biting" technique. Then, the female character is surprised and runs away, and disappears to the right side of the screen.

In FIG. 72 (M): This time, the "female character" takes out the fan (weapon), and the fan fights against the "lantern ghost".

[Heart production]
From this point, the heart effect starts. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a triple heart-shaped pattern P1 having a small size is displayed. By executing this heart effect, the big hit can be confirmed.

In FIG. 72 (N): Then, a "lantern ghost" performs a special move that causes a long tongue to pop out of the mouth, and a "female character" greets the special move with a fan. In this state, if the "lantern ghost" wins, it will be out of the game, and if the "female character" wins, it will be a win. Therefore, this aspect is the final stage of the super reach production, and is the most exciting part of the game. Therefore, a cut-in notice or a helper appearance notice that another "female character" may help may be given at the same time in this scene.

[Heart production]
The heart effect is being performed continuously. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a triple heart-shaped pattern P2 having a size larger than the size shown in FIG. 72 (M) is displayed.

In FIG. 72 (O): When the "female character" is displayed large and the "lantern ghost" is displayed small together with the characters "victory !!", it means that the character is a win (winning). At the upper left corner position of the screen, the stop display effect is executed with the main effect symbol ME reduced ("5"-"5"-"5"). In the present embodiment, if the heart effect is executed, the player will not be unwinned, but if the heart effect is not executed and the player is not elected (at the time of loss), "defeat ..." Along with the characters, "Chochin-obake" is displayed large, "Female character" is displayed small, and at the upper left corner of the screen, the stop display effect is executed with the effect symbol reduced (for example, "5"-"6". "-" 5 ").

[Heart production]
The heart effect is being performed continuously. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a quintuple heart-shaped pattern P3 having a size larger than the size shown in FIG. 72 (N) is displayed.

In FIG. 73 (P): Then, a production is performed in which the "female character" pushes one arm upward and utters the line "Iccho rise !!". As a result, the player can feel the afterglow of "winning the lantern ghost", and the satisfaction of the player can be improved.

[Heart production]
The heart effect is being performed continuously. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a triple heart-shaped pattern P1 having the same size as that in FIG. 72 (M) is displayed.

[Stop fluctuation]
In FIG. 73 (Q): When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, the main effect symbol ME, the sub effect symbol SE, and the fourth symbol Z1 are also stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode. The stop display of the main effect symbol ME and the sub effect symbol SE is performed in a state where the effect symbol is completely stopped. Further, in this case, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the big hit (for example, a red display color).

[Heart production]
The heart effect is being performed continuously. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a triple heart-shaped pattern P2 having the same size as that in FIG. 72 (N) is displayed.

In FIG. 73 (R): In the illustrated example, a female character gets into a car, and the car departs vigorously and disappears to the left side of the screen.

[Heart production]
The heart effect is being performed continuously. Specifically, by irradiating the light guide plate 250 with a predetermined lighting pattern, a quintuple heart-shaped pattern P3 having the same size as that in FIG. 72 (O) is displayed.

In FIG. 74 (S): Then, when the big hit game is started, the character information of the “big hit round” is displayed on the screen, and the effect during the big hit game is started.

[Final round]
In FIG. 74 (T): After that, the jackpot game progresses smoothly, and the game shifts to the final round. At this time, the character information of the "final round" is displayed on the screen, and the images of the car and the female character are continuously displayed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 74 (U): At the timing (during the end time) when the big hit game ends, the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after this is executed. In the illustrated example, the text information "Fireworks rush rush!" Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state" as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

Next, an example of a control method for concretely realizing the above effect will be described. The above-mentioned variable display effect, reach effect, pre-reach advance notice effect, memory number display effect, major role effect, heart effect, etc. are all controlled through the following control processes.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 75 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), display output process (step S404), lamp drive process (step S406), and acoustic drive. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S408), ACT control unit management processing (step S409), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 for each type. The command for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special symbol destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) operation memory number increase effect command, a (special symbol) operation memory number decrease effect command, and a start port. 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, round count command, error notification command, jackpot end production command, count cut counter There are value commands, fluctuation pattern destination judgment commands, stop display time end commands, prize ball content commands, etc.

Step S401: In the operation storage effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the storage number display effect and the pre-reading advance notice effect using the markers M1 and M2 (memory number display effect execution means, execution of the changing memory display effect). means). 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 symbols (main effect symbol ME, sub effect symbol, fourth symbol), and the first variable prize is awarded. It controls the effect content at the time of opening / closing operation of the device 30 or the second variable winning device 31. 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.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 asks the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) for 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, board surface lamps 53, light guide plate lamps 201 to 510, and the like (lighting or extinguishing, blinking, change in luminance gradation, etc.) based on the control signal.

Step S408: In the next acoustic drive process, the effect control CPU 126 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 S409: In the ACT control unit management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the ACT control unit and the like based on the fluctuation pattern and the determined effect pattern, and each task (liquid crystal display task, motor task, solenoid task, lamp task, etc.) ) Is executed (light guide plate control means). The details of the processing will be described later. Further, the processes of steps S404 to S408 may be incorporated into the ACT control unit management process and executed.

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 working memory effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 76 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 markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and 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 is changing the effect of sliding the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and the marker corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery from the pre-variation display area X1. Select the effect to be moved to the display area X2. The storage marker moved to the variable display area X2 selects an effect to be erased at the end of the variable.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 75).

[Production design management process]
FIG. 77 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process (effect execution means), 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 effect symbol change process. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing when the variable winning device is activated (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 step S502 to step 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 operation process (step S508) includes a case where the large hit variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 34) is selected in the main control CPU 72 or a small hit variable winning device management process (FIG. 34). When step S6000) in the middle is selected, it is selected as the jump destination. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the effect symbol change preprocessing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting a variation display effect using the effect symbols (main effect symbol ME, sub effect symbol, fourth symbol). Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, fluctuation pattern, etc.), and the effect pattern for the advance notice effect (reach other than the look-ahead advance notice effect pattern). 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 while executing a variable display effect using an effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the effect button is operated by the player, and an effect according to the result. The control information of the content (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

Step S506: In the process of displaying the stop display of the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the moving image in an manner according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) actually ends the variable display effect that has been executed 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). However, in the present embodiment, at the time of a small hit, the stop display effect is executed in the same or similar manner as the loss.

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is operated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect content during the small hit or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the big role effect according to various conditions (for example, the winning type). For example, in the case of a 9-round jackpot, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 9-round large-duty effect pattern as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) of this. .. As a result, the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 displays an image of the effect during the big role, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses.

[Pre-processing for effect pattern fluctuation]
FIG. 78 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 S404 in FIG. 75) and the lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 75). 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 (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) 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 variation schedule (variation time, reach type and reach occurrence timing) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation effect pattern number at that time, and stop. Determine the display mode and the like. It should be noted that all the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to "combination of symbols at the time of small hit".

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 (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) 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. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

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 (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of loss are classified into "out-of-time normal fluctuation", "time-shortening out-of-time fluctuation", "out-of-reach change", and the like, and further, a fine reach variation pattern is defined in "out-of-reach change". Which effect pattern number the effect control CPU 126 selects is determined by 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 corresponding to the variation effect pattern number at that time (variation time, presence / absence of reach occurrence, case of reach occurrence). Determines the reach type and reach occurrence timing) and the mode of stop display (for example, "7"-"2"-"4", etc.).

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, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the advance notice effect is to give a notice to the player that a reach state may occur during the variable display effect, or to give a notice that there is a possibility of a big 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 relatively high 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, when the stay mode is the "normal mode (low probability non-time reduction state)", the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image in which a female character is sitting on a chaise longue. Further, when the stay mode is "fireworks rush (high probability time shortened state)", the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image with a fireworks motif. Further, when the stay mode is the "coastal mode (low probability time shortened state or high probability time shortened state)", the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image with the coast as a motif.

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. 77), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (effect execution means), and various types are executed. The advance notice effect is executed based on the advance notice effect pattern. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed (effect execution means) based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here.

[Variation effect pattern selection process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 79 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the jackpot variation effect pattern selection process. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S900: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a specific variation pattern (for example, variation patterns “65” and “66” shown in FIG. 42) is selected. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can be realized by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the fluctuation pattern command.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the specific fluctuation pattern is selected (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S902. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that a specific fluctuation pattern is selected (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906. The reason why this determination process is executed is that the above-mentioned heart effect is not executed when a specific fluctuation pattern is not selected.

Step S902: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the winning symbol this time corresponds to the “16 round probability variation symbol”. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the stop symbol command, and confirms whether or not the winning symbol corresponds to the "16 round probability variation symbol".

As a result, when it is confirmed that the winning symbol corresponds to the "16 round probability variation symbol" (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S904. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the winning symbol corresponds to the "16 round probability variation symbol" (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906.

The reason for executing the process of step S902 is that the heart effect is a big hit confirmed and a 16 round big hit confirmed effect. If the heart effect is only to confirm the big hit, the execution of the process in step S902 may be omitted.

Step S904: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern for executing a super reach effect at the time of a big hit including a heart effect (specific effect) (specific effect execution means). Specifically, the process of selecting the effect pattern of FIGS. 68 to 73 is executed.

Step S906: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern for executing a normal jackpot effect. Here, the normal jackpot effect is an effect pattern in which the heart effect is not executed.
When the above processing is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol change pre-processing (FIG. 78).

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 80 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of processing when the variable winning device is operated. The variable winning device operation time processing is a subroutine of execution selection processing (step S902), variable winning device operation pre-processing (step S904), variable winning device operating processing (step S906), and variable winning device operation post-processing (step S908). It is a configuration including a (program module) group. Here, first, the basic flow of the processing at the time of operating the variable winning device will be described along with each processing.

Step S902: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of step S904 to step S908) from the "jump table". 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 variable winning device operating 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 variable winning device pre-operation processing has not been started yet, the effect control CPU 126 selects the variable winning device operation pre-processing (step S904) as the next jump destination. If the variable winning device operation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the variable winning device operating process (step S906) as the next jump destination. Further, if the process during operation of the variable winning device is completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the post-processing after operating the variable winning device (step S908) as the next jump destination.

Step S904: In the variable winning device operation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting the content of the effect to be executed during the big hit game or the small hit game. For example, when the "9 round normal symbol" is applied in the non-time shortened state, a process of selecting an effect in which the ally character is defeated by the enemy character is executed. In addition, when it corresponds to the "9 round probability variation symbol" in the non-time shortened state, the process of selecting the effect in which the ally character wins the enemy character is executed. On the other hand, if it corresponds to the "9-round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol" in the time-reduced state, the process of selecting the normal bonus effect is executed. Further, regardless of the internal state, when it corresponds to the "16 round probability variation symbol", the process of selecting the special bonus effect is executed. If the "16-round probabilistic symbol" is applicable and a variable pattern for executing the heart effect is selected, a dedicated large-scale effect (effect shown in FIG. 74) corresponding to the heart effect is performed. You can choose.

Step S906: In the process during operation of the variable winning device, 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 big hit 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 is monitored. The control information is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

Step S908: In the post-operation processing of the variable winning device, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect of transmitting the mode of the transition destination to the player during the end time of the variable winning device.

The effect control CPU 126 executes a coastal mode rush effect or a fireworks rush rush effect according to the winning symbol. Specifically, if it corresponds to the "9 round probability variation symbol" or the "16 round probability variation symbol" at the time of winning in the non-time shortened state, the process of selecting the effect indicating that the fireworks rush is entered is executed. However, if the "9-round normal symbol" is applicable at the time of winning in the non-time shortened state, a process of selecting an effect indicating that the player is entering the coastal mode is executed. On the other hand, if it corresponds to the "16 round probability variation symbol" at the time of winning in the time shortened state, the process of selecting the effect indicating that the fireworks rush is entered is executed, and at the time of winning in the time shortened state, "9" is executed. When it corresponds to the "round normal symbol" or the "9-round probability variation symbol", the process of selecting the effect indicating that the coastal mode is entered is executed.

FIG. 81 is a diagram illustrating a control sequence of the ACT control unit management process.
In the ACT control unit management process, various effects such as a variation display effect are controlled, and here, a control example when a variation pattern in which the heart effect is executed is selected will be described.

The following functions are implemented in the sub-control program of the effect control device 124 of the present embodiment.

(1) ACT control unit The ACT control unit manages the timing of the effect.
The data table activated by the ACT control unit is composed of WAIT values and execution data.
The ACT control unit subtracts the WAIT value, and when the subtracted value becomes 0, performs a process of notifying the execution data (a process of sending a message to each task, etc.). Each task includes a liquid crystal display task (display control unit) that manages the liquid crystal display, a motor task (motor control unit) that manages the motor, a lamp task (LMP control unit) that manages the LED, and a solenoid. It includes a solenoid task (solenoid control unit) to manage.

(2) LMP control unit The LMP control unit updates the LED lighting pattern. The first light source 200, the second light source 300, the third light source 400, and the fourth light source 500 are controlled by the LMP control unit.
When the message is received, the LMP control unit analyzes the message and selects the LED lighting pattern according to the content of the message.

The heart effect is controlled as follows.
The ACT control unit 600 transmits a message for heart effect to the LMP control unit 700 in the fluctuation when executing the heart effect.
Specifically, it is realized by inserting (setting) the execution data for message transmission into the variable ACT table for the heart effect.

That is, the LMP control unit 700 starts the lighting pattern of the light guide plate when the message for heart effect is received, and ends the lighting pattern of the light guide plate when the message for erasing the light guide plate is received (the light guide plate is made to emit light). Start the extinguishing pattern to extinguish the LED).

The details of the control sequence are as follows.
[G1] When the change of the special symbol starts, [G2] the main control device 70 transmits a change start command to the effect control device 124.

[G3] The ACT control unit 600 of the effect control device 124 activates the variation ACT table based on the variation pattern and the determined effect pattern.
[G4] The content of the variable ACT table is such that data is stored along the time axis. In the illustrated example, the fluctuation start effect (scrolling start effect of the effect symbol, etc.) is started at the same time as the change start, 60 frames (60F) are waited, and then the notice A (step-up notice effect, etc.) is executed, and 60 frames are executed. It waits, then fluctuates for a while, starts the heart effect at a predetermined timing, waits for 120 frames, and then ends the fluctuation after a certain period of time. In addition, 30 frames correspond to 1 second (30 FPS).

[G5] The ACT control unit 600 of the effect control device 124 transmits a heart effect message to the LMP control unit 700 (ramp control unit) when the heart effect is started.
[G6] The LMP control unit 700 of the effect control device 124 that has received the heart effect message executes (1) a process of reproducing the heart effect lamp data. The details of the heart effect lamp data (lighting pattern) will be described later, but briefly, it is the data for continuously lighting the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 from the inside to the outside.

[G7] When the fluctuation of the special symbol is stopped, [G8] the main control device 70 transmits a fluctuation stop command to the effect control device 124.

[G9] Upon receiving the fluctuation stop command, the ACT control unit 600 of the effect control device 124 transmits a heart effect end message to the LMP control unit 700. The heart effect end message may be sent after a certain period of time has elapsed after receiving the fluctuation stop command.
[G10] The LMP control unit 700 of the effect control device 124 that has received the heart effect end message executes (2) a process of reproducing the heart effect end lamp data.
The content of the heart effect end lamp data is data for ending the light emission of the light guide plate 250 and ending the heart effect. As a result, the heart effect lamp data set in [G6] is overwritten, and the heart effect end lamp data is reproduced.

FIG. 82 is a diagram showing an LED system correspondence table.
As shown in (A) in the figure, the LEDs corresponding to the inner heart left region of the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 are the light guide plate lamp 201 to the light guide plate lamp 205 of the first light source 200. .. Of these, the light guide plate lamp 201 corresponds to the innermost side of the inner heart left region, and the light guide plate lamp 205 corresponds to the outermost side of the inner heart left region.

Further, the LEDs corresponding to the inner heart right region of the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 are the light guide plate lamp 305 to the light guide plate lamp 301 of the second light source 300. Of these, the light guide plate lamp 305 corresponds to the innermost side of the inner heart right region, and the light guide plate lamp 301 corresponds to the outermost side of the inner heart right region.

As shown in (B) in the figure, the LEDs corresponding to the outer heart left region of the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 are the light guide plate lamp 401 to the light guide plate lamp 410 of the third light source 400. .. Of these, the light guide plate lamp 401 corresponds to the innermost side of the outer heart left region, and the light guide plate lamp 410 corresponds to the outermost side of the outer heart left region.

Further, the LEDs corresponding to the outer heart right region of the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 are the light guide plate lamp 510 to the light guide plate lamp 501. Of these, the light guide plate lamp 510 corresponds to the innermost side of the outer heart right region, and the light guide plate lamp 501 corresponds to the outermost side of the outer heart right region.

FIG. 83 is a diagram showing a lighting pattern of the light guide plate lamp.
Various lighting patterns can be applied to the lighting pattern when the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 is continuously lit (animated) from the inside to the outside. Here, two typical lighting patterns will be described. The following lighting patterns can be appropriately extended or shortened according to the execution time of the heart effect for displaying the heart-shaped pattern. As the lighting pattern, a pattern for continuously lighting from the outside to the inside, a lighting pattern for turning on or off all the LEDs at once, and the like can be adopted.

[First lighting pattern]
In the first lighting pattern, the light guide plate lamps 201, 301, 401, 501 are turned on at a predetermined start timing, the light guide plate lamps 201, 301, 401, 501 are turned off at the next timing, and then the light guide plate is turned off. The lamps 202, 302, 402, 502 are turned on, the lamps 202, 302, 402, 502 for the light guide plate are turned off at the next timing, and then the lamps 203, 303, 403, 503 for the light guide plate are turned on. It is a pattern in which each lamp is turned on in order. Since the number of lamps of the first light source 200 and the second light source 300 is half the number of the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500, the same lighting pattern is used for the first light source 200 and the second light source 300. (One set lighting pattern) is repeated twice. Then, at the final end timing, the light guide plate lamps 205, 305, 410, and 510 are turned on and then turned off.

[Second lighting pattern]
In the second lighting pattern, the light guide plate lamps 201, 301, 401, 501 are lit at a predetermined start timing, and the light guide plate lamps 201, 301 are kept lit at the next timing, while the light guide plate lamp 401 is lit. , 501, then the light guide plate lamps 402, 502 are turned on, and at the next timing, the light guide plate lamps 201, 301, 402, 502 are turned off, and then the light guide plate lamps 202, 302, 403, It is a pattern in which each lamp is turned on in order, such as turning on 503. Since the number of lamps of the first light source 200 and the second light source 300 is half the number of the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500, the same lighting pattern is used for the first light source 200 and the second light source 300. (One lighting pattern) is continuously executed for two periods. Then, at the final end timing, the light guide plate lamps 205, 305, 410, and 510 are turned on and then turned off.

Then, regardless of which lighting pattern is adopted, the heart-shaped pattern formed on the light guide plate 250 can be continuously lit from the inside to the outside.

By executing such a lighting pattern, the effect control device 124 (effect control CPU 126, ACT control unit 600, LMP control unit 700) has the light guide plate lamps 201 to 205 included in the first light source 200 and the second light source lamps 201 to 205. It is possible to execute a lighting process for lighting the light guide plate lamps 301 to 305 included in the light source 300 in the same order and in the same direction (light source control means).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, the light guide plate lamps 201 to 205 included in the first light source 200 and the light guide plate lamps 301 to 305 included in the second light source 300 are arranged in the same order and in the same order. Since the lighting process for lighting in the direction is executed, the first light source 200 and the second light source 300 are lit in the same lighting pattern, and the adjacent light guide plate lamps are not lit at the same time. That is, the light guide plate lamp can be continuously lit while maintaining a certain distance. As a result, the light emission does not interfere with the lamps for the light guide plate that are close to each other, and even when the light guide plate 250 is provided with a plurality of reflection regions E1 and E2, the light emission image by the light guide plate 250 can be displayed neatly. Can be done.

(2) Here, regarding the reflection regions E3 and E4, the corresponding third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500 are not as close as the relationship between the first light source 200 and the second light source 300, so that the viewpoint of interference From this point of view, it seems that the light source lamps of the third light source 400 and the fourth light source 500 do not have to be turned on in the same direction. However, by lighting in the same direction, even if the player's line of sight shifts from the eye point, the shift directions of the left and right emission images can be made the same, and the shift of the left and right emission images can be made. (Distortion of emission image) can be suppressed as small as possible. In this respect, if the lighting pattern is set in the opposite direction instead of the same direction, a phenomenon occurs in which one emission image has a large distortion and the other emission image has a small distortion.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the lighting patterns are in the same direction, the direction of distortion of the emission image can be the same on the left and right, and even if the emission image is distorted, the left and right emission images are the same. It can be distorted slightly at the same rate, or it can be distorted greatly at the same rate. As a result, it is possible to display a light emitting image in which distortion does not occur sensuously. Regarding this point, the same applies to the emission images displayed by the reflection regions E1 and E2.

(3) According to the present embodiment, a reflection surface facing the first light source 200 and the second light source 300 is arranged in the first reflection region E1, and the first light source 200 is arranged in the second reflection region E2. And since the reflection surface toward the second light source 300 is arranged, as a result, a reflection surface straddling the boundary line between the first reflection region E1 and the second reflection region E2 (see the dotted line in FIG. 6) is formed. can do. As a result, in the vicinity of the boundary line between the first reflection region E1 and the second reflection region E2, the light emitting image displayed by the light guide plate 250 is displayed even if the player's line of sight deviates from the eye point. The light emitting image by the light guide plate 250 can be displayed neatly without being divided (the overlapping portion of the light emitting image is increased, the break of the light emitting image is eliminated, and the connection of the light emitting image is improved).

(4) According to the present embodiment, the first reflecting surface to the fifth reflecting surface of the first reflecting region E1 and the first reflecting surface to the fifth reflecting surface of the second reflecting region E2 are in opposite directions, respectively. Since it is arranged (one toward the left and the other toward the right), even if the lighting patterns of the first light source 200 and the second light source 300 are the same, the light emitting image by the light guide plate 250. The appearance pattern of is possible to be the opposite pattern, and it is possible to make a light emission image (a light emission image displayed from the inside to the outside) as intended, while being a novel lighting pattern.

(5) When symmetrical lighting control (inside to outside, or outside to inside) is executed, when the player's line of sight slightly shifts from the eye point to the left or right, the right half according to the magnitude of the deviation. Since the deviation of the light emission image in the left half becomes large, the phenomenon that the shape does not look beautiful occurs.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the light source plate 250 is arranged in front of the liquid crystal display 42, and a reflective surface (heart-shaped carving) that reflects the light incident from the end portion forward with respect to the regions of the left and right surfaces of the light source plate 250. ) Is formed, and a plurality of lamps for light guide plates that are continuous in the left-right direction are arranged at the upper ends of the left surface and the upper end of the right surface of the light guide plate 250, respectively, and a specific effect (a three-dimensional heart-shaped pattern is displayed using the light source plate 250). The first light source 200 (third light source 400) and the second light source 300 (fourth light source 500) are controlled to be lit from right to left at the same time when the heart effect is executed.

This makes it possible to eliminate the deviation between the left half and the right half of the light emitting image (three-dimensional heart-shaped pattern) displayed on the light guide plate 250, and even if the player's line of sight deviates slightly from the eye point, the light guide plate The luminescent image displayed on the 250 can be sufficiently recognized, and the stereoscopic effect can be firmly felt.

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.

In the above-described embodiment, the present invention has been described as an example of applying the present invention to a so-called loop type (a type in which a substantial upper limit is not set for the probability variation number), but an ST type (a type in which a substantial upper limit is set for the probability variation number is set). The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine of type).

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

In the above-described embodiment, the present invention has been described as an example of applying the present invention to a gaming machine that does not adopt "simultaneous rotation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol", but for a gaming machine that adopts simultaneous rotation. However, the present invention can be applied.

The light guide plate may emit flat light, and a three-dimensional virtual image (floating line) appears toward the front or rear of the light guide plate (toward the player or toward the effect display device). It may be something to make.

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 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

Claims (1)

When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery and a lottery execution means
An effect display device that displays an effect related to the predetermined lottery, and
A light guide plate arranged in front of the effect display device and having a first reflection region and a second reflection region for reflecting incident light in a predetermined direction.
A first light source that includes a plurality of light sources and irradiates at least the first reflection region with light.
A second light source that includes a plurality of light sources and irradiates at least the second reflection region with light.
A light source control means for executing a lighting process of lighting the plurality of light sources included in the first light source and the plurality of light sources included in the second light source in the same order and in the same direction is provided.
The first light source and the second light source are
The plurality of light sources include a first light emitting unit to an nth (n is a natural number of 2 or more) light emitting units.
The first light source and the first light emitting unit to the nth light emitting unit of the second light source are
The first light emitting unit to the nth light emitting unit, which is the first, are arranged in order in a predetermined direction.
In the first reflection region,
From the first reflecting surface toward the first light emitting portion of the first light source to the nth reflecting surface toward the nth light emitting portion of the first light source are arranged in order toward the predetermined direction.
In the second reflection region,
From the first reflecting surface toward the first light emitting portion of the second light source to the nth reflecting surface toward the nth light emitting portion of the second light source are in order in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction. A gaming machine characterized by being arranged.

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