JP7219742B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine capable of playing games.

Conventionally, as a game machine, a game ball, which is a game value, is shot into a game area, and when the game ball wins in a prize winning area such as a prize winning opening, the prize ball is paid out to the player, and furthermore, identification information is displayed as a result of change. A game machine (for example, a pachinko machine) is known that can change the game state according to the state.

Further, when a game start operation is performed after setting the number of bets for one game using the game value, the variable display of the identification information is started, and when a stop operation is performed after the start of the variable display, the variable display of the identification information is stopped. However, there is known a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine) in which a winning can occur based on the display result derived at this time, and the game state can be changed according to the type of winning.

Among such gaming machines, there is known a gaming machine in which the valid period for the operation of the operation means that the player can operate is selected from a plurality of valid periods (for example, Patent Document 1). Also, there is known a gaming machine in which the volume of the effect sound gradually increases during the effective period and is maintained at the volume when the player operates the operating means (for example, Patent Document 2). Also, there is known a game machine that outputs a performance sound prompting the operation of an operation means and outputs a performance sound when the operation means is operated (for example, Patent Document 3).

JP 2014-188088 (for example, 0101, 0104) JP 2015-80524 A (for example, 0119, 0120) JP 2015-19985 (for example, 0158)

By the way, in the case where the effect sound is output when the operating means is operated, the effect being executed cannot be matched with the effect sound, and the player may feel uncomfortable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent a player from feeling a sense of discomfort.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a game machine capable of playing a game, comprising a main body frame, first operating means capable of pressing operation, and second operating means capable of rotating operation. , an effect execution means capable of executing an effect for a certain period from the start of the effective period of the operation on the first operating means, and an effect sound output means capable of outputting an effect sound, wherein the effect sound is the first effect and a second effect sound that is output following the first effect sound, and the effect sound output means outputs the It is possible to output the first effect sound and the second effect sound from when the first operation means is operated until the end of the fixed period, and the first operation means is operated during the effective period. in the case of the second mode in which the valid period expires without any effect, the first effect sound and the second effect sound can be output from the end of the valid period to the end of the fixed period ; The output time of the first effect sound is the same in the first mode and the second mode, and the output time of the second effect sound is longer in the first mode than in the second mode. The output of the effect sound is terminated while the sound volume is gradually lowered while the second effect sound is being output . Therefore, since it is possible to match the effect sound and the mode of the effect, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling a sense of incongruity.
The “fixed period” during which the effect can be executed is the period from when the operation to the operating means is enabled until the end of the effect (in this example, a period of 10 seconds). Therefore, the starting point of the effective period and the starting point of the fixed period for the operation of the operating means may be the same timing, but the ending point may be different.

Further, the effect sound output means is characterized in that the output of the effect sound is terminated while gradually decreasing the volume during the output of the second effect sound. Therefore, since the sound volume of the effect sound does not decrease while the first effect sound is being output, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling a sense of incongruity.

Further, the effect sound output means terminates the output of the effect sound while gradually decreasing the volume during the output of the effect sound, and the valid period is shorter than the output period of the effect sound. is longer than the period from the start of the volume reduction to the end of the output of the effect sound. Therefore, the effect sound is not interrupted during the valid period, and the sound volume of the effect sound is not lowered immediately after the effective period, so that the player can be prevented from feeling a sense of incongruity.

1 is a front view of a pachinko machine; FIG. It is a rear view of the pachinko machine. It is a front view showing a game board unit alone. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine. FIG. 11 is a flowchart (1/2) showing an example of a procedure of reset start processing; FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart (2/2) showing an example of a procedure of reset start processing; FIG. 7 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of a procedure of power failure occurrence check processing; 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of interrupt management processing; FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure of switch input event processing; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a 1st special design memory|storage update process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a 2nd special design memory|storage update process. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of effect determination processing at the time of acquisition; FIG. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol game process. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol game process. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation pre-processing. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) when the first special symbol is off. It is a diagram showing an example of the variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortening state, high probability time shortening state) when the first special symbol is lost. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) when the first special symbol is lost. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table when the second special symbol is lost (low-probability non-time reduction state, low-probability time-reduction state, high-probability time-reduction state). It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) when the second special symbol is off. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the stop design selection table at the time of a 1st special design big hit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the stop design selection table at the time of a 2nd special design big hit. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the second special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state, high probability time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of the variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state, high probability time reduction state) at the time of the second special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the second special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol small hit. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state, high probability time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol small hit. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol small hit. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of the first special symbol small hit (low probability non-time shortening state, low probability time shortening state, high probability time shortening state). It is a diagram showing an example of a second special symbol small hit time variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state). It is an explanatory view showing the lottery target of the internal lottery. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of a number-of-times counter value management process; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of special design storage area shift processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a process during special design fluctuation|variation. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a process during a special design stop display. 6 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of display output management processing; It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable prize-winning apparatus management process at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart showing a procedure example of a variable winning device management process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of operation memory production|presentation management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of production|presentation design change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of reach production|presentation management processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the determination ratio of operation production|presentation. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of processing during a production|presentation design fluctuation|variation. 9 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure for effect sound reproduction management processing; FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for effect sound reproduction processing; FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure for effect sound volume adjustment processing; It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a symbol stop sound output process. 4 is a timing chart showing reproduction timings of sound effects; 4 is a timing chart showing reproduction timings of sound effects; It is a timing chart which shows the timing which makes a production|presentation design transparent. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation example of the production|presentation design. It is an explanatory view showing an example of the variable display of the production pattern when executing the operation production. It is an explanatory view showing an example of the variable display of the production pattern when executing the operation production. It is an explanatory view showing an example of the variable display of the production pattern when executing the operation production. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a conventional technique regarding the output timing of sound effects; 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of symbol stop sound output processing in Modification 1. FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing the timing of making the effect pattern transparent in Modification 1. FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an operation presentation in Modification 1; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an operation presentation in Modification 1; 14 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of symbol stop sound output processing in Modification 2. FIG. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing the timing of making the production pattern transparent in Modified Example 2. FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an operation effect in modification 2; It is a perspective view from the left side of a saucer unit. It is a figure of the state which removed the cover which comprises the bottom surface of the upper plate of a saucer unit. 11 is a front view of a game board of a pachinko machine according to Modification 3. FIG. 11 is a front view of a tray unit of a pachinko machine according to Modification 3. FIG. FIG. 11 is a top view of a tray unit of a pachinko machine according to modification 3; It is an external perspective view of a handle unit. It is an exploded perspective view of a handle unit. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a rotational position of an operating ring of an operating handle; FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the distance of the operating handle from the center of rotation of the operating ring; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing rotational torque of an operating handle; FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a comparative example of rotational torque of an operating handle;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 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. As shown in FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. FIG. The pachinko machine 1 uses game balls as game media. In the game in 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. 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. FIG.

[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, game machine frame) as its main body. An integrated door unit 4 is located on the frontmost side when viewed from the front facing the player. The inner frame assembly 7 is positioned on the rear side (deep side) of the integrated door unit 4 , and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outer side 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. It is fixed using In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for the parts corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and metal material is used for the parts corresponding to the left and right long sides.

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

A unified lock unit 9 is provided inside the right edge of the inner frame assembly 7 (left edge in FIG. 2) as viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, locking devices (not shown) are also provided on the right side edges (rear sides) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2, respectively. As shown in FIG. 1, when 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 locks the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the lock. It disables the opening of 7.

A cylinder lock 6a with a keyhole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. As shown in FIG. For example, when the manager of the game arcade inserts the special key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 is actuated 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 integrated door unit 4 is unlocked while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, so that the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integral 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 parlor can remove obstacles such as clogged balls in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side together.

Moreover, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with the game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the 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. The integrated door unit 4 has a vertically long circular window 4a formed in the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut to match the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the rear 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 can be visually recognized by the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integral door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface to allow the game balls to flow down.

The receiving tray unit 6 has a shape projecting from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper tray 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. In the upper tray 6b, game balls lent to the player (rental balls) and game balls obtained by winning prizes (prize balls) can be stored. Further, the tray unit 6 is formed with a lower tray 6c below the upper tray 6b. In the lower tray 6c, the game balls put out while the upper tray 6b is full are stored. The pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a model connected to a card unit, and the game balls borrowed by the player are received from the payout device unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. 6c) is paid out.

A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged in the lending operation unit 14. - 特許庁When the player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted into a card unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined number of points (for example, 5 points) (For example, 125) game balls are rented. For this reason, a frequency display section (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation section 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted in the card unit is displayed on this frequency display section. By operating the return button 12, the player can receive the return of the valuable medium with remaining points. Although the game machine connected to the card unit is taken as an example in this embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a game machine not connected to the card unit).

A handle unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6 . The player operates the handle unit 16 to operate the shooting control board set 174 and can shoot (hit) a game ball toward the game area 8a (see FIG. 3) (ball shooting device). The shot game ball rises from the lower edge of the game board unit 8 along the left edge, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (no reference numerals in the figure), etc. are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown game ball flows down the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmills. The configuration of the inside of the game area 8a (board surface, game board) will be described later with reference to another drawing.

[Composition of front frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for presentation. Among them, the lens unit 47 incorporates the lamp 46 , and the upper right illumination unit 49 incorporates the right lamp 50 .

The various lamps 46 and 50 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission from built-in LEDs (lighting, blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, etc.). In addition, speakers 54a to 54d are incorporated in the integral door unit 4, respectively. These speakers 54a to 54d output sound effects, BGM, voices, etc. (general sound) to execute effects.

Also, in the center of the tray unit 6, a performance button 45 is installed in front of the upper tray 6b. The player presses the effect button 45 to switch the effect contents (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42), for example, during the fluctuation of the pattern, during the confirmation display of the big win, or during the big win game. It is possible to generate some kind of production (notice production, probability change promotion production, promotion production during big role, etc.).

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

In the present embodiment, when a ready-to-win state, which will be described later, occurs, an operation effect may be executed. In the operation effect, an image prompting the operation of the effect button 45 is displayed during the effective period (for example, 4 seconds) during which the operation of the effect button 45 is valid. Also, the effect is executed for a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds) from the start of the effective period. Then, the effect image is displayed when the effect button 45 is operated or when the valid period expires without the operation button 45 being operated. Further, when the operation effect is executed, the effect sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d when the effect button 45 is operated, or when the effective period ends without the effect button 45 being operated.

[Construction of the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, the back side of the pachinko machine 1 includes a power 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. , 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) that constitute the power system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed.

The dispensing device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference numerals). In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment path (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are led to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game balls delivered from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

The 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.). Various external information signals (e.g. prize ball information, door opening information, pattern confirmation number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) representing the progress state, maintenance state, etc. are output to external electronic devices. ing.

The power cord 164 secures the power supply (electric power) necessary for the pachinko machine 1 to operate, for example, by being connected to a power supply (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of the game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island equipment to secure the grounding of the pachinko machine 1 .

[Configuration of game board unit]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 has a game board 8b serving 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 when the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, the above-described game area 8a is formed inside a substantially circular firing rail (no reference numeral).

In the game area 8a, a relatively large production unit 40 is arranged at its central position, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part centering on the production unit 40. - 特許庁The left part 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 part of the game area 8a is the advantageous game state (jackpot game state). , Small hit game state, low probability time shortening state, high probability time shortening state, high probability non-shortening state, etc.) is the second game area (right hitting area, specific area) used. The game ball is guided to the second game area by a guide passage 18 (such as a launch rail, a ceiling part of the game area, a guide part, etc.) that guides the game ball to the second game area. In addition, in the game area 8a, there are a starting gate 20, normal winning ports 22, 24, a first starting winning port 26, a second starting winning port 27, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 29 for big wins, and a variable winning device 29 for small wins. Variable winning devices 30 and the like are distributed and installed. The starting gate 20 generates a lottery opportunity for an operating lottery (normal symbol lottery) by allowing the game ball guided from the circulation area to the right-handed area to pass as the main target. In this embodiment, the second starting winning port 27, the variable winning device 29 for big win, the variable starting winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30 for small winning are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side.

Among these, the first start winning opening 26 is arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a. The operating port 19, the starting gate 20, the second starting prize winning port 27, the variable starting prize winning device 28, the big winning variable winning device 29, and the small winning variable winning device 30 are arranged on the right side of the game area 8a. The normal winning openings 22 and 24 are arranged on the left side of the game area 8a.

The uppermost part of the game area has an entrance (for example, an entrance of a line of passages formed in the upper part of the effect unit 40) and an exit for guiding game balls shot toward the upper part of the game area to the right-handed area. A section-based guide passage 18 is formed.

The game ball launched into the game area 8a enters the first starting prize winning port 26, the second starting winning prize port 27, the operation port 19, the normal winning prize ports 22, 24 in the process of flowing down, or enters the starting gate 20. or enter a variable starting prize winning device 28 during operation, a variable prize winning device 29 for big hits during opening operation, and a variable prize winning device 30 for small winnings during opening operation.

Then, the game ball that has passed through the starting gate 20 continues to flow down in the game area 8a. The variable winning device 29 for small wins, the variable winning device 30 for small wins, and the game ball entering the operation port 19 pass through a through hole formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent board, etc. that constitutes the game board unit 8). Collected to the back side of the unit 8.

Here, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when the game ball is entered into the first start winning opening 26 or the normal winning openings 22, 24, the area of the left part in the game area 8a It is necessary to hit a game ball (perform a so-called “left-handed hitting”) into (left-handed hitting area).

On the other hand, when the game ball is entered into the first starting winning port 27, the variable starting winning device 28, the variable winning device 29 for big wins, and the variable winning device 30 for small wins, the area of the right part in the game area 8a (right It is necessary to hit the game ball in the hitting area) (execute the so-called "right hitting").

In the present embodiment, the above-described variable starting prize winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when normal symbols are stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a win mode). The variable start-up winning device 28 has a plate-shaped opening/closing member 28a. The opening/closing member 28a can be reciprocated in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). In the normal state, the opening/closing member 28a protrudes from the board surface of the game board 8b toward the player side. At this time, since the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 28a, the game ball cannot flow into the variable starting winning device 28. - 特許庁Then, when the variable starting prize winning device 28 operates, the opening/closing member 28a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the inflow of game balls into the variable starting prize winning device 28 becomes possible. When the game ball flows into the variable start-up winning device 28, it becomes possible to enter the game ball into the second start-up winning port 28b provided in the variable start-up winning device 28. - 特許庁

The variable prize winning device 29 for big hits operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when the special symbols are stopped and displayed in the manner of a big hit). The jackpot variable prize winning device 29 is arranged downstream of the variable starting prize winning device 28 .

The jackpot variable winning device 29 has a plate-shaped opening/closing member 29a. The opening/closing member 29a can be reciprocated in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). In the normal state, the opening/closing member 29a protrudes from the board surface of the game board 8b toward the player side. At this time, since the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 29a, the game ball cannot flow into the variable winning device 29 for big hit. Then, when the big-hit variable winning device 29 operates, the opening/closing member 29a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the inflow of game balls into the big-hit variable winning device 29 becomes possible. When the game ball flows into the variable winning device 29 for big win, the game ball can enter the upper big winning hole 29b provided in the variable winning device 29 for big win. A V winning opening is provided in the big winning variable winning device 29 (upper big winning opening 29b). When a game ball enters the V winning hole, it is controlled to a probability variable state (high probability state). Incidentally, hereinafter, the upper special winning opening 29b may be simply referred to as a special winning opening.

The small-hit variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small-hit manner). The small-hit variable winning device 30 is arranged downstream of the big-hit variable winning device 29 .

The small-hit variable winning device 30 includes a plate-shaped opening/closing member 30a. The opening/closing member 30a can reciprocate in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). In the normal state, the opening/closing member 30a protrudes from the board surface of the game board 8b toward the player side. At this time, since the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 30a, the game ball cannot flow into the small winning variable winning device 30. - 特許庁When the small winning variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening/closing member 30a is pulled into the inside of the board surface, and the game ball can flow into the small winning variable winning device 30.例文帳に追加When the game ball flows into the small winning variable winning device 30, the game ball can enter the lower big winning opening 30b provided in the small winning variable winning device 30. - 特許庁In addition, hereinafter, the lower special prize winning opening 30b may be simply referred to as a special prize winning opening.

It should be noted that entering (entering) a game ball into each winning hole is also referred to as "winning". In particular, winning a prize in a starting prize opening (first starting prize opening, second starting prize opening) is also referred to as starting prize.

The game board unit 8 is provided with the effect unit 40 from its central position to its right side. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member for changing the flowing direction of the game ball, and has various decorative parts 40b inside. The decorative part 40b enhances the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by its three-dimensional shape, and can perform dramatic actions by emitting transmitted light from, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED, etc.). In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the production unit 40, and various production images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including production patterns corresponding to special patterns. . Thus, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the features of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. - 特許庁In addition, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin plate (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorations (including movable bodies and light-emitting bodies) are arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. ) can add decorativeness.

For example, on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, in synchronism with the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol, a plurality of types of performance symbols (such as symbols indicating numbers, etc.) different from the special symbols are displayed. A variable display is performed. Here, in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol, the performance symbols fluctuate in the respective “left”, “middle” and “right” performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R. Display (for example, vertical scroll display or update display) is performed. In the present embodiment, the left pattern is the production pattern that is variably displayed in the production design display area 42L, the middle design is the production design that is variably displayed in the production design display area 42C, and the variability display is in the production design display area 42R. The performance design to be performed may be called the right design.

Further, for example, on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a display area is provided for displaying pending display corresponding to the variable display whose execution is pending. In this example, the first reserved display area 42a for displaying the reserved display corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol, and the second reserved display for displaying the reserved display corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol A region 42b is provided.

It should be noted that the number of pending variable displays is also referred to as the number of pending memories. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special symbol is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special symbol is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count is also referred to as the total reserved memory count.

In addition, inside the effect unit 40, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached together with the movable body 40c for effect. The rendering movable body 40c can execute a rendering involving the action of a tangible object, in addition to rendering using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and rendering by a light emitting device. The effect using these movable bodies 40c can exert appealing power different from the effect using a two-dimensional image.

A ball guide passage 41a is formed on the left edge of the game area 8a, and a rolling stage 41b is formed on the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 41a is opened 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 41a, it passes through the interior and rolls. It is released onto the stage 41b. The upper surface of the rolling stage 41b has a smooth curved surface, where the game ball can roll freely in the horizontal direction.

In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and game balls that do not enter (win a prize) in various winning ports are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32.例文帳に追加In addition, game balls that entered the normal winning openings 22, 24, the first starting winning opening 26, the second starting winning opening 27, 28b, the variable winning device 29 for the big hit, the variable winning device 30 for the small winning, and the operation opening 19 All the game balls hit into the game area 8a including them are recovered to the back side of the game board unit 8. - 特許庁The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and join the replenishment route of the island facility (not shown).

FIG. 4 is a front view showing an enlarged part of the game board unit 8. As shown in FIG. That is, in the game board unit 8, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a are provided at the 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.

Among them, the normal design display device 33 alternately lights two lamps (LEDs), for example, to variably display the normal design, and stops displaying the normal design by lighting or extinguishing the lamp. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays the number of memories of 0 to 4 by a combination of extinguishing, lighting, and blinking of two lamps (LED), for example. For example, in the display mode in which both lamps are turned off, the stored number is displayed as 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is lit, the stored number is displayed as 1, and in the display mode where the same one lamp is blinked. The number of memories is displayed as 2, the number of memories is 3 in the display mode in which one lamp is blinking and the other lamp is lit, and the number of memories is 4 in the display mode in which both lamps are blinking. For example, to display an individual. Although two lamps (LED) are used here, four lamps (LED) may be used to form the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a. In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps that are lit.

Each time a game ball passes through the starting gate 20, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to a display mode after incrementing one by one in the sense of memorizing the passage that triggers the operation lottery. (up to 4), and with the passage as a trigger, the display mode changes to the display mode after the decrease by 1 each time the variation of the normal symbol is started. In this embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start to fluctuate (at the time of stop display). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (up to 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages in which the normal symbol variation has not yet started at that time.

In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 display the fluctuation state and the stop state of the corresponding first special symbol or the second special symbol by, for example, 7-segment LEDs (with dots), respectively. can do. Specifically, when the game ball wins in the first starting winning opening 26, the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and when the gaming ball wins in the second starting winning opening 27, 28b, the second special symbol. is displayed. 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).

In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a are, for example, two lamps (LED) extinguished or lit, depending on the display mode composed of a combination of blinking, each 0 to 4 display the number of memories of For example, in the display mode in which both lamps are turned off, the stored number is displayed as 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is lit, the stored number is displayed as 1, and in the display mode where the same one lamp is blinked. The number of memories is displayed as 2, the number of memories is 3 in the display mode in which one lamp is blinking and the other lamp is lit, and the number of memories is 4 in the display mode in which both lamps are blinking. For example, to display an individual.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a increases by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the first start winning hole 26, the game ball enters the first starting winning hole 26. (up to a maximum of 4), and with the entry of the ball as a trigger, each time the special symbol starts to change, it changes to the display mode after decreasing one by one.

In addition, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a means that each time a game ball enters the second start winning openings 27 and 28b, it stores that the game ball has entered the second starting winning openings 27 and 28b. , it changes to the display mode after increasing one by one (up to 4), and changes to the display mode after decreasing one by one each time the variation of the special pattern is started with the entry ball as a trigger.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first start winning opening in a state where the first special symbol can already start to change (at the time of stop display) Even if a game ball enters 26, the display mode does not change. In addition, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the second special symbol is already in a state where the fluctuation can be started (at the time of stop display), and the second start winning opening 27, 28b is played. Even if the ball enters the ball, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of entering balls whose variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started at that time. represents the number of times

In addition, the gaming state display device 38 includes LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, probability variation state display lamp 38d, time saving state display lamp 38e, and firing position designation lamp 38f. In addition, in this embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, the second special The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are mounted on one integrated display board 89 and attached to the game board unit 8. - 特許庁

The "variable display" of special symbols means, for example, that a plurality of types of special symbols are variably displayed (the same applies to other symbols described later). Variations include updating display of a plurality of patterns, scrolling display of a plurality of patterns, deformation of one or more patterns, enlargement/reduction of one or more patterns, and the like. In the variation of special symbols and normal symbols, which will be described later, a plurality of types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. In the later-described variation of performance symbols, a plurality of types of performance symbols are scrolled or updated, or one or more performance symbols are deformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that the variation also includes a mode in which a certain symbol is displayed blinking. At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as derivation or derivation display) as a display result (the same applies to variable display of other symbols to be described later). Variable display may be expressed as variable display or variation.

[Outline of game progress]
The game state of the pachinko machine 1 includes a normal state (low-probability non-time-reduced state), a small-hit rush (high-probability non-time-reduced state) that is more likely to result in a big win than the normal state and a small win, and a normal state. The state and the probability of a big hit are the same, but the time-saving state (low-probability time-reducing state) in which the variation efficiency of special symbols is improved more than the normal state and small-hit rush, and the normal state and the normal state There is a probability variation state (high probability time reduction state) in which the variation efficiency of special symbols is improved than the small hit rush.

The normal state (low-probability non-reduced time state) is controlled in the same manner as the initial setting state of the pachinko machine 1 (for example, when the predetermined recovery process is not executed after the power is turned on, such as when the system is reset). It is in a state where In the normal state (low-probability non-shortening state), the player shoots the game ball aiming at the left side of the game area 8a (so-called left hitting). Therefore, in the normal state, the game ball mainly enters the first start winning hole 26, and the variable display of the first special symbol is mainly executed. In a normal state, when a normal jackpot occurs, the state shifts to a time reduction state (low-probability time reduction state) after the jackpot game ends, and when a probability variable jackpot occurs, the probability variable state (high-probability time reduction state) after the jackpot game ends. transition to

In the time saving state, the player shoots the game ball aiming at the right side of the game area (so-called right hitting), and the game ball mainly wins the second start winning opening 27 or the second starting winning opening 28b, and the second start winning opening 28b. Variable display of 2 special designs is executed. In the time-saving state, the variable start-up winning device when the variable display of the normal pattern pattern improves the probability of becoming a "normal pattern hit" compared to the non-time saving state, and when the variable display of the normal pattern pattern results in a "normal pattern hit" By making the open period of 28 longer than the non-time-saving state, it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the variable starting winning device 28.例文帳に追加In addition, in the time-saving state, game balls may enter the second starting winning opening 27 or the second starting winning opening 28b and a small hit may occur, but the opening time of the variable starting winning device 28 on the upstream side is long, Most of the game balls win the variable start winning device 28.例文帳に追加Therefore, there are very few cases where the game ball wins the small winning variable winning device 30 on the downstream side during the small winning game, and few winning balls are obtained by the small winning game in the time saving state.

In the probability variable state (high probability time shortening state), the player shoots the game ball aiming at the right side of the game area (so-called right hitting), mainly to the second start winning opening 27 and the second starting winning opening 28b. A game ball wins and the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Since the variable probability state is a high-probability state, the probability that the display result is a "jackpot" is higher than in the normal state. Moreover, most of the game balls win the variable start winning device 28 because the probability variable state is the time saving state. In addition, in the variable probability state, the game ball may enter the second starting winning opening 27 or the second starting winning opening 28b and a small hit may occur, but the opening time of the variable starting winning device 28 on the upstream side is long, Most of the game balls win the variable start winning device 28.例文帳に追加Therefore, there are very few cases where the game ball wins the small-hit variable winning device 30 on the downstream side during the small-hit game, and the number of prize balls obtained by the small-hit game in the probability variable state is small.

In the small hit rush, the player shoots the game ball aiming at the right side of the game area (so-called right hitting), and the game ball mainly wins the second start winning opening 27, and the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. is executed. In the small hit rush, since it is controlled in a non-time-saving state, the probability of winning a normal game is reduced, the opening time of the variable start prize device 28 is shortened, and the frequency of winning the game ball to the second start prize opening 28b is reduced. do. Therefore, in the small winning rush, when a game ball enters the second starting winning opening 27 and a small winning occurs, the game ball easily wins the small winning variable winning device 30 on the downstream side. In addition, the variation display of the second special symbol increases the probability of a small hit, and the variation time of the second special symbol is shorter than in the normal state.

The variable probability state, the small win rush, and the time saving state are continued until prescribed termination conditions such as the execution of variable display of special symbols for a prescribed number of times and the start of the next big winning game state are established. The end condition that the variable display of the special symbol is executed for a predetermined number of times is also referred to as the number of cuts (number of cuts probability variation, etc.).

In the pachinko machine 1, when the game state is the normal state, it is advantageous for the player to aim at the left side of the game area 8a and perform a shooting operation (so-called left-handed operation). When the game ball enters the first starting winning hole 26 by rotating the handle unit 16 provided in the pachinko machine 1 by the player, the first special symbol is changed by the first special symbol display device 34. Display starts. In addition, although it is possible to win the game ball in the second starting winning opening 27 and the second starting winning opening 28b even in the normal state, in the normal state, the fluctuation time of the second special symbol is as long as about 10 minutes. . Therefore, the player normally performs a left-handed operation.

In addition, if the game ball enters the start winning port during the period during which the variable display of the special symbol is being executed, the period during which it is controlled to the big win game state or the small win game state (a start win occurs, but the start win If the variable display of the special symbols based on the prize cannot be executed immediately), the variable display of the special symbols based on the winning prize is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

If the jackpot pattern is stop-displayed in the variable display of the first special pattern, it becomes a "jackpot". Also, if a lost symbol is stopped and displayed, it is "lost".

After the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player.

In the jackpot game state, the upper jackpot 29b formed by the jackpot variable prize winning device 29 is opened in a predetermined manner. The open state is the timing of the elapse of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or the timing until the number of game balls entering the upper big winning opening 29b reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10), whichever is earlier. Continue until the timing. The predetermined period is an upper limit period during which the upper special winning opening 29b can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter also referred to as an upper limit opening period. One cycle in which the upper special winning opening 29b is thus opened is called a round (round game). In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeatedly executed until it reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (7 times or 2 times).

In the jackpot game state, the player can obtain a prize ball by entering the game ball into the upper big prize winning opening 29b. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is an advantageous state for the player. The larger the number of rounds in the jackpot game state and the longer the upper limit period of opening, the more advantageous the player is.

In addition, a jackpot type is set in the "jackpot". For example, we have prepared multiple types of opening modes (number of rounds and upper limit period of opening) of the big winning mouth, and game states after the jackpot game state (normal state, probability variable state (high probability state), small hit rush, time saving state, etc.) , The jackpot type is set according to these. As the jackpot type, there may be provided a jackpot type in which a large number of prize balls can be obtained, and a jackpot type in which a small number of prize balls or almost no prize balls can be obtained.

After the jackpot game state is finished, depending on the jackpot type, it may be controlled to a variable probability state, a small hit rush, or a time saving state. When the big hit game is finished and the game state is controlled to the probability variable state, the small hit rush, and the time saving state, it is advantageous for the player to aim at the right side of the game area and perform the shooting operation (right hitting operation). When the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 by rotating the handle unit 16 of the pachinko machine 1 by the player, the normal symbol display device 33 starts to display the variable normal symbols. In addition, if the game ball passes the start gate 20 during the period during which the variable display of the previous normal symbol is being executed (the game ball has passed the start gate 20, but the variable display of the normal symbol based on the passage cannot be immediately executed case), the variable display of normal symbols based on the passage is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In the variable display of the normal symbols, if the normal winning symbols are stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal symbols becomes "normal winning". On the other hand, if a normal pattern (normal pattern lost pattern) other than the normal pattern per pattern is stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern lost". When it becomes a "universal figure hit", the opening control is performed to open the variable starting prize winning device 28 for a predetermined period (the second starting prize opening 28b is opened).

When the game ball enters the second starting winning hole 28b formed in the variable starting winning device 28, the second special symbol display device 35 starts to display the second special symbol in a variable manner.

In the variable display of the second special symbols, if the big win pattern is stop-displayed, it becomes a "big hit", and if the small win pattern different from the big win pattern is stop-displayed, it becomes a "small hit". In addition, if a winning symbol different from the big winning symbol or the small winning symbol is stopped and displayed, it becomes "lost".

After the display result of the variable display of the second special symbol becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player. After the display result of the variable display of the second special symbol becomes "small win", the game is controlled to a small win game state.

In the small winning game state, the lower big winning opening 30b formed by the small winning variable winning device 30 is opened in a predetermined manner. The open state is the timing of the elapse of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or the timing until the number of game balls entering the lower prize winning opening 30b reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10), whichever is earlier. Continue until the timing. In the small winning game state, only one round can be executed.

After the small winning game state is finished, the game state is not changed, and the game state before the display result of the variable display of the special symbols becomes "small winning" is continuously controlled.

[Progress of production, etc.]
In the pachinko machine 1, various effects are executed according to the progress of the game. The effect is performed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 42 .

As an effect that is executed according to the progress of the game, the first special symbol is variably displayed in the "left", "middle", and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R provided on the image display device 42. Or, corresponding to the start of the variable display of the second special symbol, the variable display of the effect symbol is started. At the timing when the display result (also called fixed special pattern) is stopped and displayed in the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol, the finalized performance symbol (three A combination of performance symbols) is also stopped and displayed.

During the period from the start of the variable display of the performance symbols to the end thereof, the mode of the variable display of the performance symbols may be a predetermined ready-to-win mode. Here, the ready-to-win mode means that when the performance symbols stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display unit 42 constitute a part of the jackpot combination described later, the performance symbols that are not yet stopped are displayed in a variable manner. It is the aspect that is continuing.

In addition, the ready-to-win effect is executed in response to the ready-to-win mode being set during the variable display of the effect symbols. In the pachinko machine 1, the display result (the display result of the variable display of special symbols and the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols) is a "big hit" according to the performance mode (also called "big win reliability" and "big win expectation"). are executed. The ready-to-win performance includes, for example, a normal reach and a super-to-win with higher reliability than the normal reach.

When the display result of the variable display of the special symbols is "big hit", a fixed performance symbol that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived as the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols on the screen of the image display device 42.例文帳に追加(The display result of the variable display of the production pattern is "big hit"). For example, the same effect symbols (for example, "7" etc.) are stop-displayed together on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R.

In the case of a ``variable probability big hit'' controlled to a variable probability state after the end of the big win game state, odd-numbered performance symbols (for example, "7" etc.) are stopped and displayed together, and the variable probability state is entered after the end of the big win game state. In the case of an uncontrolled "non-probable variable jackpot (normal jackpot)", even-numbered performance symbols (for example, "6", etc.) may be stopped and displayed together. In this case, the odd-numbered production design is also called the probability variable design, and the even-numbered production design is also called the non-probability-variable design (normal design).

When the display result of the variable display of the special symbols is "small hit", on the screen of the image display device 42, as the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols, a fixed performance symbol that becomes a predetermined small winning combination (for example, , “1 3 5”, etc.) are derived (the display result of the variable display of the performance symbols is “small win”). For example, the effect symbols constituting the chance symbols are stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C and 42R.

When the display result of the variable display of the special design is "missing", the variable display of the performance design does not become the ready-to-win mode, and the fixed performance design of the non-reach combination is displayed as the display result of the variable display of the performance design. (Also referred to as "non-reach loss") may be stopped (the display result of the variable display of the production pattern becomes "non-reach loss"). In addition, when the display result is "lost", after the mode of the variable display of the production pattern becomes the ready-to-win mode, as the display result of the variable display of the production pattern, a predetermined reach combination that is not a big hit combination ("reach is lost ”) is stopped and displayed (the display result of the variable display of the production pattern is “reach out”).

The effects that can be executed by the pachinko machine 1 include display of suspension display and variable display display. In addition, as other effects, for example, a notice effect that foretells the reliability of the big hit is executed during the variable display of the effect symbols. The notice effect includes a notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit in the variable display during execution and a pre-reading notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit in the variable display before execution (variation display whose execution is suspended). As the pre-reading advance notice effect, an effect of changing the display mode of the variable display corresponding display (suspended display or active display) to a mode different from normal may be executed.

Also, in the image display device 42, the performance symbols are temporarily stopped during the variable display of the performance symbols, and then the variable display is resumed, so that one variable display can be simulated as a plurality of variable displays. A pseudo continuous effect may be executed.

During the big winning game state, the performance during the big winning is executed to report the big winning game state. As the effect during the big win, the effect of notifying the number of rounds or the promotion effect indicating that the value of the big win game state is improved may be executed. Also, during the small-hit game state, an effect during the small-hit game for notifying the small-hit game state is executed. It should be noted that during the small winning game state, some of the jackpot types (jackpot types in the jackpot game state in the same manner as the small hit game state, for example, the jackpot type in the subsequent game state high probability state) jackpot game By executing a common performance in both states, the player may not know whether the current state is a small win game state or a big win game state. In such a case, by executing a common performance after the end of the small winning game state and after the end of the big winning game state, it is made impossible to distinguish whether the state is a high probability state or a low probability state. may

Further, for example, a demonstration image is displayed on the image display device 42 when the variable display of special symbols is not executed.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine 1. As shown in FIG. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation, and this main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. there is Note that the main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 .

In addition, the main control unit 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72, which is a central processing unit, is mounted. RWM) 76 or the like is integrated as an LSI. The main controller 70 is also equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77 . Of these, the random number generator 75 is for generating a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for judging the jackpot of the special symbol lottery or the winning judgment of the normal symbol lottery. is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77 . In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input/output (I/O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter/timer circuit (CTC), and the like. 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 an inner layer portion).

The starting gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting passage of a game ball. In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a first start prize-winning port switch 80 corresponding to the first start prize-winning port 26, a second start prize-winning port switch 82a corresponding to the second start prize-winning port 27 and the second start prize-winning port 28b, 82b, first and second count switches 84a and 84b corresponding to the variable winning device 29 for big win and variable winning device 30 for small win, and a V winning detection switch 85 corresponding to the V winning opening in the upper big winning winning opening 29b. It is

The first start prize winning port switch 80 detects the entry of the game ball into the first start prize winning port 26, the second start prize winning port switch 82a detects the entry of the game ball into the second start prize winning port 27, The second starting winning opening switch 82b is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the second starting winning opening 28b. When a game ball is detected by the first start winning opening switch 80 or the second starting winning opening switches 82a and 82b, a predetermined number (one) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

In addition, the first count switch 84a is for detecting the entry of game balls into the jackpot variable winning device 29 (upper jackpot winning port 29b) and counting the number. The second count switch 84b is for detecting the entry of game balls into the small winning variable winning device 30 (lower big winning opening 30b) and counting the number. When game balls are detected by the first and second count switches 84a and 84b, a predetermined number (for example 10) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

The V winning detection switch 85 is for detecting that a game ball that has entered the big winning variable winning device 29 (upper big winning opening 29b) has entered the V winning opening.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 includes a first winning hole switch 86 for detecting the entry of a game ball into the normal winning hole 22 and a second winning hole switch for detecting the entry of a game ball into the normal winning hole 24. 81 are provided. When game balls are detected by the first winning hole switch 86 or the second winning hole switch 81, a predetermined number (six) of game balls are paid out as prize balls based on this detection information.

Winning detection signals from 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, signals from the gate switch 78, the first and second count switches 84a and 84b, the V winning detection switch 85, the first winning opening switch 86, and the second winning opening switch 81 Winning detection signals are transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87, and the panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying respective winning detection signals.

The above-described normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The display operation of the status display device 38 is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 . The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals to these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and 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 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. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display substrate 89 via the panel relay terminal board 87 .

In addition, the game board unit 8 has a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 corresponding to the variable starting prize winning device 28, an upper big prize winning opening solenoid 89 corresponding to the big winning variable winning device 29, and a small winning variable winning device 30 corresponding to it. A lower prize winning opening solenoid 90 is provided. These solenoids 88 to 90 are operated (excited) based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72, and open and close (actuate) the variable starting winning device 28, the variable winning device 29 for big wins, and the variable winning device 30 for small wins, respectively. Let Control signals for these solenoids 88 to 90 are also transmitted from the main control CPU 72 via the panel relay terminal plate 87 .

In addition, a glass frame open switch 91 is installed in the integrated door unit 4 and a plastic frame open switch 93 is installed in the inner frame assembly 7 . When the integrated door unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and the inner frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame unit 2. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 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 detecting the open state of the integrated door unit 4 or the inner frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door open information signal as an external information signal.

A payout control device 92 is equipped on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. - 特許庁This 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 a payout control CPU 94 is mounted, and this payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI integrated with a CPU core (not shown) and semiconductor memories such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98. 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 executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as an external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

A payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor, payout means) and a payout device substrate 100 are installed in a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172. The payout device substrate 100 has a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. is provided. 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 out the indicated number of game balls from the prize ball case. let out The paid out game balls are sent to the receiving tray unit 6 through the payout channel in the channel unit 173 .

In addition, for example, a payout road ball disconnect switch 104 is installed at the upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at the downstream position of the payout motor 102 . Each time the payout motor 102 is driven to actually pay out the prize balls, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device board 100 . Also, when the ball runs out at the upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device board 100 . The payout device board 100 transmits the input count 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, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full tank switch 161, for example, inside the lower tray 6c (at the back when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The actually paid out prize balls (game balls) are discharged to the upper tray 6b through the channel unit 173, but when the upper tray 6b is filled with game balls, more game balls are paid out as described above. flows into the lower plate 6c. Furthermore, when the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is thereby turned on, and a 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 motions even if a prize ball instruction command is received from the main control CPU 72, and stores the remaining number of prize balls that have not been paid out in the RAM 98.例文帳に追加The memory in the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is turned off, so even if a power failure (including a momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the remaining number of unpaid prize balls will not be lost. .

Also, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with a firing control board 108. - 特許庁Also, a ball feed solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6 . The firing control board 108, the firing solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the aforementioned firing control board set 174. Of these, the firing control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the firing solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among them, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation to feed the game balls stored in the receiving tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined shooting position within the launcher case. Also, the shooting solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the shooting position, and continuously (intermittently) launches the game balls one by one toward the game area 8a as described above. In addition, the shooting interval of the game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 balls per minute).

On the other hand, the handle 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. Also, the touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (firing handle) from changes in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal therefor. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) according to the player's operation.

A firing relay terminal plate 118 is installed in the receiver 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. be done. A drive signal from the firing control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the firing relay terminal plate 118 . When the player operates the firing handle, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) 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 of hitting the game ball is adjusted according to the amount of operation by the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. do. In addition, a game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120 is connected to the shooting relay terminal plate 118, and when the card unit is not connected to this game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120, the shooting control board is also connected. The drive circuit at 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 .

Further, the tray unit 6 incorporates a frequency display board 122 and a lending/returning switch board 123 . Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with an indicator (3-digit 7-segment LED) for the frequency display section. In addition, the lending and returning switch board 123 is mounted with switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the returning button 12, respectively. And it is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the card unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120 . In addition, from the card unit, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120 . A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display substrate 122 drives a display based on the frequency signal to numerically display the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. Further, when no valuable medium is inserted into the card unit or when the remaining points of the inserted valuable medium become 0, the display circuit of the point display board 122 drives the display to display a demo (valuable medium ) can also be displayed.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a performance control device 124 (computer for controlling performance) as a control configuration. This performance control device 124 controls the performance accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1 . The performance control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which a performance control CPU 126, which is a central processing unit, is mounted. The production control CPU 126 incorporates a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The performance control device 124 is provided at a position covered by a back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. - 特許庁

The performance control device 124 is equipped with an input/output driver and various peripheral ICs (not shown), as well as a lamp driving circuit 132 and a sound driving circuit 134 . The production control CPU 126 controls the production based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp drive circuit 132 and the sound drive circuit 134 to light the various lamps 46, 50 and the board lamp 53. and actually output sound effects, voices, etc. from the speakers 54a to 54d.

The production control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other, for example, via a communication harness (not shown). However, communication between them is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the opposite direction is not performed. In addition, 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, and each driver IC (I / O) A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

The lamp drive circuit 132 includes switching elements such as PWM (pulse width modulation) ICs and MOSFETs (not shown). ) to manage its operation such as light emission and blinking. The various lamps include, in addition to the lamps 46, 48, and 52, a board surface lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8 for decoration and presentation. The board lamp 53 corresponds to an LED built in the production unit, or an LED built in the variable starting winning device 28, the variable winning device 29 for big win, the variable winning device 30 for small win, and the like.

The sound drive circuit 134 is a sound generator containing, for example, a sound ROM, a sound control IC, an amplifier (not shown), etc. The sound drive circuit 134 drives the speakers 54a to 54d to output sounds.

In this embodiment, a glass-framed electric board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and the driving signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the sound drive circuit 134 are sent to various lamps 46 via the glass-framed electric board 136. , 50 and speakers 54a to 54d. A production button 45 is connected to the glass frame illumination board 136 , and when the player operates the production button 45 , the contact signal is input to the production control device 124 through the glass frame illumination board 136 . Furthermore, a jog dial 45 a is connected to the glass frame illumination board 136 , and when the player rotates the jog dial 45 a , the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illumination board 136 . Here, an example in which the effect button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass-framed illumination board 136 is given. may be

In addition, a panel electric decoration board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8 , and a movable body motor 57 is connected to the panel electric decoration board 138 in addition to the board surface lamp 53 . The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40c via, for example, a link mechanism (not shown). A drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the board surface lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57 via the panel illumination board 138 .

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

The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program relating to the control of the effect, and the effect control CPU 126 executes control of the effect according to this program. Control of effects includes control of effects using various lamps 46, 50, 53, etc. and speakers 54a to 54d as described above, and control of effects by image display using liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives this transmits a specific image for effect based on the basic information. Control the display.

The display control CPU 146 outputs further detailed control signals to the VDP 152 . The VDP 152 having received this accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads the necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156 . Furthermore, the VDP 152 develops the image data on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) into a frame buffer, and converts each pixel (full-color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the image data buffered here. drive separately.

In addition, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7 . This power supply control unit 162 incorporates a switching power supply circuit, and when it takes in external power (for example, AC 24V, etc.) from the island equipment through the power cord 164, it can generate necessary power (for example, DC +34V, +12V, etc.). The power generated by the power control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70 , the payout control device 92 , the performance control device 124 and the inverter board 158 . Further, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the card unit via the terminal board 120 for lending equipment such as game balls. Low-voltage power (for example, DC +5V) for logic is generated by a power supply IC (three-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Also, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded to the island facility through the ground wire 166 .

The 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 sent from the external terminal board 160 to the outside via the payout control device 92. is output to The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72 ) and payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94 ) can output external information signals to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160 . Signals output from the external terminal board 160 are counted by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) of the game arcade. In addition, 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 an example of the configuration relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1 . Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main controller 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts reset start processing. 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 at the time of the previous power shutdown, or by clearing the backup information. This process is for Further, the reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for ensuring stable game operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjustment of the initial state.

6 and 7 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of reset start processing. Each procedure of the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described below.

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

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

Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a reset standby process here. This process secures a certain amount of waiting time (for example, about several thousand milliseconds) at the time of reset start (for example, turning on the power), and checks the main power interruption 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 interruption detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power failure detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitor IC, which is a peripheral device. When the input of the main power interruption detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the processing from the beginning. As a result, it is possible to protect the system even if the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly turned on and off within a short period of time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

Step S104: Next, the main control CPU72 permits access to the work area of the RAM76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted thereafter.

Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 initializes the mask register to set the interrupt mask. Specifically, a value that enables the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

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

Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether the backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup was successfully completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, "A55AH") is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

Step S108: The main control CPU72 performs a sum check on the backup information in the RAM76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (user work area including use-prohibited area and stack area) except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the sum check result 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: Also, the main control CPU 72 clears the command that was waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power failure occurred.

Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes effect control return processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 to the effect control device 124, a return command (for example, model designation command, special pattern probability state designation command, special figure destination determination effect command, working memory number increase production command, working memory number Effect command at the time of decrease, number of times cutting counter remaining number command, special game state designation command, etc.) are transmitted. In response to this, the effect control device 124 changes the effect state that was being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown (for example, internal probability state, display mode of the effect pattern, effect display mode of the working memory number, sound output content, various lamps light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. 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 that was being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown (for example, the display mode of special symbols, the internal probability state, working memory contents, various flag states, random number update state, etc.). Also, the main control CPU 72 restores the value of the PC register that was backed up.

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

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

Step S114: The main control CPU72 also initializes the RAM76.

Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 outputs a command (a command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after initial setting.

Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes payout control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command to the payout control device 92 to start paying out prize balls.

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

After executing the above procedure in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 7 (connection symbol A→A).

Steps S118 and S119: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interrupts, and then executes power failure check processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power interruption detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power interruption (drop in drive voltage). When a power cutoff occurs, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffers corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the upper grand winning opening solenoid 89, the lower winning opening solenoid 90, etc., and the backup valid determination flag in the work area of the RAM 76. And back up the entire contents except for the sum check buffer, and save the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value (for example, "A55AH") in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops processing (NOP). On the other hand, if power shutdown does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. It should be noted that there is a well-known example of programming that causes the CPU to execute such processing when power failure occurs as non-maskable interrupt (NMI) processing.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an 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 this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, jackpot design random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) except for the jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) and the hit determination random numbers corresponding to normal symbols (hardware random numbers) is generated programmatically. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9). ) is changed. The initial value update random number is used to randomly change this initial value, and in step S120, the initial value update random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interrupt is prohibited in step S118 is that the same processing is executed in another interrupt management processing (step S202 in FIG. 9). ) is to prevent In this embodiment, the jackpot determination random number and the winning determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms) (eg, several μs). Therefore, there is no need to update the initial values of the jackpot determined random numbers and the winning determined random numbers.

Steps S121, S122: The main control CPU 72 permits interrupts and executes random number update processing. The random numbers updated in this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to determination of winning types (hit types) among software random numbers. This process is performed in 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. 9). The content of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure occurrence check process]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of the procedure of power failure occurrence check processing.

Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 sets the conditions 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 interruption detection signal is continuously output.

Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power interruption detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power interruption detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly shown, a main power disconnection detection switch is mounted, for example, in the main controller 70. This main power disconnection detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power supply disconnection detection signal is output. Note that the main power disconnection detection switch may be incorporated in the power control unit 162 . When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power interruption detection signal is not output at this time (No), it exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the main power disconnection detection signal has been 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-described check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether the result is 0 or not. If the on-counter value is still not 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and checks the main power interruption detection switch input port again. Then, when the loop from step S134 to step S132 is repeated and the check condition is satisfied (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S136.

Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output ports corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the upper grand winning opening solenoid 89, and the lower winning opening solenoid 90. do.

Steps S138, 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 sum check buffer, in 1-byte units, and repeats the addition for all areas until the addition is completed. .

Step S142: When sum calculation is completed for all areas (step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 saves the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value in the backup validity determination flag area.

Step S146: In addition, 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 use prohibited area and stack area) of the RAM 76.

Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop, and stops all other processes in preparation for the shutdown of the main power supply. After the main power supply is cut off, backup power is supplied from a backup power supply circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70). held without. The backup power supply circuit may be built in the power control unit 162, for example.

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (to be added to the sum) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. In addition, the retained memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 6).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several milliseconds) based on an interrupt request signal from the counter/timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S200: First, the main control CPU72 saves the values of the registers (each pair of the accumulator A and the flag register F, and the general-purpose registers B to L) used during the execution of the main loop to the saving area of the RAM76. Another value can be written to the registers (A to L) after saving the values during the interrupt management process.

Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes lottery random number update processing. 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 looped within a prescribed range. Various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

Step S202: The main control CPU 72 also executes the initial value update random number update process here. The contents of the processing are the same as those described above.

Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input/output (I/O) port 79 . Specifically, the passage detection signal from the gate switch 78, the first start winning opening switch 80, the second starting winning opening switch 82a, 82b, the first and second count switches 84a, 84b, the first winning opening switch 86 , the input state (ON/OFF) of the winning detection signal from the second winning port switch 81 is read.

Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this processing, among the switch signals input in the previous input processing, the signal generated during the game is generated based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the first start winning opening switch 80, and the second starting winning opening switches 82a and 82b. An event is determined, and further processing is executed according to the event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event processing will be described later using another flowchart.

In this embodiment, when the winning detection signal (ON) is input from the first start winning opening switch 80, the main control CPU 72 triggers an internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol (lottery opportunity ) is determined to have occurred. Also, when the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers the lottery corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. When determining that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes processing according to each occurrence event. The processing executed when the winning detection signal is input from the first start winning opening switch 80 or the second starting winning opening switches 82a and 82b will be described later using 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 . Among these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second It controls the variable display and the stop display by the 2 special symbol display device 35, and controls the operation of the big hit variable winning device 29 and the small winning variable winning device 30 according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later using another flowchart.

In addition, in the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU72 controls the variable display and 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 CPU72 stores the random number (determined random number per normal symbol) acquired with the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event process (step S204), and in this normal symbol game process A random number value is read out from the memory and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range. When the random number falls within the winning range, the normal symbols are variably displayed by the normal symbol display device 33, and the normal symbols are stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner. Energize to operate the variable starting winning device 28 . On the other hand, if the random number is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs stop display of normal symbols in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signal input from the various switches 80, 81, 82a, 82b, 84a, 84b, 85, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), the payout control device 92 receives the number of prize balls. Outputs a prize ball instruction command that instructs.

Also, 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 the winning detection signal is input from the first and second count switches 84a and 84b corresponding to the variable winning device 29 for big win or the variable winning device 30 for small win, it corresponds to the first profit (for 15 game balls). Generate a prize content command. Also, when a winning detection signal is input from the first winning port switch 86 and the second winning port switch 81 corresponding to the normal winning ports 22 and 24, the contents of the prize balls corresponding to the second profit (four game balls) Generate commands. The prize content command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

The number of prize balls for the start opening of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls for the start opening of the second special symbol are each set to a prescribed number of one or more. Also, the number of winning balls may be different between the starting opening of the first special symbol and the starting opening of the second special symbol. In addition, the minimum number of prize balls is set based on the winning probability of special symbols and the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired (average number of balls obtained in a series of periods from the first hit to the end of the time reduction state). You may Furthermore, the probability of winning a special pattern, the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired, the number of times the large winning opening is opened, the opening time of the large winning opening, the maximum number of winnings of the large winning opening, and the number of winning balls of the large winning opening are specified. When the conditions are satisfied, a big win may be set in which the number of game balls acquired by one big win 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 outputs external information signals (e.g. winning ball information, door opening information, number of pattern confirmation information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in the request buffer.

In this embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, "jackpot 1" to "jackpot 5" are output as jackpot information to the outside, so that an external electronic device (data display (external information signal output means). That is, by dividing the jackpot information into a plurality of "jackpots 1" to "jackpots 5" and outputting them, the types of jackpots (winning types) can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) from these combinations, or internally Occurrence of small hits that are not classified as "big hits" even if they are not winning, even if they are not winning can be aggregated and managed. Also, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each machine is currently jackpotting. Alternatively, it is possible to recognize whether or not the current symbol variation time is shortened for each machine. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls in detail the respective output states (set of ON or OFF) of "jackpot 1" to "jackpot 5".

Step S209: The main control CPU 72 also executes 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, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). and store them in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70, for example.

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

Step S211: The main control CPU 72 also executes output management processing. 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). In addition, the main control CPU 72 combines the drive signals, test signals, etc. of the normal electric accessary item solenoid 88, the upper grand winning opening solenoid 89, and the lower winning opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer, and outputs them from the port.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 in the command buffer to check whether there is a command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (command necessary for effect control), if there is an unsent command command to be output port output.

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

It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing of steps S205 to S212 (game control program module) is executed as a timer interrupt processing, but these processing are executed by incorporating them into the main loop of the CPU. There are also known programming examples.

Step S214: After completing the above processing, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) designating the end of the interrupt in the interrupt program counter and ends the CTC interrupt.

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

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 9). Each procedure will be described below.

Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery opportunity has occurred) from the first start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. The specific contents of the processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no winning detection signal input (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 opportunity has occurred) from the second start winning opening switches 82a and 82b corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here, similarly, the specific contents of the processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no winning detection signal input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84a corresponding to the upper big winning opening 29b of the variable winning device 29 for big winning. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes the upper big winning opening counting process. In the upper big winning hole count process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the big winning variable winning device 29 for each round during the big winning game. On the other hand, if there is no winning detection signal input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S21a.

Step S21a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input from the count switch 84b corresponding to the lower big winning opening 30b of the variable winning device 30 for small winning. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21b and executes the lower big winning opening count process. In the lower big winning opening count process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the small winning variable winning device 30 during the big winning game. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal has not been input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S22: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of this passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes normal symbol memory update processing. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current normal symbol working memory 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. Also, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol working memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the obtained random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 . On the other hand, if there is no winning detection signal input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

After completing the above processing, the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management processing (FIG. 9).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory updating process (step S12 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory updating 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 working memory number counter, and the number of working memories (in this embodiment, the number of reserved memories) is the maximum value (for example, 4). to check whether it is less than The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the jackpot determination random numbers, the jackpot pattern random numbers, 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 for the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Random numbers can be stored in sets (groups) one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

Step S31: The main control CPU72 adds one to the first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol working memory number counter is stored, for example, in the working memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9).

Step S32: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the big hit determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77. A random number is obtained by designating the pin address of the random number generator 75 . When the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, address designation is performed in two batches of 1 byte each for the upper and lower bytes. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number from the specified address, it saves it as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S33: Next, the main control CPU72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM76. 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 design random number from the designated address, it saves it as the jackpot design random number corresponding to the first special design at the transfer destination address.

Step S34: In addition, the main control CPU72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 as the random number relating to the variation condition of the first special symbol. Acquisition of these random numbers is similarly performed by designating the address of the variable random number counter area. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the specified address, it saves them to the transfer destination address.

Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot pattern random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and stores these random numbers in the empty section of the area. stored as a set. An order (for example, 1st to 4th) is set for a plurality of sections, and if all the 1st to 4th sections are empty at the present 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. Note that reading from the random number storage area is in 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 in the middle of a big hit. If it is other than during a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (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 performance based on the prediction is not performed for the ball entering during the big hit.

Step S37: If it is not during the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU72 executes the effect determination process at the time of acquisition with respect to 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 jackpot determination random number and the jackpot pattern random number obtained in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively, and the content of the effect is determined accordingly. It is for judgment (so-called "look-ahead"). The specific contents of the processing will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S38: When returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU72 next sets the upper byte portion (for example, "B8H") of the special figure destination determination effect command (prefetch information) regarding the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for the special figure destination determination production for the first special symbol". In addition, since the lower byte portion of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition time effect determination process (step S37), here, by synthesizing the upper byte with the lower byte, for example, a one word length command will be generated.

Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the production command when the number of working memories increases with respect to the first special symbol. Specifically, a one-word-length command is obtained by adding the increased number of working memories (eg, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the preceding value (eg, "BBH") of the upper byte representing the type of command. Generate production commands. At this time, the second digit of the low-order byte is set to "0" by default to indicate that the value is "a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)". In other words, if the lower byte is "01H", it indicates that the current working memory number is "01H" as a result of incrementing by one from the previous working memory number "00H". Similarly, if the lower byte is ``02H'' to ``04H'', it means that the number of working memories ``01H'' to ``03H'' up to the previous time has increased by 1, resulting in the number of working memories ``02H'' to ``02H'' to `` 04H”. It should be noted that the preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the current effect command is the 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 to the effect control device 124 the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the starting entrance winning sound control command. It is.

After completing the above processing, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory updating process (step S16 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory updating process will be described step by step.

Step S40: The main control CPU72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter and checks whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol working memory number counter also indicates the number (number of sets) of the jackpot decision random numbers and jackpot pattern random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 . At this time, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and subsequent steps.

Step S41: The main control CPU72 adds one to the second special symbol working memory number (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 11), based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9). will be

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a big hit determination random value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (second lottery element acquisition means, lottery element acquisition means). The method of obtaining the random value is the same as in step S32 (FIG. 11) 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 (lottery element acquisition means). The method of obtaining the random value is the same as in step S33 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S44: In addition, the main control CPU72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means, lottery element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot pattern random numbers, reach determination random numbers, and variation pattern determination random numbers to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and stores these random numbers in the empty section of the area. (storage means, lottery element storage means). The method of storage is the same as that of step S35 (FIG. 11) described above.

Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is in the middle of a big hit. Then, if it is other than during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if the jackpot is in progress (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, likewise, an effect based on prediction is not performed for a ball entering during a big hit.

Step S46: If it is not during the big hit (step S45a: No), then the main control CPU72 executes the effect determination process at the time of acquisition with respect to the second special symbol (look-ahead process execution means). In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the second special symbol jackpot determination random number and the jackpot pattern random number obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, and the effect contents are determined accordingly. It is for judging. The specific contents of the processing will be described later.

Step S47: When returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU72 next sets the upper byte (for example, "B9H") of the special figure destination determination effect command (prefetching process execution means). This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for the special figure destination determination performance regarding the second special symbol". Similarly here, since the lower byte portion of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition time effect determination process (step S46), here, by synthesizing the upper byte with the lower byte, for example, one word A long command will be generated.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the production command when the number of working memories increases with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length effect command is obtained by adding the increased working memory number (eg, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the preceding value (eg, "BCH") of the upper byte representing the command type. to generate Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the low-order byte to "0" by default, it is possible to express that the value is "the result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)". can. It should be noted that the preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current production command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process regarding the second special symbol. As a result, preparations are made to transmit to the effect control device 124 the special figure destination determination effect command, the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories, the start opening winning sound control command, etc. with respect to the second special symbol.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10).

[Production determination process when acquired]
FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition time effect determination process in the previous first special symbol memory update process and second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 11, step S46 in FIG. 12). As described above, this processing includes the first special symbol (when the ball enters the first starting winning port 26) and the second special symbol (when the ball enters the second starting winning port 27 and the variable starting winning device 28). executed for each. Therefore, the following description may correspond to the processing related to the first special symbol or the processing related to the second special symbol. The contents of the processing will be described below along each procedure.

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

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the big hit determination random number as the first judgment random number. The random number loaded here is stored in the RAM 76 in the previous first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). .

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

Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the fluctuation pattern information pre-determination process at the time of deviation (variation pattern first determination means, pre-reading process execution means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern first determination command (prefetch information) for the variation time at the time of deviation. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects prior judgment information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) especially at the time of operation of the "time reduction function". For example, if the current state is the time of operation of the "time reduction function", the main control CPU 72 is based on the loaded reach determination random number, and the fluctuation time corresponds to "loss reach fluctuation (non-shortened fluctuation time)". determine whether there is As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to "missing reach fluctuation (non-shortened fluctuation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to "non-shortened fluctuation time". In addition, in the case of reach fluctuation, it is also possible to determine "reach group (type of reach)" from the reach mode random number and generate a fluctuation pattern destination determination command from the result. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "missing reach fluctuation (non-shortened 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 in operation (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 is based on the loaded reach determination random number, and the fluctuation time corresponds to "normal deviation reach fluctuation" Determine whether or not As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to the "normal deviation reach fluctuation", the main control CPU72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normal deviation reach fluctuation time". On the other hand, if the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "usual deviation reach fluctuation", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normal deviation fluctuation time". Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49). In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of the small hit, similarly to the process at the time of loss described above.

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU72 ends the effect determination process at the time of acquisition after executing the determination result management process of step S82, and calls the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol Return to the memory update process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not out of the hit value range but within the hit value 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 previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although fluctuation has not yet started. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the hit determination random number stored so far, if the hit pattern random number paired with it corresponds to the "variable pattern", the probability state schedule flag, for example "A0H" is set. This value represents a flag value for setting a high-probability state in advance determination (prefetch determination) of the jackpot determination random number obtained after the jackpot determination random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, and if the jackpot pattern random numbers paired with it correspond to "non-variable (normal) patterns", the probability state For example, "01H" is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting a normal (low) probability state at the time of preliminary determination (prefetch determination) of the jackpot determination random number obtained after the jackpot determination random number. If there is no winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. In this example, the "probability state schedule flag" is used to strictly perform preliminary hit determination. Steps S58, S60, S62, S76, etc. may be omitted.

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

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

Step S68: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the "current probability state flag". This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state is 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 variable probability), the value "01H" is set as the state flag, and if it is low probability (normal medium), the value of the state flag is reset ("00H ”).

Step S70: Then, the main control CPU72 confirms whether the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not indicate a high probability (≠01H), and as a result, if it indicates a high probability (No ), and 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 comparative value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The comparison value for high probability is defined in advance according to the winning probability of the pachinko machine 1 at high probability.

In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has not been set yet and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and then the next step S72 is performed. will be executed. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not indicate a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU72 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 hit value range (lottery result destination determination means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the big hit determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Then, the main control CPU 72 similarly determines whether or not the operation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register. ), the main control CPU 72 executes the fluctuation pattern information pre-determination process at the time of loss (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the hit value range but is within the hit value range (No), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S74.

Step S74: The main control CPU72 executes a jackpot symbol type determination process. This processing is for judging the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot design random number paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the previous first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). Then, similar to step S54, calculation using the comparison value is executed, and from the result, it is determined whether the jackpot type corresponds to "non-probability variation design (normal design)" or "probability variation design". 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 CPU72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag according to the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents "non-variable probability symbol", the main control CPU72 sets the probability state schedule flag to the value "01H". On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents "variable probability symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the probability state schedule flag to the value "A0H". As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined that "flag has been set" in step S56.

Step S78: The main control CPU72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. For the special symbol first determination value, for example, "01H" is set when it corresponds to "non-probability variation design", and "A0H" is set when it corresponds to "probability variation design". In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

Step S79: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a big hit variation pattern information pre-determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the time of the big hit. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, prior determination information regarding, for example, the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of the big hit is reflected. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49).

The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag is set according to the previous 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, if the prior hit determination is made based only on the current probability state, there is no need to execute the following steps S56, S58, S60, S62, and S76.

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

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

Step S60: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the "probability state schedule flag". The probability state schedule flag is for setting the probability state in the subsequent pre-determination based on the immediately preceding pre-determination result, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76 . If the probability state based on the previous determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (variable probability), "A0H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag, and conversely, the probability state based on the previous determination result is scheduled to return to low probability (normal), "01H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

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

In this way, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has already been set and the value is for a high probability, the comparative value is rewritten for the high probability and then the next step S72 and subsequent steps is performed. will be executed. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule but indicates a normal (low) probability schedule (Yes), the main control CPU 72 steps S64 is skipped and the next step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. As a result, in this embodiment, it is possible to determine a big hit in advance by taking into consideration subsequent changes in the internal state based on the previous determination result (normal probability state→high probability state, high probability state→normal probability state). .

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12).

[Parallel variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol]
Next, the details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process will be described. In this embodiment, by separately executing the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first special symbol display device 34 displays the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol by the display device 35 can be performed in parallel. Therefore, in this embodiment, for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process are separately performed under the control of the main control CPU 72 (1 per interrupt cycle). times).

[First special symbol game process]
FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol game process.
First, the first special symbol game process has a procedure (step S1000a) for confirming whether or not the internal state flag is "big win start (during big win game)".

Step S1000a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the game state (internal state) corresponding to the second special symbol is "big win start (during big win game)". This confirmation can be made based on the progress of the processing performed so far regarding the second special symbol (the value of the second special symbol game management status). The reason why this confirmation is performed in the present embodiment is that the game relating to the first special symbol is not allowed to progress when the other second special symbol is in the midst of a jackpot game.

At this time, if the second special symbol is not in the middle of a big hit game (the second special symbol game management status is a value of a big hit) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the processing of the next step S1000b.

In addition, the first special symbol game process includes a procedure (step S1000b) for confirming whether or not the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON, and the game state is a small hit. have. If the variable time measurement paused flag is ON, it means that the variable time measurement is being paused, and if the variable time measurement paused flag is OFF, the variable time measurement is stopped It means that you are not in pause.

Step S1000b: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON and the game state is a small hit. In the present embodiment, this confirmation is performed by temporarily measuring the fluctuation time of the first special symbol when a small winning game is being played with respect to the other second special symbol and the first symbol is fluctuating. This is because we are planning to stop it.

At this time, if the variable time measurement suspended flag is not ON, or even if the variable time measurement suspended flag is ON, the game state is not a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step The processing after S1000b1 is executed. Steps S1000b1 to S6000 are program modules that form the basis of the first special symbol game processing. The main control CPU72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the first special symbol through the processing of step S1000b1 to step S6000 which are the basis of these.

On the other hand, if the fluctuation time measurement paused flag is ON and the small hit game is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the process of step S7000.

The core part of the first special symbol game processing includes special game special symbol discrimination flag update processing (step S1000b1), execution selection processing (step S1000c), special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000), special symbol variation during processing (step S3000), special symbol stop display processing (step S4000), variable winning device management processing for big win (step S5000), variable winning device management processing for small win (step S6000) subroutines (program modules) groups are included. . First, the basic flow of the first special symbol game process will be described along with each process.

Step S1000b1: The main control CPU 72 executes a special game special symbol discrimination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the process of determining which of the first special symbols and the second special symbols is the target symbol to be processed. Here, the special game special symbol discrimination flag is a flag that specifies the symbol to be processed, and is stored in the RAM76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, "0") corresponding to the first special symbol to the value of the special game special symbol discrimination flag.

Step S1000c: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S2000 to S6000) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the address of the jump destination, and sets the end of the first special symbol game process to the stack pointer as the address of the return destination.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (first special symbol game management status). For example, if the first special symbol has not yet started variable display (first special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. select. Also, if the special symbol variation preprocessing has already been completed (first special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol If the processing during fluctuation is completed (first special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display processing (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the "jump table" to select the process. There are also known programming examples in which the CPU selects which process to execute next. In such a programming example, the CPU calls each process, and at the beginning step, it refers to the flags one by one and performs conditional branching (continuation/return). There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

Step S2000: In the special symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU72 performs the work of preparing the conditions for starting the variation display of the first special symbol. Specifically, big hit determination (first lottery execution means, lottery execution means) and variation patterns are determined here, and in the case of a big hit, the winning type is also determined. In addition, along with the determination of the winning type, the main control CPU 72 sets the number-of-time counters for the "time reduction state" and the "high probability state". The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1-byte data) is output to each segment and dot (numbers 0 to 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, thereby performing the variable display of the first special symbol.

In addition, in this process, a determination process of whether or not to operate the skip function is also performed, and in the previous big hit determination, for example, the first special symbol is in the process of changing the big hit, and the second special symbol is not elected. If so, the skip function is activated for the second special symbol. By the operation of this skip function, the process of forcibly ending the non-winning variation of the second special symbol is performed. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device . Similarly here, ON or OFF drive signals are output to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, thereby performing the stop display of the first special symbol. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S5000: The variable winning device management process at the time of the big hit is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of the big win in the previous special symbol stop display process. Then, when the game is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode, an opportunity is generated to shift from the previous normal state to a jackpot game state (advantageous special game state for the player). During the big hit game with respect to the first special symbol, the jump destination is set to the variable winning device management process at the time of the big hit in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the first special symbol is not performed. In the jackpot variable winning device management process, the upper jackpot opening solenoid 89 is energized for a predetermined period of time (for example, 29 seconds or until 10 wins are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations. The winning device 29 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the player is given an opportunity to collectively win a large number of prize balls (special game executing means) by causing the game balls to win intensively to the variable prize winning device 29 for big hits. The opening and closing operation of the variable winning device 29 for a big win is called a "round".

When the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening and closing operations per round, the opening time, etc.) in the jackpot time variable winning device management processing, the opening and closing of the jackpot variable winning device 29 for one round is performed. The value of the round number counter is incremented by 1 each time the operation is completed. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Also, 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. When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big role) with respect to the first special symbol only for that round.

Then, when the jackpot game is finished, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (high probability state, time shortening state) after the jackpot game is finished based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, variation time reduction function operation flag). . In the "high-probability state", the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery is, for example, ten times higher than normal. In addition, in the "time shortening state", the variable time shortening function operates, the probability of the operation lottery of the normal pattern becomes high, the variable time of the normal pattern is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended and opened. The number of times increases (so-called electric chew support is performed). Regarding the "high-probability state" and the "shortened-time state", the control may shift to only one of them, or may shift to both of them.

In this embodiment, the "time shortening state" means that the variation time shortening function is activated, the variation time of the normal symbol or the special symbol is shortened, the winning probability of the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes high, variable It means a state in which the opening time of the starting prize winning device 28 is extended (open extension function operation).

In addition, the "non-shortening state" means that the fluctuation time reduction function is deactivated, the fluctuation time of normal symbols or special symbols is not shortened, and the probability of winning the normal symbol operation lottery becomes low. It means a state in which the opening time of the variable starting prize winning device 28 is not extended (open extension function inactive).

Step S6000: Small hit variable winning device management process is selected when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit in the previous special symbol stop display process. When the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stop-displayed in the mode of a small win, an opportunity is generated to shift from the normal state to the small win game state. During the small-hit game, the jump destination is set to the small-hit time variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the small-hit game, the small-hit variable winning device 30 opens and closes for a predetermined number of times in a predetermined opening time.

Step S7000: The process of temporarily stopping the measurement of the fluctuation time is a process of maintaining the fluctuation of the first special symbol without stopping it. The main control CPU 72 drives and controls the first special symbol display device 34 when the second special symbol is in the midst of a small winning game and the first special symbol is fluctuating. As the drive control of the first special symbol display device 34, a process of outputting an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) to each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7 segment LED is executed, This maintains the state in which the first special symbol is not stopped. In addition, when the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped, the measurement of the fluctuation time is restarted after the small hit game is finished. Even if the main control CPU 72 determines that the second special symbol is in the midst of a small winning game, if the first special symbol is not fluctuating, the main control CPU 72 does not execute the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop process. Also, measurement of the fluctuation time may be forced termination instead of suspension.

[Second special symbol game processing]
FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol game process.
The second special symbol game process first has a procedure (step S1900a) for confirming whether or not the other first special symbol is in the midst of a big hit.

Step S1900a: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the game state corresponding to the first special symbol is "during jackpot game". This confirmation can also be performed based on the value of the first special symbol game management status as described above. It should be noted that this determination may include the determination of whether or not it is "during a small winning game".

At this time, if the first special symbol is not in a big hit game (the value of the first special symbol game management status is a big hit) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the processing after the next step S1900a1. Steps S1900a1 to S6900 are program modules that form the core of the second special symbol game processing. The main control CPU72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the second special symbol through the processing of step S1900a1 to step S6900 which are the basis of these.

As explained in the previous first special symbol game process, also for the core part of the second special symbol game process, special game special symbol discrimination flag update process (step S1900a1), execution selection process (step S1900b), special symbol variation Pre-processing (step S2900), processing during special symbol fluctuation (step S3900), processing during special symbol stop display (step S4900), variable winning device management processing at the time of big hit (step S5900), variable winning device management processing at the time of small hit (step S6900) subroutine (program module) group is included. In addition, description of the same content as the first special symbol game process is omitted as appropriate.

Step S1900a1: The main control CPU 72 executes a special game special symbol discrimination flag update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the process of determining which of the first special symbols and the second special symbols is the target symbol to be processed. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, "1") corresponding to the second special symbol to the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

Step S1900b: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S2900 to S6900) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the address of the jump destination, and sets the end of the second special symbol game process to the stack pointer as the address of the return destination.

Here as well, which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (second special symbol game management status). For example, if the second special symbol has not yet started variable display (second special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2900) as the next jump destination. select. Also, if the special symbol variation preprocessing has already been completed (second special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation process (step S3900) as the next jump destination, and special symbols If the processing during fluctuation is completed (second special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display processing (step S4900) is selected as the next jump destination.

Step S2900: In the special symbol variation preprocessing in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU72 performs work to prepare the conditions for starting the variation display of the second special symbol (second lottery execution means, lottery execution means). .

Step S3900: In addition, in the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the fluctuation timer.

Step S4900: In the special symbol stop display process in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU72 performs drive control of the second special symbol display device 35. Also here, similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, thereby performing the stop display of the second special symbol.

Step S5900: The variable winning device management process at the time of big hit is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit in the previous special symbol stop display process. Here, similarly, the stop display mode of the second special symbol is determined in accordance with the winning type. In addition, when the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening and closing operations per round, the opening time, etc.) in the jackpot time variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot variable winning device for one round. The value of the round number counter is incremented by 1 each time the opening and closing operation of 29 is completed. When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big role) with respect to the second special symbol only for that round.

Then, when the big hit game is ended with respect to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game ends based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, variation time reduction function operation flag).

Step S6900: Small hit variable winning device management process is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit in the previous special symbol stop display process (special game executing means). For example, when the second special symbol is stop-displayed in a small-hit mode, an opportunity is generated to shift from the previous normal state to a small-hit game state. During the small-hit game, the jump destination is set to the small-hit time 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 small-hit game, the small-hit variable winning device 30 opens and closes for a predetermined number of times in a predetermined opening time.

[Special symbol variation preprocessing]
FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation preprocessing. In addition, the contents of the special symbol variation preprocessing described below can be common in the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control object is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control object is the second special symbol. do. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S2090: First, the main control CPU 72 executes processing for confirming whether or not the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM 76 is ON.

When determining that the fluctuation time measurement suspension flag is ON (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2092.

Step S2092: The main control CPU 72 executes stop symbol reading processing. In this process, the information of the stop symbol saved in the RAM 76 is read. Then, based on the read stop symbol information, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of loss by the first special symbol display device 34 . Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (when lost) 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 S2094: The main control CPU 72 executes remaining variation time reading processing. In this process, the variable timer value (value of the remaining variable time) saved in the RAM 76 is read. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the read variable timer to the variable timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of loss to the stop symbol display timer.

Step S2096: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol re-variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 sets the special symbol re-variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a re-variation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 . This re-fluctuation start command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2098: The main control CPU 72 executes processing to turn off the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM 76 . As a result, the situation in which the measurement of the fluctuation time is suspended is cancelled.
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) to the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

On the other hand, if it is not possible to confirm that the variable time measurement paused flag is ON in the preceding step S2090 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2100.

Step S2100: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special symbol working memory number (first special symbol working memory number or second special symbol working memory number) to be controlled remains (greater than 0). do. This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76 . If the number of working memories of the target symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2150.

Step S2150: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol working memory number is zero. That is, if the object to be controlled is the first special symbol, it is checked whether or not the second special symbol working memory number is 0, and if the object to be controlled is the second special symbol, the first special symbol working memory. Check if the number is zero. This confirmation can also be performed by referring to the value of the special symbol working memory number counter. Then, when the other special symbol working memory number is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether there has been no winning for a predetermined period of time in any of the start winning openings, and if it has confirmed that there has been no winning for a predetermined period of time, it generates a command for demonstration effects. . The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the demonstration setting process is executed, the main control CPU72 returns to the first special symbol game process (Fig. 14) or the second special symbol game process (Fig. 15). In addition, when returning, it returns to the end address of each special symbol game process (the same applies thereafter).

On the other hand, if the other special symbol working memory number is not 0 (step S2150: No), the main control CPU72 performs the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game without executing the demonstration setting process. Return to the process (FIG. 15).

On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol working memory number counter to be controlled is greater than 0 (step S2100: Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2160.

Step S2160: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set to the big hit flag or the small hit flag for the other special symbol. The big win flag or small win flag is a flag that is set when a big win or a small win is obtained by internal lottery, and is reset when the big win game or the small win game ends. Therefore, confirmation in this process is confirmation of whether or not the result of the internal lottery for the other special symbol is winning a big win or a small win. In addition, when the other special symbol is not displayed in a variable manner, the result of confirmation is inevitably No because the big hit flag or the small hit flag is not set. Also, here, the content of determination is "big win or small win", but only "big win" or only "small win" may be made.

In this process, if the value (01H) is set to the big hit flag or small hit flag related to the other special symbol (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2202. On the other hand, if the value (01H) is not set to the big hit flag or the small hit flag related to the other special symbol, that is, if the value is "00H" (No), the main control CPU 72 next step S2200 to run.

Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads the lottery random numbers (big hit decision random numbers, big hit pattern random numbers) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the special pattern to be controlled. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the top section, and then shifts (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random number is saved, for example, in another temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next big hit determination process. Also, in this process, the main control CPU72 subtracts one from the value of the working memory number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol to be controlled) stored in the RAM76, and the value after the subtraction is set as the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation". As a result, the display mode of the stored number changes (decrease by 1) for the one to be controlled among the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a in the above display output management process. . After completing the procedure up to this point, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes big hit determination processing (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the range of the jackpot value, and determines whether or not the read random number value (jackpot determination random number value) is included in this range. The range of the jackpot values set at this time differs between the low-probability state and the high-probability state. Then, if the random number value read at this time is included in the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU 72 sets "01H" to the jackpot flag. By executing such processing, the main control CPU 72 can execute a special symbol lottery (predetermined lottery) with a winning probability corresponding to the currently set value when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game. Can (lottery executing means).

Step S2302: The main control CPU 72 executes small hit determination processing (internal lottery).
If the big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of small hit values and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery executing means). The "minor win" referred to here is anything other than non-winning (lose), but has a different nature from the "big win". In other words, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (game turning point) to shift to the "high probability state" or "time reduction state", but the "minor win" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the "minor win" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the small win variable winning device 30, like the "big win". If the read random number is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU72 sets the small hit flag to "01H". It should be noted that the odds of winning a small hit in the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery may be set to "approximately 1/1", and as long as it does not correspond to a big hit, it may correspond to an approximate small win, or the first special symbol. The odds of winning a small win in the lottery or the second special symbol lottery may be set to "approximately 1/2 to 1/4", and if it does not correspond to a big win, it may correspond to a small win or a loss.

In addition, in this embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance on the program as the hit range other than non-winning (regulating means other than non-winning). A small hit determination table may be written in the ROM 74, and the big hit determination may be performed while reading this table and comparing it with a random number value.

Step S2202: The main control CPU 72 executes special symbol storage area shift processing. In this process, the same process as the previous step S2200 is performed, so the description is omitted. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S2404.

On the other hand, when the small hit determination process ends (step S2302), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2400.

Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the big hit flag has been set to the value (01H) in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set to the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S2402 next, and if the value (01H) is set to the jackpot flag (Yes), the main control CPU72 is next , step S2410 is executed.

Step S2402: The main control CPU72 determines whether or not the value (01H) has been set to the small hit flag in the previous small hit determination process. If the small hit flag is not set to the value (01H) (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2404. In addition, the main control CPU 72 may determine a big hit (for example, set 01H) or a small hit (for example, set 0AH) by the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes stop symbol determination processing when losing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of loss by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 . Also, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (when lost) 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.

In addition, in this embodiment, since 7-segment LEDs are 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 loss is always one segment (center The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H) with only the lighting display of the bar "-"). In this case, the storage capacity used on the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes fluctuation pattern determination processing at the time of deviation. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern number at the time of loss for the special symbols to be controlled (variation pattern determination means). The variation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the variation display of the special symbol to be controlled, or corresponds to the variation time required for the variation display. Variation patterns include various variation patterns such as non-reach variation, reach variation, super reach variation, etc. (same applies to big wins and small wins). In addition, the information about the variation pattern of the selected special design is transmitted to the production control device as a variation pattern command.

Here, the fluctuation time at the time of loss varies depending on whether it is the above-mentioned "high probability state" or "time reduction state", so in this process the main control CPU72 loads the game state flag, Check whether the state of is "high probability state" or "time reduction state". For example, in the "shortened time state", the fluctuation time at the time of deviation is set to a shortened time (for example, about 4 to 12 seconds).

Also, even if it is not in the "time shortening state", except when performing reach fluctuation, the fluctuation time at the time of loss is based on the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, for example. It may be shortened. However, when a special variation pattern is selected, the variation time does not change depending on the number of memories. The stop display time of the symbol at the time of loss is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variable time (at the time of loss) to the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time at the time of loss to the stop symbol display timer.

In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery with the first special symbol, when it corresponds to non-winning, for example, "reach effect" is generated on the production and it is lost, or it is lost without generating "reach effect". It is supposed to control to do. Then, in the "variation pattern selection table at the time of losing", a plurality of types of effects are defined in advance, for example, "non-reach effect", "reach effect" corresponding to the variation pattern is defined. One of the variation patterns is selected from among them. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, story reach production, and the like.

[Example of variation pattern selection table when first special symbol is lost]
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time reduction state) at the time of first special symbol loss used in step S2405 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used when losing in the low-probability non-time reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (when corresponding to non-winning). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "1" to "8" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "1" to "5" correspond to variation patterns that are lost without performing reach production, and variation pattern numbers "6" to "8" correspond to variation patterns that are lost after reach. Yes. Note that the fluctuation pattern selection table may have different table contents according to the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation (the same applies hereinafter).

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 working memories), whereas the "reach fluctuation pattern" It corresponds to a long fluctuation time (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds) that is more than double that.

The variation pattern may be a variation pattern in which a pseudo-continuous advance notice effect is executed (the same applies to the variation pattern selection table below). The pseudo-continuous advance notice effect is a effect in which the effect symbol is simulated to change once or more times during one change of the special symbol.

Here, the pseudo 1 variation (pseudo 1: first pseudo variation) is a variation in which the pseudo variation of the production pattern is executed once, and the pseudo 2 variation (pseudo 2: second pseudo variation Pseudo variation) is a variation in which a pseudo variation of the production pattern is executed twice. In addition, the pseudo 3 variation (pseudo 3: third pseudo variation) is a variation in which the pseudo variation of the production pattern is executed three times, and the pseudo 4 variation (pseudo 4: fourth pseudo Variation) is a variation in which a pseudo variation of the effect pattern is executed four times.

Then, the main control CPU72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the comparison value Select the corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. 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. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low-probability time reduction state/high-probability time reduction state) at the time of first special symbol loss used in step S2405 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used when losing in the low-probability time-reduction state or high-probability time-reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (in the case of non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "21" to "28" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "21" to "25" correspond to variation patterns that will be lost without performing reach production, and variation pattern numbers "26" to "28" are variation patterns that will be lost after reach. Yes.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. 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. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) when the first special symbol is lost used in step S2405 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used when the first special symbol is lost in the high-probability non-time-reduction state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "41" to "48" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "41" to "48" correspond to variation patterns in which the ready-to-win effect is not performed and the player loses.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. 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.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a variation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time shortening/low-probability time-shortening state/high-probability time-shortening state) at the time of second special symbol loss used in step S2405 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used in the second special symbol lottery in the low probability non-time reduction, low probability time reduction state or high probability time reduction state (variation pattern defining means).
In this table, all the same variation patterns (variation time is specified time (for example, several minutes to 10 minutes)) are set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach deviation It has a table configuration for selecting the variation pattern 51) (variation time regulation means).

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "51" as the variation pattern number regardless of which value the acquired variation pattern determination random number value is.

FIG. 21 is a variation pattern selection table (high-probability non-time reduction state) at the time of second special symbol loss used in step S2405 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used when the second special symbol is lost in the high-probability non-time reduction state.
In this table, all the same variation pattern (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach small hit variation pattern 52) are selected.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "52" as the variation pattern number regardless of which value the acquired variation pattern determination random number value is.

[See Figure 16: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is lost (in the case of non-winning), but 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 procedures. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

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

[Winning design at the time of jackpot]
In this embodiment, there are roughly five types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The breakdown of the five types is “7 round normal pattern”, “7 round probability variable pattern”, “2 round normal pattern”, “2 round probability variable pattern 1”, and “2 round probability variable pattern 2”.

In the present embodiment, a jackpot in which the "7 round normal symbol" is selected may be referred to as a 7 round normal jackpot (also abbreviated as a 7R normal jackpot or a 7R normal jackpot). Then, it is determined that the big hit is determined in the big hit determination process (internal lottery) in step S2300 of FIG. There is

In addition, the jackpot in which the "7 round probability variable pattern" is selected may be referred to as the 7 round probability variable jackpot (also abbreviated as 7R probability variable jackpot or 7R probability variable). Then, it is determined that it is a big hit in the big hit determination process (internal lottery) of step S2300 in FIG. There is

In addition, a big win in which the "2 round normal pattern" is selected is called a 2 round normal big win (sometimes abbreviated as 2R normal big win or 2R normal). Then, it is determined that the jackpot is determined in the jackpot determination process (internal lottery) in step S2300 of FIG. There is

In addition, the jackpot in which "2 round probability variable pattern 1" is selected is called a 2 round probability variable big hit or a 2 round probability variable big hit without time saving (sometimes abbreviated as 2R probability variable big hit, 2R probability variable, 2R probability variable/non-time saving). Then, it is determined that it is a big hit in the big hit determination process (internal lottery) of step S2300 in FIG. , It may be called winning in 2R probability variable / non-short time.

In addition, the jackpot in which "2 round probability variable pattern 2" is selected is referred to as a 2 round probability variable jackpot or a 2 round probability variable jackpot with a short time (sometimes abbreviated as 2R probability variable big hit, 2R probability variable, 2R probability variable/short time). Then, it is determined that it is a big hit in the big hit determination process (internal lottery) of step S2300 in FIG. , It may be called winning in 2R probability variable / short time.

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

[Stop symbol selection table at the time of the first special symbol jackpot]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first special symbol jackpot time stop symbol selection table used in step S2410 of FIG. When the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the stop symbol selection table for the first special symbol big hit and determines the type of winning symbol.

In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the allocation values for each winning symbol, and each allocation value "40" and "60" is the ratio when the denominator is 100. Equivalent to. In addition, the second column from the left shows the "7 round normal symbol" and the "7 round probability variable symbol" corresponding to each distribution value. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting "7 round normal symbol" is 40/100 (=40%), and the ratio of selecting "7 round probability variable symbol" is 100. 60 minutes (=60%). The magnitude of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using the jackpot symbol random number.

In any case, when the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. to selectively determine winning patterns. In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, 2-byte command data, for example, is defined as a winning stop symbol command. The stop symbol command is described, for example, as a combination of MODE value and EVENT value, of which the upper byte MODE value "B1H" indicates that the current winning symbol was selected when the first special symbol was a big hit. represents. Also, the EVENT values "01H" to "02H" in the lower bytes represent the types of corresponding winning symbols in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol and "7 round normal symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as "B1H01H". It will be.

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects a winning symbol from the stop symbol selection table for the first special symbol jackpot, it 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 above effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[time reduction number of times]
The second column from the right of the first special symbol jackpot time stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of time reductions (number of times of time reduction) given after the end of the jackpot game. In this embodiment, 100 times is set as the number of times of time saving when it corresponds to the "7 rounds normal pattern". On the other hand, when it corresponds to "7 round probability variation pattern", 0 times is set as the number of times of time saving (the number of times of time saving is not set).

[Probable number of times]
The right column of the stop symbol selection table for the first special symbol big hit shows the value of the number of probability variations (the number of probability variations, the number of ST) given after the end of the big hit game. In this embodiment, when it corresponds to "7 rounds normal design", 0 times is set as the probability variation frequency (the probability variation frequency is not set). On the other hand, when it corresponds to "7 round probability variation pattern", 10000 times are set as the probability variation number.

[Stop symbol selection table for second special symbol jackpot]
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a second special symbol jackpot time stop symbol selection table used in step S2410 of FIG. When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to this second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table and determines the type of winning symbol.

In the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the left column also shows distribution values for each winning symbol. Equivalent to the ratio when Similarly, the second column from the left shows "2 rounds normal design", "2 rounds probability variation pattern 1", and "2 rounds probability variation design 2" corresponding to the distribution value. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting "2 round normal symbol" is 20/100 (=20%), and the ratio of selecting "2 round probability variation symbol 1" is 76/100 (=76%), and the rate at which "2 round probability variation pattern 2" is selected is 4/100 (=4%).

When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol at 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, as shown in the third column from the left, 2-byte command data, for example, is defined as a winning stop symbol command. Here too, the stop symbol command is described as a combination of the above MODE value and EVENT value, of which the upper byte MODE value "B2H" is selected when the winning symbol of this time hits the second special symbol. It means that Also, the EVENT values "01H" to "03H" in the lower bytes represent the types of corresponding winning symbols in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and "2nd round normal symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as "B2H01H". .

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects a winning symbol from the second special symbol jackpot time stop symbol selection table, it 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 above effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol. It should be noted that the main control CPU 72 also generates a stop symbol command at the time of the small hit as well as at the time of the big hit.

[time reduction number of times]
The second column from the right of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of time reductions (number of time reductions) given after the end of the big hit game. In this embodiment, when it corresponds to the "2 round normal pattern", 5 times or 100 times are set as the number of times of time saving. On the other hand, when it corresponds to "2 round probability variation pattern 1", 0 times is set as the number of times of time saving (the number of times of time saving is not set). In addition, when it corresponds to "2 round probability variation pattern 2", 5 times are set as the number of times of time saving.

[Probable number of times]
The right column of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table shows the value of the probability variation count (probability variation count, ST count) given after the jackpot game ends.
In this embodiment, when it corresponds to "2 rounds normal design", 0 times is set as the probability variation frequency (the probability variation frequency is not set). On the other hand, when it corresponds to "2 round probability variation pattern 1" or "2 round probability variation pattern 2", 10000 times is set as the probability variation frequency.

In addition, in this embodiment, the game proceeds with the second special symbol in the time shortening state. Also, in the second special symbol lottery, a small hit is won with a probability of approximately 1/1. Therefore, the number of fluctuations after the big win game and the number of small wins generally correspond one to one.

[See Figure 16: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 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 value of the determined variable time to the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time to the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of jackpot reach variation, a longer variation time than when losing is determined.

In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery, when a 9-round normal jackpot, a 9-round probability variable jackpot 1 to 4, or a 16-round probability variable jackpot is achieved, for example, a "ready-to-win performance" is generated in the performance to make a big hit. ing. In addition, in the "variation pattern selection table at the time of the big hit", the variation patterns corresponding to multiple types of "reach effects" are stipulated, and correspond to the 9 round normal jackpot, the 9 round variable variable jackpot 1 to 4, and the 16 round variable variable jackpot. If so, one of the fluctuation patterns will be selected. Also, at the time of winning while the variable time reduction function is operating, instead of selecting a variable pattern with a long variable time, select a variable pattern with a short variable time (a variable pattern that does not perform a ready-to-win effect). good too.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of jackpot]
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low-probability non-time reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). In this embodiment, the variation patterns are not distinguished between the 9-round normal jackpot, the 9-round probability variable jackpot 1 to 4, and the 16-round probability variable jackpot, but a dedicated variation pattern selection table may be used for each jackpot ( hereinafter the same). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "61" to "68" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "61" to "68" all correspond to variation patterns in which a ready-to-win effect is performed and hits.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. 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. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the second special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low-probability non-time reduction state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "71" to "78" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "71" to "78" all correspond to variation patterns in which the ready-to-win effect is not performed and the player wins.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "72" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state/high probability time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the low-probability time-reduction state or high-probability time-reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". 'Variation pattern number''81' to '88' are assigned to each 'comparison value'.

Variation pattern numbers "81" to "88" all correspond to variation patterns in which a ready-to-win effect is performed and hits.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. 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. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the second special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state/high probability time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used when winning in the low-probability time-reduction state or high-probability time-reduction state in the second special symbol lottery. Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "91" to "98" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "91" to "98" all correspond to variation patterns in which the ready-to-win effect is not performed and the player wins.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number. For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "92" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time reduction state in the first special symbol lottery.
In this table, all the same variation patterns (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) are set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (variation pattern per non-reach 101 ) is configured as a table.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "101" as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random number value.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of the second special symbol jackpot timing variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2412 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time reduction state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, the same variation pattern (variation time is, for example, about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (variation pattern per non-reach 102 ) is configured as a table.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "102" as the variation pattern number regardless of which value the acquired variation pattern determination random number value is.

[See Figure 16: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of the big hit.
In this process, if the type of winning design determined in the previous step S2410 (stop design number at the time of jackpot) is "7 round definite variable design", "2 round definite variable design 1", "2 round definite variable design 2", the main The control CPU 72 sets a value (01H) to a probability variation function operation flag as a game state flag stored in the flag area of the RAM 76 .

Also, in this process, if the winning symbol type (jackpot stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is "7 round normal symbol" or "2 round probability variable symbol 1", the main control CPU72 flags the RAM76. A value (01H) is set to a variable time reduction function activation flag as a game state flag stored in the area (time reduction state transition means, variation time reduction function activation means).

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

Next, processing at the time of a small hit will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes small hit stop symbol determination processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small win (stop symbol number at the time of the small win) based on the big hit symbol random number. Here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number and the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small win is defined in advance in the special symbol selection table at the time of the small win. In the present embodiment, the jackpot symbol random number is used to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72 to determine the winning symbol at the time of the small hit, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning design at the time of small hit]
In the present embodiment, there is only one type of winning pattern at the time of the small win, namely, "1 time open small winning pattern". You may prepare another kind, such as ".

Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 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 value of the determined variable time to the variable timer, and sets the value of the stop display time to the stop symbol display timer. In this embodiment, it is possible to select a reach variation pattern in the case of a small hit, or to select a variation pattern equivalent to that in normal variation.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of the first special symbol small hit]
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2408 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit in the low-probability non-time reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "211" to "218" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers ``211'' to ``215'' correspond to variation patterns that result in small hits without performing ready-to-win effects, and variation pattern numbers ``216'' to ``218'' correspond to variations that result in small hits after reach. corresponds to the pattern.

Then, the main control CPU72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the comparison value Select the corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. In this case, since the random number is less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "212" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table (low-probability time reduction state/high-probability time reduction state) at the time of the first special symbol small hit used in step S2408 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit in the low-probability time-reduction state or high-probability time-reduction state in the first special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "221" to "228" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers ``221'' to ``225'' correspond to variation patterns that result in small hits without performing ready-to-win effects, and variation pattern numbers ``226'' to ``228'' correspond to variations that result in small hits after reach. corresponds to the pattern.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "222" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of the first special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2408 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit in the high-probability non-time reduction state in the first special symbol (fluctuation pattern defining means). Also, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "fluctuation pattern number" are stored in sets of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "241" to "248" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "241" to "248" correspond to variation patterns that result in small hits without the ready-to-win effect.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU72 determines the next comparison value " 201” and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "242" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a second special symbol small hit fluctuation pattern selection table (low-probability non-time shortening/low-probability time-shortening state/high-probability time-shortening state) used in step S2408 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit in a low-probability non-time-reduction state, a low-probability time-reduction state, or a high-probability time-reduction state in the second special symbol lottery (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, all the same variation patterns (variation time is specified time (for example, several minutes to 10 minutes)) are set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach small It has a table configuration for selecting the hit variation pattern 201 (variation time regulation means).

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "201" as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random number value.

FIG. 34 is a second special symbol small hit variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time reduction state) used in step S2408 of FIG.
This selection table is a table used at the time of a small hit with the second special symbol in a high-probability non-time reduction state (fluctuation pattern defining means).
In this table, all the same variation pattern (variation time is about 0.5 to 10.0 seconds) is set, and in this selection table, one predetermined variation pattern (non-reach small hit variation pattern 202) is selected.

Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects "202" as the variation pattern number regardless of which value the acquired variation pattern determination random number value is.

[See Figure 16: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
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 design (small hit design) by the first special design display device 34 or the second special design display device 35 based on the small hit stop design number. In addition, 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 sent to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (when lost/when hit). In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol fluctuation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 . Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation 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 above effect control output process.

Step S2416: The main control CPU 72 executes a number cutting counter value management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of updating the value of the cut counter value. Details of the processing will be described later. Further, such processing may be executed during the special symbol stop display processing.

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) to the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Figs. 14 and 15: Processing during special symbol fluctuation]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing (step S3000 or step S3900), the main control CPU72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer set as described above from the register to the timer counter, and then the elapsed time (clock pulse count number or the value of the interrupt counter). Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) to be controlled until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900) to the next jump destination.

Further, in this process, a determination process of whether or not to operate the skip function is also performed, and in the big hit determination or small hit determination of the previous special symbol variation preprocessing, one special symbol is in the process of losing, and When it is determined that the other special symbol corresponds to a big win or a small win, the skip function is activated for one special symbol. Due to the operation of this skip function, the variable display of one of the special symbols is forcibly terminated.

[FIGS. 14 and 15: Processing during special symbol stop display]
In the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900), the main control CPU72 is a special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2092, step S2404, step S2407, step S2410 in FIG. 16) to control the stop display of the . Also, 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 above effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time during the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol fluctuation flag.

Here, the conditions for executing the big hit determination process (step S2300) and the small hit determination process (step S2302) will be briefly described.

[Internal Lottery Correspondence Table]
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an internal lottery correspondence table.
In the internal lottery correspondence table, when the corresponding special symbol executes the internal lottery jackpot lottery (big hit determination process) or small hit lottery (small hit determination process), based on the state of the other special symbol It is shown that it is determined whether or not to

When the other special symbol is "during big win fluctuation (during fluctuation display when the big win flag is 01H)", the big win lottery and the small win lottery are not executed in the internal lottery of the special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery for the special symbol corresponds to "lost".

Similarly, when the other special symbol is "during small hit fluctuation (during display of fluctuation when the small hit flag is 01H)", in the internal lottery of the special design, the big hit lottery and the small lottery You can choose not to run it. In this case, the result of the internal lottery for the special symbol corresponds to "loss". In addition, when it is "during fluctuation of the small hit (during display of fluctuation when the small hit flag is 01H)", a method of executing a big hit lottery and a small hit lottery may be adopted.

On the other hand, when the other special symbol is "during fluctuation (during fluctuation display when the big win flag or small win flag is 00H)", in the internal lottery of the special symbol, the big win lottery is first executed, Then, if it does not correspond to a big hit, a small prize lottery is executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery for the special symbol corresponds to either "big win", "minor win" or "lose". It should be noted that during the deviation fluctuation, waiting for fluctuation and stop display are included.

In this way, when one of the special symbols is "during the big hit fluctuation" (or "during the small hit fluctuation"), the big hit lottery or the small win lottery is not executed in the other special pattern, and as a result, the big hit. A game or a small winning game is not executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is "during big hit fluctuation" (or "during small hit fluctuation"), the other special symbol is substantially in a non-lottery state of a big hit or a small hit.

[Number of cutting counter value management process]
FIG. 36 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the number-of-times counter value management process. An example procedure will be described below.

Step S2420: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of loading the number cutting counter value. In the "high-probability state" and the "short-time state," each counter value is set in the variable-probability count area and the short-time count area of the RAM 76, respectively. In this embodiment, when transitioning to the "high probability non-time reduction state", the number cutting counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 10000 times), but the number cutting counter for the time reduction state is not set. . Further, when shifting to the "low-probability time reduction state", the number-of-times cutting counter for the high-probability state is not set, and the number-of-times cutting counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (eg, 100 times). Furthermore, when shifting to the "high probability time reduction state", the number cutting counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined number (eg 10000 times), and the number cutting counter for the time reduction state is also set to a predetermined number (eg 10000 times) is set to

Step S2422: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value is 0. At this time, if the number of cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the number of times counter value is not 0 (No), after generating a number of times counter value command (time saving number of times designation command, special number of times designation command, ST number of times designation command, etc.), the main control CPU72 next Step S2424 is executed.

Step S2424: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the number cutting counter value.
Step S2426: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the result of the subtraction is 0. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the number cutting counter is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S2428. On the other hand, if the value of the number cutting counter is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 16).

Step S2428: The main control CPU 72 executes a process of resetting the flag when the multiple cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, when transitioning to the "high-probability non-time reduction state", the number-of-times counter for the high-probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 10000 times). It is only the stochastic variation function activation flag. Also, when transitioning to the "low-probability time reduction state", the number-of-time counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times). Only active flags. In addition, when transitioning to the "high probability time reduction state", the number cutting counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined number (eg 10000 times), and the number cutting counter for the high probability state is also set to a predetermined number (eg 10000 times) ), the probability variation function operation flag and the variation time reduction function operation flag are reset in this case, but a situation occurs in which the special symbol fluctuates 10000 times without obtaining the winning result. The probability of doing so is extremely low.

When the above processing is finished, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 16).

[Special symbol storage area shift process]
FIG. 37 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. The contents of the special symbol storage area shift process can be common to the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process. However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol, the object of control is the first special symbol, and when the procedure is applied to the second special symbol, the object of control is the second special symbol. Each procedure will be described below.

Step S2210: First, the main control CPU72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM76 corresponding to the special symbol to be controlled. It should be noted that the specific contents of the processing are as already described in the previous special symbol variation preprocessing.

Step S2212: Also, the main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the special symbol to be controlled. For example, if the special symbol to be controlled is the first special symbol, the main control CPU72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol, and the special symbol to be controlled is the second special symbol. If so, the main control CPU72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S2214: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the "variation start time working memory number" for the special symbols to be controlled from the value of the working memory counter after the subtraction.

Step S2216: In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the working memory number is reduced with respect to the special symbol to be controlled. The effect command set here is also generated as a command of one word length, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described "effect command at the time of working memory increase". That is, the working memory number reduction effect command is a value of the lower byte (for example, "00H" to "03H") representing the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte representing the command type. ”) is added, and an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is added (logical sum) to the value of the lower byte. Therefore, for the lower byte, the addition value "10H" is logically summed, and the second digit becomes "1". become a thing. That is, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memory up to the previous time "4" (the command notation is "14H") has decreased by one, resulting in the number of working memory of this time being "3" (command The notation indicates that it has become "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it is the result that the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") has decreased by one. , indicates that the current number of working memories is "2" to "0" (command notation is "12H" to "10H"). In addition, the preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the current production command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol. If the object to be controlled is the second special symbol, the preceding value becomes a value (for example, "BCH") representing the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 then executes effect command output processing. This process is for transmitting to the effect control device 124 the production command for the special symbol to be controlled set in the previous step S2216 when the number of working memories decreases (means for notifying the number of memories).
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 16).

FIG. 38 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the process during special symbol fluctuation. Each procedure will be described below. The contents of the special symbol fluctuation process described below can be common in the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol.

Step S3100: The main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the variable timer for the special symbols to be controlled (decrements the value corresponding to the interrupt cycle).

Step S3200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has expired based on the value of the variable timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the variable timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the variable display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000b in FIG. 15 or step S1900b in FIG. 16) in the next interrupt cycle, and special symbol fluctuation display processing repeatedly.

On the other hand, if the variable timer value is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the variable display time has expired (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3300.

Step S3300: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag for the special symbol to be controlled. If the jackpot flag is set to the value (01H) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3400. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set to the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

Step S3400: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being variably displayed. In this confirmation process, with the end of the variation display at the time of the big hit of the target special symbol, whether it is necessary to operate the skip function for the other special symbol (forcibly terminate the loss variation of the other). Executed to see if Then, when it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S3500 as it is necessary to operate the skip function for the other special symbol. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (No), the other special symbol is not variably displayed and there is no need to operate the skip function, so the main control CPU 72 next steps Execute S3600.

Step S3500: The main control CPU72 executes the process of activating the skip function for the other special symbol. That is, the main control CPU 72 executes processing for ending the variable display regarding the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets 0 to the value of the variable timer related to the other special symbol.

Step S3600: The main control CPU72 executes special symbol variation end processing. In this process, a value (01H) is set to the symbol stop display flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76 as the variable display of the special symbol to be controlled ends. Also, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900) to the next jump destination. After finishing the above procedure, it returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

Here, the big-hit lottery probability and the small-hit lottery probability of the gaming machine of the present embodiment are set as follows.
For example, the jackpot probability is set to about 1/319 when the game state is the normal state (the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is low). Also, the jackpot probability is set to about 1/100 when the game state is in an advantageous state (high probability of winning the special symbol lottery). Also, the small hit probability is not subject to lottery for the first special symbol, and is set to approximately 1/1 for the second special symbol.

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 39 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of special symbol stop display processing (step S4000 in FIG. 14 or step S4900 in FIG. 15). Each procedure will be described below. The contents of the special symbol stop display process described below can also be common in the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process. That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol.

Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer for the special symbols to be controlled (decrements by the interrupt period).

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 yet expired (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle, and special symbol stop display processing repeatedly.

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 expired (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

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

Step S4300: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the jackpot flag value (01H) is set. If the jackpot flag value (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When elected]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table for the special symbol to be controlled to "variable winning device management process at the time of big hit". Note that the main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated, and the variation time shortening function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (big role) is started, the state is shifted to the low-probability non-time reduction state.

Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "big win start (during jackpot game)" as an internal state flag for control. In addition, 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 "7 rounds normal symbol" or "7 rounds probability variable symbol", a value corresponding to "7 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. In addition, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "2 round normal symbol" or "2 round probability variable symbol 1-2", the continuous operation count status is set to a value representing "2 rounds". In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the special symbols to be controlled are in the middle of a big hit. A 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 count command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 16). For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "7 rounds normal symbol" or "7 rounds probability variable symbol", the continuous operation count command is generated as a value representing "7 rounds". Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "2 rounds normal symbol" or "2 rounds probability variable symbol 1-2", the continuous operation count command is generated as a value representing "2 rounds". The generated continuous actuation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not elected]
On the other hand, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed.

Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the jackpot flag value (01H) is set in step S4300. That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot flag value (01H) is not set in step S4300 (No), then step S4600 is executed.

Then, the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set, and if it is simply a loss (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special symbol variation pre-processing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

After finishing the processing of step S4602, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game processing (FIG. 14 or FIG. 15).

Step S4603: In addition, when the main control CPU72 confirms that the small hit flag value (01H) is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU72 indicates that the other special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Check whether or not This confirmation process is for confirming whether or not it is necessary to operate the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol as the variation display at the time of the small hit of the target special symbol ends. executed.

Then, when it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable display (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next steps S4604a as it is necessary to operate the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol. And step S4604b is executed. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (No), the main control CPU 72 determines that the other special symbol is not variably displayed and there is no need to operate the variable time measurement temporary stop function. then executes step S4605.

Step S4604a: The main control CPU72 executes the process of activating the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol, that is, the process of saving the variation information of the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU72, in order to temporarily stop the measurement of the fluctuation time of the first special symbol, the current value of the fluctuation timer (the value of the remaining fluctuation time) and the information of the stop design to the RAM76 Execute the save process.

Step S4604b: The main control CPU 72 executes processing to turn ON the fluctuation time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM 76 . As a result, the measurement of the fluctuation time is suspended.

Step S4605: 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.

Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (during small win game)" as an internal state flag on control for the special symbol to be controlled. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the special symbol to be controlled is in the midst of a small winning game. The state command indicating that the small winning game is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

[Display output management processing]
FIG. 40 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 10) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are performed by the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34 as already described. Special symbol display device 35, normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Generate and output a drive signal to be applied to each LED It is a process to

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation count display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the gaming state display device . First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU72 controls lighting of the probability change state display lamp 38d and the time reduction state display lamp 38e according to the value of the probability change function operation flag or the variable time reduction function operation flag. For example, when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, if the probability variation function operation flag is set to a value (01H), the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38d. It should be noted that the probability variation state display lamp 38d continues to light until a jackpot game relating to special symbols is started, or until the probability variation function is turned off after the variation display of the special symbols is performed a specified number of times, and then non- Displayed (turned off). On the other hand, if the variable time reduction function operation flag is set to a value (01H), regardless of whether or not the power is turned on, the main control CPU 72 turns on the LED corresponding to the time reduction status display lamp 38e. Output a signal. Furthermore, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. In this case, the main control CPU 72 determines the shooting direction of the game ball (shooting direction determination means) according to the progress of the game (the value of the special game management status and the internal state). For example, when the game state is a left-handed game state (low-probability non-time-reduction state), the main control CPU 72 determines that the game ball should be shot to the first game area (left-handed area). On the other hand, when the game state is a right-handed game state (low probability time shortening state, high probability time shortening state, high probability non-time shortening state, jackpot game state or small hit game state), The main control CPU 72 determines that the game ball should be shot to the second game area (right hitting area). Then, when the main control CPU 72 determines that the game state is the right-handed game state, it outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. In addition, in this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of generating a firing position designation command. The firing position specification command includes information identifying whether the game state is the left-handed game state or the right-handed game state. The generated firing position designation command is transmitted to the effect control device.

In addition, the main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation count display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the continuous operation count status. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a, 38b corresponding to the jackpot pattern specified by the value of the number of continuous operation status is the target for outputting the lighting signal. 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)". Also, 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. 41 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of a variable winning device management process at the time of a big hit. The variable winning device management process at the time of the big hit includes the game process selection process at the time of the big win (step S5100), the process for opening the pattern of opening the big winning prize at the time of the big win (step S5200), the process of opening and closing the big winning opening at the time of the big win (step S5300), and the big win at the time of the big win. This configuration includes a subroutine group of winning opening closing processing (step S5400) and jackpot end processing (step S5500).

Step S5100: In the jackpot game process selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S5200 to 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 time variable winning device management process to 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. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the big hit variable winning device 29 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 selects the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. . On the other hand, if the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of the big hit has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of the big winning (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and opens and closes the big winning opening at the time of the big hit. If the operation process is completed, the big winning opening closing process (step S5400) at the time of big hit is selected as the next jump destination. In addition, when the big winning opening opening/closing operation process and the big winning opening closing process at the time of the big hit are repeatedly executed for the set number of consecutive operations (the number of rounds), the main control CPU72 selects the next jump destination as the ending process at the time of the big win ( Step S5500) is selected. Each process will be described in more detail below.

The main control CPU 72 can transmit a jackpot game command indicating that the jackpot game is in progress to the effect control device 124 when the jackpot game is in progress.

[Variable winning device management process at the time of small hit]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process at the time of a small hit will be described. FIG. 42 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of the small winning variable winning device management process. Small-hit time variable winning device management processing includes small-hit time game process selection processing (step S6100), small-hit time big winning opening opening pattern setting processing (step S6200), small-hit time big winning opening opening/closing operation processing (step S6300). , large winning opening closing process at the time of small hit (step S6400), and subroutine group of end process at the time of small hit (step S6500).

Step S6100: In the small hit game process selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S6200 to 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 variable winning device management process at the time of the small hit 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 small-hit variable winning device 30 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 performs the small-hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. select. 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-hitting large winning opening opening/closing operation process (step S6300) as the next jump destination, If the winning opening opening/closing operation process is completed, the small winning opening closing process (step S6400) is selected as the next jump destination. In addition, when the small-hit large winning opening opening/closing operation process and the small-hitting large winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of consecutive operations, the main control CPU 72 selects the next jump destination as the small-hitting end process (step S6500). Each process will be described in more detail below.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 43 is a flow chart showing a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. As shown in FIG. This effect control process is executed in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from reset start (main) process (not shown), for example. The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a cycle of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

Effect control processing includes command reception processing (step S400), working memory effect management processing (step S401), effect pattern management processing (step S402), effect mode management processing (step S403), display output processing (step S404), lamp This configuration includes a group of subroutines for drive processing (step S406), sound drive processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). The basic flow of the effect control process will be described below along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives a command for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Also, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 by type. It should be noted that the production commands transmitted from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a special destination judgment production command, a production command when the number of working memories is increased, a production command when the number of working memories is decreased, a start winning sound control command, and a demonstration production. Command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop pattern command, state designation command, number of rounds command, number cut counter value command, variation pattern destination judgment command, stop display time end command, firing position designation command, payout There are a medium command, a command during a big hit game, a command during a small win game, a prize content command, a setting-related end designation command, and the like.

Step S401: In the working memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the memory display effect using a memory marker or the like while referring to the effect command when the number of working memories increases, the effect command when the number of working memories decreases, and the like. .

Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the fourth symbol based on the result of the internal lottery, and the first variable winning device 30 or It controls the contents of the performance during the opening and closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 (performance executing means). In addition, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various advance notice effects (previous notice effects before occurrence of reach, notice effects after occurrence of reach, etc.).

Step S403: In the production mode management process, the production control CPU 126 performs control to shift the production mode according to the transition of the game state shown in FIG.

Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 gives the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol , operating memory effect pattern number, pre-reading forewarning effect pattern number, fluctuation effect pattern number, fluctuation time forewarning effect number, background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP 152) controls the display operation of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect contents (effect executing means).

Step S<b>406 : In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132 . In response to this, the lamp drive circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52, the board lamp 53, and the like based on the control signal.

Step S408: In the next sound driving process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect, BGM, voice data, etc.) to the sound drive circuit 134. instruct. As a result, the speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sounds corresponding to the content of the presentation.

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

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

[Working Memory Effect Management Processing]
FIG. 44 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the operation storage effect management process. The contents will be described below according to the procedure example.

Step S700: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the production command for increasing the number of working memories is 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 effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is saved. When it is confirmed that the production command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes steps S702 and S703. In addition, when it cannot confirm that the production|presentation command at the time of an increase in working memory number is preserve|saved (step S700: No), production|presentation control CPU126 does not perform step S702 and step S703.

Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories is increased. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect of displaying the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

Step S703: The effect control CPU 126 executes a prefetch effect management process (prefetch effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes determination processing as to whether or not to execute a look-ahead effect (marker change effect, zone effect, continuous effect, etc.). executes a process to determine the specific contents of

Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect contents to be executed when the change arrives, and the effect contents to be executed in the previous change before the change (for example, the content of the marker color change effect, the A process for determining the content of the stop performance, the content of the zone performance, the content of the effect performance, the content of the continuous performance, the content of other advance notice performance, and the scenario of these performances is executed. The determined content is held (stored) in a prefetch effect content holding buffer of the RAM 130, and executed toward the change. The effect control CPU 126 turns on a prefetch effect executing flag from when the scenario of the prefetch effect is set until the scenario ends. Whether or not the look-ahead effect is being executed can be confirmed by the look-ahead effect running flag. Note that the change is a change when the memory (reserved) to be prefetched is consumed.

By executing such a process, the effect control CPU 126 can execute a look-ahead effect that is executed over one or more times of special symbol fluctuation when the condition for executing the look-ahead effect is satisfied. .

Step S704: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it has received a production command from the main control CPU 72 when the number of working memories is reduced. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command is stored when the number of working memories is reduced. When it is confirmed that the production command is saved when the number of working memories is reduced (step S704: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. In addition, when it cannot be confirmed that the production command is saved when the number of working memories decreases (step S704: No), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories is reduced. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 performs 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 is being changed from the pre-variation display area X1. Select an effect to be moved to the display area X2. It should be noted that the storage marker moved to the display area X2 during fluctuation selects an effect to be erased at the end of fluctuation.
After completing the above procedure, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 66).

[Production pattern management process]
FIG. 45 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol management process. Effect symbol management processing includes execution selection processing (step S500), effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), effect symbol change process (step S504), effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and when the variable winning device is in operation. This configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S508). The basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described below 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 (one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable display effect has not yet started, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change pre-processing (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 As the jump destination of the production symbol stop display processing (step S506) is selected. In addition, the variable winning device operation time processing (step S508) is selected as a jump destination when the variable winning device management processing at the time of the big hit is selected in the main control CPU 72 or when the variable winning device management processing at the time of the small win is selected. be. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs the work of adjusting the conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In addition, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), and the effect pattern for the notice effect (pre-occurrence notice pattern, after-reach notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls a demonstration effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

Also, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines (selects) the contents of the variable display effect when winning a small prize. The content of the variable display performance when winning the small win can be the same performance as the losing performance or the like in order to conceal the winning of the small win.

Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information to instruct the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when the performance using the performance button 45 is performed during execution of the variable display performance using the performance pattern, the performance control CPU 126 monitors whether the player has operated the performance button, and the performance contents according to the result. (button effect) control information is instructed to the display control CPU 146 .

Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using effect symbols and moving images in a mode 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 terminates the variable display effect that has been executed so far in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display performance is executed substantially in synchronism with the stop display of the special symbols, and the result of the internal lottery can be instructed (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player in a performance manner.

Step S508: In the processing when the variable winning device is activated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the effect during the big role according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of the 16-round variable probability big hit, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect pattern during the big role of the 16-round variable probability big hit as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and transmits this to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). to indicate. As a result, the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 displays the image of the effect during the important role, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses.

[Production pattern change preprocessing]
FIG. 46 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol variation pre-processing. An example procedure will be described below.

Step S600: The production control CPU 126 confirms whether or not it has received a demonstration production command 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 a command for demonstration effect is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the demonstration effect command is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

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

After completing the above procedure, 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 processing as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the following display output process (step S404 in FIG. 43) and lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 43). do.

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

Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the change this time is a loss (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 stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. It should be noted that it is also possible to confirm whether or not this time's variation is lost based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the lost normal variation or the lost reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a loss. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command designates a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a loss.

Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (lost) (step S604: No), then the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not this time's change 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 the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. Conversely, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command for the big win is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command for the small win remains, the performance control CPU 126 executes step S608 in this case. It should be noted that it is also possible to confirm whether or not the current variation is a big hit based on the variation pattern command or the stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is the big hit. Also, if the current stop symbol command corresponds to a big win symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a big win.

Step S608: The production control CPU 126 executes small hit fluctuation production pattern selection processing. 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 production pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the production control CPU 126 can refer to a production pattern selection table (not shown) to select the production pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. can. Incidentally, the effect pattern number may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern command, or a plurality of numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

In addition, when the production pattern number is selected, the production control CPU 126 refers to the production table (not shown), and the fluctuation schedule of the production pattern corresponding to the fluctuation production pattern number at that time (variation time, reach type and reach generation timing), stop Decide on the mode of display, etc. It should be noted that all the types of performance symbols determined here correspond to the "combination of symbols at the time of a small win".

As described above, the effect at the time of the small win may be the same effect as the effect at the time of losing, or may be an effect exclusively for the time of the small win that clearly discloses the winning of the small win.

The above procedure is for the case of a "minor hit", but if 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 a variation effect pattern selection process at the time of a big hit. 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 big-hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be branched according to the big-hit stop symbol. In addition, when the variation pattern is a variation pattern corresponding to the pseudo continuous advance notice effect, the effect control CPU 126 executes processing for selecting an effect pattern for executing the pseudo continuous notice effect during execution of the variable display effect. is also the same). In the pseudo continuous advance notice performance, when the performance symbols are temporarily stopped and changed again, the pseudo continuous symbols can be stopped in the medium performance symbols.

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

Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a variation effect pattern selection process when losing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of loss based on the variation pattern command (for example, "A0H00H" to "A6H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number at the time of losing is classified into "normal loss fluctuation", "short time loss fluctuation", "loss reach fluctuation", etc. Further, a detailed reach fluctuation pattern is specified for "loss reach fluctuation". Incidentally, 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 production pattern number at the time of loss is selected, the production control CPU 126 refers to a production table (not shown) and determines the fluctuation schedule of the production pattern corresponding to the fluctuation production pattern number at that time (variation time, presence or absence of reach occurrence, if reach occurrence determines the reach type and reach occurrence timing), and the mode of stop display (for example, "7"-"2"-"4", etc.).

After executing any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S614 next.

Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process (preview effect executing means). In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects by lottery the details of the advance notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or not winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the advance notice effect notifies the player of the possibility of the ready-to-win state occurring during the variable display effect, or of the possibility of a big win in the end. Therefore, the selection ratio of the announcement effect is set low when the game is not won, but the selection ratio of the announcement effect is set relatively high when the game is won in order to raise the player's expectation.

In this way, the effect control CPU 126, when winning the lottery as to whether or not to execute the notice effect (when the specified effect execution condition is satisfied), wins during the execution of the variable display effect (predetermined effect). A forewarning effect suggesting that the effect pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner (indicating whether or not the predetermined effect succeeds, which is related to the predetermined effect) is executed.

Further, when the effect control CPU 126 determines to execute the notice effect in this notice selection process, it executes the process of determining at which timing during the variable display the notice effect is to be started. In addition, various notice effects that are executed during the variable display (step-up notice effect, conversation notice effect, cut-in notice effect, group notice effect, character drop effect, next notice effect, title color change effect) ), as well as a pseudo-continuous notice effect, a look-ahead notice effect, a memory marker change notice effect, and the like.

Step S616: The production control CPU 126 executes mode production management processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image according to the stay mode.

Step S618: The production control CPU 126 executes reach production management processing. In the ready-to-win effect management process, it is determined whether or not to execute a ready-to-win effect when a variation pattern that causes a ready-to-win effect is selected, and, if the ready-to-win effect is to be executed, its mode is determined.

After completing the above procedure, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol fluctuation process (step S504 in FIG. 45), the variable display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variable effect pattern, and based on various advance notice effect patterns. The advance notice effect is executed.

[Reach effect management processing]
Next, the ready-to-win effect management process (S618) in the effect symbol change pre-process of FIG. 46 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S800: In the ready-to-win effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not a variation pattern command is received from the main control CPU 72 . When the fluctuation pattern command is not received, it returns to the production design fluctuation pre-processing (FIG. 46).

Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is a reach pattern in which a reach state occurs when a variation pattern command is received. If it is not a ready-to-win pattern, it returns to the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 46).

Step S804: The production control CPU 126 determines whether or not to execute the ready-to-win production when the variation pattern is the ready-to-win pattern, and determines the mode when executing the ready-to-win production. The ready-to-win effect includes an operation effect for prompting the operation of the effect button 45. - 特許庁Further, in the present embodiment, the left pattern, the middle pattern, and the right pattern may be translucent in the variable display of the production pattern for executing the ready-to-win production. Semi-transparency is a state in which the production pattern can be seen through the background. In addition, the middle pattern may be made transparent.

Step S806: When the effect control CPU 126 determines to execute the ready-to-win effect, it sets the effect data of the ready-to-win effect in the RAM 130 (that is, stores the effect so as to be executable). In this embodiment, the effect data of the operation effect may be set as the effect data of the ready-to-win effect. After the processing is finished, the process returns to the effect symbol change pre-processing (FIG. 46).

[Regarding the decision ratio of the operation effect]
Next, in S804 of FIG. 47, the ratio of determining to execute the operation effect which is one type of ready-to-win effect will be described. In this embodiment, when the operation effect is executed, an image prompting the operation of the effect button 45 is displayed during the effective period (for example, 4 seconds) during which the operation of the effect button 45 is valid, and the effect button 45 is operated. and an image corresponding to the operation is displayed. Also, the effect is executed for a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds) from the start of the valid period.

As shown in FIG. 48, the operation effect can be executed, for example, when a big win is determined and a variation pattern number 67 or 87 (see FIGS. 24 and 26) is determined. Then, when the variation pattern number 67 or 87 is determined, the mode of ready-to-win performance is determined so that the rate of determination with operation performance is 60% and the rate of determination without operation performance is 40%. The number of judgment values for each time is determined. Also, for example, it can be executed when it is determined to be out of line and determined to be variation pattern number 7 or 27 (see FIGS. 17 and 18). Then, when the variation pattern number 7 or 27 is determined, the mode of ready-to-win performance is determined so that the rate of determination with operation performance is 10% and the rate of determination without operation performance is 90%. The number of judgment values for each time is determined. Therefore, when it is determined to be a big hit, the operation performance is more likely to be executed than when it is determined to be a loss. Therefore, the operation performance is a performance with a high degree of expectation for a big hit.

[Production pattern change process]
FIG. 49 is a flow chart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol changing process (see S504 in FIG. 45). An example procedure will be described below.

Step S900: The effect control CPU 126 executes the variable display effect using the effect symbols based on the variable effect pattern selected in the process of the effect symbol variation preprocessing (FIG. 47).

The screen output to the liquid crystal display 42 corresponding to the variable display effect is controlled based on the instruction given by the effect control CPU 126 to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). More specifically, first, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information for the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. Next, the display control CPU 146 decodes the control information transmitted from the effect control CPU 126 . Then, the effect display control for the VDP 152 is executed based on this control information. In this way, the main body of processing for screen output moves from the effect control CPU 126 to the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152 .

Step S902: The production control CPU 126 executes production sound reproduction management processing when it is determined to execute the operation production in S804 of the ready-to-win production management processing (FIG. 47). In the effect sound reproduction management process, it is determined whether or not the effect sound is to be reproduced in the operation effect, and if the effect sound is to be reproduced, the process of setting the reproduction data is executed.

Step S904: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect sound reproduction processing. In the effect sound reproduction process, the process of reproducing the effect sound is executed when it is determined to reproduce the effect sound in the effect sound reproduction management process of S902.

Step S906: The production control CPU 126 executes production sound volume adjustment processing. In the effect sound volume adjustment processing, processing for adjusting the volume of the effect sound is executed when it is determined to reproduce the effect sound in the effect sound reproduction management processing of S902.

Step S908: The effect control CPU 126 executes symbol stop sound output processing. In the pattern stop sound output process, a process of outputting a stop sound when the performance pattern is stopped is executed. In addition, in this process, a process of making the middle pattern transparent is also executed.

[Effect sound reproduction management process]
Next, the effect sound reproduction management process (S902) in the effect symbol changing process of FIG. 49 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S1000: In the effect sound reproduction management process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not the effect data of the operation effect (see S806 in FIG. 47) is set. If the effect data is not set, the process returns to the effect symbol change processing (FIG. 49).

Step S1002: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is the valid period for the operation of the effect button 45 when the effect data of the operation effect is set. If it is not within the effective period, it returns to the processing during effect symbol fluctuation (FIG. 49).

Step S1004: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the operation of the effect button 45 is detected in the valid period.

Step S1006: When the operation of the effect button 45 is detected, the effect control CPU 126 sets the reproduction data of the effect sound in the RAM 130 (that is, stores it in a reproducible manner). The effect sound reproduction data is data for reproducing the effect sound for a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds).

Step S1008: If the operation of the effect button 45 is not detected, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time for the effective period to end. When it is not the timing when the effective period ends, the process returns to the effect symbol fluctuation processing (FIG. 49).

Step S1010: When the effective period ends, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the operation of the effect button 45 is detected during the effective period. If the operation of the effect button 45 is not detected during the effective period, the process proceeds to step S1006 to set the best data of the effect sound in the RAM130. If the operation of the effect button 45 is detected during the effective period, the process (FIG. 49) is returned to during effect symbol fluctuation.

[Sound effect reproduction processing]
Next, the effect sound reproduction process (S904) in the effect symbol change process of FIG. 49 will be specifically described using FIG.

Step S1100: In the effect sound reproduction process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not the effect sound reproduction data (see S1006 in FIG. 50) is set. When reproduction data is not set, it returns to processing during effect design fluctuation (FIG. 49).

Step S1102: The effect control CPU 126 reproduces the effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d based on the set reproduction data when the effect sound reproduction data is set.

Step S1104: The production control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to end the reproduction of the production sound. That is, it is determined whether or not the effect sound has been reproduced for a certain period based on the reproduction data of the effect sound. If it is not the end timing of the reproduction of the effect sound, the process returns to the effect symbol change process (FIG. 49).

Step S1106: The effect control CPU 126 clears the reproduction data of the effect sound when it is time to end the reproduction of the effect sound. This completes the reproduction of the effect sound.

[Effect sound volume adjustment process]
Next, the effect sound volume adjustment process (S906) in the effect symbol change process of FIG. 49 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S1200: In the effect sound volume adjustment process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not the effect sound reproduction data (see S1006 in FIG. 50) is set. If reproduction data is not set, the process proceeds to step S1220.

Step S1202: The effect control CPU 126 determines that the time t from the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 (in other words, the execution time of the effect from the start of the effective period) is It is determined whether or not it is less than 9 seconds. If the time t from the start of the effective period of operation of the effect button 45 is not less than 9 seconds, the process proceeds to step S1220.

Step S1204: If the time t from the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 is less than 9 seconds, the effect control CPU 126 outputs the effect sound at a constant volume, and returns to the process during the effect pattern fluctuation (FIG. 49). do.

Step S1206: If the time t from the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 is not less than 9 seconds, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether the reproduction time t is 9 seconds or more and less than 10 seconds.

Step S1208: If the time t from the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 is 9 seconds or more and less than 10 seconds, the effect control CPU 126 gradually decreases the volume in proportion to the passage of time to perform fade-out reproduction. I do.

Step S1210: Effect control CPU 126 sets the output sound volume to " 0” (ie silence). Thus, in this embodiment, when the time t from the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 has passed 10 seconds, the output sound volume of the effect sound is set to "0". On the other hand, since the reproduction data of the effect sound is 10-second reproduction data, for example, if the effect button 45 is operated in the middle of the effective period, even after the output sound volume becomes "0", the sound will be reproduced 10 seconds after the start of reproduction. The effect sound is played until the seconds have passed.

[Pattern stop sound output processing]
Next, the symbol stop sound output process (S908) in the effect symbol changing process of FIG. 49 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S1300: In the pattern stop sound output process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not effect data for a specific effect is set. The specific effect is, for example, a kind of ready-to-win effect, and is an effect performed by making the medium pattern transparent. In this embodiment, the specific effect includes an operation effect. Effect data for the specific effect is set by the process of S806 in FIG. Then, when the effect data of the specific effect is not set, the process returns to the effect symbol change process (FIG. 49).

Step S1302: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the left symbol when the effect data of the specific effect is set. In this embodiment, in the ready-to-win performance, the right pattern is temporarily stopped after the left pattern is temporarily stopped, the middle pattern is stopped after the right pattern is temporarily stopped, and the three performance patterns are completely stopped. And the said stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the left symbol. It should be noted that the temporary stop, unlike the complete stop, is a stop in which the production pattern is slightly moved while the speed of the variable display is set to "0". It includes those that stop and display while causing expansion and contraction, etc., and those that stop for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion and contraction.

Step S1304: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a left symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the left symbol.

Step S1306: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the right symbol if it is not the timing to stop the left symbol. Incidentally, the stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the right symbol.

Step S1308: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a right symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the right symbol.

Step S1310: If it is not the stop timing of the right symbol, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether it is a period between the stop timing of the left symbol and the stop timing of the right symbol.

Step S1312: The effect control CPU 126 makes the middle symbol transparent in the period between the stop timing of the left symbol and the stop timing of the right symbol.

Step S1314: If the period between the stop timing of the left symbol and the stop timing of the right symbol is not reached, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is the stop timing of the middle symbol. In addition, the said stop timing is the timing of the complete stop of the middle pattern. That is, it is determined whether or not it is time to completely stop all the left, middle and right symbols. Then, when it is not the middle symbol stop timing, it returns to the processing during effect symbol fluctuation (FIG. 49).

Step S1316: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a middle symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop all symbols. At this time, in the present embodiment, all symbols are completely stopped, so a confirmation sound is output. Therefore, it can be recognized that the stopped symbol is fixed.

[Playback timing of sound effects]
Next, in the operation effect, the reproduction timing of the effect sound after the start of the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45 will be described with reference to FIGS. 54 and 55. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 54(a), it is reproduced when the effect button 45 is operated after the effective period of operation of the effect button 45 is started, or when the effective period ends without operating the effect button 45. The effect sound is composed of a first effect sound and a second effect sound reproduced after the first effect sound. The first effect sound is, for example, a sound with a playback time of 5 seconds, such as "Bakien!! Also, the second effect sound is, for example, a sound with a reproduction time of 5 seconds, such as "... Liloline... Liloline... Liloline... Liloline... Liloline". Note that "..." indicates silence. In this way, the sound "... Lilo Lean" reproduced at the end of the first sound effect is the same or substantially the same as the sound "... Lilo Lean" repeatedly reproduced in the second sound effect. ing. Therefore, the same sound is repeatedly reproduced from the end of the first sound effect to the end of the second sound effect. is output as one 10-second file (data) that ends comfortably with respect to volume attenuation, and is reproduced in one shot (see S1100 and S1102 in FIG. 51).

As shown in FIG. 54(b), the first effect sound and the second effect sound may be reproduced during effects other than the operation effect. In this case, the reproduction time of the effect sound is set to 6 seconds (fixed scale). After the first effect sound is output to the end with a constant volume, the second effect sound is faded out for one second. Note that the effect sound is reproduced even after the volume becomes "0" until 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of reproduction (that is, until all the data of one file are reproduced). By adjusting the volume, the reproduction time recognized by the player is changed.

As shown in FIG. 54(c), when the operation effect is executed, the effect is executed for 10 seconds from the start of the valid period for the operation of the effect button 45. FIG. Then, when the performance ends, the performance pattern is completely stopped. For example, when the valid period is set to 4 seconds, it is assumed that the effect button 45 is operated immediately after the valid period starts. In this case, the reproduction of the first effect sound is started when the effect button 45 is operated. Since the reproduction time of the first effect sound is 5 seconds, the first effect sound is output until about 1 second elapses after the expiration of the effective period. Then, the second effect sound is reproduced after the end of the reproduction of the first effect sound, and the second effect sound is faded-out reproduced for one second when nine seconds have elapsed from the start of the effective period. Then, when 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of the valid period, the effect ends, the volume of the second effect sound becomes "0", and the reproduction of the second effect sound ends at substantially the same timing.

Also, as shown in FIG. 55(d), for example, when the effective period is set to 4 seconds, it is assumed that the effect button 45 is operated 3 seconds after the start of the effective period. In this case, the reproduction of the first effect sound is started when the effect button 45 is operated. Since the reproduction time of the first effect sound is 5 seconds, the first effect sound is reproduced until about 4 seconds have elapsed after the expiration of the effective period. Then, the second effect sound is reproduced after the end of the reproduction of the first effect sound, and the second effect sound is faded-out reproduced for one second when nine seconds have elapsed from the start of the effective period. Then, when 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of the effective period, the effect ends and the volume of the second effect sound becomes "0". However, since the reproduction time of the second effect sound is 7 seconds at this point, the second effect sound will not be reproduced until the reproduction time reaches 10 seconds even after the output of the second effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d is completed. For the remaining 3 seconds, the sound continues to be played with the volume set to "0".

Also, as shown in FIG. 55(e), for example, when the valid period is set to 4 seconds, it is assumed that the effect button 45 is not operated during the start of the valid period. In this case, the reproduction of the first effect sound is started when the validity period ends. Since the reproduction time of the first effect sound is 5 seconds, the first effect sound is reproduced for about 5 seconds after the expiration of the effective period. Then, the second effect sound is reproduced after the end of the reproduction of the first effect sound, and the second effect sound is faded-out reproduced for one second when nine seconds have elapsed from the start of the effective period. Then, when 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of the effective period, the effect ends and the volume of the second effect sound becomes "0". However, since the reproduction time of the second effect sound is 7 seconds at this point, the second effect sound will not be reproduced until the reproduction time reaches 10 seconds even after the output of the second effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d is completed. For the remaining 4 seconds, the sound continues to be played with the volume set to "0".

In this embodiment, the second effect sound is faded out for one second, but the manner of fade out reproduction is not limited to that of this embodiment. For example, if the reproduction of the effect sound is terminated while the first effect sound is being output, it is possible to prevent the fade-out reproduction of the first effect sound. Further, for example, it is possible to start fade-out reproduction while the first sound effect is being output, and continue fade-out reproduction even when the sound effect is switched to the second sound effect (that is, it is possible to continue the fade-out reproduction while the first sound effect and the second sound effect are being output). fade-out playback).

In this embodiment, an example of setting one type of valid period (4 seconds) is given, but it is also possible to set multiple types of valid periods. For example, it is possible to provide multiple types of valid periods including a first valid period (4 seconds) and a second valid period (2 seconds). In this case, the first effective period may be configured to be the longest period among the plurality of types of effective periods.

Further, in the present embodiment, the timing at which the production pattern is completely stopped is taken as an example of the timing of the end of the production, but it is possible to set a different timing as the timing of the end of the production. For example, the timing of replacing (in other words, switching) the background image can be the timing of ending the effect. Specifically, the timing of switching to a fanfare image of a big hit can be cited as an example.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the effect ends at the timing when 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of the valid period, and the output of the second effect sound ends at substantially the same timing. Alternatively, it is also possible to configure so that the fade-out reproduction of the second effect sound is started at substantially the same timing.

Note that the "fixed period" during which the effect can be executed is the period from the start of the effective period of the effect button 45 (in this example, a period of 4 seconds) to the end of the effect (a period of 10 seconds in this example). ). Therefore, in this embodiment, the start of the effective period of the effect button 45 and the start of the fixed period in which the effect can be executed are the same timing, but the end timing of the fixed period is later than the end timing of the effective period. The timing of starting the effect is not limited to the start of the effective period of the effect button 45, and may be within the effective period.

[Timing of transparent design]
Next, the relationship between the output timing of the stop sound of the performance symbols and the timing of making the medium symbols transparent when executing the specific performance will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, in this embodiment, the specific effect is a kind of ready-to-win effect, for example, an operation effect.

As shown in FIG. 56, when executing the specific effect, all the effect symbols start to fluctuate at the same time, and first, the left symbol is temporarily stopped. A left symbol stop sound is output when the left symbol is temporarily stopped. Next, after the left symbol is temporarily stopped, the right symbol is temporarily stopped. Then, when the right symbol temporarily stops, a right symbol stop sound is output. Next, after the right symbol is temporarily stopped, the middle symbol is stopped, and all the symbols are completely stopped. Then, when the middle symbols stop, a stop sound for the middle symbols is output. In this embodiment, the stop sound for medium symbols is a definite sound indicating that all symbols are stopped.

In this embodiment, the middle symbol is made transparent and invisible between when the stop sound for the left symbol is output and when the stop sound for the right symbol is output. The transparent medium pattern is displayed again just before the stop, and becomes visible. Then, when the medium design is made transparent, the production design is displayed using the medium design production design display area 42c (see FIG. 3).

[Specific example of variable display of production pattern]
Next, the variable display of the performance symbols performed on the liquid crystal display 42 will be specifically described. When an internal lottery for a big hit is performed in the pachinko machine 1, a variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. However, as described above, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol themselves are lighting/blinking display by the 7-segment LED, they lack visual appeal. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 executes a variable display performance using performance symbols and the like.

The production patterns used in the normal mode include, for example, three patterns of a left production pattern, a middle production pattern, and a right production pattern. be. Each production pattern represents, for example, numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left effect pattern, the middle effect pattern, and the right effect pattern all form a pattern row in which numbers "9" to "1" are arranged in descending order. Such a pattern row is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen.

FIG. 57 is a series of diagrams showing examples of effect images corresponding to variable display and stop display of special symbols. It should be noted that here, regarding the variation of the special symbols at the time of non-winning (lost), an example of a variable display effect and a stop display effect (result display effect) performed using the effect symbols is shown. This variable display effect is performed during the period from when the special symbol (here, it is the first special symbol, but may be the second special symbol) starts the variable display until the stop display (including the fixed stop) is performed. It corresponds to a series of productions. In addition, the stop display effect is a effect showing that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of effect symbols. Here, before describing the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the variable display effect and the stop display effect for each variation adopted in the present embodiment will be described first.

[Before change display]
In FIG. 57(a): For example, in the state before the first special symbol starts to change (the state in which the demonstration effect is not in progress), a row of three effect symbols is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 in a large size. ing. At this time, along with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped and displayed.

In addition, in the pre-change display area X1 at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a marker (reference symbol M1 , M2) are displayed. The numbers of these markers M1 and M2 displayed represent the working memory numbers of the first special design and the second special design (the number of displays of the first special design working memory lamps 34a and the second special design working memory lamps 35a). The displayed number increases or decreases in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game.

In order to facilitate visual discrimination, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed, for example, as a circle (o), and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is displayed, for example, as a heart. is displayed in the form of In the illustrated example, all four markers M1 are illuminated to indicate that the working memory number of the first special symbol is four, and all the markers M2 are hidden (indicated by broken lines). indicates that the working memory number of the second special symbol is zero.

Further, during the variable display of the performance symbols, for example, a fourth symbol (reference symbols 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 "fourth effect symbols" following the left, middle and right effect symbols, and are variably displayed in synchronism with the variable display of the effect symbols. The fourth patterns Z1 and Z2 are simply colored marks (for example, a figure of "□"), and by changing the display color, for example, a variable display can be expressed. The fourth design Z1 corresponds to the first special design, and the fourth design Z2 corresponds to the second special design.

Further, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the loss. This is for objectively clarifying that the stop display effect is performed correctly and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is, for example, "15th round jackpot" instead of "lose", the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stop-displayed in a manner corresponding thereto (for example, red display color, etc.). The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 may be displayed by LEDs arranged on the board instead of being displayed on the liquid crystal screen.

(b) in FIG. 57: For example, in synchronism with the start of variation of the first special symbol, three symbol rows scroll and vary on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 to start a variable display effect (execution of effect means). That is, in synchronism with the start of the variation of the first special symbol, the columns of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are vertically scrolled (flowed) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 42 so as to be variably displayed. The performance begins. Also, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed in the pre-change display area X1 of the belt-like portion in the lower portion of the liquid crystal display 42 before the start of the change, but are displayed in the lower left portion of the liquid crystal display 42 after the start of the change. It moves to the display area X2 during fluctuation by the pedestal image being displayed, and continues to be displayed until the fluctuation of the special pattern (effect pattern) is stopped and displayed (memory display effect during the fluctuation). In addition, in the figure, the variable display of the production pattern is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during the variable display, individual production patterns are displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the background image (background image) of the production pattern is displayed in a state that is easy to see on the display screen. It is

In addition, during the variable display of the production patterns, the fourth pattern Z1 is displayed in a variable manner on the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth pattern Z1 expresses the variable display by changing the display color.

(c) in FIG. 57: For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has passed, the left effect pattern stops fluctuating first. In this example, it indicates that the effect symbol representing the number "8" has stopped on the left side of the screen. Note that illustration of the background image is omitted here (same hereafter).

Here, as shown in FIG. 57(b), the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one with the start of fluctuation, and accordingly, the number of displayed markers M1 increases. has been reduced by one. For example, assuming that the number of working memories has been four so far, only one of the earliest (oldest) memory number display in the marker M1 is moved to the changing display area X2, and the effects consumed by the internal lottery are combined. done. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the number of working memories has been consumed with respect to the first special symbol.

Then, in the example of FIG. 57(c), the marker M1, which was at the top in the order of storage, moves to the changing display region X2, and as a result, there are three remaining markers to be displayed in the pre-change display region X1. An effect is produced in which the three remaining markers M1 on the screen are shifted one by one in one direction (to the left in this case). As a result, the before-and-after relationship of the change in the number of working memories is accurately expressed on the production, and the player is told that "the working memory is consumed and one is reduced" or "the working memory is consumed and the special symbol is used." is fluctuating" can be intuitively and easily understood.

(d) in FIG. 57: Following the left performance design, the right performance design stops changing thereafter. In this example, it indicates that the effect symbol representing the number "3" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. At this point, it has already been determined that the reach state will not occur, so it is almost clear visually that this fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. It should be noted that reach fluctuations due to slip patterns and the like are excluded here. The "sliding pattern" is, for example, once the production pattern representing the number "7" stops, then the pattern row slides by one pattern and the production pattern representing the number "8" stops, thereby developing into a reach. It is to do. Alternatively, after the production pattern representing the number "9" stops, the pattern row slides in the opposite direction by one pattern, and the production pattern representing the number "8" stops, thereby developing into a reach. be. In addition, for example, after a performance symbol representing a completely different number such as "5" stops temporarily, a character appears on the screen and the right performance symbol row is changed again, representing the number "8". There is also a pattern that the production pattern stops and develops into reach.

(e) in FIG. 57: Synchronizing with the stop display of the first special symbol, the last medium effect symbol is stopped. If the result of the internal lottery this time is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode, the effect symbols are similarly stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) mode. will be That is, in the example shown in the drawing, it indicates that the effect symbol representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen, and in this case, the effect symbol combination is "8"-"1"-"3". Since it is a deviation, it is expressed in the production that this change corresponds to a normal "loss". At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stop-displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the loss.

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

The above is an example of the variable display effect and the stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed using the effect symbol for each variation. Through such an effect, it is possible to make the player feel a sense of anticipation for winning, and to clearly teach the result of the internal lottery in the effect.

In addition, the above example is for the non-winning, but when the jackpot (winning) is won, after the ready-to-win effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect pattern is the jackpot (for example, "7" in the stop display effect). - "7" - "7", etc., where the same numbers are aligned) is stopped and displayed. At this time, the stop display mode of the production pattern is basically made to correspond to the winning pattern selected internally by the main control CPU 72 (the stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35). selected by In addition, at the time of a small hit (winning), the production pattern is stopped and displayed in a stop display effect in the form of a small win (for example, "1"-"3"-"5", etc., in a manner reminiscent of a small win according to a certain rule). be.

[Specific example of variable display of production pattern when executing operation production]
Next, an example of the variable display of the effect symbols when executing the operation effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 58 to 60. FIG. 58 to 60, the screen transitions in the order of (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (i) (j) (k) (l) (m). do. In FIGS. 58 to 60, a starting prize is generated in the first starting prize winning port 26 in the normal state, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and the effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and an operation effect is performed in the variation. It shows an example of when

As shown in FIG. 58(a), due to the occurrence of the start winning, the production pattern 500L (hereinafter referred to as left pattern 500L) in the production pattern display area 42L of the liquid crystal display 42 and the production pattern 500C (hereinafter referred to as 500C) in the production pattern display area 42C. Medium symbol 500C), and the variable display of the effect symbol 500R (hereinafter referred to as the right symbol 500R) are simultaneously started in the effect symbol display area 42R. Also, the variable display of the small symbols 501 is started in synchronization with the variable display of the performance symbols.

As shown in FIG. 58(b), immediately after the start of the variable display, the effect symbol 500L, the effect symbol 500C, and the effect symbol 500R become translucent. Translucent means that the performance pattern 500L, the performance pattern 500C, and the performance pattern 500R can be visually recognized through the background.

As shown in FIG. 58(c), after the performance symbols 500L, 500C, and 500R are displayed in a semi-transparent state and the variable display is performed, the left symbol 500L is decelerated and displayed while maintaining the semi-transparent state. This makes it possible to recognize the number of the left pattern 500L passing through the screen.

As shown in FIG. 58(d), when the decelerated left symbol 500L temporarily stops, a left symbol stop sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In this example, the number "0" is temporarily stopped in the left symbol 500L.

As shown in FIG. 58(e), the middle symbol 500C is made transparent after the left symbol 500l is temporarily stopped. When the middle pattern 500C is made transparent, the middle pattern 500C becomes invisible. In addition, a ready-to-win effect is executed to suggest the occurrence of a ready-to-win state. Specifically, an effect display (such as a flash) is superimposed on the right pattern 500R.

As shown in FIG. 59(f), the right symbol 500R is temporarily stopped after the right symbol 500R is decelerated and displayed while maintaining the translucent state. When the right symbol 500R temporarily stops, a right symbol stop sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In this example, the number "0" is temporarily stopped in the right symbol 500R. As a result, the same pattern stops on the left and right sides, so a ready-to-win state occurs.

As shown in FIG. 59(g), when the ready-to-win state occurs, a performance symbol 502 is displayed in the medium symbol performance symbol display area 42c (see FIG. 3).

As shown in FIG. 59(h), after the effect image is displayed, characters 503 reading "ready-to-win!" are displayed in the center of the screen to indicate that the ready-to-win state has occurred.

As shown in FIG. 59(i), an introductory effect suggesting that the operation effect is to be started is executed after the characters 503 "ready to reach!" which can identify the occurrence of the ready-to-win state are displayed. Specifically, characters 504 of "Attack Chance" are displayed in the center of the screen, suggesting that the operation presentation will start.

As shown in FIG. 60(j), after the execution of the introduction effect, the operation effect is started, and the effective period for the operation of the effect button 45 is started. When the operation effect is started, an operation prompting image 505 prompting the operation of the effect button 45 is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 60(k), when the effect button 45 is operated during the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45, or when the effective period ends without the effect button 45 being operated, the effect develops, A high expectation image 506 indicating that the expectation of a big hit is high is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 60(l), after the high expectation image 506 is displayed, an image similar to that in FIG. 59(g) is displayed again.

As shown in FIG. 60(m), finally, the middle symbol 500C is stopped, and the production symbols 500L, 500C, 500R are completely stopped. At this time, the stop sound of the middle symbol 500c is output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In this example, since the performance symbols 500L, 500C, 500R are completely stopped and the symbols are confirmed, a confirmation sound is output. This completes the operation presentation. At this time, the small pattern 501 also stops. Note that the illustrated example shows a state in which the same symbol "0" is aligned and a big hit has occurred. Therefore, it shifts to a jackpot game after this.

Here, as shown in FIG. 60, when the effect button 45 is operated immediately after the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45, the first effect sound is reproduced until after the end of the effective period, and the first effect After the sound is reproduced, the second effect sound is reproduced. Then, the output of the second effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d ends when the operation effect ends. Further, when the effect button 45 is operated during the effective period of the operation of the effect button 45, the first effect sound is reproduced until after the end of the effective period, and the second effect sound is reproduced after the first effect sound is reproduced. is played. Then, the output of the second effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d ends when the operation effect ends. Further, when the effect button 45 is not operated during the effective period of operation of the effect button 45, the first effect sound is reproduced from the end timing of the effective period, and the second effect sound is reproduced after the first effect sound is reproduced. is played. Then, the output of the second effect sound from the speakers 54a to 54d ends when the operation effect ends. Thus, in this example, when the operation effect is executed, the output of the effect sound ends when the second effect sound is output regardless of the timing at which the effect sound is reproduced.

As described above, in this example, since the middle symbols are made transparent to display the effect image, it is possible to prevent the symbols being changed from interfering with the effect image.

[Regarding conventional technology for the output timing of sound effects]
Here, the prior art regarding the output timing of the dramatic sound will be described with reference to FIG. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a gaming machine in which, when a performance button is operated at an arbitrary timing during a valid period of operation of the performance button, a performance sound is output from the timing of the operation.

As shown in FIG. 61(a), in a gaming machine with such a configuration, when the output period of the effect sound is fixed to a fixed period T1, the timing of ending the output of the effect sound changes depending on the operation timing of the effect button. , the end timing of the output of the effect sound from the start of the effective period is not constant. For example, the output of the effect sound may end when t1 elapses from the start of the effective period, or the output of the effect sound may end when t2 (t1<t2) elapses from the start of the effective period. In this case, for example, when the effect ends between t1 and t2, if the output of the effect sound ends after t1 has passed, there will be no sound from the end of the output of the effect sound until the end of the effect. When t2 elapses and the output of the performance sound ends, the performance sound is output even though the performance has ended, so that the performance image and the like cannot be harmonized with the performance sound, giving the player a sense of incompatibility. I was afraid.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 61(b), if the period from the start of the valid period to the end timing of the effect sound is set to a fixed period t3, for example, the effect sound is output after the effect button is operated. may be T2 or T3 (T2>T3). As a result, since the effect sound differs when the effect ends, the effect sound cannot be harmonized with the effect image, etc., and there is a possibility that the player may feel uncomfortable.

However, in this embodiment, since at least the first effect sound is output to the end from the start of the effective period to the end of the operation effect, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the second effect sound is output both when the effect button 45 is operated during the effective period and when the effect button 45 is not operated during the effective period, so that the It is possible to prevent the player from feeling discomfort.

It is also possible to output the first effect sound to the end without outputting the second effect sound, instead of ending the effect while the second effect sound is being output. In this case, in this embodiment, since the last sound of the first effect sound and the sound repeatedly output by the second effect sound are the same sound, the first effect sound is output to the end, and the effect ends. The same sound can be used to end the performance when the first performance sound is output and when the performance ends during the output of the second performance sound, and when the first performance sound is output to the end and the performance ends, the second performance can be finished. It is possible to prevent a sense of incongruity from occurring even if the presentation ends during sound output.

[Modification 1]
Next, Modification 1 of the above embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment, the middle symbol is made transparent between the time when the stop sound for the left symbol is output and the time when the stop sound for the right symbol is output. Next, an example of making the middle pattern transparent will be described. Note that detailed description of the same parts as in the above embodiment is omitted.

[Pattern stop sound output processing]
First, regarding the symbol stop sound output processing (S908) in the processing during effect symbol variation in FIG. 49, a processing example in Modification 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S1400: In the pattern stop sound output process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not effect data for a specific effect is set. The specific effect is, for example, a kind of ready-to-win effect, and is an effect performed by making the medium pattern transparent. In this embodiment, the specific effect includes an operation effect. Effect data for the specific effect is set by the process of S806 in FIG. Then, when the effect data of the specific effect is not set, the process returns to the effect symbol change process (FIG. 49).

Step S1402: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the left symbol when the effect data of the specific effect is set. Also in the modified example 1, in the ready-to-win performance, the right pattern is temporarily stopped after the left pattern is temporarily stopped, the middle pattern is stopped after the right pattern is temporarily stopped, and the three performance patterns are completely stopped. And the said stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the left pattern.

Step S1404: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a left symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the left symbol.

Step S1406: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the right symbol when it is not the timing to stop the left symbol. Incidentally, the stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the right symbol.

Step S1408: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a right symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the right symbol.

Step S1410: The effect control CPU 126 makes the middle symbol transparent when it is time to stop the right symbol.

Step S1412: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the middle symbol when it is not the right symbol stop timing. In addition, the said stop timing is the timing of the complete stop of the middle pattern. That is, it is determined whether or not it is time to completely stop all the left, middle and right symbols. Then, when it is not the middle symbol stop timing, it returns to the processing during effect symbol fluctuation (FIG. 49).

Step S1414: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a middle symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop all symbols. At this time, also in Modification 1, since all symbols are completely stopped, a confirmation sound is output. Therefore, it can be recognized that the stopped symbol is fixed.

[Timing of making production pattern transparent in modification 1]
Next, in the modification 1, the relationship between the timing of outputting the stop sound of the performance symbol and the timing of making the middle symbol transparent when executing the specific performance will be described with reference to FIG. Also in the first modification, the specific effect is a type of ready-to-win effect, such as an operation effect.

As shown in FIG. 63, when executing the specific effect, all the effect symbols start to fluctuate at the same time, and first, the left symbol is temporarily stopped. A left symbol stop sound is output when the left symbol is temporarily stopped. Next, after the left symbol is temporarily stopped, the right symbol is temporarily stopped. Then, when the right symbol temporarily stops, a right symbol stop sound is output. Next, after the right symbol is temporarily stopped, the middle symbol is stopped, and all the symbols are completely stopped. Then, when the middle symbols stop, a stop sound for the middle symbols is output. In this embodiment, the stop sound for medium symbols is a definite sound indicating that all symbols are stopped.

Then, in Modification 1, when the stop sound for the right symbol is output, the middle symbol becomes transparent and becomes invisible. The transparent medium pattern is displayed again just before the stop, and becomes visible. Then, when the medium design is made transparent, the production design is displayed using the medium design production design display area 42c (see FIG. 3).

[Specific example of variable display of effect symbols when executing operation effect in modified example 1]
Next, an example of the variable display of the effect symbols when executing the operation effect in the modified example 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 64 and 65. FIG. In FIGS. 64 and 65, the screen transitions in the order of (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), and (i). Note that after the screen transitions up to FIG. 65, the screen transitions to the screen of FIG. 60 in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, and the operation effect is executed. In addition, in Figures 64 and 65, the start winning occurs in the first start winning opening 26 in the normal state, the first special symbol is variably displayed, and the effect symbol is variably displayed, and the operation effect is performed in the variation. is performed.

In FIGS. 64(a) to 64(d), screen transitions are the same as in FIGS. 58(a) to 58(d).

As shown in FIG. 64(e), after the left symbol 500l is temporarily stopped, a ready-to-win effect suggesting the occurrence of a ready-to-win state is executed. Specifically, an effect display (such as a flash) is superimposed on the right pattern 500R. At this time, unlike the above embodiment, the middle pattern 500C is not made transparent, and the middle pattern 500C is variably displayed in a translucent state.

As shown in FIG. 65(f), the right symbol 500R is temporarily stopped after the right symbol 500R is decelerated and displayed while maintaining the translucent state. When the right symbol 500R temporarily stops, a right symbol stop sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In this example, the number "0" is temporarily stopped in the right symbol 500R. As a result, the same pattern stops on the left and right sides, so a ready-to-win state occurs. Also, at this time, unlike the above embodiment, the middle pattern 500C is made transparent. When the middle pattern 500C is made transparent, the middle pattern 500C becomes invisible.

In FIGS. 65(g) to 65(i), screen transitions are similar to those in FIGS. 58(g) to 58(i). After the screen shown in FIG. 65(i) is displayed, the screen transitions to the screen shown in FIG.

As described above, in the modified example 1, the effect image is displayed by making the middle symbol transparent, so that the symbol during variable display can be prevented from interfering with the effect image.

[Modification 2]
Next, Modification 2 of the above embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment, the middle symbol is made transparent between the time when the stop sound for the left symbol is output and the time when the stop sound for the right symbol is output. Next, an example of making the middle pattern transparent will be described. Note that detailed description of the same parts as in the above embodiment is omitted.

[Pattern stop sound output processing]
First, regarding the symbol stop sound output processing (S908) in the processing during effect symbol variation in FIG. 49, a processing example in modification 2 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

Step S1500: In the pattern stop sound output process, the effect control CPU 126 first determines whether or not effect data for a specific effect is set. The specific effect is, for example, a kind of ready-to-win effect, and is an effect performed by making the medium pattern transparent. In this embodiment, the specific effect includes an operation effect. Effect data for the specific effect is set by the process of S806 in FIG. Then, when the effect data of the specific effect is not set, the process returns to the effect symbol change process (FIG. 49).

Step S1502: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the left symbol when the effect data of the specific effect is set. Also in the modified example 2, in the ready-to-win performance, the right pattern is temporarily stopped after the left pattern is temporarily stopped, the middle pattern is stopped after the right pattern is temporarily stopped, and the three performance patterns are completely stopped. And the said stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the left symbol.

Step S1504: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a left symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the left symbol.

Step S1506: The effect control CPU 126 makes the middle symbol transparent when it is time to stop the left symbol.

Step S1508: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the right symbol if it is not the timing to stop the left symbol. Incidentally, the stop timing is the timing of the temporary stop of the right symbol.

Step S1510: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a right symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop the right symbol.

Step S1512: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is time to stop the middle symbol when it is not the right symbol stop timing. In addition, the said stop timing is the timing of the complete stop of the middle pattern. That is, it is determined whether or not it is time to completely stop all the left, middle and right symbols. Then, when it is not the middle symbol stop timing, it returns to the processing during effect symbol fluctuation (FIG. 49).

Step S1514: The effect control CPU 126 outputs a middle symbol stop sound from the speakers 54a to 54d when it is time to stop all symbols. At this time, also in Modification 1, since all symbols are completely stopped, a confirmation sound is output. Therefore, it can be recognized that the stopped symbol is fixed.

[Timing of making production pattern transparent in modification 2]
Next, in the modified example 2, the relationship between the output timing of the stop sound of the performance symbol and the timing of making the medium symbol transparent when executing the specific effect will be described with reference to FIG. It should be noted that, also in Modification 2, the specific effect is a kind of ready-to-win effect, for example, an operation effect.

As shown in FIG. 67, when executing the specific effect, all the effect symbols start to fluctuate at the same time, and first, the left symbol is temporarily stopped. A left symbol stop sound is output when the left symbol is temporarily stopped. Next, after the left symbol is temporarily stopped, the right symbol is temporarily stopped. Then, when the right symbol temporarily stops, a right symbol stop sound is output. Next, after the right symbol is temporarily stopped, the middle symbol is stopped, and all the symbols are completely stopped. Then, when the middle symbols stop, a stop sound for the middle symbols is output. In this embodiment, the stop sound for medium symbols is a definite sound indicating that all symbols are stopped.

In the modified example 2, when the stop sound for the left symbol is output, the middle symbol is made transparent and becomes invisible. The transparent medium pattern is displayed again just before the stop, and becomes visible. Then, when the medium design is made transparent, the production design is displayed using the medium design production design display area 42c (see FIG. 3).

[Specific example of variable display of effect symbols when executing operation effect in modified example 2]
Next, with reference to FIG. 68, an example of variable display of the performance symbols when the operation performance is executed in Modification 1 will be described. In FIG. 68, the screen transitions in the order of (a), (b), (c), (d), and (e). After the screen transitions up to FIG. 68, the screen transitions to the screens of FIGS. 59 to 60 in the same manner as in the above embodiment. In addition, in FIG. 68, a starting prize is generated in the first starting prize winning port 26 in the normal state, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and the effect symbol is also displayed in a variable manner, and an operation performance is performed in the variation. An example case is shown.

In FIGS. 68(a) to 68(c), screen transitions are the same as in FIGS. 58(a) to 58(c).

As shown in FIG. 68(d), when the decelerated left symbol 500L temporarily stops, a left symbol stop sound is output from the speakers 54a to 54d. In this example, the number "0" is temporarily stopped in the left symbol 500L. Also, at this time, unlike the above embodiment, the middle pattern 500C is made transparent. When the middle pattern 500C is made transparent, the middle pattern 500C becomes invisible.

As shown in FIG. 68(e), after the left symbol 500l is temporarily stopped, a ready-to-win effect suggesting the occurrence of a ready-to-win state is executed. Specifically, an effect display (such as a flash) is superimposed on the right pattern 500R. At this time, unlike the above embodiment, the middle pattern 500 has already been made transparent.

As described above, in the modification 2, since the middle symbol is made transparent to display the effect image, it is possible to prevent the symbol during the variable display from interfering with the effect image.

[Structure of saucer unit]
Next, the configuration of the receiving tray unit 6 will be described. 69 is a perspective view from the left side of the tray unit 6. FIG. FIG. 70 is a diagram showing a state in which the cover constituting the bottom surface of the upper tray 6b of the tray unit 6 in FIG. 69 is removed.

As shown in FIGS. 69 to 70, the tray unit 6 has an upper tray 6b and a lower tray 6c. The upper tray 6b and the lower tray 6c can store game balls. A game ball flows into the upper plate 6b from an inlet 500. - 特許庁6 d of 1st discharge holes which can discharge|eject a game ball from the upper plate 6b are formed in the upper plate 6b. The first discharge hole 6d is formed in a substantially rectangular shape. The first discharge hole 6d can be opened and closed by the player's operation.

The game ball that has flowed into the upper tray 6b rolls (rolls in the direction of the arrow in the figure) toward the first discharge hole 6d along the downwardly inclined passage formed on the bottom surface of the upper tray 6b. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 69, after rolling on a cover 501 forming the bottom surface of the upper tray 6b, it rolls on a passage 502 provided inside the cover 501 toward the first discharge hole 6d. . The first discharge hole 6d is normally closed, and the game ball that has flowed into the first discharge hole 6d is guided to a ball feeding device that feeds the game ball to the game ball shooting device.

If the game balls are continuously fed to the ball feeding device without opening the first discharge hole 6d, the game balls cannot flow into the first discharge hole 6d. A game ball that cannot flow into the first discharge hole 6d stays in the upper tray 6c. When the game balls stay in the upper tray 6c, the game balls flow back into the inflow port 500.例文帳に追加Therefore, when the game balls stay in the upper tray 6c, the game balls in the upper tray 6c are discharged from the first discharge hole 6d by the operation of the player. The game ball discharged from the first discharge hole 6d flows into the lower tray 6c.

The lower plate 6c is formed with a second discharge hole 6e through which game balls can be discharged from the lower plate 6c. The second discharge hole 6e can be opened and closed by the operation of the player. The second discharge hole 6e is formed in a substantially circular shape. The bottom surface of the lower plate 6c is inclined downward toward the second discharge hole 6e. The game ball discharged from the first discharge hole 6d and flowed into the lower tray 6c rolls toward the second discharge hole 6e and is discharged from the second discharge hole 6e. The game ball ejected from the second ejection hole 6e is ejected from the hole formed on the lower surface of the tray unit 6 and collected.

The second discharge hole 6e has a hole size larger than that of the first discharge hole 6d. Although the shapes of the first discharge hole 6d and the second discharge hole 6e are different, the size of the hole indicates the dimension of the maximum width portion.

Specifically, the size of the second discharge hole 6e is approximately 25 mm. Also, the size of the first discharge hole 6d is approximately 14 mm. In this example, the diameter of the playing ball is approximately 11 mm. Therefore, the second ejection hole 6e has a size that allows two game balls to be ejected at the same time. Also, the first discharge hole 6d has a size that cannot discharge two game balls at the same time. The second discharge hole 6e may have a larger size as long as it is a size that allows two or more game balls to be discharged at the same time.

The upper plate 6b is provided with a first opening/closing lid 6f capable of opening and closing the first discharge hole 6d.

Further, the lower plate 6c is provided with a second opening/closing lid 6g capable of opening and closing the second discharge hole 6e.

A first ball release button 6h that can move the first open/close lid 6f is provided on the upper surface of the upper plate 6b. The first ball extraction button 6h can accept an opening operation for opening the first discharge hole 6d. The first ball extraction button 6h is vertically movable. In the normal state, the first ball extracting button 6h protrudes from the upper surface of the upper plate 6b. When the first ball removal button 6h is pressed, the first open/close lid 6f is retracted from the closed position for closing the first discharge hole 6d by a link mechanism (not shown), thereby opening the first discharge hole 6d. Further, as long as the first ball extraction button 6h is pressed, the first ejection hole 6d continues to be opened. Then, when the pressing of the first ball extracting button 6h is released, the first open/close lid 6f retreats from the open position where the first discharge hole 6d is opened, and the first discharge hole 6d is closed.

Further, the front surface of the tray unit 6 is provided with a second ball release button 6i capable of moving the second open/close lid 6g. The second ball extraction button 6i can accept an opening operation for opening the second discharge hole 6e. The second ball extraction button 6i is movable in the horizontal direction (substantially in the front-rear direction). The second ball removal button 6i is housed so as not to form a large step with the front surface of the lower plate 6c. When the second ball release button 6i is pressed, the second open/close lid 6g is retracted from the closed position for closing the second discharge hole 6e by a link mechanism (not shown), thereby opening the second discharge hole 6e. Further, once the second ball extraction button 6i is pressed, the pressed state is maintained. When the button is pressed again, the pressed state is released. When the second ball extraction button 6i is kept pressed down, the second ejection hole 6e continues to be opened. Then, when the depression of the second ball removal button 6i is released, the second open/close lid 6g retreats from the open position where the second discharge hole 6e is opened, and the second discharge hole 6e is closed.

Then, the first ball removal button 6h can make the game ball passable through the first discharge hole 6d with an operation amount (for example, about 4 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (for example, about 11 mm). is configured as It should be noted that the first ball extraction button 6h may be configured to allow the game ball to pass through the first discharge hole 6d with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball.

In addition, the second ball extraction button 6i can make the game ball passable through the second discharge hole 6e with an operation amount (for example, about 3 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (for example, about 11 mm). is configured as It should be noted that the second ball extraction button 6i may be configured to allow the game ball to pass through the second discharge hole 6e with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball.

By configuring in this manner, game balls can be discharged from both the upper tray 6b and the lower tray 6c with a small amount of operation. This can prevent the player from feeling stress in the game.

In this embodiment, the operation amount (approximately 3 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (or less than the diameter) for the second ball removal button 6i is equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball for the first ball removal button 6h (or the diameter less than) (about 4 mm).

Therefore, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation to prompt the user to operate the second ball-draw button 6i that enables efficient ball-draw when quick ball-draw is desired, such as when a full-tank error occurs. .

It should be noted that the maximum operation amount (for example, 6 mm) of the first ball extraction button 6h is set to an operation amount equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball.

Further, the maximum operation amount (for example, 14.5 mm) of the second ball extraction button 6i is set to an operation amount equal to or larger than (exceeding) the diameter of the game ball.

The maximum operation amount (for example, about 14.5 mm) for the second ball extraction button 6i is larger than the maximum operation amount (for example, 6 mm) for the first ball extraction button 6h.

As a result, the relationship between the maximum operation amount of the first ball extraction button 6h and the maximum operation amount of the second ball extraction button 6i is linked to the ejection efficiency of the game balls. Therefore, it is possible to give a feeling that the game balls can be ejected more quickly by operating the second ball ejection button 6i. Therefore, when a full tank error occurs and quick ball removal is desired, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation for prompting the user to operate the second ball removal button 6i capable of executing efficient ball removal. .

It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, the operation amount (for example, about 3 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (or less than the diameter) for the second ball extraction button 6i, and the operation amount required when moving the second ball extraction button 6i The operation load (for example, 2 N) is the operation amount (for example, about 4 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (or less than the diameter) for the first ball extraction button 6h, and when the first ball extraction button 6h is moved. is smaller than the required operating load (eg, 4N).

Therefore, the second ball-pulling button 6i can pull out the ball with a smaller amount of operation than the first ball-pulling button 6h, and can pull out the ball with a smaller operating load than the first ball-pulling button 6h. Therefore, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation for prompting the operation of the second ball-draw button 6i capable of executing efficient ball-draw when quick ball-draw is desired, such as when a full-tank error occurs. can.

In addition, in this embodiment, game balls can be discharged from the upper tray 6b and the lower tray 6c with a small amount of operation. Also, in the pseudo fluctuation section, 12 pseudo fluctuation corresponding symbols 303 corresponding to the pseudo fluctuation display can be displayed regardless of the number of reserved memories, and the reserved display and the pseudo fluctuation corresponding symbols 303 can be easily distinguished. Therefore, in this embodiment, there is an effect that the player can be prevented from feeling stress in the game.

As described above, the present embodiment includes the following inventions regarding the tray unit 6 of the present embodiment.

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
a tray capable of storing game balls;
The saucer includes an upper plate and a lower plate arranged vertically,
The upper plate has a first hole capable of ejecting game balls,
The lower plate has a second hole capable of discharging game balls,
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening and closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operating means operable to move the first opening/closing means;
a second operating means capable of being operated to move the second opening/closing means;
Said first operation means is capable of making the game ball passable through said first hole with an operation amount equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball, and said second operation means is capable of operating an operation equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball. A gaming machine characterized in that it is possible to put the second hole in a state in which a game ball can pass therethrough.

[Regarding modification 3]
In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the ball removal button is provided on each of the two trays (the upper tray and the lower tray) has been described, but an example in which the ball removal button is provided on one tray will be described. Note that the description of the same parts as in the above embodiment is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 71 , the pachinko machine P according to the modification includes an integrated door unit 400 having the same configuration as the integrated door unit 4 . The integrated door unit 400 has a structure in which a tray unit 401 is integrated at its lower position. The receiving tray unit 401 has a shape projecting from the integrated door unit 400 to the front side as a whole, and an upper tray 402 is formed on the upper surface thereof. The pachinko machine P is a model connected to a card unit, and game balls borrowed by a player are put out to an upper tray 402 separately from prize balls. The upper plate 402 can store game balls.

As shown in FIGS. 72 and 73, the upper plate 402 is formed with a first discharge hole 403 through which game balls can be discharged. The first discharge hole 403 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape. The first discharge hole 403 can be opened and closed by a player's operation.

Further, the upper plate 402 is formed with a second discharge hole 404 through which game balls can be discharged from the upper plate 402 . The second discharge hole 404 is formed in a substantially circular shape. The second discharge hole 404 can be opened and closed by a player's operation. The second discharge hole 404 is provided on the downstream side of the inflow port 405 of the game balls into the upper tray 402 and on the upstream side of the first discharge hole 403 . That is, the first discharge hole 403 is provided upstream of the upper plate 403 , and the second discharge hole 404 is provided downstream of the upper plate 403 .

A game ball that has flowed into the upper tray 402 from the inlet 405 rolls toward the first discharge hole 403 along a downwardly inclined passage formed on the bottom surface of the upper tray 402 (rolls in the direction of the arrow in the figure). ). The first discharge hole 403 is normally closed, and the game ball that has flowed into the first discharge hole 403 is guided to a ball feeding device that feeds the game ball to the game ball shooting device.

When the game balls are continuously sent to the ball feeding device without opening the first discharge hole 403, the game balls cannot flow into the first discharge hole 403, and the game balls that cannot flow in. stays in the upper plate 402 . When the game ball stays in the upper tray 402, the game ball stays on the closed second discharge hole 404 as well.

If the state is left as it is, the game ball flows backward into the inlet 405.例文帳に追加Therefore, when the game balls stay in the upper tray 402, the game balls in the upper tray 402 are discharged from the first discharge hole 403 or the second discharge hole 404 by the operation of the player. The game ball discharged from the first discharge hole 403 or the second discharge hole 404 is discharged from the hole formed on the lower surface of the tray unit 400 and collected.

The second discharge hole 404 has a hole size larger than that of the first discharge hole 403 . Although the first discharge hole 403 and the second discharge hole 404 have different shapes, the size of the hole indicates the dimension of the maximum width portion.

Specifically, the size of the second discharge hole 404 is approximately 25 mm. Also, the size of the first discharge hole 403 is approximately 14 mm. In this example, the diameter of the playing ball is approximately 11 mm. Therefore, the second ejection hole 404 has a size that allows two game balls to be ejected at the same time. Also, the first ejection hole 403 has a size that cannot eject two game balls at the same time. It should be noted that the second discharge hole 404 may be of a larger size as long as it has a size that allows two or more game balls to be discharged at the same time.

The upper plate 402 is provided with a first opening/closing lid 406 capable of opening and closing the first discharge hole 403 .

Further, the upper plate 402 is provided with a second opening/closing lid 407 capable of opening and closing the second discharge hole 404 .

A first ball release button 408 that can move the first open/close lid 406 is provided on the upper surface of the upper plate 402 . The first ball extraction button 408 can accept an opening operation for opening the first discharge hole 403 . The first ball eject button 408 is vertically movable. In the normal state, the first ball extractor button 408 protrudes from the upper surface of the upper plate 402 . When the first ball removal button 408 is pressed, the first open/close lid 406 is retracted from the closed position for closing the first discharge hole 403 by a link mechanism (not shown), and the first discharge hole 403 is opened. Also, as long as the first ball extraction button 408 is pressed, the first discharge hole 403 continues to be opened. Then, when the pressing of the first ball extracting button 408 is released, the first open/close lid 406 retreats from the open position where the first discharge hole 403 is opened, and the first discharge hole 403 is closed.

A second ball release button 409 capable of moving the second open/close lid 407 is provided on the front surface of the tray unit 400 . The second ball extraction button 409 can accept an opening operation for opening the second discharge hole 404 . The second ball extraction button 409 is movable in the horizontal direction (substantially in the front-rear direction). The second ball removal button 409 is accommodated so as not to form a large step with the front surface of the lower plate 6c. When the second ball release button 409 is pressed, the second open/close lid 407 is retracted from the closed position where the second discharge hole 404 is closed by a link mechanism (not shown), and the second discharge hole 404 is opened. Further, once the second ball extraction button 409 is pressed, the pressed state is maintained. When the button is pressed again, the pressed state is released. As long as the second ball extraction button 409 is kept pressed down, the second ejection hole 404 continues to be open. Then, when the depression of the second ball release button 409 is released, the second open/close lid 407 retreats from the open position where the second discharge hole 404 is opened, and the second discharge hole 6e is closed.

Then, the first ball extraction button 408 can make the game ball passable through the first discharge hole 403 with an operation amount (for example, about 4 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (for example, about 11 mm). is configured as It should be noted that the first ball extraction button 408 may be configured to allow the game ball to pass through the first discharge hole 403 with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball.

In addition, the second ball extraction button 409 can make the game ball pass through the second discharge hole 404 with an operation amount (for example, about 3 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (for example, about 11 mm). is configured as It should be noted that the second ball extraction button 409 may be configured to allow the game ball to pass through the second ejection hole 404 with an operation amount less than the diameter of the game ball.

By configuring in this way, the game ball can be discharged from the upper tray 402 with a small amount of operation. This can prevent the player from feeling stress in the game.

In the present embodiment, the operation amount (approximately 3 mm) equal to or less than (less than) the diameter of the game ball for the second ball extracting button 409 is equal to or less than (less than) the diameter of the game ball for the first ball extracting button 408. (approximately 4 mm).

Therefore, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation for prompting the user to operate the second ball-draw button 409, which enables efficient ball-draw, when quick ball-draw is desired, such as when a full-tank error occurs. .

In addition, the maximum operation amount (for example, 6 mm) of the first ball extraction button 408 is set to an operation amount equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball.

Also, the maximum operation amount (for example, 14.5 mm) of the second ball extraction button 409 is set to an operation amount equal to or larger than the diameter of the game ball (exceed).

The maximum operation amount (for example, about 14.5 mm) for the second ball removal button 409 is larger than the maximum operation amount for the first ball removal button 408 (for example, 6 mm).

As a result, the relationship between the maximum operation amount of the first ball extraction button 408 and the maximum operation amount of the second ball extraction button 409 is linked to the discharge efficiency of the game balls. Therefore, it is possible to give a feeling that the game balls can be ejected more quickly by operating the second ball ejection button 409 . Therefore, when a full tank error occurs and quick ball removal is desired, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation for prompting the user to operate the second ball removal button 409 capable of executing efficient ball removal. .

In addition, in this embodiment, the operation amount (for example, about 3 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (or less than the diameter) for the second ball extraction button 409 and the operation amount required when moving the second ball extraction button 409 The operation load (for example, 2 N) is the operation amount (for example, about 4 mm) equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball (or less than the diameter) for the first ball extraction button 408, and when the first ball extraction button 408 is moved. is smaller than the required operating load (eg, 4N).

Therefore, the second ball extracting button 409 can extract the ball with a smaller operation amount than the first ball extracting button 408 and can also extract the ball with a smaller operating load than the first ball extracting button 408 . Therefore, it is possible to provide a sensory motivation for prompting the operation of the second ball-draw button 409 capable of executing efficient ball-draw when quick ball-draw is desired, such as when a full-tank error occurs. can.

In addition, in the modified example, the game ball can be discharged from the upper tray 402 with a small amount of operation. Further, in the above embodiment, 12 pseudo fluctuation corresponding symbols 303 corresponding to the pseudo fluctuation display can be displayed regardless of the number of pending memories in the pseudo fluctuation section, and the holding display and the pseudo fluctuation corresponding symbols 303 can be distinguished. Cheap. Therefore, by applying the receiving tray unit 400 according to the modification to the pachinko machine 1, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling stress in the game.

As described above, regarding the tray unit 401 of Modification 3, Modification 3 includes the following inventions.

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
a tray capable of storing game balls;
The saucer has a first hole and a second hole capable of discharging game balls,
The first hole is arranged downstream of the saucer,
The second hole is arranged upstream of the saucer,
a first opening/closing means capable of opening and closing the first hole;
a second opening and closing means capable of opening and closing the second hole;
a first operating means operable to move the first opening/closing means;
a second operating means capable of being operated to move the second opening/closing means;
Said first operation means is capable of making the game ball passable through said first hole with an operation amount equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball, and said second operation means is capable of operating an operation equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball. A gaming machine characterized in that it is possible to put the second hole in a state in which a game ball can pass therethrough.

[Structure of handle unit]
Next, the structure of the handle unit 16 will be described. 74 is an external perspective view of the handle unit 16. FIG. 75 is an exploded perspective view of the handle unit 16. FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 74 and 75, the handle unit 16 includes an operating handle 400, an attachment base 401, and an attachment bracket 402. As shown in FIGS. A mounting base 401 is attached to the integral door unit 4 and a mounting bracket 402 is attached to the inner frame assembly 7 . The operating handle 400 is fixed to the mounting bracket 402 through the opening 401 a of the mounting base 401 .

The operating handle 400 includes a base body 400a fixed to a mounting bracket 402, and an operating ring 400b rotatably supported by the base body 400a and rotating within a predetermined angle range from the initial position shown in the drawing to the maximum rotation position. and a face cover 400d that covers the front surface of the operating handle 400. As shown in FIG.

The operation ring 400b has three finger hooks 400d to 400f spaced apart along its rotational direction. The finger hook 400d is arranged on the most upstream side of the counterclockwise rotation path, the finger hook 400f is arranged on the most downstream side of the counterclockwise rotation path, and the finger hook 400e is arranged on the intermediate position. ing. Further, the finger hooks 400d to 400f protrude outward. The operating ring 400b is spring biased clockwise. When the game ball is to be shot into the game area, the operating handle 400 is rotated counterclockwise so as to oppose the biasing force of the spring. In general, the player rotates the operating handle 400 with his/her fingers hooked on the finger hooks 400d to 400f.

FIG. 76 is an explanatory view showing the rotational position of the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400. FIG. As shown in FIG. 76(a), in the operation ring 400b, the angle between the horizontal reference line L1 passing through the rotation center and the rotation reference line L2 from the rotation center to the tip of the finger hook 400d is in the counterclockwise direction. A position spaced apart by α° is assumed to be the initial position. The finger hooks 400d to 400f are arranged so that they are all positioned above the horizontal reference line L1 at the initial position. Further, as shown in FIG. 76(b), the position where the angle between the horizontal reference line L1 and the rotation reference line L2 is β° in the counterclockwise direction is the left-handed reference position. Then, as shown in FIG. 76(c), the right-handed reference position where the angle between the horizontal reference line L1 and the rotation reference line L2 is γ° in the counterclockwise direction is set as the maximum rotation position.

FIG. 77 is an explanatory diagram showing the distances from the center of rotation of the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400 to each part. Specifically, FIG. 77(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the distance relationship with the integrated door unit 4, and FIG.

As shown in FIG. 77A, D1 is the linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook 400d, D2 is the linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook 400e, The linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400f is D3, the linear distance from the outer peripheral surface of the operation ring 400b is E, and the lower edge of the integrated door unit 4 is from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b. , and the horizontal linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the right edge of the integrated door unit 4 is G1.

In this embodiment, D1 is set to 53.4 mm, D2 to 45.6 mm, D3 to 39.3 mm, E to 34.6 mm, F1 to 40.0 mm, and G1 to 49.1 mm.

As shown in FIG. 77(b), the linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400d is D1, the linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400e is D2, The linear distance from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400f is D3, the linear distance from the outer peripheral surface of the operation ring 400b is E, and the lower edge of the inner frame assembly 7 is from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b. , and the horizontal linear distance from the center of rotation of the operation ring 400b to the right edge of the inner frame assembly 7 is G2.

In this embodiment, D1 is set to 53.4 mm, D2 to 45.6 mm, D3 to 39.3 mm, E to 34.6 mm, F1 to 45.0 mm, and G1 to 51.1 mm.

In the present embodiment, the finger hooks 400d to 400f are arranged so that, in the initial position, each part is positioned above the horizontal reference line L1 passing through the rotation center of the operation ring 400b. When the operation ring 400b of the handle 400 is in the initial position, the finger hooks 400d to 400f do not protrude below the lower edge of the body frame 11 (that is, the integrated door unit 4 and inner frame assembly 7). Further, even when the operation ring 400b of the operation handle 400 is rotated to the maximum rotation position, the finger hooks 400d and 400e are positioned below the body frame 11 (that is, the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7). The linear distance D3 from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400f is the vertical direction from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the lower edge of the integrated door unit 4 without rotating to the edge. and the vertical linear distance F2 from the center of rotation of the operating ring 400b to the lower edge of the inner frame assembly 7. Therefore, when the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400 is at the maximum rotation position, The finger hooks 400d to 400f do not protrude below the lower edge of the main body frame 11 (that is, the lower edge of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7). Therefore, regardless of the rotational position of the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400, the finger hooks 400d to 400f are positioned at the lower edges of the main body frame 11 (that is, the lower edges of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7). ) does not protrude downward.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the finger hooks 400d to 400f are all positioned away from the right edge of the main body frame 11 (that is, the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7) in the initial position, so the operation is easy. When the operation ring 400b of the handle 400 is in the initial position, the finger hooks 400d to 400f do not protrude to the right from the right edge of the body frame 11. As shown in FIG. Further, even when the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400 is rotated to the maximum rotation position, the finger hooking portion 400d is positioned at the right edge of the main body frame 11 (that is, at the right edge of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7). The linear distance D2 from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400e and the linear distance D3 from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the tip of the finger hook portion 400f are: , the horizontal linear distance G1 from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the right edge of the integrated door unit 4, and the horizontal linear distance G2 from the rotation center of the operation ring 400b to the right edge of the inner frame assembly 7. Since it is short, when the operating ring 400b of the operating handle 400 is at the maximum rotation position, the finger hooks 400d to 400f are on the right edge of the main body frame 11 (that is, the right edge of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7). Do not protrude to the right of the Therefore, in this embodiment, the finger hooks 400d to 400f do not protrude to the right from the right edge of the body frame 11 no matter what rotational position the operation ring 400b of the operation handle 400 is in.

In this embodiment, if the finger hooking portion 400d having the largest protrusion amount is the maximum finger hooking portion, the tip of the finger hooking portion 400d, which is the maximum finger hooking portion, is at the lowest point of the rotation orbit at the maximum rotation position. not located.

As described above, even when the body frame 11 is placed on the floor, the finger hooks 400d to 400f do not come into contact with the floor, and the operation ring 400b of the operation handle 400 can be prevented from being damaged. . As a result, the risk of damage to the parts of the pachinko machine 1, such as the parts that make up the handle unit 16, can be reduced.

Further, the operating handle 400 of this embodiment has a spring that biases the operating ring 400b clockwise. Then, due to the biasing force of the spring, the rotational operation torque N [Nmm] shown in FIGS. ] is generated. The reaction force of the spring causes the operating handle 400 and the operating ring 400b to return to their initial positions.

As shown in FIGS. 78 and 79, the rotational operation torque N of the operation handle 400 of this embodiment is 6.8 [N mm] at the initial position and 13.6 [N mm] at the left-handed reference position. · mm], and the right-handed reference position is set to 23.8 [N·mm]. Therefore, the difference ΔA between the initial position and the left-handed reference position is 6.8 [N·mm], and the difference ΔB between the left-handed reference position and the right-handed reference position is 10.2 [N·mm]. Further, the operating angle β° from the initial position of the operating handle 400 to the left-handed reference position is 49.0° (see FIG. 76), and the operation of the operating handle 400 from the left-handed reference position to the right-handed reference position is 49.0°. The angle γ° is 100.0° (see FIG. 76). Therefore, the relationship between ΔA and ΔB is ΔA<ΔB (6.8<10.2) and 2ΔA>ΔB (13.6>10.2). It was found that it was difficult for the player to show off when the settings were made as described above.

On the other hand, the rotational operation torque N of the operating handle of Comparative Example 1 is 59.4 [N·mm] at the initial position, 79.2 [N·mm] at the left-handed reference position, and 79.2 [N-mm] at the right-handed reference position. The position is set to 143.6 [N·mm]. Therefore, the difference ΔA between the initial position and the left-handed reference position is 19.8 [N·mm], and the difference ΔB between the left-handed reference position and the right-handed reference position is 64.4 [N·mm]. Further, the operating angle β° from the initial position of the operating handle 400 to the left-handed reference position is 60.0° (see FIG. 76), and the operation of the operating handle 400 from the left-handed reference position to the right-handed reference position. The angle γ° is 120.0° (see FIG. 76). Therefore, the relationship between ΔA and ΔB is ΔA<ΔB (19.8<64.4) and 2ΔA<ΔB (39.6<64.4). It has been found that the above settings make the player very tired.

Further, the rotational operation torque N of the operating handle in Comparative Example 2 is 57.6 [N·mm] at the initial position, 62.4 [N·mm] at the left-handed reference position, and 62.4 [N-mm] at the right-handed reference position. It is set to 91.2 [N·mm]. Therefore, the difference ΔA between the initial position and the left-handed reference position is 4.8 [N·mm], and the difference ΔB between the left-handed reference position and the right-handed reference position is 28.8 [N·mm]. Further, the operating angle β° from the initial position of the operating handle 400 to the left-handed reference position is 40.0° (see FIG. 76), and the operation of the operating handle 400 from the left-handed reference position to the right-handed reference position is 40.0°. The angle γ° is 120.0° (see FIG. 76). Therefore, the relationship between ΔA and ΔB is ΔA<ΔB (4.8<28.8) and 2ΔA<ΔB (9.6<64.4). It was found that the above setting makes it easy for the player to show off.

The rotational operation torque N of the operating handle in Comparative Example 3 is 29.7 [N·mm] at the initial position, 54.5 [N·mm] at the left-handed reference position, and 54.5 [N-mm] at the right-handed reference position. It is set to 94.1 [N·mm]. Therefore, the difference ΔA between the initial position and the left-handed reference position is 24.8 [N·mm], and the difference ΔB between the left-handed reference position and the right-handed reference position is 39.6 [N·mm]. The operation angle β° from the initial position of the operating handle 400 to the left-handed reference position is 45.0° (see FIG. 76), and the operation from the left-handed reference position to the right-handed reference position of the operating handle 400 is 45.0°. The angle γ° is 110.0° (see FIG. 76). Therefore, the relationship between ΔA and ΔB is ΔA<ΔB (24.8<39.6) and 2ΔA>ΔB (49.6>39.6). It was found that the above setting makes it easy for the player to show off.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the operation torque at the left-handed reference position is greater than the operation torque at the initial position, and the operation torque at the right-handed reference position is greater than the operation torque at the left-handed reference position. Since the operation torque at the reference position is not more than twice the operation torque at the left-handed reference position, the operation torque does not suddenly increase from the left-handed reference position to the maximum rotation position, and the player can apply the second operation torque. It feels that the difference from the third operation torque is small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

In addition, since the operation torque at the left-handed reference position is less than twice the operation torque at the initial position, the operation torque does not suddenly increase from the initial position to the left-handed reference position, and the player can perform the first operation. The difference between the torque and the second operation torque is felt to be small. Therefore, the player is less likely to get tired, and the burden on the player can be reduced.

As described above, the present embodiment includes the following inventions regarding the handle unit 16 of the present embodiment.

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
a body frame having a front frame and an inner frame;
an outer frame to which the body frame can be attached;
a game board having a game area;
The body frame includes an operation handle that is operable by a player to shoot a game ball into the game area,
The operating handle has a finger hook portion protruding outward,
the operating handle is rotatable from an initial position to a maximum rotation position;
at the initial position, the finger hook does not protrude below the lower edge of the body frame;
A gaming machine characterized in that, at the maximum rotation position, the finger hook does not protrude below a lower edge of the body frame.

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Equipped with an operation handle that is operable by the player,
an operation torque required for rotating the operation handle from the initial position as a first operation torque;
The operation torque required for rotating the operation handle from the initial position to the left-handed reference position is defined as a second operation torque,
Assuming that an operation torque required for rotating the operation handle from the initial position to the maximum rotation position is a third operation torque,
The second operation torque is greater than the first operation torque, the third operation torque is greater than the second operation torque, and the third operation torque is equal to or less than twice the second operation torque. A game machine characterized by

In addition, it is preferable that the second operation torque is not more than twice the first operation torque.

Further, if the operation angle from the initial position of the operation handle to the left-handed reference position is defined as a first operation angle, and the operation angle from the initial position to the maximum rotation position of the operation handle is defined as a second operation angle, then the first operation is performed. It is preferable that the angle is half or less of the second operation angle.

[Effects of the above embodiment]
(A1) In the above-described embodiment, the gaming machine (the pachinko machine 1 in this example) capable of playing a game, the operation means (in this example, the effect button 45) operable by the player, and the Production execution means (in this example, FIG. 47) capable of executing production for a certain period from the start of the effective period of operation on the operation means, production sound output means capable of outputting production sound (in this example, speakers 54a to 54d ), wherein the effect sound includes a first effect sound and a second effect sound output after the first effect sound (in this example, FIGS. 54 to 55 and 60), and the The effect sound output means is capable of outputting at least the first effect sound until the end of the fixed period from when the operation means is operated when the operation means is operated during the valid period ( In this example, the processing of S1004 and the processing of S1006 in FIG. 50), and if the effective period expires without the operation means being operated during the effective period, the predetermined period of time after the expiration of the effective period ends. It is possible to output at least the first effect sound to the end by the end (in this example, FIGS. 54 to 55 and 60). Therefore, since it is possible to match the effect sound and the mode of effect, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling a sense of incongruity.

(A2) In the above embodiment, the effect sound output means terminates the output of the effect sound while gradually decreasing the volume during the output of the second effect sound (in this example, FIGS. 54 to 55, Figure 60). Therefore, since the sound volume of the effect sound does not decrease while the first effect sound is being output, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling a sense of incongruity.

(A3) In the above embodiment, the effect sound output means terminates the output of the effect sound while gradually decreasing the volume during the output of the effect sound, and the valid period (4 seconds in this example) is , a period shorter than the output period of the effect sound (6 seconds to 10 seconds in this example), and a period from when the volume of the effect sound starts to decrease until the output of the effect sound ends (in this example, 1 second) (in this example, FIGS. 54 to 55 and 60). Therefore, the effect sound is not interrupted during the valid period, and the sound volume of the effect sound is not lowered immediately after the effective period, so that the player can be prevented from feeling a sense of incongruity.

(B1) A gaming machine (in this example, pachinko machine 1) capable of playing a game, which includes a plurality of variable display areas (in this example, performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, 42R), and stop sound output means capable of outputting a stop sound when the identification information stops (speakers 54a to 54d in this example). and effect image display means (in this example, liquid crystal display 42) capable of displaying effect images including a specific effect image (in this example, effect image 502 in FIG. 59); The variable display area includes a first variable display area, a second variable display area, and a third variable display area (in this example, performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, and 42R), and the variable display means includes the identification information The identification information is variably displayed in a state (translucent state in this example) in which the visibility of the The identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, and after the identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, the identification information is changed in the third variable display area. It is possible to stop the identification information being displayed (in this example, FIGS. 56, 58 to 59), and the stop sound is variably displayed in the first variable display area. A first identification information stop sound (left pattern stop sound in this example) output when the identification information stops, and a first identification information stop sound output when the identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is output. and a second identification information stop sound (right symbol stop sound in this example) (in this example, the processing of S1304 and S1308 in FIG. 53, FIGS. 56 and 58 to 59), and the stop sound output means is the During the period from outputting the first identification information stop sound to outputting the second identification information stop sound, the variable display means displays the identification information variably displayed in the third variable display area. It is possible for the effect image display means to display the specific effect image with the visibility further lowered (in this example, the process of S1312 in FIG. 53, FIGS. 56, 58 to 59). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the symbols being changed from interfering with the effect image.

(B2) A gaming machine (in this example, the pachinko machine 1) capable of playing a game, in which a plurality of variable display areas (in this example, the performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, 42R), and stop sound output means capable of outputting a stop sound when the identification information stops (speakers 54a to 54d in this example). and effect image display means (in this example, liquid crystal display 42) capable of displaying effect images including a specific effect image (in this example, effect image 502 in FIG. 59); The variable display area includes a first variable display area, a second variable display area, and a third variable display area (in this example, performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, and 42R), and the variable display means includes the identification information The identification information is variably displayed in a state (translucent state in this example) in which the visibility of the The identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, and after the identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, the identification information is changed in the third variable display area. It is possible to stop the identification information being displayed (in this example, FIGS. 56, 58 to 59), and the stop sound is variably displayed in the second variable display area. Including a second identification information stop sound (right symbol stop sound in this example) output when the identification information stops (in this example, the process of S1408 in FIG. 62, FIGS. 63, 64 to 65), When the stop sound output means outputs the second identification information stop sound, the variable display means further reduces the visibility of the identification information variably displayed in the third variable display area. and the effect image display means can display the specific effect image (in this example, the process of S1410 in FIG. 62, FIGS. 63, 64 to 65). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the symbols being changed from interfering with the effect image.

(B3) A gaming machine capable of playing a game (in this example, the pachinko machine 1), in which a plurality of variable display areas (in this example, the effect symbol display areas 42L, 42C, 42R), and stop sound output means capable of outputting a stop sound when the identification information stops (speakers 54a to 54d in this example). and effect image display means (in this example, liquid crystal display 42) capable of displaying effect images including a specific effect image (in this example, effect image 502 in FIG. 59); The variable display area includes a first variable display area, a second variable display area, and a third variable display area (in this example, performance symbol display areas 42L, 42C, and 42R), and the variable display means includes the identification information The identification information is variably displayed in a state (translucent state in this example) in which the visibility of the The identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, and after the identification information variably displayed in the second variable display area is stopped, the identification information is changed in the third variable display area. It is possible to stop the identification information being displayed (in this example, FIGS. 56, 58 to 59), and the stop sound is variably displayed in the first variable display area. Including a first identification information stop sound (left pattern stop sound in this example) output when the identification information stops (in this example, the process of S1504 in FIG. 66, FIGS. 67 and 68) The stop sound output When the means outputs the first identification information stop sound, the variable display means further reduces the visibility of the identification information that is being variably displayed in the third variable display area, and the effect The image display means can display the specific effect image (in this example, the process of S1506 in FIG. 66, FIGS. 67 and 68). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the symbols being changed from interfering with the effect image.

[Other Modifications of the Above Embodiment]
In the above embodiment, an example is given in which the second effect sound is output at the end of the operation effect, but if at least the first effect sound is output, the second effect sound may not necessarily be output .

In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which fade-out reproduction is performed when the output of the effect sound is finished was taken as an example. The manner in which sound output ends may be different from that in the above-described embodiment.

In the above embodiment, the left and right symbols are temporarily stopped, and then the middle symbols are stopped to completely stop the symbols. or temporarily stop the left pattern, the right pattern and the middle pattern, perform the production of whether or not the normal hit will be promoted to the probability change hit, and then stop all the patterns completely. The aspects (stop order and method) are not limited to those of the above embodiment. Further, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the middle symbol is made transparent when the left symbol stops, when the right symbol stops, and between when the left symbol stops and when the right symbol stops. The design and the right design may be stopped at the same time, and the middle design may be made transparent when the left design and the right design are stopped.

In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the middle pattern is made transparent is taken as an example, but the pattern to be made transparent may be different from that in the above-described embodiment, such as by making the left pattern or the right pattern transparent.

In the above embodiment, the middle pattern is rendered invisible by making the middle pattern transparent, but for example, the middle pattern is not made completely transparent, and is translucent to the extent that it does not interfere with the effect image. For example, it may be difficult to see.

In the above embodiment, an example of making the medium pattern transparent in the variable display in which the ready-to-win effect is executed was given, but for example, the medium pattern is made transparent, such as by making the medium pattern transparent even in the normal fluctuation that does not become the ready-to-win state. The variation pattern may be a variation pattern different from the above embodiment. In addition, the variation pattern that makes the variation display of the production pattern semi-transparent does not have to be limited to the variation pattern that results in the ready-to-win state.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine has been described, but the present invention may be applied to a slot machine in which the number of bets is set using medals and credits as game values.

The present invention can be modified in various ways without being limited to the above-described embodiment. The mode of presentation and various numerical values given in one embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited to the contents described above.

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a loop type (a type that does not set a substantial upper limit to the number of probability variations) game machine has been described. ), the present invention may be applied to the game machine. In addition, the type of jackpot may not be limited to the above-described embodiment, for example, if the jackpot is won in the normal mode high probability non-shortening state (so-called latent state), the number of times of time saving becomes infinite 2 A round definite variable big win or a 10 round definite variable big win may be provided. Further, other types of winnings such as small winnings may be provided in addition to the big winnings.

The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine with settings, a variable probability limiter machine, and a pachinko machine equipped with a performance display monitor.

The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and can be appropriately modified. Also, the structure, board configuration, specific numerical values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1, including those shown in the drawings, are preferred examples, and it goes without saying that these can be modified as appropriate.

1 pachinko machine 8 game board unit 8a game area 20 starting gate 28 variable starting winning device 33 normal symbol display device 33a normal symbol working memory lamp 34 first special symbol display device 35 second special symbol display device 34a first special symbol working memory Lamp 35a Second special symbol working memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Production button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROMs
76 RAM
124 effect control device 126 effect control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
body frame;
a first operation means capable of a pressing operation;
a second operating means capable of rotational operation;
an effect executing means capable of executing an effect for a certain period of time from the start of the effective period of the operation on the first operating means;
and a production sound output means capable of outputting a production sound,
The effect sound includes a first effect sound and a second effect sound output following the first effect sound,
The production sound output means is
In the case of the first mode in which the first operation means is operated during the valid period, the first sound effect and the second sound effect are generated from the time the first operation means is operated to the end of the certain period of time. and
In the case of the second mode in which the valid period expires without the operation of the first operation means during the valid period, the first effect sound and the first effect sound are produced during the valid period from the end of the valid period to the end of the fixed period. capable of outputting the second effect sound ,
The output time of the first effect sound is the same between the first mode and the second mode,
The output time of the second effect sound is longer in the first mode than in the second mode,
This game machine terminates the output of the effect sound while gradually decreasing the sound volume during the output of the second effect sound.

Images