JP7276836B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine using game media.

Amusement machines such as pachinko machines are designed to enhance the interest of players by providing various effects using an image display device having a liquid crystal screen, a sound output device (speaker), and electric accessories.
For example, an effect pattern is determined based on the lottery result of the pattern that is triggered by the entry of the game ball into the starting hole, and the effect image is displayed on the image display device according to this effect pattern (for example, patent Reference 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-062748

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to propose a gaming machine capable of enhancing the interest of a game by means of a new mode of presentation.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and can be implemented by the following modes.
A first form according to the present invention comprises an image display device for displaying an effect image, an audio output device for outputting a effect sound, and a shooting means for shooting a game medium toward a game area according to an operation by a player. a display control for displaying a performance image on the image display device and an output control for outputting a performance sound from the audio output device; a first game state; and an end of the first game state. a game state control means for controlling a second game state that can be controlled later; and a detection means for detecting that a game medium has passed through a predetermined area, wherein the first game state is the normal game state. and a specific game state which is controllable after the second game state is completed and which is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, wherein the effect image instructs launching of game media into the predetermined area. a first effect image, a second effect image different from the first effect image, and a specific image, the specific image being capable of being displayed simultaneously with the first effect image, and the second effect The specific image can be displayed simultaneously with the image, the specific image is not displayed in the normal game state, the specific image is displayed in the specific game state, and the first effect is displayed in the second game state. A notification effect of displaying an image and outputting a first effect sound can be executed. One effect sound is repeatedly output at a first volume, and after a predetermined time elapses without the detection means detecting that the game medium has passed through the predetermined area after the start of the notification effect, the sound is increased from the first volume. the volume of the first effect sound is reduced to a second volume that is smaller, and in response to the detecting means detecting that the game medium has passed through the predetermined area, the first effect image is changed to the second effect A second effect sound different from the first effect sound is output at the first sound volume while changing to an image.

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

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a perspective view showing an example of the back side of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game control device provided in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. 3 is a block diagram of an image control board; FIG. It is the figure which showed an example of the big-hit determination table. It is a diagram showing an example of a symbol determination table for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol. It is a diagram showing an example of a winning normal symbol determination table. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving gaming state. It is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern determination table for the time saving gaming state. It is the figure which showed an example of the prior determination table for determining the result of a jackpot lottery in advance. 4 is a flowchart for explaining main processing by a main control board; It is a flowchart explaining the timer interrupt processing by a main control board. 4 is a flowchart for explaining input control processing by a main control board; It is a flowchart explaining the 1st starting opening detection switch input process by a main control board. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining pre-determination processing by a main control board; FIG. It is a flow chart explaining the special figure special electric control processing by the main control board. It is a flow chart for explaining a special symbol memory determination process by the main control board. It is the figure (the 1) which showed an example of the fluctuation|variation production|presentation pattern determination table. It is the figure (the 2) which showed an example of the fluctuation|variation production|presentation pattern determination table. It is the figure (the 3) which showed an example of the fluctuation|variation production|presentation pattern determination table. It is a flow chart explaining the main processing by the production control board. It is a flow chart explaining the timer interrupt processing by the production control board. It is a flow chart explaining command analysis processing 1 by a production control board. It is a flow chart explaining command analysis processing 2 by a production control board. It is a flow chart explaining the production input control processing by the production control board. 4 is a flowchart for explaining main processing by an image control board; 4 is a flowchart for explaining interrupt processing of an image control board; It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation before SP reach development after a fluctuation|variation start. It is a figure explaining the flow of the production|presentation after development to fellow SP reach (character A). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production|presentation after development to fellow SP reach (character B). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production|presentation after development to fellow SP reach (character C). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production|presentation after development to fellow SP reach (character D). It is a figure explaining the flow of the production|presentation of SP ready-to-win which a self-character appears independently. It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation when SP reach becomes a big hit. It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation in case SP reach is lost. It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation of "Co-op SPSP reach." It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation of SPSP reach (single). It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation when SP reach becomes a big hit. It is a figure which shows the flow of production|presentation in case SP reach is lost. It is a figure which shows an example of the said icon disconnection change production|presentation. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a table for determining display change modes of variable icons; FIG. 11 is a diagram outlining how the variable icon changes in the “cherry blossom pending effect”; FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the "cherry blossom suspension effect" that is performed during the "evil star zone"; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a table (change number determination table) for determining the number of colored petals of the petal suspension icon in the “cherry blossom suspension effect”; It is a flow chart for explaining pending change determination processing executed by the CPU of the effect control board. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the notice effect determination process for determining the notice effect using the reserved icon including the icon disconnection change effect and the "cherry blossom pending effect". In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the start of the big win, it is a diagram explaining the control for connecting the performance (music) before and after the opening of the big winning opening without discomfort. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of the image display device before and after the yakutsu gate is activated;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments shown in the drawings.
<Composition of gaming machines>
1 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the back side of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 is the present embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game control device provided in the game machine.

In the game machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, an inner frame (openable/closable frame) 3 is attached to an outer frame 2 attached to an island structure of a game hall so as to be opened and closed, and a glass frame 4 is attached to the inner frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. is installed.
A window 4a is formed in the glass frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b is attached to the window 4a. A game board 10 having a board surface on which game balls are hit is attached to the inner frame 3, and a game area 10a in which game balls can roll and flow down between the board surface of the game board 10 and a transparent plate 4b in front thereof. is formed. The transparent plate 4b is, for example, a glass plate, and is detachably fixed to the glass frame 4. As shown in FIG.

The glass frame 4 is connected to the outer frame 2 via the hinge mechanism 5 at one end in the left-right direction (for example, the left side when facing the game machine), and the other end in the left-right direction is connected to the hinge mechanism 5 as a fulcrum. The side (for example, the right side facing the game machine) can be rotated in a direction to release it from the outer frame 2 . The glass frame 4 covers the game board 10 together with the glass plate 4b, and rotates like a door with the hinge mechanism 5 as a fulcrum, so that the inner part of the outer frame 2 including the game board 10 can be opened. A lock mechanism for fixing the other end of the glass frame 4 to the outer frame 2 is provided on the other end of the glass frame 4 . Fixation by the lock mechanism can be released with a dedicated key. Further, the glass frame 4 is provided with a door opening switch 136 (see FIG. 3) for detecting whether the glass frame 4 is released from the outer frame 2 or not.

A plate unit 7 having a storage plate 6 (upper plate 6a and lower plate 6b) for storing game balls is provided at the bottom of the glass frame 4 (lower portion of the window 4a). is equipped with an effect button 8 that can be pressed, a cross key 40 that allows the player to perform various selection operations, and a discharge button 9 that discharges the game balls stored in the lower tray 6b to the outside of the game machine. there is
The effect button 8 is activated only when, for example, a message for operating the effect button 8 is displayed on the image display device 31, which will be described later. The effect button 8 is provided with a effect button detection switch 8a (see FIG. 4), and when the effect button detection switch 8a detects the player's operation, a further effect is executed in response to this operation.
The cross key 40 is provided with cross key detection switches 40 (up key detection switch 40a, down key detection switch 40b, left key detection switch 40c, right key detection switch 40d) (see FIG. 3).

An operation handle 11 is provided on the lower right side of the glass frame 4 . When the player touches the operating handle 11, the touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 4) in the operating handle 11 detects that the player has touched the operating handle 11, and the shooting control board, which will be described later, is activated. send a touch signal to 160; The firing control board 160 permits energization of the firing solenoid 12a upon receiving a touch signal from the touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 4). When the rotation angle of the operating handle 11 is changed, the gear directly connected to the operating handle 11 rotates, and the knob of the firing volume 11b (see FIG. 4) connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detected angle of the shooting volume 11b is applied to the shooting solenoid 12a provided in the game ball shooting mechanism. When a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 12a (see FIG. 3), the firing solenoid 12a operates according to the applied voltage, and the game ball is played with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the operating handle 11. The game area 10a of the board 10 is shot.

Around the game area 10a of the game board 10, an outer rail R1 and an inner rail R2 are provided. These outer rail R1 and inner rail R2 guide the game ball shot from the game ball shooting mechanism when the operation handle 11 is operated to the upper part of the game area 10a. The game ball guided to the upper part of the game area 10a falls within the game area 10a. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably due to a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 10a.

A center member 12 is arranged substantially in the center of the game board 10 . The center member 12 is provided with an image display device 31 such as a liquid crystal display device, and a performance accessory device 32 imitating a "sword".
In addition, in the game area 10a on the center lower side of the center member 12, a first starting hole 13 into which a game ball can enter is provided. A second starting port 14 is provided below the first starting port 13 . The second starting port 14 has an opening/closing door 14b, and is movably controlled between a first mode in which the opening/closing door 14b is maintained in a closed state and a second mode in which the opening/closing door 14b is opened. . Therefore, when the second starting port 14 is in the first mode, there is no winning chance for the game ball, and when in the second mode, the winning chance for the game ball increases.
In addition, in this embodiment, when the second starting port 14 is controlled in the first mode, the game ball is prevented from entering the second starting port 14 . However, if the chance of a game ball entering the game ball in the first mode is less than when it is controlled in the second mode, when the game ball is controlled in the first mode, the second A game ball may enter the starting port 14. - 特許庁In other words, the first mode includes a state in which it is impossible or difficult to enter the game ball into the second starting port 14 .

The first start hole 13 and the second start hole 14 are provided with a first start hole detection switch 13a (see FIG. 4) and a second start hole detection switch 14a, respectively, for detecting the entry of a game ball. When these detection switches detect the entry of a game ball, a lottery for acquiring the right to execute a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as "jackpot lottery") is performed. Also, when the first start hole detection switch 13a and the second start hole detection switch 14a detect the entry of game balls, predetermined prize balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out.
In addition, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start hole 13 and the second start hole 14, for example, three game balls are put out. It is not always necessary to perform the payout associated with the entry of the ball. Also, the number of dispensing may be different for each starting opening, for example, the number of dispensing of the first starting opening 13 may be three and the number of dispensing of the second starting opening 14 may be one.

The game areas 10a on both sides of the center member 12 are provided with gates 15 through which game balls can pass. The gate 15 is provided with a gate detection switch 15a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 15a detects the passage of the game ball, a lottery of normal symbols, which will be described later, is performed. .
Further, in the game area 10a on the right side of the center member 12, there are provided a first big winning hole 16 and a second big winning hole 17 into which game balls can enter. For this reason, the operation handle 11 is largely rotated and the game ball is not entered into the first big prize opening 16 and the second big prize opening 17 unless the game ball is hit with a strong force.

The first big prize winning opening 16 is normally kept in a closed state by an opening/closing door 16b, making it impossible for game balls to enter. On the other hand, when a jackpot game, which will be described later, is started, the opening/closing door 16b is opened, and this opening/closing door 16b functions as a saucer for guiding the game balls into the first big winning hole 16, and the game balls are pushed into the first prize winning opening 16. A ball can be entered into the 1st prize winning opening 16. - 特許庁The first big winning opening 16 is provided with a first big winning opening switch 16a. game balls) are paid out.

The second big winning opening 17 is normally kept in a closed state by the movable piece 17b, making it impossible for game balls to enter. On the other hand, when a jackpot game, which will be described later, is started, the movable piece 17b is operated and opened, and this movable piece 17b functions as a guide path that guides the game ball into the second big winning hole 17, A game ball can enter the second big winning hole 17.例文帳に追加The second big winning opening 17 is provided with a second big winning opening switch 17a. game balls) are paid out.
Furthermore, a plurality of general winning openings 18 are provided in the game area 10a. When game balls enter these general winning holes 18, predetermined prize balls (for example, 10 game balls) are paid out.
At the bottom of the game area 10a, a game ball that did not enter any of the general winning opening 18, the first starting opening 13, the second starting opening 14, the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17 An out port 19 for discharging is provided.

The image display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is played, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Above all, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14, a performance pattern 35 for informing the player of the lottery result is displayed in a variable manner.
The effect pattern 35 is, for example, three patterns (numbers) such as the first pattern (left pattern), the second pattern (right pattern), and the third pattern (middle pattern), which are scrolled and displayed, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the relevant pattern is displayed. Scrolling is stopped and specific patterns (numbers) are displayed in an array.
Thus, during the scrolling of the patterns, the player is given an impression as if a lottery is currently being performed, and the player is notified of the lottery result by the patterns displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, etc. during the variable display of the effect pattern 35, the player is given a high expectation that he may win a big prize.

In addition, although not shown, the image display device 31 displays a fourth pattern separately from the effect pattern 35 . The fourth symbol is a symbol indicating the variation state of the performance symbol 35 used for notification of the lottery result of the jackpot lottery process.
The fourth pattern does not necessarily have to be displayed on the image display device 31, and may be displayed by separately providing a fourth pattern display lamp.
A pair of left and right lighting devices 33 for presentation are provided on the upper part of the glass frame 4. - 特許庁The production lighting device 33 is provided with a plurality of lights, and performs various productions by changing the irradiation direction and emission color of light from each light.

In addition, the production lighting device 33 is provided with a plurality of lights, and various productions are performed by changing the irradiation direction and emission color of the light of each light.
Furthermore, although not shown in FIG. 1, the game machine 1 is provided with an audio output device 34 (see FIG. 4) consisting of a speaker, and in addition to the above effects devices, BGM (background music), SE (sound effects) and the like are output, and sound production is also performed.

On the lower left side of the game area 10a, there are a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol reservation display device 23, and a second special symbol reservation display device 24, which will be described later. , a normal symbol holding display 25, a round number display 26, and other display areas 27 are provided.
The first special symbol display device 20 notifies the lottery result of a big win triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting port 13, and is composed of a plurality of LEDs. In other words, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the lottery result of the big win are provided, and by displaying the special symbols (lighting mode) corresponding to the lottery result of the big win on the first special symbol display device 20, the lottery result can be displayed in the game. I am trying to notify people. The special symbols displayed in this way are not displayed immediately, but are stopped after being variably displayed (blinking) for a predetermined period of time.

More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start hole 13, a lottery for a big win is performed, but the result of the lottery for the big win is not immediately notified to the player, but after a predetermined period of time. The player is notified when the time has elapsed. Then, when a predetermined time has passed, the special symbols corresponding to the big win lottery result are stopped and displayed, and the player is notified of the lottery result.
The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying the result of the jackpot lottery triggered by the entry of the game ball into the second starting port 14, and its display mode is the first special symbol. It is the same as the display mode of the special design in the display device 20 .
The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the result of the normal symbol lottery triggered by the passage of the game ball through the gate 15 . Although details will be described later, when a predetermined hit is won by the lottery of the normal symbols, the normal symbol display device 22 lights up, and then the second starting port 14 is controlled in the second mode for a predetermined time. It should be noted that the lottery result is not notified immediately after the game ball passes through the gate 15, but the normal design is changed by blinking the normal design display device 22 until a predetermined time elapses. I am trying to display it.

Furthermore, when the game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14, such as during the variable display of the special symbols or during the special game described later, and the jackpot lottery cannot be performed immediately, certain conditions The right to draw the jackpot is reserved under the More specifically, the jackpot lottery right reserved when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 is reserved as a first reservation, and reserved when a game ball enters the second starting port 14.例文帳に追加The right to draw the jackpot is reserved as a second reservation.
Both of these reservations set the upper limit reserved number to 4 respectively, and the reserved numbers are displayed on the first special symbol reservation display 23 and the second special symbol reservation display 24, respectively.
The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to 4, and the reserved number is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol reservation display 23 and the second special symbol reservation display 24. is displayed in device 25.
The number-of-rounds indicator 26 is for notifying the number of rounds of a round game performed during a special game, which will be described later.

A light guide plate 60 is arranged on the front side of the image display device 31 . The light guide plate 60 is formed with a plurality of vertical patterns that emit light when light is incident thereon.
By providing a plurality of LED light sources capable of injecting light into each pattern, and sequentially injecting light from the pattern on the center side to the patterns on the left and right sides, a wave-shaped light emission pattern can be realized.

As shown in FIG. 2, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 27, and the like are provided on the back surface of the gaming machine 1. FIG. Also, the power board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine and a power switch (not shown).

Next, the production button 8 will be explained.
A performance button 8 is incorporated in the central part of the plate unit 7. - 特許庁
The effect button 8 is configured to be able to advance and retreat through a normal operating position (not shown), a depressed position retracted below the normal operating position, and a protruding operating position protruding upward above the normal operating position. . Also, the effect button 8 is configured to be able to be pressed from any position including the normal operation position and the projecting operation position to the pressed position.
In this specification, the detailed structure of the effect button 8 is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-116168, so the description thereof is omitted.

<Configuration of game control device>
Next, a game control device for controlling the progress of a game in the game machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 3, the main control board 110 controls the basic operations of the game. The main control board 110 has at least a one-chip microcomputer 114 composed of a main CPU 111, a main ROM 112 and a main RAM 113, and an input port and an output port (not shown) for main control.
The main CPU 111 reads the program stored in the main ROM 112 based on the input signal from each detection switch and performs arithmetic processing, and directly controls each device and display, or according to the result of the arithmetic processing. Send commands to other boards. The main RAM 113 functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing of the main CPU 111 .

On the input side of the main control board 110, there are a first starting opening detection switch 13a, a second starting opening detection switch 14a, a gate detection switch 15a, a first big winning opening detection switch 16a, a second big winning opening detection switch 17a, A general winning hole detection switch 18 a is connected, and a game ball detection signal is input to the main control board 110 .
In addition, on the output side of the main control board 110, a starting opening opening/closing solenoid 14c that opens and closes the opening/closing door 14b of the second starting opening 14, and a first big winning opening that opens and closes the opening/closing door 16b of the first big winning opening 16. An opening/closing solenoid 16c and a second big winning opening opening/closing solenoid 17c for opening and closing the movable piece 17b of the second big winning opening 17 are connected.
Furthermore, on the output side of the main control board 110, there are a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol reservation display device 23, and a second special symbol reservation display device. 24, a normal symbol holding display 25, and a round number display 26 are connected, and various signals are output through output ports.
In addition, the main control board 110 outputs external information signals necessary for managing the game machines in a hall computer or the like of the game parlor to the game information output terminal board 27 .

The main ROM 112 of the main control board 110 stores game control programs, data necessary for various games, and tables, which will be described later.
Also, the main RAM 113 of the main control board 110 has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, the main RAM 113 has a normal symbol reserved number (G) storage area, a normal symbol reserved storage area, a first special symbol reserved number (U1) storage area, a second special symbol reserved number (U2) storage area, and a determination storage area. , 1st special symbol storage area, 2nd special symbol storage area, high probability game number (X) storage area, time saving game number (J) storage area, round game number (R) storage area, open number (K) storage area , 1st big winning hole number of balls (C1) storage area, 2nd big winning hole number of balls (C2) storage area, game state storage area, game state buffer, stop pattern data storage area, performance transmission data storage area etc. are provided. The game state storage area includes a time saving game flag storage area, a high probability game flag storage area, a special figure special electric processing data storage area, and a normal figure normal electric processing data storage area. Note that the storage areas described above are only examples, and many other storage areas are provided.

The game information output terminal board 27 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated by the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game parlor. The game information output terminal board 27 is wire-connected to the main control board 110, and is provided with a connector for connection to a hall computer or the like of the amusement arcade.
The power board 170 converts the power supply voltage supplied from the power plug 171 into a predetermined voltage and supplies it to each control board. The power supply board 170 has a backup power supply composed of a capacitor, monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine, and outputs a power failure detection signal to the main control board 110 when the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined value. do. More specifically, when the power failure detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 111 becomes operable, and when the power failure detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 111 becomes inoperative. The backup power supply is not limited to a capacitor, and may be, for example, a battery, or a combination of a capacitor and a battery.
A magnetic sensor 50 for detecting illegal radio waves is also connected to the main control board 110 .

The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or during standby. This performance control board 120 includes a sub CPU 121, a sub ROM 122, and a sub RAM 123, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the performance control board 120. .
The sub CPU 121 reads out the program stored in the sub ROM 122 based on the command transmitted from the main control board 110 or the input signal from the effect button detection switch 8a input via the lamp control board 140 and performs calculation. Processing is performed, and corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150 based on the processing. The sub-RAM 123 functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing of the sub-CPU 121 .

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

The sub-RAM 123 of the effect control board 120 has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 123 includes a command reception buffer, a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect pattern storage area, a judgment storage area (0th storage area), a first reserved storage area, a second reserved storage area. etc. are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is only an example, and many other storage areas are provided.
Also, the effect control board 120 is equipped with an RTC (real time clock) 124 for outputting the current time. The sub CPU 121 receives a date signal indicating the current date and a time signal indicating the current time from the RTC 124 and executes various processes based on the current date and time.
The RTC 124 normally operates by power from the game machine when power is supplied to the game machine, and by power supplied from the backup power supply mounted on the power supply board 170 when the power of the game machine is turned off. Operate. Therefore, the RTC 124 can clock the current date and time even when the gaming machine is powered off. Incidentally, the RTC 124 may be operated by a battery provided on the performance control board 120 .

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

The output side of the payout control board 130 is connected with a payout motor 134 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from the game ball storage section to the player. The payout CPU 131 reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM 132 based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 134 of the prize ball payout device to pay out a predetermined prize. Pay out the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM 133 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the payout CPU 131 .
It also checks whether a game ball lending device (card unit) (not shown) is connected to the payout control board 130, and if the game ball lending device (card unit) is connected, causes the shooting control board 160 to shoot the game ball. Sends launch control data that allows
Further, the payout control board 130 is connected with a tray full detection switch 51 and a clogged ball detection switch 52 .

The plate full detection switch 51 is a switch for detecting that the game ball storage plate (lower plate) is full.
Also, the ball clogging detection switch 52 is a switch for detecting clogging of game balls in a passage for putting out game balls from a game ball storage portion, for example.
The firing control board 160 permits firing when receiving the firing control data from the payout control board 130 . Then, the touch signal from the touch sensor 11a and the input signal from the shooting volume 11b are read, and the firing solenoid 12a and the ball feeding solenoid 12b are energized and controlled to shoot the game ball.

The firing solenoid 12a is composed of a rotary solenoid. A striking member (not shown) is directly connected to the firing solenoid 12a, and the rotation of the firing solenoid 12a rotates the firing member.
Here, the rotational speed of the firing solenoid 12a is set to about 99.9 (times/minute) from the frequency based on the output cycle of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 160. FIG. As a result, the number of shot game balls in one minute is about 99.9 (pieces/minute) because one shot is shot each time the shooting solenoid makes one rotation. That is, game balls are shot approximately every 0.6 seconds.
The ball feed solenoid 12b is composed of a rectilinear solenoid, and feeds the game balls on the upper tray 6a (see FIG. 1) one by one toward the hitting member directly connected to the firing solenoid 12a.

The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 so as to be capable of two-way communication, and the input side of the lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect button detection switch 8a provided in the effect button 8. When the detection signal is input from 8a, it is output to the effect control board 120. FIG.
In addition, the lamp control board 140 is connected to the production accessory device 32 and the production lighting device 33 provided on the game board 10 , and the lamp control board 140 responds to the data transmitted from the production control board 120 . Based on this, it controls the lighting of the performance lighting device 33, and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, it controls the power supply of a driving source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the performance accessory device 32 . In addition, in this embodiment, the production accessory device 32 includes the production button 8 because the production button 8 is configured to protrude.
The image control board 150 is connected to the effect control board 120 so as to be capable of two-way communication, and the output side of the image control board 150 is connected to the image display device 31 and the audio output device 34 .

<Configuration of image control board>
Here, the configuration of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image control board.
The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 151 , a host RAM 152 , a host ROM 153 , a CGROM 154 , a crystal oscillator 155 , a VRAM 156 and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 200 for controlling image display of the image display device 31 .
The VDP 200 also includes an audio control circuit 300 for controlling audio output in the gaming machine.

The host CPU 151 instructs the VDP 200 to display the image data stored in the CGROM 154 on the image display device 31 based on the later-described effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120 . Such an instruction is performed by setting data in the control register 201 of the VDP 200 and outputting a display list composed of drawing control commands.
Also, when the host CPU 151 receives a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 200, it appropriately performs interrupt processing.

Furthermore, the host CPU 151 instructs the audio control circuit 300 included in the VDP 200 to output predetermined audio data to the audio output device 34 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120 .
The host RAM 152 is built in the host CPU 151, functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing of the host CPU 151, and temporarily stores data read from the host ROM 153. FIG.

The host ROM 153 is composed of a mask ROM, and includes a program for control processing of the host CPU 151, pattern arrangement information in which the pattern numbers of the performance symbols and the types of the performance symbols 35 are associated with each other, and a display for generating a display list. It stores a list generation program, animation patterns for displaying animation of production patterns, animation scene information, and the like.
This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. In addition, animation scene information stores information such as wait frames (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. are doing.

The CGROM 154 is composed of flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, mask ROM, etc., and stores compressed image data (sprite, movie), etc., which is a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (eg, 32×32 pixels). ing. The pixel information is composed of color number information that designates a color number for each pixel and an α value that indicates the transparency of the image.
Further, the CGROM 154 stores uncompressed palette data in which color number information specifying a color number and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other.
Note that the CGROM 154 may be configured to compress only a portion of the image data without compressing all of the image data. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.
The CGROM 154 also stores a large amount of audio data.

The crystal oscillator 155 outputs a pulse signal to the clock generation circuit 205 of the VDP 200 and divides the pulse signal so that the clock generation circuit 205 generates a system clock for controlling the VDP 200 and synchronization with the image display device 31. A synchronizing signal or the like is generated for synchronizing.

The VRAM 156 is composed of an SRAM capable of writing or reading image data at high speed.
The VRAM 156 also includes a display list storage area 156a for temporarily storing a display list output from the host CPU 151, a development storage area 156b for storing image data decompressed by the decompression circuit 206, and an image drawing or display area. It has a first frame buffer 156c and a second frame buffer 156d. The VRAM 156 also stores palette data.
The two frame buffers 156c and 156d are alternately switched between a "drawing frame buffer" and a "display frame buffer" each time drawing is started.

The VDP 200 is a so-called image processor, reads image data from any frame buffer (frame buffer for display) based on an instruction from the host CPU 151, and generates a video signal (such as an RGB signal) based on the read image data. is generated and output to the image display device.
However, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the VDP 200 is not only an image processor, but also has an audio output function.
The VDP 200 also includes a control register 201, a CG bus I/F 202, a CPU I/F 203, a clock generation circuit 205, an expansion circuit 206, a drawing circuit 207, a display circuit 208, a memory controller 209, and an audio control circuit. 300 and .

The control register 201 is a register for the VDP 200 to control drawing and display, and writing and reading data to and from the control register 201 controls drawing and display. The host CPU 151 can write data to and read data from the control register 201 via the CPU I/F 203 .
The control register 201 includes a system control register for making basic settings necessary for the operation of the VDP 200, a data transfer register for making settings necessary for transferring data, and a drawing register for making settings for controlling drawing. A register, a bus interface register for making settings necessary for accessing the bus, an expansion register for making settings necessary for decompressing a compressed image, and a display register for making settings for controlling the display. It has a register.

A CG bus I/F 202 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 154 , and image data from the CGROM 154 is input to the VDP 200 via the CG bus I/F 202 .
Also, the CPU I/F 203 is an interface circuit for communication with the host CPU 151 . The host CPU 151 inputs an interrupt signal.
A data transfer circuit 204 transfers data between various devices.
Specifically, data transfer between the host CPU 151 and the VRAM 156, data transfer between the CGROM 154 and the VRAM 156, and data transfer between various storage areas (including frame buffers) of the VRAM 156 are performed.
A clock generation circuit 205 receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 155 and generates a system clock that determines the processing speed of the VDP 200 . Also, it generates a synchronous signal generation clock and outputs the synchronous signal to the image display device via the display circuit.

The decompression circuit 206 is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 154, and stores the decompressed image data in the decompression storage area 153b.
The drawing circuit 207 is a circuit that performs sequence control using a display list composed of a group of drawing control commands.
The display circuit 208 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) representing image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “frame buffer for display” in the VRAM 156, and displays the generated video signal ( RGB signals) to the image display device 31 . Furthermore, the display circuit 208 also outputs a synchronization signal (a vertical synchronization signal, a horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the image display device 31 to the image display device 31 .
Note that in the present embodiment, as video signals, RGB signals obtained by converting digital signals into analog signals are output to the image display device 31, but the video signals may be output as digital signals.

The memory controller 209 controls switching between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer” when the host CPU 151 gives an instruction to switch the frame buffer.
The voice control circuit 300 reads out a predetermined program based on the command transmitted from the performance control board 120 and controls voice output in the voice output device 34 .
The voice control circuit 300 outputs voice using voice data stored in the CGROM 154 . In this case, the CGROM 154 is assumed to include an audio ROM for storing audio data.

It should be noted that the sound data may be separately provided in the VDP 154 instead of being stored in the CGROM 154 .
In this case, since more image data can be stored without storing audio data in the CGROM 154 having a fixed capacity, the presentation using video can be made more colorful and impressive.
Also, the audio control circuit 300 may be provided independently within the image control board 150 instead of being included in the VDP 200 . In that case, the tone generator ROM may be included in the audio control circuit 300 .

Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 112 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 10. FIG.
<Jackpot determination table>
FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b) are diagrams showing an example of a jackpot determination table referred to when determining whether or not the stop result of the special symbol variation is a jackpot. FIG. 5(a) A jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device, and FIG. 5(b) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device. In the tables of FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the odds of winning a small win are different, but the odds of a big win are the same.

The jackpot determination table shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b) is composed of a low-probability random number determination table and a high-probability random number determination table. A determination table is selected, and based on the selected table and the extracted special symbol determination random number value, any one of "big hit", "small hit", and "losing" is determined.
For example, according to the low-probability random number determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5(a), two special symbol determination random numbers are determined to be "big win". On the other hand, according to the high-probability random number determination table, 20 special symbol determination random numbers are determined to be "big win".

Also, in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. The numerical value is determined as a "small hit".
Then, in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5(a), when the random number is other than the above, it is determined as "losing".
Since the random number range of the random number for special symbol determination is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit at a low probability in the jackpot determination table of the first special symbol display device is 1/299.5, which is a high probability. The probability of being determined to be a big hit is 1/29.95, which is 10 times. Further, the probability of being judged as a small hit is 1/149.75 both at low probability and at high probability.

On the other hand, in the jackpot determination table of the second special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5(b), the special symbol determination random number determined to be a jackpot at the time of low probability and at the time of high probability is the same as that of the first special symbol display device. However, the special symbol determination random number determined as a small hit is different from the big hit determination table in the first special symbol display device. For example, in the big hit determination table in the second special symbol display device, it is determined as a "small hit" only when the special symbol determination random number is "50".
Therefore, in the low-probability random number determination table in the second special symbol display device, the probability of being determined as a jackpot at the low probability is 1/299.5, as in the low-probability random number determination table in the first special symbol display device. , the probability of being determined to be a big hit at a high probability is 1/29.95, which is 10 times. On the other hand, the probability of being judged as a small hit is 1/599 both at low probability and at high probability.

<Hit Judgment Table>
FIG. 5(c) is a diagram showing a hit determination table referred to when determining whether or not the stop result of normal symbol variation is a win.
The hit determination table shown in FIG. 5 (c) is composed of a non-time-saving game state random number determination table and a time-saving game state random number determination table. A state-time random number determination table is selected, and based on the selected table and the extracted random number value for determination of hit, it is determined whether it is a "hit" or "lose".
In the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5(c), the probability that the normal symbol is determined to be a hit during the non-time-saving game state is 1/20, and the probability that the normal symbol is determined to be a hit during the time-saving game state is 19/20. is.

<Design decision table>
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining stop symbols of special symbols.
FIG. 6(a) is a big win symbol determination table for determining the stop symbol at the time of the big win, and FIG. 6(b) is a small winning symbol determination table for determining the stop symbol at the time of the small win. (c) is a losing symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol when losing. In more detail, each symbol determination table is configured for each special symbol display device, and is composed of a symbol determination table for the first special symbol display device and a symbol determination table for the second special symbol display device.

In the jackpot symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6(a), the jackpot symbol random number is referred to. Then, when the first special symbol display device 20 determines a big win, if the random number for the big win symbol is "0" to "59", "01" (first special symbol 1) is determined as the stop symbol data. do. Further, when the special symbols start to fluctuate, based on the determined type of special symbols (stop symbol data), production symbol designation commands "E0H" and "01H" as special symbol information are generated.

In addition, when the first special symbol display device 20 determines a big win, if the random number for the big win symbol is "60" to "69", "02" (first special symbol 2) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, production pattern specifying commands ``E0H'' and ``02H'' are generated, and if the random number for the jackpot pattern is ``70'' to ``99'', ``03'' (first special pattern 3) is determined as stop pattern data. As a result, the effect symbol designation commands "E0H" and "03H" are generated.
In addition, when the second special symbol display device 21 determines a big win, if the random number for the big win symbol is "0" to "69", "04" (second special symbol 1) is determined as the stop symbol data. Then, production pattern specifying commands "E1H" and "01H" are generated, and if the random number for the jackpot pattern is "70" to "99", "05" (second special pattern 2) is determined as stop pattern data. As a result, production symbol designation commands "E1H" and "02H" are generated.

Next, in the small winning symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B, the random number for the small winning symbol is referred to. Then, when the first special symbol display device 20 determines a small winning, "11" (small winning special symbol) is determined as the stop symbol data regardless of the small winning symbol random number. Then, when the special symbols start to fluctuate, production symbol designation commands "E0H" and "0AH" are generated based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data).
Also, when the second special symbol display device 21 has a small hit, regardless of the random number for the small winning symbol, "12" (special symbol for small winning) is determined as the stop symbol data, and the production symbol designation command "E1H""0AH".

Next, in the losing symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6(c), when it is determined that the first special symbol display device 20 fails, "00" (special symbol 0 (loss)) is determined as the stop symbol data, When the pattern starts to fluctuate, the production pattern designation commands "E0H" and "00H" are generated.In addition, when the second special pattern display device 21 determines that the second special pattern display device 21 is lost, the stop pattern data is "00" (special pattern 0 ( Loss) is determined, and at the start of fluctuation of special symbols, performance symbol designation commands "E1H" and "00H" are generated.
Since the game state and the jackpot mode after the jackpot game is over are determined by the special symbol type (stopped pattern data), it can be said that the special symbol type determines the game state and the jackpot mode after the jackpot game is over. .

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a winning normal design determination table that is referred to when determining a normal design based on the result of stopping normal design variation. FIG. A normal symbol determination table that is referred to when a win is determined, and FIG. 7(b) is a normal symbol determination table that is referred to when a loss is determined based on the determination of the random number value for hit determination.

In the normal symbol determination table shown in FIGS. 7(a) and (b), normal symbol random numbers (0 to 10) are referred to.
Then, when the normal symbol random number value of the normal symbol display device 22 is determined to be a hit in the hit determination table, the normal symbol random number value is "0" and "1" as shown in FIG. If so, a long open symbol is determined, and if the normal symbol random number is "2" to "10", a short open symbol is determined.
In the case of the long open symbol, "01" is determined as the stop symbol data, and when the variation of the normal symbol is started, the normal symbol specifying commands "E8H" and "01H" are generated. Further, when the short open pattern is determined, "02" is determined as the stop design data, and at the start of fluctuation of the normal design, the normal design designation commands "E8H" and "02H" are generated.

On the other hand, when the normal symbol random number value of the normal symbol display device 22 is determined to be lost in the hit determination table, as shown in FIG. A losing pattern is determined regardless of the value.
In the case of a losing design, "00" is determined as the stop design data, and at the start of fluctuation of the normal design, normal design designation commands "E8H" and "00H" are generated.

<Variation pattern determination table>
Figure 8, Figure 9 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining the variation pattern of the special symbol, FIG. It is an example of a determination table, and FIG. 9 is an example of a variation pattern determination table referred to during the time-saving gaming state (low-probability time-saving gaming state, high-probability time-saving gaming state).
Specifically, according to the variation pattern determination table, the type of special symbol display device, the random number for special symbol determination (won or lose the jackpot), the random number for the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol), the presence or absence of the time-saving gaming state, the special symbol The variation pattern is determined based on the number of reservations, the random number for reach determination and the random number for variation pattern (random number for special figure variation).
A variation pattern is determined at the start of variation of the special symbol, and a variation pattern designation command is generated based on the determined variation pattern. This variation pattern specification command is transmitted from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120 in the output control process.

The game machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured so that reach is always performed when a big win or a small win is made, so that the reach determination random number is not referred to when a big win or a small win is made.
In the present embodiment, "ready-to-win" means that after a part of the combination of the performance symbols 35 for notifying the transition to the special game is stopped and displayed, the remaining part of the performance symbols 35 continues to be displayed in a variable manner. Say. For example, when the combination of the three-digit performance symbols 35 of "777" is set as the combination of the performance symbols 35 for notifying the transition to the jackpot game, the two performance symbols 35 are stopped and displayed at "7". , the state in which the remaining production patterns 35 are displayed in a variable manner.

In addition, when the MODE is "E6H", the variation pattern specification command is a variation pattern determined when the game ball enters the first start port 13 and the special symbol of the first special symbol display device 20 starts to vary. When the MODE is "E7H", the game ball enters the second start port 14, and when the special symbol of the second special symbol display device 21 starts to vary It indicates that it is a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation pattern. And DATA of the variation pattern specification command indicates a specific variation pattern number. That is, the variation pattern designation command is also information indicating the variation pattern.

<Variation pattern determination table for non-time-saving gaming state>
The configuration of the variation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 8 will be described.
In the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8, variation patterns 1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-1, and 3 are used as the variation patterns of the special symbols of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21. -2, 3-3, 3-4, 5, 6, 7-1, 7-2, 8-1, 8-2, 8-3, 8-4, 10, 11, 12-1, 12-2 , 13-1, 13-2, 13-3, 13-4 and 15 are set.
Based on the type of special design display device, random number for special design judgment (win or lose the jackpot), random number for big hit design (jackpot design), number of reserved special designs, random number for reach judgment and random number for fluctuation pattern, One variation pattern is selected from among these variation patterns with the allocation shown in FIG.

In the following description, "normal reach (effect)" means that two effect patterns 35 (left pattern, right pattern) are temporarily stopped in the left and right regions of the display section of the image display device 31, and remain in the central region. This is a ready-to-win performance with a low expectation for winning a jackpot in which one performance pattern 35 fluctuates.
The “SP ready-to-win effect” is a super ready-to-win with a higher expectation of winning a big win (executing a special game) than the “normal ready-to-win (effect)”.
Furthermore, "SPSP reach (effect)" is a reach with a higher degree of expectation for winning a jackpot (execution of a special game) than "SP reach (effect)". It develops from "SP reach (directing)" or directly from "normal reach (directing)". An effect screen, a movie, or the like that is further different from the "SP reach (effect)" is displayed.

For example, the variation pattern 1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 40,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, the probability variable jackpot (the probability variable game state after the jackpot) It corresponds to the production that becomes a jackpot).

In addition, the variation pattern 2-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the production performed using the fluctuation time of 60,000 ms by the production control board 120, after executing the normal reach production, SP reach 1 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that will be a definite variable jackpot.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 2-2 executes normal reach performance in the performance performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the performance control board 120, and then SP reach 2 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that will be a definite variable jackpot.

In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 3-1 is performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms. Directly execute SPSP reach 1, and correspond to the effect of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 3-2 is performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms. SPSP Reach 2 is directly executed, and it corresponds to the performance of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, the variation pattern 3-3 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or The SPSP reach 3 is directly executed, and it corresponds to the performance of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 3-4 is performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms. Directly execute SPSP Reach 4 and respond to the performance of a probability variable jackpot.

Also, the variation pattern 5 corresponds to a small hit or short hit performance performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 20,000 ms when this variation pattern is selected.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 6 is an effect that is performed using a variation time of 40,000 ms by the effect control board 120. After executing the normal reach effect, the normal jackpot (the normal game state It corresponds to the production that becomes a jackpot).

In addition, the variation pattern 7-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the production performed using the fluctuation time of 60,000 ms by the production control board 120, after executing the normal reach production, SP reach 1 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that is usually a big hit.
In addition, the variation pattern 7-2, when this variation pattern is selected, in the production performed by the production control board 120 using a fluctuation time of 60,000 ms, after executing the normal reach production, SP reach 2 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that is usually a big hit.

In addition, the variation pattern 8-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 1 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.
In addition, the variation pattern 8-2 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 2 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.
In addition, the variation pattern 8-3 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 3 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.
In addition, the variation pattern 8-4 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 4 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.

For example, the variation pattern 10 corresponds to an effect in which the effect control board 120 performs the effect using a variation time of 3,000 ms when this variation pattern is selected, without performing the ready-to-win effect.
For example, the variation pattern 11 corresponds to the performance that is lost after the normal ready-to-win performance is executed in the performance performed using the variation time of 40,000 ms by the performance control board 120 when this variation pattern is selected.

In addition, the variation pattern 12-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the production performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the production control board 120, after executing the normal reach production, SP reach 1 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that will be lost.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 12-2 executes the SP reach 2 after executing the normal reach performance in the performance performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the performance control board 120. , Corresponds to the production that will be lost.

In addition, the variation pattern 13-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 1 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 13-2 executes the normal reach effect in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, and then passes through the SP reach effect. Directly execute SPSP Reach 2 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 13-3 is performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms. Directly execute SPSP Reach 3 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, the variation pattern 13-4 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 4 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 15 is an effect that is lost without performing a ready-to-win effect in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a very short variation time of 2,000 ms. handle.

<Variation pattern determination table for time saving gaming state>
The configuration of the variation pattern determination table for the time saving gaming state shown in FIG. 9 will be described.
In the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9, the variation patterns 21, 22-1, 22-223-1, 23-2 are used as the variation patterns of the special symbols of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21. , 23-3, 23-4, 25, 26, 27-1, 27-2, 28-1, 28-2, 28-3, 28-4, 30, 31, 32-1, 32-2, 33 -1, 33-2, 33-3 and 33-4 are set.
Based on the type of special design display device, random number for special design judgment (win or lose the jackpot), random number for big hit design (jackpot design), number of reserved special designs, random number for reach judgment and random number for fluctuation pattern, One variation pattern is selected from among these variation patterns by the allocation shown in FIG.
The variation pattern shown in FIG. 9 is also associated with the contents of the effect performed when the effect control board 120 performs the variable effect (of the effect pattern 35).

For example, the variation pattern 21, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 40,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, the probability variable jackpot (the probability variable game state after the jackpot) It corresponds to the production that becomes a jackpot).
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 22-1 executes the SP reach 1 after executing the normal reach performance in the performance performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the performance control board 120. , Corresponds to the production that will be a definite variable jackpot.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 22-2 executes the SP reach 2 after executing the normal reach performance in the performance performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the performance control board 120. , Corresponds to the production that will be a definite variable jackpot.

In addition, the variation pattern 23-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP reach 1, and correspond to the effect of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, the variation pattern 23-2, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 2 is directly executed, and it corresponds to the performance of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, the variation pattern 23-3, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or The SPSP reach 3 is directly executed, and it corresponds to the performance of the probability variable jackpot.
In addition, the variation pattern 23-4 is, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 4 and respond to the performance of a probability variable jackpot.

In addition, the variation pattern 25 corresponds to a small hit or a short hit performance performed by the performance control board 120 using a variation time of 20,000 ms when this variation pattern is selected.
For example, the variation pattern 26, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 40,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, the normal jackpot (normal game state after the jackpot) It corresponds to the production that becomes a jackpot).

In addition, the variation pattern 27-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach 1 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that is usually a big hit.
In addition, the variation pattern 27-2, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 60,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach 2 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that is usually a big hit.

In addition, the variation pattern 28-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 1 is directly executed, and corresponds to an effect that usually results in a big win.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 28-2 is an effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms. SPSP Reach 2 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.
In addition, the variation pattern 28-3, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using the variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 3 is directly executed to correspond to the performance that usually results in a big win.
Also, the variation pattern 28-4, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or SPSP Reach 4 is directly executed, and corresponds to the performance that usually results in a big win.

For example, the variation pattern 30, when this variation pattern is selected, is an effect that is lost without performing a ready-to-win effect in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a very short variation time of 2,000 ms. handle.
For example, when the variation pattern 31 is selected, in the performance performed by the performance control board 120 using the variation time of 40,000 ms, after executing the normal ready-to-win performance, the variation pattern 31 corresponds to the performance that fails.

In addition, the variation pattern 32-1, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the effect control board 120, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach 1 is executed. , Corresponds to the production that will be lost.
In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 32-2 executes the SP reach 2 after executing the normal reach performance in the performance performed using the variation time of 60,000 ms by the performance control board 120. , Corresponds to the production that will be lost.

In addition, when this variation pattern is selected, the variation pattern 33-1 executes the normal reach effect in the effect performed using the variation time of 70,000 ms by the effect control board 120, and then passes through the SP reach effect. Directly execute SPSP Reach 1 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, the variation pattern 33-2, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 2 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, the variation pattern 33-3, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 3 to deal with the effect of losing.
In addition, the variation pattern 33-4, when this variation pattern is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a variation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, go through the SP reach effect or Directly execute SPSP Reach 4 to deal with the effect of losing.

<Preliminary judgment table for special symbols>
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pre-determination table for pre-determining the result of the jackpot lottery.
In the preliminary determination table shown in FIG. 10, the type of the special symbol display device (the type of the start opening detection switch that detects that the game ball has entered the start opening), the random number for special symbol determination, and the random number for the jackpot symbol. Winning information for judging the result of the jackpot lottery in advance is generated based on the reach judgment random number, the fluctuation pattern random number, and the fluctuation pattern determined based thereon. Then, based on the generated winning information, a starting winning designation command for determining the result of the big winning lottery in advance is generated.

In the advance determination table shown in FIG. 10, as winning information for the first special symbol display device 20, winning information 1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3, 3-4, 5, 7, 8, 9-1, 9-210-1, 10-2, 10-3 and 10-4 are set.
Also, as winning information about the second special symbol display device 21, winning information 11, 12-1, 12-213-1, 13-2, 13-3, 13-4, 15, 17, 18, 19-1 , 19-220-1, 20-2, 20-3, and 20-4 are set.
Winning information based on the type of special symbol display device, random number for special symbol determination (win or lose the jackpot), random number for jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol), random number for reach determination, and random number for fluctuation pattern One piece of winning information is selected from among them with the allocation shown in FIG.

For example, when the winning information 1 and 11 are selected, the effect control board 120 executes the normal ready-to-win effect in the effect performed using the fluctuation time of 40,000 ms, and then the effect that becomes a long win. handle.
Also, the winning information 2-1, 12-1, when this winning information is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a fluctuation time of 60,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach 1 is executed, and it corresponds to the production that becomes a long hit.
Also, the winning information 2-2, 12-2, when this winning information is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a fluctuation time of 60,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach 2 is executed, and it corresponds to the production that becomes a long hit.

Further, when the winning information 3-1 and 13-1 is selected, the effect control board 120 executes the normal reach effect in the effect performed using the fluctuation time of 70,000 ms, and then the SP reach effect. The SPSP ready-to-win performance 1 is executed via the performance or directly to cope with the long winning performance.
In addition, when the winning information 3-2 and 13-2 is selected, the effect control board 120 executes the normal reach effect in the effect performed using the fluctuation time of 70,000 ms, and then the SP reach effect. The SPSP ready-to-win performance 2 is executed via the performance or directly to cope with the long winning performance.
Also, the winning information 3-3, 13-3, when this winning information is selected, in the effect performed by the effect control board 120 using a fluctuation time of 70,000 ms, after executing the normal reach effect, SP reach The SPSP ready-to-win performance 3 is executed via the performance or directly to cope with the long winning performance.
In addition, when the winning information 3-4 and 13-4 is selected, the effect control board 120 executes the normal reach effect and then the SP reach effect in the effect performed using the fluctuation time of 70,000 ms. The SPSP ready-to-win performance 4 is executed via the performance or directly to cope with the long winning performance.
In addition, when the winning information 4 and 14 is selected, the effect control board 120 executes the normal reach effect in the effect performed using the fluctuation time of 70,000 ms, and then passes through the SP reach effect. The SPSP ready-to-win performance is directly executed to cope with the long winning performance.

Winning information 5 and 15 correspond to a small winning or short winning performance performed by the performance control board 120 using a fluctuation time of 20,000 ms when this winning information is selected.
Winning information 7, 8, 9-1 to 9-2, 10-1 to 10-4, 17, 18, 19-1 to 19-2, 20-1 to 20-4, 21 correspond to the case of loss are doing.
In addition, during the time-saving game, regardless of whether the random number value for special symbol determination in the first special symbol display device 20 is a big hit, a small hit, or a loss, when the game state is the time-saving game state, the first start port 13 The setting of the winning information corresponding to the winning of the game ball and the generation of the starting winning designation command are not performed.

The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is a gaming machine of a type that gives priority to symbol variations corresponding to the second special symbol display device 21 . In this type of gaming machine, as a result of the preliminary determination of whether or not the random number for special symbol determination in the first special symbol display device 20, in which the symbol variation is not prioritized during the time-saving game, has won the jackpot, the target is When the player is notified of the jackpot and the fact of the jackpot by the prior determination performance, the player is notified of the presence of the jackpot in the first special symbol display device 20 in which the symbol variation is given no priority. A jackpot lottery in the second special pattern display device 21 is held while the jackpot of the first special pattern display device 20 is kept pending by winning the game ball in the second starting port where the pattern variation is preferentially performed. Can receive. In this case, the gambling nature of the game machine becomes extremely high, which is not appropriate.
Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, during the time saving game, the setting of the winning information corresponding to the winning of the game ball in the first starting port 13 which is the non-priority side and the generation of the starting winning designation command I try not to

As described above, in the special symbol pre-determination table, "big hit", "small hit", or "losing" is determined by the special symbol determination random number, and "long hit" or "short hit" is determined by the big hit symbol random number. The type of special game is determined.
Furthermore, "whether or not reach occurs" and the like are determined by the reach determination random number value.
The variation pattern is determined based on the type of special symbol display device, random number for special symbol determination (win or lose the jackpot), random number for jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol), random number for reach determination, and random number for variation pattern. be.
Therefore, according to the DATA data of the starting winning designation command, it is possible to determine the type of big hit, the variation pattern, and the presence or absence of reach before the start of variation of the special symbol. It should be noted that since a big win always accompanies a "reach", it can also be determined that a big win will result in a reach.

<Description of game state>
Next, the game state when the game progresses will be described.
In this embodiment, the game progresses in one of the "low-probability game state", "high-probability game state", "time-saving game state", and "non-time-saving game state".
However, when the game state is "low probability game state" or "high probability game state" during the progress of the game, it is always "time saving game state" or "non-time saving game state". In other words, if it is a "low probability gaming state" and is a "shortening gaming state", if it is a "low probability gaming state" and is a "non-shortening gaming state", and if it is a "high probability gaming state" There is a case of "time saving gaming state".

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

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

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

In addition, in the "time-saving game state", a variation pattern (variation time) is set so that the number of special symbol lotteries within a unit time is faster than in the non-time-saving game state. In other words, in the "time-saving gaming state", the lottery for special symbols is performed more efficiently than in the "non-time-saving gaming state".
For example, in the "non-time-saving game state", since it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port 14, the main variation is the first special symbol associated with the winning of the game ball to the first starting port 13.例文帳に追加Therefore, in the "non-time-saving gaming state", the variation pattern when the first special symbol (usually) loses is set to "3 seconds".

On the other hand, in the "time-saving gaming state", since the game ball is likely to enter the second starting port 14, the variation of the second special symbol accompanying the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 14 is the main.
Therefore, in the "time-saving gaming state", the variation pattern when the second special symbol (usually) loses is set to "2 seconds".
When configured in this way, most of the time required for one variation of the second special symbol is "2 seconds" in the "time-saving gaming state", whereas in the "non-time-saving gaming state" , the time required for one variation of the first special symbol is longer than in the case of "3 seconds" and the "time-saving game state".
Therefore, the special symbol lottery can be performed more speedily in the "time-saving game state" than in the "non-time-saving game state".

Furthermore, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the game ball enters the second start port 14, the ratio of winning a jackpot that is more advantageous to the player than when the game ball enters the first start port 13. Since the value is higher, it is easier for the player to win a big win during the time-saving game than during the normal game.
It should be noted that the probability of winning the lottery of normal symbols may be set to be the same in any game state of the "non-time-saving game state" and the "time-saving game state".

Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described.
<Main processing of the main control board>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining main processing by the main control board.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 111, and the main CPU 111 performs the following main processing.
First, in step S10, the main CPU 111 performs initialization processing. In this process, the main CPU 111 reads a startup program from the main ROM 112 and performs a process of initializing flags and the like stored in the main RAM 113 .

In step S20, the main CPU 111 performs game random number update processing for updating the random number for variation pattern and the random number for reach determination.
In step S30, the main CPU 111 updates the initial random number for special symbol determination, the initial random number for big win symbol, and the initial random number for small winning symbol.
Thereafter, the main CPU 111 repeats the processing of steps S20 and S30 until predetermined interrupt processing is performed.

<Timer interrupt processing of the main control board>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining timer interrupt processing by the main control board.
A reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (4 milliseconds, hereinafter referred to as "4 ms"), thereby executing the timer interrupt processing described below. executed.
First, in step S101, the main CPU 111 saves information stored in the register to the stack area.
Next, in step S102, the main CPU 111 updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, and updates the general electric open time counter. It performs time control processing for updating various timer counters such as processing.
Specifically, the main CPU 111 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the general electric opening time counter.

In step S103, the main CPU 111 performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number, the big win symbol random number, the small winning symbol random number, and the winning determination random number.
Specifically, 1 is added to each random number counter to update the random number counter. When the added result exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0, and when the random number counter completes one cycle, the random number is updated from the initial random number value at that time.
In step S104, the main CPU 111 performs initial random number counter update processing for updating the random number counters by adding 1 to the special symbol determination initial random number counter, the big win symbol initial random number counter, and the small winning symbol initial random number counter. conduct.

In step S105, the main CPU 111 performs input control processing.
In this input control process, the main CPU 111 detects inputs to the switches of the first start hole detection switch 13a, the second start hole detection switch 14a, the gate detection switch 15a, the big winning hole detection switch 16a, and the general winning hole detection switch 18a. Determine whether or not there is. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15 .
In step S106, the main CPU 111 performs special symbol special electric control processing for controlling special symbols and special electric accessories. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG.
In step S107, the main CPU 111 performs a normal pattern normal electric control process for controlling normal symbols and normal electric accessories.

In step S108, the main CPU 111 performs payout control processing.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 111 checks whether or not a game ball has entered the special winning hole 16, the first starting hole 13, the second starting hole 14, and the general winning hole 18. transmits corresponding payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130 .
More specifically, the general winning hole prize ball counter, the big winning hole prize ball counter, and the starting hole prize ball counter are checked, and a payout number specifying command corresponding to each winning hole is transmitted to the payout control board 130 . After that, predetermined data is subtracted from the prize ball counter corresponding to the transmitted number-of-payout designation command to update the prize ball counter.
In step S109, the main CPU 111 performs data creation processing for external information data, starting opening opening/closing solenoid data, big winning opening opening/closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, and memory number designation command.
In step S110, the main CPU 111 performs output control processing.
In this output control processing, the main CPU 111 performs port output processing for outputting signals of the external information data, the starting opening opening/closing solenoid data, and the winning opening opening/closing solenoid data created in step S109.

In addition, the main CPU 111, in order to light the respective LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22, the special symbol display device data created in step S109 and the normal symbol Display device output processing for outputting display device data is performed. Further, the main CPU 111 also performs command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 113 .
In step S<b>111 , the main CPU 111 restores the information saved in step S<b>101 to the register of the main CPU 111 .

<Input control processing>
FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining input control processing by the main control board.
First, in step S121, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the general winning opening detection switch 18a, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the general winning opening 18 or not. When the detection signal is input from the general winning hole detection switch 18a, the main CPU 111 updates the general winning hole prize ball counter used for winning balls by adding predetermined data.
In step S<b>122 , the main CPU 111 determines whether or not a detection signal from the large winning opening detection switch 16 has been input, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the large winning opening 16 .
When the detection signal is input from the big winning hole detection switch 16a, the main CPU 111 updates the big winning hole prize ball counter used for the prize balls by adding predetermined data, and the main CPU 111 wins the big winning hole 16. The counter in the storage area of the big winning entrance ball counter (C1) for counting the number of game balls played is added and updated.

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

<First start port detection switch input processing>
FIG. 14 is a flow chart for explaining the first starting port detection switch input process by the main control board.
First, in step S131, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not a detection signal is input from the first starting port detection switch 13a.
When the detection signal from the first starting port detection switch 13a is input (Yes in step S131), the process proceeds to step S132, and when the detection signal from the first starting port detection switch 13a is not input. (No in step S131), the first starting port detection switch input process is terminated.
In step S132, the main CPU 111 performs a process of adding predetermined data to and updating the starter prize ball counter used for the prize balls.
Next, in step S133, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the reserved number set in the first special symbol reserved number (U1) storage area is less than four. When the number of reservations set in the first special design reservation number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the process is moved to step S134, and the first special design reservation number (U1) is set in the storage area. If the number of pending positions is not less than 4, the first starting port detection switch input processing is terminated.

In step S134, the main CPU 111 obtains a random number value for special symbol determination, sequentially searches for empty storage units from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, The obtained random number for special symbol determination is stored.
In step S135, the main CPU 111 acquires a random number value for a jackpot symbol, sequentially searches for an empty storage unit from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and acquires it in an empty storage unit. The random number value for the jackpot symbol is stored.

In step S136, the main CPU 111 acquires a small winning symbol random number value, sequentially searches for empty storage units from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and selects the empty storage units. The acquired small winning symbol random number value is stored.
In step S137, the main CPU 111 acquires the game random number value (fluctuation pattern random number value and reach determination random number value), and stores the empty storage units in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area. The game random numbers (random number for fluctuation pattern and random number for reach determination) are stored in the vacant storage unit after searching.
In step S138, the main CPU 111 adds and stores "1" in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area.
At step S139, the main CPU 111 performs a preliminary determination process (FIG. 15) for determining each random number obtained at steps S134 to S137 based on a preliminary determination table corresponding to the current gaming state.

<Pre-judgment processing>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining pre-determination processing by the main control board.
First, in step S151, the main CPU 111 determines the special symbol determination random number newly written in the special symbol reservation storage area based on the preliminary determination table shown in FIG.
Next, in step S152, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not it is tentatively determined as a big win as a result of the big win determination in step S151.
If it is tentatively determined to be a big hit (Yes in step S152), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to step S153, and if it is not tentatively determined to be a big hit (No in step S152), it moves the process to step S156.
When it is tentatively determined in step S152 that a big win has been made, the main CPU 111 determines the newly written random number for the big win symbol in step S153, and tentatively determines the type of special symbol (stopped symbol data).

Next, in step S154, the main CPU 111 determines the newly written special symbol variation random number value to provisionally determine the special symbol variation pattern.
Next, in step S155, the main CPU 111 generates a start winning designation command corresponding to the temporarily determined special symbol type and the temporarily determined variation pattern, sets it in the performance transmission data storage area, and performs preliminary determination processing. exit.
The starting winning designation command is provided to be identifiable in the same manner as the variation pattern designation command shown in FIGS.
In step S152, if it is not tentatively determined as a big win (No in step S152), the main CPU 111 tentatively determines whether or not it is determined as a small win in step S156.

If it is not provisionally determined as a small hit in step S155 (No in step S155), the main CPU 111 determines the special symbol variation random number value in step S159 to provisionally determine the variation pattern of the special symbol. Then, in step S160, the main CPU 111 sets a start winning designation command (including the provisionally determined variation pattern) indicating a loss in the effect transmission data storage area, and terminates the preliminary determination process.
On the other hand, when it is provisionally determined as a small hit (Yes in step S156), the main CPU 111 determines the special symbol variation random number value in step S157 to provisionally determine the variation pattern of the special symbol.
In step S156, a start winning designation command (including a provisionally determined variation pattern) indicating a small win, that is, a chance performance is set in the performance transmission data storage area, and the preliminary determination process ends.
Also in the second start opening detection switch input process shown in step S124 (FIG. 13), the main CPU 111 refers to the preliminary determination table to generate winning information, and controls the starting winning designation command based on this winning information. Pre-determination processing for transmission to the substrate 120 is performed.

By the above preliminary determination processing, when the game ball enters the first start hole 13 or the second start hole 14, the winning information can be transmitted to the effect control board 120 as a start winning designation command.
Therefore, the sub CPU 121 of the effect control board 120, which has received the starting winning designation command, analyzes the starting winning command, and starts the variation of the special symbol triggered by the winning of the game ball to the first starting port of this time. A predetermined performance can be executed in advance from the front.
However, this pre-determining process is only determined according to the game state at the time when the game ball enters the starting holes 13 and 14 . Therefore, if the game state is changed before processing the first suspension or second suspension reserved by the ball entry, the result of the jackpot determination process described later and the result of the prior determination process may differ. There is

<Special special train control processing>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the special figure special electric control processing by the main control board.
First, the main CPU 111 loads the value of the special figure special electric processing data in step S181, and refers to the branch address from the loaded special figure special electric processing data in step S182.
If the special figure special electric processing data=0 in step S183 (Yes in step S183), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to the special symbol storage determination process (step S184).
If the special figure special electric processing data is not 0 in step S183 (No in step S183), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data=1 in step S185.
If the special figure special electric processing data=1 in step S185 (Yes in step S185), the main CPU 111 shifts the processing to special symbol variation processing (step S186).

In the special symbol variation process of step S186, when the variation time of the special symbol set in the special symbol storage determination process has elapsed, the special symbol set in the special symbol storage determination process is displayed on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 as predetermined. The pattern stop time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is stopped and displayed.
If the special figure special electric processing data is not 1 in step S185 (No in step S185), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data=2 in step S187.

If the special figure special electric processing data=2 in step S187 (Yes in step S187), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to special symbol stop processing (step S188).
In the special design stop processing of step S188, when the predetermined design stop time set in the special design variation processing has passed, if the special design stopped and displayed is a jackpot design, "3" is set in the special design special electric processing data. After that, set the opening command and the opening time for the big win, and if the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is the small winning symbol, set "4" to the special special electric processing data, then the opening command and the opening for the small winning. set the time.

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

If the special figure special electric processing data is not 3 in step S189 (No in step S189), the main CPU 111 determines whether the special figure special electric processing data=4 in step S191.
If the special figure special electric processing data=4 in step S191 (Yes in step S191), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to the small winning game process (step S192).

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

<Special symbol memory determination process>
FIG. 17 is a flow chart for explaining special symbol storage determination processing by the main control board.
In step S201, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the special symbols are being variably displayed. Here, when the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, that is, when the special symbol time counter is not equal to 0 (Yes in step S201), the special symbol storage determination process is terminated.
Also, if the special symbol is not displayed in a variable display, that is, if the special symbol time counter is 0 (No in step S201), the main CPU 111 shifts the process to step S202, and the second special symbol reserved number (U2) storage area. is 1 or more.
When the second special symbol reserved number (U2) storage area is not 1 or more (No in step S202), the CPU 111 shifts the process to step S204, and the second special symbol reserved number (U2) storage area is "1". If it is determined that the above is the case, the process proceeds to step S203.
As a result, the second special symbol storage area is preferentially processed over the first special symbol storage area.
In step S203, the main CPU 111 subtracts "1" from the value stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area and stores the result.

In step S204, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the first special symbol reserved number (U1) storage area is 1 or more. When the first special symbol reserved number (U1) storage area is not 1 or more (No in step S204), the process is moved to step S215, and the first special symbol reserved number (U1) storage area is "1" or more. If so (Yes in step S204), the process proceeds to step S205.

In step S205, the main CPU 111 subtracts "1" from the value stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area and stores the result.
In step S206, the main CPU 111 stores a predetermined random number (random number for special symbol determination, Random number for big hit design, random number for small hit design, random number for reach determination, random number for variation pattern) and shift processing of start winning designation command. Specifically, the predetermined random value stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area and the start winning designation command are stored in the previous storage unit shift to

Here, the predetermined random number value and the start winning designation command stored in the first storage section are shifted to the judgment storage area (0th storage section). At this time, the predetermined random number value and the starting winning designation command stored in the first storage section are written in the determination storage area (0th storage section) and have already been written in the determination storage area (0th storage section). The stored data will be erased from the special symbol reserve storage area. As a result, the predetermined random number used in the previous game and the start winning designation command are erased. Further, after the shift, the MODE of the start winning designation command is processed so as to correspond to the storage area after the shift.

In step S207, the main CPU 111 writes the data (random number for special symbol determination, random number for big winning symbol, random number for Random value), the jackpot determination process is executed.
In the jackpot determination process of step S207, when it is determined that the jackpot has been won, the special symbols for the jackpot to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 are determined. When it is determined that a small winning is won, a special symbol for a small winning to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 is determined, and in the case of losing, a special symbol for losing is determined.

In step S208, the main CPU 111 performs variation pattern determination processing.
In the variation pattern determination process, first, the game state storage area of the main RAM 113 is referenced to determine a variation pattern determination table based on the current game state. Specifically, when the time-saving gaming state is determined, the variation pattern determination table for the time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. Determine the pattern determination table.
Thereafter, the random number for special symbol determination, the random number for big win symbol, the random number for reach determination, and the random number for variation pattern are referred to, and the variation pattern is determined based on the determined variation pattern determination table.

In step S209, the main CPU 111 sets a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the performance transmission data storage area.
In step S210, the main CPU 111 confirms the game state at the start of the variation, and sets a game state designation command corresponding to the current game state in the effect transmission data storage area.

In step S<b>211 , the main CPU 111 starts variable display of special symbols on the special symbol display devices 20 and 21 . That is, the variable display data of the special symbol is set in the processing area. Thereby, when the information written in the processing area relates to the first reservation (U1), the first special symbol display device 20 blinks, and when it relates to the second reservation (U2), the second special symbol display. This causes the device 21 to blink.
In step S212, after starting the variable display of the special symbols as described above, the main CPU 111 sets the special symbol time counter to the variable time (counter value) based on the variation pattern determined in step S208. set. The special symbol time counter is subtracted every 4 ms at S110.

In step S213, the main CPU 111 sets the customer waiting determination flag to 00H. That is, the customer waiting determination flag is cleared. It should be noted that the customer waiting determination flag=“00H” indicates that a special symbol is currently displayed in a variable manner or that a special game is being played. On the other hand, when the special symbols are not displayed in a variable manner and the special game is not being played, the customer waiting determination flag "01H" is stored. When the customer waiting determination flag=“01H” is stored, a customer waiting command is set in step S217, which will be described later, and the effect control board 120 is informed that neither the special symbols are being variably displayed nor the special game is being played.

In step S214, the main CPU 111 sets the special symbol special electric processing data=1, and ends the special symbol storage determination process.
In step S204, if it is determined that the first suspension (U1) is "0", that is, if neither the first suspension (U1) nor the second suspension (U2) is suspended, the main CPU 111 determines whether or not the customer waiting determination flag is set to 01H in step S215.
When 01H is set in the customer waiting determination flag (Yes in step S215), the special symbol storage determination process is terminated, and when 01H is not set in the customer waiting determination flag (No in step S215). , the process proceeds to step S216.
In step S216, the main CPU 111 sets the customer waiting determination flag to 01H so as not to set the customer waiting command repeatedly in step S217, which will be described later.
In step S217, the main CPU 111 sets a customer waiting command in the effect transmission data storage area, and terminates the special symbol storage determination process.

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

Below, description will be given of effects performed in the gaming machine of the present embodiment and handling of various commands used for realizing the effects.
The effects performed in the gaming machine of this embodiment are controlled by the effect control board 120 .
First, the variable effect pattern determination table for the effect control board 120 to determine the effect to be performed in the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described.

<Variation production pattern decision table>
18 to 20 are diagrams showing an example of a variation performance pattern determination table based on the special symbol variation pattern in the first special symbol display device 20 and the special symbol variation pattern in the second special symbol display device 21. .
The "fluctuation effect pattern determination table" refers to, for example, one fluctuation effect pattern determination table out of a plurality of variable effect pattern determination tables according to the current game state and effect mode. An example of the decision table will be explained.
Note that the production mode is, for example, a different background, BGM, variable production options, and the like, and is a mode that can be switched as appropriate to eliminate the monotony of the game during the game.

In addition, the "fluctuation production pattern" is a specific production mode in the production means (image display device 31, production accessory device 32, production lighting device 33, audio output device 34) performed during the fluctuation of the special symbol. Say. For example, in the image display device 31, the variation mode of the production pattern 35 is determined by the variation production pattern.

By the way, the term "ready-to-win" in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 35 for informing the transition to the special game is stopped and displayed, and the other effect symbols 35 are variably displayed. . For example, when the combination of the three-digit performance symbols 35 of "777" is set as the combination of the performance symbols 35 for informing the transition to the jackpot game, the two performance symbols 35 are stopped and displayed at "7". , the state in which the remaining production patterns 35 are displayed in a variable manner.

As described for the fluctuation pattern determination table in FIGS. 8 and 9, "reach" includes "normal reach", "SP reach", and "SPSP reach" as its aspects.
"Normal Reach" is a jackpot winning in which two production patterns 35 (left pattern, right pattern) temporarily stop in the left and right regions of the display section of the image display device 31, and the remaining one production pattern 35 fluctuates in the central region. low expectations of reach. As will be described later, during the "normal reach", the effect pattern 35 is a pattern in which decoration is added to the number pattern.
"SP reach" is a super reach with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot (execution of a special game) than the above "normal reach", and is mainly developed from "normal reach".
The effect screen is changed to a special one, and the display mode of the effect pattern 35 is also changed. For example, the decorative pattern 35 has no decoration and only a number pattern.
Furthermore, "SPSP reach" is a reach with a higher expectation of winning a big win (execution of a special game) than "SP reach". It develops from "SP Reach" or directly from "Normal Reach". A production screen, a movie, and the like, which are further different from "SP reach", are displayed.

In particular, there is a zone effect as a kind of forewarning effect that is performed in the SP reach and the variation that develops into the SP reach.
In the zone production, a band display indicating that the zone production will be performed, a change in the background screen, a change in the decoration of the production pattern, etc. are made, and even if the production with the same content as other It is a production that suggests that expectations are high. In the case of pattern variation according to a variation pattern for performing a highly expected ready-to-win performance, execution of the zone performance can be selected.
It is possible to develop into SPSP reach through zone production or not through zone production, but when SPSP reach is performed through zone production, zone band is displayed during SPSP reach. be.
Even if the zone effect is performed and the band display is performed during the SPSP reach, even if the zone effect is not performed and the band display is not performed, the band display is performed after the win-lose decision (after the execution of the decision effect, after the design is temporarily confirmed). It ends with the same performance.

The variable effect pattern determination table shown in FIGS. 18 to 20 is configured by associating the variable pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 with the random value 1 for effect and the variable effect pattern.
The sub CPU 121 acquires the effect random value 1, refers to the variable effect pattern determination table shown in FIGS. Based on this, a variable performance pattern is determined. Then, an effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the determined variable effect pattern is transmitted to the host CPU 151 of the image control board 150 .

In addition, in the variable performance pattern table of FIG. 18, variable performance patterns that develop into normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach and result in probability variable jackpots are mainly defined.
In the variable performance pattern table of FIG. 19, variable performance patterns that develop into normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach and usually become a jackpot are mainly defined.
The variable performance pattern table of FIG. 20 mainly defines variable performance patterns that develop into normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach, resulting in a loss.

The variable effect pattern specified in the variable effect pattern determination table shown in FIGS. 18 to 20 and the content of the effect will be described.
First, the case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, shown in FIG. 18, indicates variation patterns 1 and 21 will be described.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "0" to "49", the variable effect pattern 1 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 1 is the content of production that becomes a probability variable jackpot after executing normal reach.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "50" to "99", the variable effect pattern 2 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 2 is the effect content that becomes a probability variable jackpot after executing the normal reach.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 2-1 and 22-1 will be described.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "0" to "49", the variable effect pattern 11 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 11 is the content of production that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach, resulting in a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "50" to "99", the variable effect pattern 12 is selected.
For example, the variable production pattern 12 is the content of production that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and results in a probability variable jackpot.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 2-2 and 22-2 will be described.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "0" to "49", the variable effect pattern 21 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 21 is a production content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach, resulting in a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "50" to "99", the variable effect pattern 22 is selected.
For example, the variable production pattern 22 is the content of production that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach, resulting in a probability variable jackpot.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 3-1 and 23-1 will be described.
If the random number 1 for effect is "0" to "14", the variable effect pattern 31 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 31 develops into a companion SP reach (character A) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character A)", and develops into a "joint fight SP SP reach" (character A). It is a performance content that will be a big hit.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "15" to "29", the variable effect pattern 32 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 32 develops into a fellow SP reach (character A) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character A)", develops into a "growth SP SP reach" (character A), It is a performance content that will be a big hit.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "30" to "44", the variable effect pattern 33 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 33 develops into a fellow SP reach (character A) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character A)", develops into an extreme SP SP reach (character A), and is a certain variable jackpot. It is the content of the production.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "45" to "59", the variable effect pattern 34 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 34 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character A)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "joint fight SPSP reach" (character A), and a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "60" to "74", the variable effect pattern 35 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 35 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character A)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "growth SPSP reach" (character A), and a probability variable jackpot.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "75" to "89", the variable effect pattern 36 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 36 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character A)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "super-growth SPSP reach" (character A), and a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "90" to "99", the variable effect pattern 37 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 37 is a production content that develops into SP reach after execution of normal reach and results in a probability variable jackpot.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 3-2 and 23-2 will be described.
If the random number 1 for effect is "0" to "14", the variable effect pattern 41 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 41 develops into a companion SP reach (character B) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character B)", and develops into a "joint fight SP SP reach" (character B). It is a performance content that will be a big hit.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "15" to "29", the variable effect pattern 42 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 42 develops into a fellow SP reach (character B) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character B)", develops into a "growth SP SP reach" (character B), It is a performance content that will be a big hit.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "30" to "44", the variable effect pattern 43 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 43 develops into a fellow SP reach (character B) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character B)", develops into an extreme SP SP reach (character B), and a certain variable jackpot. It is the content of the production.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "45" to "59", the variable effect pattern 44 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 44 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character B)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "joint fight SPSP reach" (character B), and a probability variable jackpot.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "60" to "74", the variable effect pattern 45 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 45 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character B)" is executed during normal reach, which develops into a "growth SPSP reach" (character B), resulting in a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "75" to "89", the variable effect pattern 46 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 46 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character B)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "super-growth SPSP reach" (character B), and a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "90" to "99", the variable effect pattern 47 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 47 is the content of production that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach and results in a probability variable jackpot.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 3-3 and 23-3 will be described.
If the random number 1 for effect is "0" to "12", the variable effect pattern 51 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 51 develops into a companion SP reach (character C) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character C)", and develops into a "joint fight SP SP reach" (character C). It is a performance content that will be a big hit.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "13" to "25", the variable effect pattern 52 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 52 develops into a companion SP reach (character C) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character C)", develops into a "growth SP SP reach" (character C), It is a performance content that will be a big hit.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "26" to "38", the variable effect pattern 53 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 53 develops into a fellow SP reach (character C) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character C)", develops into an extreme SP SP reach (character C), and a certain variable jackpot. It is the content of the production.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "39" to "51", the variable effect pattern 54 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 54 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character C)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "joint fight SPSP reach" (character C), and a probability variable jackpot.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "52" to "64", the variable effect pattern 55 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 55 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character C)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "growth SPSP reach" (character C), and a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "65" to "77", the variable effect pattern 56 is selected. For example, the variable production pattern 56 is a production content in which a "cooperative attack production (character C)" is executed during normal reach, developing into a "super-growth SPSP reach" (character C), and a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "78" to "99", the variable effect pattern 57 is selected. For example, the variable performance pattern 37 is performance content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach, and results in a probability variable jackpot after performing “performance in full bloom of cherry blossoms”.

A case where the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. 18 indicates variation patterns 3-4 and 23-4 will be described.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "0" to "14", the variable effect pattern 61 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 61 develops into a companion SP reach (character D) after executing a normal reach, executes a "cooperative attack effect (character D)", and develops into a "joint fight SP SP reach" (character D). It is a performance content that will be a big hit.

If the random number value 1 for effect is "15" to "29", the variable effect pattern 62 is selected. For example, in the variation production pattern 62, after executing a normal reach, it develops into a companion SP reach (character D), executes a "cooperative attack production (character D)", executes a "character D repeated hit production", and then executes a "joint battle SP SP reach". It develops into (Character D), and it is a production content that will be a definite variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "30" to "44", the variable effect pattern 63 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 63 is a effect content that develops into SP reach after executing normal reach, develops into joint battle SP reach, and becomes a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "45" to "59", the variable effect pattern 64 is selected. For example, the variable effect pattern 64 is the effect content that develops from the normal reach to the "co-op SPSP reach" (character D) and results in a probability variable jackpot.
If the random number value 1 for effect is "60" to "99", the variable effect pattern 65 is selected. For example, the variable performance pattern 65 is performance content that develops into SP reach after execution of normal reach, and results in a probability variable jackpot after performing “performance of cherry blossoms in full bloom”.

As shown in FIG. 18, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 5 and 25, the variation effect Select pattern 71 . The variable effect pattern 71 is effect content indicating, for example, a small win or a short win.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 6 and 26, variation performance patterns 81 and 82 are selected.
These variable performance patterns 81 and 82 are performance contents that usually result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 1 and 2, respectively.
Further, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation patterns 7-1 and 27-1, the variation performance patterns 91 and 92 are selected.
These variable performance patterns 91 and 92 are performance contents that usually result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 11 to 12, respectively.

Further, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation patterns 7-2 and 27-2, the variation performance patterns 101 and 102 are selected.
These variable performance patterns 101 and 102 are performance contents that normally result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 21 and 22, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 8-1 and 28-1, variation production patterns 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, and 117 to select.
These variable performance patterns 111 to 117 are performance contents that usually result in a big win after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 31 to 37, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 8-2 and 28-2, variation production patterns 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, and 127 to select.
These variable performance patterns 121 to 127 are performance contents that usually result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 41 to 48, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 8-3 and 28-3, variation production patterns 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, and 137 to select.
These variable performance patterns 131 to 137 are performance contents that usually result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 51 to 57, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 19, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 8-4 and 28-4, variation production patterns 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, and 147 to select.
These variable performance patterns 141 to 147 are performance contents that usually result in a big hit after performing the same ready-to-win performance as the variable performance patterns 61 to 65, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation pattern 10, the variation effect pattern 161 is selected. The effect content of the variable effect pattern 161 is, for example, normal variable effect (normal loss).
As shown in FIG. 20, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation patterns 15 and 30, the variation effect pattern 162 is selected. The effect content of the variable effect pattern 162 is, for example, a shortened variable effect (shortened loss).
Also, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates the variation patterns 11 and 31, the variation performance patterns 171 and 172 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 171 and 172 are effect contents that result in a loss after the same ready-to-win effect as the variable effect patterns 1, 2, 81 and 82 is performed.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 12-1 and 32-1, variation performance patterns 181, 182, 173 and 174 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 171 to 174 are effect contents that result in a loss after the ready-to-win effect similar to the variable effect patterns 11, 12, 91 to 92 is performed.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 indicates variation patterns 12-2 and 32-2, variation effect patterns 191 and 192 are selected.
These variable effect patterns 191 and 192 are effect contents that result in a failure after performing the same ready-to-win effect as the variable effect patterns 21, 22, 101 and 102.例文帳に追加

If the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. do.
These variable effect patterns 201 to 207 are effect contents that result in a loss after the ready-to-win effect similar to the variable effect patterns 31 to 37 and 111 to 117 is performed.
When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. to select.
These variable effect patterns 211 to 218 are effect contents that result in a loss after the ready-to-win effect similar to the variable effect patterns 41 to 47 and 121 to 127 is performed.

When the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG. to select.
These variable performance patterns 221 to 228 are performance contents that result in a loss after the ready-to-win performance similar to the variable performance patterns 51 to 57 and 131 to 137 is performed.

If the variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110 shown in FIG.
These variable performance patterns 231 to 235 are performance contents that result in a loss after the ready-to-win performance similar to the variable performance patterns 61 to 65 and 141 to 145 is performed.
In addition to those corresponding to the variable production pattern, the production pattern specification commands include "production pattern specification command corresponding to the customer waiting production pattern", "production pattern specification command corresponding to the win start production pattern", "jackpot production". Various effect pattern designation commands such as "effect pattern designation command corresponding to the pattern" and "effect pattern designation command corresponding to the winning end effect pattern" are transmitted to the image control board 150.例文帳に追加

<Main processing of production control board>
FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining main processing by the effect control board.
In step S510, the sub CPU 121 performs initialization processing. In this processing, the sub CPU 121 reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 122 in response to power-on, and performs processing for setting the flags and the like stored in the sub RAM 123 as characters. If this process has ended, the process moves to step S520.
In step S520, the sub CPU 121 performs random value update processing for effect. In this process, the sub CPU 121 performs a process of updating various random numbers stored in the sub RAM 123 . After that, the process of step S510 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

<Timer interrupt processing of production control board>
FIG. 22 is a flow chart for explaining timer interrupt processing by the effect control board.
Although not shown, a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided in the effect control board 120 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (2 milliseconds), reads a timer interrupt processing program, and executes the effect control board 120. Timer interrupt processing is executed.
First, in step S601, the sub CPU 121 saves information stored in its own register to the stack area.

In step S<b>602 , the sub CPU 121 performs update processing of various timer counters used in the effect control board 120 .
In step S603, the sub CPU 121 performs command analysis processing. In this process, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the commands stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 123 . A specific description of the command analysis process will be given later with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG.
In addition, when the command transmitted from the main control board 110 is received, the effect control board 120 generates command reception interrupt processing of the effect control board 120 (not shown), and stores the received command in the reception buffer. After that, the received command is analyzed in step S603.

In step S604, the sub CPU 121 checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 8a input via the lamp control board 140, and performs effect input control processing regarding the effect button 8. A specific description of the effect input control process will be given later with reference to FIG.
In step S<b>605 , the sub CPU 121 transmits various data set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 .
In step S<b>606 , the sub CPU 121 restores the information saved in step S<b>601 to the register of the sub CPU 121 .

<Command analysis processing>
23 and 24 are flowcharts for explaining command analysis processing by the effect control board. Note that the command analysis process 2 shown in FIG. 24 is performed subsequent to the command analysis process 1 shown in FIG.
In step S611, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not there is a command in the reception buffer, and confirms whether or not the command has been received.
If there is no command in the reception buffer (No in step S611), the sub CPU 121 ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the reception buffer (Yes in step S611), the process proceeds to step S621.

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

In step S631, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the start winning designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is the start winning designation command (Yes in step S631), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S632, and if not the starting winning designation command (No in step S631), step S641. to process.
In step S632, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the received starting winning designation command and executes data update processing corresponding to the starting winning designation command. Information related to the big hit, the small hit, the loss, and the variation pattern provisionally determined by the preliminary determination process is associated with the starting winning designation command. Therefore, information about the newly reserved first reservation (U1) or second reservation (U2) is stored in a predetermined storage area of the sub-RAM 123 here.

In step S633, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the start winning designation command, and performs pending display mode determination processing for transmitting a pending display command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 so as to perform the pending display in a predetermined mode. As a result, the image display device 31 displays the current reserved numbers of the first reservation (U1) and the second reservation (U2).
In step S634, the sub CPU 121 executes a variable effect pattern provisional determination process based on the starting winning designation command. This processing will be described later in detail.
In step S635, the sub CPU 121 executes a pending change determination process based on the starting winning designation command and the provisionally determined variable effect pattern. This processing will also be described in detail later.

In step S641, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command (Yes in step S641), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S642, and if it is not a variation pattern designation command (No in step S641), step S651. to process.
In step S642, the sub CPU 121 performs a variable performance pattern determination process for determining one variable performance pattern from among a plurality of variable performance patterns based on the received variable pattern designation command and based on FIGS. 18 to 20 described later. I do.
Next, in step S642, the sub CPU 121 performs the notice effect determination process based on the determined variable effect pattern.

Next, in step S644, the sub CPU 121 shifts the reserved display data stored in the first reserved storage area and the second reserved storage area and the data corresponding to the start winning designation command, and shifts the reserved display data after shifting. A pending display mode update process for transmitting data information to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 is performed.

In step S651, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the effect symbol designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a production design designation command (Yes at step S651), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S652, and if it is not a production design designation command (No at step S651), step S661. to process.
In step S652, the sub CPU 121 performs effect symbol determination processing for determining the effect symbol 35 to be stopped and displayed on the image display device 31, based on the contents of the received effect symbol designation command. Specifically, the performance design designation command is analyzed, the performance design data constituting the combination of performance design 35 is determined according to the presence or absence of the big win and the type of the big win, and the design command based on the determined performance design data is issued. It is set in the production pattern storage area.

In step S661, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the pattern confirmation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a pattern confirmation command (Yes in step S661), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S662. to move.
In step S<b>662 , the sub CPU 121 performs effect symbol stop processing of setting a symbol stop command for stopping and displaying the effect symbols in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 .

In step S671, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the general pattern fluctuation pattern specification command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a normal pattern fluctuation pattern designation command (Yes in step S671), the sub CPU 121 moves the process to step S672, and if it is not a normal pattern fluctuation pattern designation command (No in step S671) ), and the process proceeds to step S681.
In step S672, the sub CPU 121 performs a normal pattern fluctuation production pattern determination process for determining one normal pattern fluctuation production pattern from among a plurality of general pattern fluctuation production patterns based on the received general pattern fluctuation pattern specification command.

In step S681, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the long release start command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is the long open start command (Yes in step S681), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S682, and if not the long open start command (No in step S681), step S700. to process.
In step S682, the sub CPU 121 performs a long open effect process. Here, a notification effect is executed to notify the player that the second starting port 14 is opened for a long time (4.2 seconds) in the non-time-saving game state.

In step S691, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the normal symbol determination command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a normal design determination command (Yes at step S691), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S692, and if it is not a normal design determination command (No at step S691), step S700. to process.
In step S692, the sub CPU 121 stores the performance symbol data corresponding to the received normal symbol confirmation command and the symbol stop command for stopping and displaying the normal symbol performance symbols in the sub RAM 123 in order to stop and display the normal symbol performance symbols. Normal design fluctuation stop processing to be set in the transmission buffer is performed.

At step S700, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is the game state designation command (Yes in step S700), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S701, and if not the game state designation command (No in step S700), step S711. to process.
In step S<b>701 , the sub CPU 121 sets the game state based on the received game state designation command in the game state storage area of the sub RAM 123 .
In step S711, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the opening command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (Yes at step S711), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S712, and if not an opening command (No at step S711), shifts the process to step S721. .

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

In step S722, the sub CPU 121 performs in-round effect pattern determination processing for determining a jackpot effect pattern. Specifically, based on the big winning opening opening designation command having information about how many times the round game is to be started, the during-round production pattern is determined for each round to be started. Then, the determined in-round effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the corresponding data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 123 in order to transmit the information of the effect pattern to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.例文帳に追加.
In step S731, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a round end designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a round end designation command (Yes in step S731), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S732. to process.
In step S732, the sub CPU 121 performs a pause effect pattern determination process for determining the effect pattern between rounds.

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

In step S751, the sub CPU 121 confirms whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is the command to enter the big winning hole.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is the command for entering a large winning slot (Yes in step S751), the sub CPU 121 shifts the process to step S752, and if not the command for entering a large winning slot (No in step S751). ) to terminate the command analysis process.
In step S752, the sub CPU 121 sets the command to the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 123 in order to transmit the large winning hole entry command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. FIG.

<Production input control processing>
FIG. 25 is a flow chart for explaining effect input control processing by the effect control board.
First, in step S831, the sub CPU 121 determines, based on the effect button detection command from the lamp control board 140, whether or not there is a valid effect button detection signal from the effect button detection switch 8a. Here, if the sub CPU 121 determines that there is no effect button detection signal (No in step S831), it ends the process, and if it determines that there is a effect button detection signal (Yes in step S831), Go to processing.

In step S<b>832 , the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not the button operation effect executable flag=01 is set in the storage area of the sub RAM 123 . Here, if the button operation effect executable flag=01 is not set (No in step S832), the sub CPU 121 ends the processing, and if the button operation effect executable flag=01 is set (step Yes at S832), the process proceeds to step S833.

It should be noted that the button operation effect executable flag is for determining whether or not the state is such that the effect corresponding to the button operation can be executed based on the fact that the button operation has been performed. , the effect corresponding to the operation can be executed, and if the flag is "00", it indicates that the effect corresponding to the operation cannot be executed. A flag "01" is set in accordance with the start of , and a flag "00" is set when the performance button 8 is operated or the effective operation period ends without the performance button 8 being operated.

In step S833, the sub CPU 121 sets a button operation effect execution command in the transmission buffer. This command is a command for causing the image control board 150 to execute an effect corresponding to the operation of the effect button 8 .
Here, the sub CPU 121 transmits the command set in the transmission buffer to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 in step S605 (see FIG. 19) after the effect input control process. The image control board 150 operates the image display device 31 and the audio output device 34 based on the received command, and the lamp control board 140 operates the performance accessory device 32 and the performance illumination device 33 based on the received command. Let

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

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

<Host CPU main processing>
FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining main processing by the image control board.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the host CPU 151, and the host CPU 151 performs the following main processing.
First, in step S901, the host CPU 151 performs initialization processing. In this process, the host CPU 151 reads the main processing program from the host ROM 153 and instructs the initialization of various modules of the host CPU 151 and the VDP 200 in response to power-on.

In step S902, the host CPU 151 performs effect pattern designation command analysis processing for analyzing the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the effect control board 120 (the command stored in the reception buffer of the host RAM 152).
In addition, when the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interruption process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. After that, the received command is analyzed in step S902.

The effect pattern specification command analysis process confirms whether or not the effect pattern specification command (+effect control command) is stored in the reception buffer. If the effect pattern designation command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process proceeds directly to step S903.
If an effect pattern designation command (+ effect control command) is stored in the reception buffer, a new effect pattern designation command is read, and one or more animation groups to be executed are determined based on the read effect pattern designation command. At the same time, an animation pattern is determined from each animation group. Then, when the animation pattern is determined, the read effect pattern designation command is erased from the transmission buffer.

In step S903, the host CPU 151 performs animation control processing. In this process, the addresses of various animation scenes are updated based on the "scene switching counter", "wait frame", and "frame counter" updated in step S921, which will be described later, and the animation pattern determined in step S902. do.
In step S904, the host CPU 151 extracts the display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. will be generated. Then, when the generation of the display list is completed, the host CPU 151 outputs the display list to the VDP 200 . The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area 156 a of the VRAM 156 via the CPU I/F 203 in the VDP 200 .

In step S905, the host CPU 151 determines whether or not the FB switching flag=01.
Here, as will be described later in FIG. Switching flag=01. That is, in step S905, it is determined whether or not the previous rendering has been completed.
If the FB switching flag=01 (Yes in step S905), the host CPU 151 shifts the process to step S906, and if the FB switching flag=00 (No in step S905), waits until the FB switching flag=01. do.

In step S906, the host CPU 151 sets the FB switching flag=00 (turns off the FB switching flag), and shifts the process to step S906.
In step S907, the host CPU 151 performs drawing execution start processing.
In this process, the drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register in order to instruct the VDP 200 to execute drawing for the already output display list. That is, execution of drawing for the display list output in step S904 is instructed.
After that, the processing of steps S902 to S907 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt shown in FIG. 26 occurs.

<Interrupt processing of the image control board>
Interrupt processing of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
The interrupt processing of the image control board 150 includes at least a drawing end interrupt processing that is performed when a drawing end interrupt signal is input and a V blank interrupt processing that is performed when a V blank interrupt signal is input. there is

<Host CPU rendering end interrupt processing>
FIG. 27(a) is a flowchart for explaining drawing end interrupt processing by the image control board.
The VDP 200 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 151 via the CPU I/F 203 when drawing of a predetermined unit of frames (one frame) is completed.
When the drawing end interrupt signal is input from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 executes drawing end interrupt processing.
In the drawing end interrupt process, in step S911, the host CPU 151 sets the drawing end flag=01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and terminates the current drawing end interrupt process. That is, the drawing end flag is turned on each time drawing ends.

<Host CPU V blank interrupt processing>
FIG. 27(b) is a flowchart for explaining V-blank interrupt processing by the image control board.
The VDP 200 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the host CPU 151 via the CPU I/F 203 every 1/60 second (about 16.6 ms).
When the host CPU 151 receives the V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 executes V blank interrupt processing.

In step S921, the host CPU 151 performs processing for updating various counters such as a "scene switching counter", a "wait frame", and a "frame counter".
In step S922, the host CPU 151 determines whether or not the rendering end flag=01. That is, it is determined whether or not the rendering of the predetermined unit of frames has been completed.
If the drawing end flag = 01 (Yes in step S922), the host CPU 151 shifts the process to step S923, and if the drawing end flag = 01 (No in step S922), ends the current V blank interrupt processing do. That is, even if the V-blank interrupt signal is input, if the drawing is not completed, the processing after step S923 is not performed.
In step S923, the host CPU 151 sets the drawing end flag=00 (turns off the drawing end flag).
In step S924, the host CPU 151 instructs the memory controller 209 of the VDP 200 to switch between the "display frame buffer" and the "drawing frame buffer".
In step S925, the host CPU 151 sets the FB switching flag to 01 (turns on the FB switching flag), cancels the standby state in step S905 (see FIG. 23), and ends the current V blank interrupt processing. do.

Next, the outline of the lamp control board 140 will be briefly described.
When the command for performance is received from the performance control board 120, the lamp control board 140 reads out the performance accessory device operating program based on the received command for performance, and controls the operation of the performance accessory device 32. At the same time, it reads out the production lighting device control program based on the received production command, and controls the production lighting device 33 and the light guide 60 .
Further, when the lamp control board 140 receives a command for the effect button from the image control board 150 via the effect control board 120, it reads out the operation program for the effect button based on the received command for the effect button, and executes the effect button. 8 is controlled.

An example of the effects performed in the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described in detail below.
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing the flow of presentation after the start of fluctuation and before development of SP reach.
In FIG. 28(a), the production pattern 35 is in the stop mode. In this state, for example, when a game ball enters the first start hole 13, the variable icon 36 is displayed in the lower center of the image display device 31, and as shown in FIG. appears and the variable display of the production pattern 35 is started.
If this variation is a normal variation, the production pattern 35 is not displayed as a ready-to-win, but is stopped and displayed as a loose ball.

In FIG. 28(c), the effect symbol 35 is in a ready-to-win state in which the left symbol and the right symbol are the same and are temporarily stopped, and the normal ready-to-win effect is started. When this variation results in a big hit or a loss in normal reach, the production pattern 35 is stopped and displayed as a big hit pattern or a losing pattern.
After the start of the normal ready-to-win effect, in FIG. 28(d), an enemy character CH2 appears against the player's character CH1, and the SP ready-to-win effect develops.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the SP reach effect that can be developed from the normal reach effect is the friend SP reach effect in which a friend character appears and the effect progresses with the friend character, and the effect with only the own character CH1 without the friend character appearing. It is another SP reach production that progresses.
Note that fellow characters may be simply abbreviated as fellow characters.
Own character and enemy character may also be abbreviated as own character and enemy character.
In this embodiment, there are four types of companion SP reach with different companion characters appearing.
"Character A", "Character B", "Character C", and "Character D" are set as fellow characters that proceed with the production together with the character CH1.

Below, fellow SP reach where fellow character A appears is called fellow SP reach (character A), fellow SP reach where fellow character B appears is called friend SP reach (character B), and friend SP reach where fellow character C appears is described as fellow SP reach (character C).
Contents of these fellow SP reach differ according to the fellow character which appears, and a big-hit expectation differs according to the fellow character. For example, the degree of expectation for a big hit increases in the order of "character A", "character B", "character C", and "character D".

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining the flow of presentation after development to companion SP reach (character A).
In FIG. 29(a), the production pattern 35 (right pattern, left pattern) moves to the left and right sides of the upper end of the image display device 31 without decoration (transition production), and the SP ready-to-win production is started. be.
The SP reach production started here is fellow SP reach (character A).
In addition to your own character CH1 and enemy character CH2 facing each other, fellow character CH-A (Character A) appears, and a caption such as "Help me!" be.
In fellow SP Reach (Character A), a battle between your character CH1, fellow character CH-A (Character A), and enemy character CH2 takes place. The "cooperative attack production" that will be deployed will start.
Such a "cooperative attack effect" is an advance notice effect that suggests to the player the degree of expectation of the change and the reach of the development destination by the content of the effect in which the player's character CH1 cooperates with the companion character.

As will be described later, a "cooperative attack effect" with other fellow characters is performed even during friendly SP reach with other fellow characters. Also, the "cooperative attack effect" has different contents depending on the companion characters that appear.
Below, the cooperative attack performed with fellow character A during fellow SP reach (character A) will be referred to as "cooperative attack effect (character A)", and the cooperation made with fellow character B during fellow SP reach (character B), which will be described later. The attack is "cooperative attack effect (character B)", and the cooperative attack performed with fellow character C during fellow SP reach (character C) is called "cooperative attack effect (character C)", while friend SP reach (character D) , the cooperative attack performed with the fellow character "Character D" will be described as "cooperative attack effect (Character D)".

29(b) to 29(e), the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" will be described.
When the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" is started in FIG. 29(b), in FIG. The "aura" of CH2 is united with the variable icon 36, and an effect is performed in which the variable icon 36 changes.
The variation icon 36, which was the default color (white) in FIG. 29(b), changed to "blue" in FIG. 29(c), changed to "green" in FIG. 29(d), and changed to FIG. Then change to "red". Of course, there are cases where the fellow character CH-A (character A) cannot win against the enemy at all and the change icon 36 does not change from the default color, and there are cases where the color change ends halfway.
The change of the variable icon by the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" can be executed exclusively from the pending change by the table of FIG. 41, which will be described later. That is, when performing the "cooperative attack effect (character A)", it is possible to perform control so as not to perform the pending change based on FIG.
In addition, the change of the variable icon due to the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" can be executed exclusively for the "cherry blossom suspension effect" described later, and it is possible to control both to not be executed at the same time. .
In the change of the change icon by "cooperative attack effect (character A)", in the case of a big hit, the change icon will remain the default "white" with a probability of 10%, and will change to "blue" with a probability of 20%. 30% chance of changing to 'green' and 40% chance of changing to 'red'.
In the case of a loss, the change icon remains the default "white" with a probability of 40%, changes to "blue" with a probability of 30%, changes to "green" with a probability of 20%, 10% chance of changing to "red".

When the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" ends, the joint battle SPSP effect (character A) is executed in FIG. 29(f).
The joint battle SPSP effect is a production in which your character and fellow characters fight together against an enemy character, and the joint fight SPSP production (Character A) is a production in which your character CH1 and fellow character CH-A (Character A) fight together. be.
A big hit or a loss is definitely indicated according to the outcome of this "co-op SPSP reach" (victory or defeat of the battle with the enemy character).

From the "cooperative attack effect (character A)", not only the joint combat SPSSP effect, but also the "growth SPSP reach", "super growth effect" in which only the own character CH1 appears without the companion character appearing in FIG. SPSP Reach” can develop.
A big hit or a loss is definitely shown according to the outcome of this "growth SPSP reach" and "super-growth SPSP reach" (win or lose in battle with the enemy character).
“Super-growth SPSP reach” has higher expectations for big hits than “growth SPSP reach”, and “co-op SPSP reach” has higher expectations than “super-growth SPSP reach”. Compared to the reach in which only one's own character CH1 appears, the expectation of a big hit is set higher in the "co-op SPSP reach" in which a joint fight with fellow characters is performed.

In addition, the joint fighting SPSP effect (character A), other "growth SPSP reach", and "super growth SPSP reach" can only be developed from the companion SPSP effect (character A)'s "cooperative attack effect (character A)". do not have.
By the way, in particular, it is not possible to develop only from fellow SP Reach (Character A) to "Co-op SP Reach" (Character A).
As shown in FIG. 29, even if it does not develop into fellow SP reach (character A) from FIG. (Single) can develop into “Co-op SPSP Reach” (Character A).

FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining the flow of effects after development to companion SP reach (character B).
In FIG. 30(a), the production design 35 (right design, left design) moves to the left and right sides of the upper end of the image display device 31 without decoration (transition production), and the SP ready-to-win production is started. be.
The SP reach performance started here is fellow SP reach (character B).
In addition to the character CH1 and the enemy character CH2 that are facing each other, a companion character CH-B (character B) appears, and a caption such as "It's a helper!" be.

30(b) to 29(e), the "cooperative attack effect (character B)" will be described.
When the "cooperative attack effect (character B)" is started in FIG. 30(b), the companion character CH-B (character B) attacks the roulette R and changes the display contents.
This roulette R indicates the development target SPSP reach, and the "cooperative attack effect (character B)" is the content of the effect that indicates the development target SPSP reach to the player.
"Growth" is displayed on the roulette R in FIG. 30(c) by the first attack of fellow character CH-B (character B). This means that it develops into a "growth SPSP reach" after the "cooperative attack production" ends.

Further, when fellow character CH-B (character B) attacks roulette R, "super growth" is displayed on roulette R in FIG. 30(d). This means that it develops into a ``super-growth SPSP reach'' after the ``cooperative attack production'' ends.
Further, when the fellow character CH-B (character B) attacks the roulette R, "co-fight" is displayed on the roulette R in FIG. 30(e). This means that after the end of the "Cooperative Attack Production", it develops into a "Cooperative SPSP Reach". This "joint fight SPSP reach" is a "joint fight SPSP reach (character B)" that fights together with fellow character CH-B (character B).

Since Roulette R has finally progressed to "Joint Fight", it was decided that this variation would develop into "Joint Fight SPSP Reach (Character B)" after the "Cooperative Attack Production".
It should be noted that the destination of development by the "cooperative attack effect (character B)" in FIG. ” can be shown to develop either. In addition, the display of Roulette R does not change even if the fellow character CH-B (character B) attacks, and as a result, it is possible to determine which of "Growth SPSP Reach", "Super Growth SPSP Reach", and "Joint SPSP Reach" will develop. It may not be specified.
When the "cooperative attack effect (character B)" is completed, according to the result, it develops into a "joint fight SPSP reach" (character B) as shown in FIG. 30(f), or as shown in FIG. 30(g). It develops into other SPSP reach, such as "growth SPSP reach" and "super-growth SPSP reach", in which your character CH1 progresses independently.
In this way, in the "cooperative attack effect (character B)", all candidate SPSP reach are displayed on the roulette R, and it is fun to watch which SPSP reach develops from the specified candidates. can do
By the way, it is not possible to develop only from the companion SP reach (character B) including this "cooperative attack effect (character B)", especially in the "joint fight SP reach (character B)".
As shown in FIG. 30, even if the SP reach (single) in which the own character CH1 appears alone without developing from FIG. (Single) can be developed directly into "Co-op SPSP Reach (Character B)".

FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the flow of presentation after development to companion SP reach (character C).
In FIG. 31(a), the production pattern 35 (right pattern, left pattern) moves to the left and right sides of the upper end of the image display device 31 without decoration (transition production), and the SP ready-to-win production is started. be.
The SP reach effect started here is fellow SP reach (character C).
In addition to your own character CH1 and enemy character CH2 facing each other, fellow character CH-C (character C) appears, and fellow character CH-C (character C) displays a caption such as "I'll help you" as a line. be done.
The "cooperative attack effect (character C)" will be described with reference to FIGS. 31(b) to 31(e).
After the "cooperative attack effect (character C)" is started in FIG. 31(b), in FIG. Start stocking icons that display "Co-op", "Growth", "Super Growth", etc.
The icon indicates the SPSP reach of the development destination, and the "cooperative attack effect (character C)" is the content of the effect that indicates the SPSP reach of the development destination to the player.

When fellow character CH-C (character C) and own character CH1 stock the "growth" icon, it develops into "growth SPSP reach" after the "cooperative attack effect" ends.
When fellow character CH-C (character C) and own character CH1 stock the "super growth" icon, it develops into "super growth SPSP reach" after the "cooperative attack effect" ends.
When fellow character CH-C (character C) and own character CH1 stock the "cooperative fight" icon, after the "cooperative attack effect" ends, it develops into "cooperative fight SPSP reach".

In FIG. 31(d), fellow character CH-C (character C) and own character CH1 have stocked the "joint fight" icon, so in this variation, after the "cooperative attack effect" ends, "joint fight SPSP reach" (character C) It was decided to develop into
It should be noted that the development destination by the "cooperative attack effect (character C)" in FIG. 31 is an example. Reach", "super-growth SPSP reach".
When the "cooperative attack effect (character C)" is completed, according to the result, it develops into a "joint fight SPSP reach" (character C) as shown in FIG. 31(e), or as shown in FIG. It develops into other SPSP reach, such as "growth SPSP reach" and "super-growth SPSP reach", in which your character CH1 progresses alone.

By the way, in particular, "Co-op SP Reach" (Character D) cannot be developed only from fellow SP Reach (Character D) including this character D continuous performance.
As shown in FIG. 31, even if the SP reach (single) in which the own character CH1 appears alone without developing from FIG. (Single) can be developed directly into “Co-op SPSP Reach” (Character C).
Also, in FIG. 31(c), all icons corresponding to developable SPSP reach, such as "co-op", "growth", and "super-growth", are displayed, but this is not the only option.
For example, when only one icon is displayed at first, if fellow character CH-C (character C) stocks the icon, a new icon will appear each time and fellow character CH-C (character C) will be displayed. You may make it stock. Finally, it develops into an SPSP reach corresponding to the icon stocked by fellow character CH-C (character C).
By doing so, the player watches the performance without knowing all the SPSP reach of the development destination candidates, and can enjoy the game while feeling the thrill and anticipation.
By displaying the SPSP reach of all development destination candidates on Roulette R, it is possible to find enjoyment in watching which SPSP reach develops from the specified candidates. has a different meaning.

FIG. 32 is a diagram for explaining the flow of presentation after development to companion SP reach (character D).
In FIG. 32(a), the production pattern 35 (right pattern, left pattern) moves to the left and right sides of the upper end of the image display device 31 without decoration (transition production), and the SP ready-to-win production is started. be.
The SP reach effect started here is fellow SP reach (character D).
In addition to the self-character CH1 and the enemy character CH2 that are facing each other, a fellow character CH-D (character D) appears, and the fellow character CH-D (character D) has a caption such as "I will fight!" Is displayed.
32(b) to 32(e), the "cooperative attack effect (character D)" will be described.
After the “cooperative attack effect (character D)” is started in FIG. 32(b), fellow character CH-D (character D) starts stocking icons in the screen in FIG. 32(c).
In FIG. 32(d) and FIG. 32(e), by stocking the icons of fellow character CH-D (character D), repeated hit points to be used in subsequent repeated hit effects are accumulated, and the effect button 8 corresponding to the points is accumulated. A large number of icons imitating are arranged on the screen.
The number of icons imitating the performance button 8, that is, the size of the repeated hitting points indicates the degree of expectation for a big hit. When this variation wins a jackpot, the number of icons simulating the performance button 8 increases, and when it fails, the number of icons decreases.

When the "cooperative attack effect (character D)" ends in this way, the "character D repeated hit effect" shown in FIGS. 32(f) to (h) is performed as the first half of the SPSP reach effect.
The "character D repeated hit effect" is an effect in which the effect button 8 can be repeatedly hit for the amount of repeated hit points accumulated in the "cooperative attack effect (character D)".

32(f), when the "Character D continuous hit effect" is started, a boss appears in FIG. 32(g), a caption such as "VS boss" is displayed, and in FIG. and defeat the enemy!" is displayed, and the continuous hitting operation of the effect button 8 by the player is accepted.
Each time the effect button 8 is operated once, the number of icons decreases by one, and when all the icons disappear, or when a predetermined period of time elapses after the start of the "character D repeated effect", the "character D repeated effect" is displayed. ” ends.
At the end of the game, the roulette R indicates whether it will develop into a "Co-op SPSP Reach" or other SPSP Reach where your character CH1 progresses alone, such as "Growth SPSP Reach" or "Super-Growth SPSP Reach". icon stops.

It should be noted that this "character D continuous hit effect" does not result in a settlement with the boss enemy (ie, this variable big hit or loss is definitely indicated).
When the "character D continuous hit effect" ends, it progresses to "co-op SPSP reach" (character D)" as shown in FIG. Develops into other SPSP reach, such as "super-growth SPSP reach", in which own character CH1 progresses alone.

By the way, in particular, it is not possible to develop only from the companion SP reach (Character D) including this "Character D continuous hit effect" in "Co-op SP reach" (Character D).
As shown in FIG. 32, from FIG. 28(d), SP reach (single) in which own character CH1 appears alone without developing into companion SP reach (character D) including "cooperative attack effect (character D)" Even if it develops into , it is possible to develop directly from that SP Reach (single) to "Co-op SP Reach" (Character D).
However, in order to develop into a “joint fight SPSP reach” (character D) via a companion SP reach (character D) including a “cooperative attack effect (character D)”, “joint fight SPSP reach” (character D)” As the first half (previous stage) of , the above-mentioned "character D continuous hit effect" is always performed.

When the "cooperative attack effect (character D)" is started from FIG. 28(d), a band such as "character D co-fighting!" display is performed.
This band display of "Chara D Co-Fighting!" It can be continuously executed until the performance of "Co-op SPSP Reach" is being executed.
As will be described later with reference to FIG. 36, in the "joint fight SPSP reach" with character D, the band display of "character D co-fighting!" Immediately after, immediately before the execution of the win-lose branch effect with button operation, at the time of temporarily stopping the pattern after the execution of the win-lose branch effect, and until the pattern is determined.
The band display of "Chara D Co-Fighting!" Alternatively, the symbols may be hidden when the symbols are temporarily stopped after execution of the win-lose branch effect, or the symbols may be hidden when the symbols are determined.
38(k) without performing the "character D continuous hit effect", even if the "joint fight SP SP reach" is developed from the SP reach (single) of FIG. ” band is displayed. The band display of "Chara D Co-Fighting!" good.

In this way, even if the companion SP reach (character D) including the "cooperative attack effect (character D)" develops into the "joint fight SP reach" (character D), the companion SP reach (character D) Even if it develops from SP Reach (single) to "Joint SP SP Reach" (Character D) without going through, after the win-lose performance (decision production, pattern temporary stop) performed in "Joint SP SP Reach" (Character D) The same performance is performed.
Even if it goes through the companion SP reach (character D) including the "cooperative attack effect (character D)", it does not go through a specific timing (for example, in the former case, after the "character D repeated effect", the SPSP effect After execution of the determination effect, after the design is tentatively determined), the same effect is performed after the band display of "Chara D is fighting together!"

FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining the flow of an SP ready-to-win effect in which the player's own character appears alone.
29(h), FIG. 30(h), FIG. 31(g), and FIG. 32(k), after the development of SP reach, in FIG. caption is displayed.
Further, in FIG. 33(b), a caption such as "Where is the enemy?"

If this change develops into a SPSP reach or a loss, as shown in FIG. is temporarily stopped in a losing mode, and in FIG. 33(d), only the effect symbol 35 that is temporarily stopped in a losing mode is displayed.
If this fluctuation develops into SPSP reach, proceed to FIGS. 29, 30, 31, and 32, and if lost, proceed to FIG.
If this change results in a big win, as shown in FIG. 33(e), a caption such as "Enemy caught!" In FIG. 33(f), only the effect symbol 35 that temporarily stops in the jackpot mode is displayed. If this variation is a jackpot, proceed to FIG.

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the SP reach is a big win.
FIG. 34(a) shows the temporary stop display of the production pattern 35 continuing from FIG. 33(f).
In FIG. 34(b), the effect pattern 35 starts to change again (beginning to move away in the depth direction), and the effect pattern 35 finally becomes invisible in FIG. 34(c).

When this variable display accompanies re-variation (promotion), the production pattern 35 moves (approaches) toward the player in FIG. It changes to a mode (eg, "5" "5" "5" probability variation pattern) and is temporarily stopped.

Then, in accordance with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of fluctuation of the special symbols), the effect symbol 35 is fixed and stopped in FIG. 34(e).
When this variable display is not accompanied by a re-variation (promotion), the production pattern 35 moves (approaches) toward the player in FIG. There is no change from the outcome of (a) (promotion failure), and the player is provisionally suspended.
Then, in accordance with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of fluctuation of the special symbols), the effect symbol 35 is fixed and stopped in FIG. 34(g).

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the SP reach is lost.
FIG. 35(a) shows a temporary stop display of the effect symbol 35 continued from FIG. 33(d).
In FIG. 35(b), a screen conversion effect is performed with the effect pattern 35 left. For example, the screen blacks out as a conversion effect.
Then, in FIG. 35(c), when the blackout ends, the effect screen is returned to the normal effect screen (at the time of start of fluctuation), and the effect pattern 35 is also returned to the decorated mode, and is oscillatingly displayed. be done.

After that, with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of the fluctuation of the special symbols), as shown in FIG. 35(d), the effect symbols 35 are fixed and stopped in a losing mode (“4”, “5”, “4”).
As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the SP reach is finished, the large effect pattern 35 stops (losing) without the character or the like. After that, the screen is blacked out as a conversion performance, and when the performance screen returns to the normal screen (the screen before the development of the reach) after the blackout, the performance pattern 35 returns to the decorated state and is fixed.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing the flow of the effect of "co-op SPSP reach". FIG. 36 will be described using an example of "co-op SPSP reach" (character D). Although the enemy characters that appear in the "co-op SPSP reach" (character D) with different companion characters are also different, basically, it can be said that all the "co-op SPSP reach" (character D) have similar contents.
Continuing from FIGS. 29(f), 30(f), 31(e), and 31(i), in FIG. 36(a), it develops into a "co-op SPSP reach" presentation.
As described with reference to FIG. 32, immediately after the development of "co-op SPSP reach" with character D, the band display of "immediately before execution of win-lose branch effect with button operation" continuing from character D's repeated hit effect is displayed.

In FIG. 36(b), the enemy character CH2 is confronted by the own character CH1 and the fellow character CH-D (character D), and a battle is started.
At this point, the band display of "Chara D Co-Fighting!!" may be erased, or may continue to be displayed.
In FIG. 36(c-1), an effect is performed in which the player's character CH1 and fellow character CH-D (character D) make a preemptive attack against the enemy character CH2.
FIG. 36(c-2) shows an effect in which the enemy character CH2 makes a preemptive attack against the own character CH1 and fellow character CH-D (character D).
36(c-1) is produced in accordance with the high-expectation variable production pattern, and the enemy-character preemptive attack production shown in FIG. It is performed corresponding to the variation performance pattern.
At the time of FIGS. 36(c-1) and 36(c-2), the band display of "Chara D is fighting together!" may be erased, or the display may be continued.

Next, in FIG. 36(d), a button effect is performed. In the button effect, the effect button image 80 and the remaining time gauge 81 are displayed on the image display device 31. - 特許庁
In the present embodiment, at this point, the display of the band "Chara D Co-Fighting!!" is erased. However, the display may be continued as it is.

If the variation that is being performed is directly a big win without recovery from the suggestion of losing, when the effect button 8 is operated, the confirmation gimmick 32 is activated as a winning motion effect in FIG. 36(e).
Then, after the winning motion effect is completed, the winning effect shown in FIG.
In the winning effect, the effect pattern 35A is temporarily stopped in a winning mode. At the same time, a state is displayed in which the player's character CH1 and fellow character CH-D (character D) defeat the enemy character CH2.

If the variation that is being performed is lost or revived from the suggestion of losing and becomes a big win, even if the production button 8 is operated, the confirmation gimmick 32 indicating the confirmation of winning does not operate (fall) in FIG. 36 (g). Further, in FIG. 36(h), the character CH1 and the companion character CH-D (character D) are defeated, and the production pattern is temporarily stopped in a losing mode.
The band display of "Chara D Co-Fighting!!", which had been displayed at the time of FIG. You may
In addition, when this change accompanies the effect of reviving from the suggestion of failure, the confirmation gimmick 32 is activated from the state in which the performance pattern 35 is temporarily stopped in the failure mode.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing the flow of SPSP reach (single) effect.
Continuing from FIG. 29(g), FIG. 30(g), FIG. 31(f), and FIG. 31(j), the SPSP ready-to-win effect is developed in FIG. 37(a).
In FIG. 37(b), the player's character CH1 faces off against the enemy character CH2, and a battle begins.
In FIG. 37(c-1), an effect is performed in which the player's character CH1 makes a preemptive attack against the enemy character CH2.
FIG. 37(c-2) shows an effect in which the enemy character CH2 makes a preemptive attack on the own character CH1.
37(c-1) is produced in accordance with the variation production pattern with a high degree of expectation, and the production of the enemy character's preemptive attack in FIG. It is performed corresponding to the variation performance pattern.

Next, in FIG. 37(d), a button effect is performed. In the button effect, the effect button image 80 and the remaining time gauge 81 are displayed on the image display device 31. - 特許庁

In the case that the variation that is being performed directly becomes a big win without going through recovery from the suggestion of losing, when the performance button 8 is operated, the confirmation gimmick 32 operates as a winning motion performance.
Then, after the winning action effect is completed, the confirmation gimmick 32 returns to the origin position, and then the victory effect shown in FIG.
In the winning effect, the effect symbol 35A is temporarily stopped in a winning mode. At the same time, the appearance of the own character CH1 defeating the enemy character CH2 is displayed.

If the variation that is being performed is lost or revived from the suggestion of losing and becomes a big win, even if the production button 8 is operated, the confirmation gimmick 32 indicating the confirmation of winning does not operate (fall) in FIG. 37 (g). Further, in FIG. 36(h), the performance pattern is temporarily stopped in a losing mode along with the appearance of the player's character CH1 being defeated.
In addition, when this change accompanies the effect of reviving from the suggestion of failure, the confirmation gimmick 32 is activated from the state in which the performance pattern 35 is temporarily stopped in the failure mode.

FIG. 38 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the SP reach is a big win.
This is continued from FIGS. 36 and 37, and shows the flow of effects common to the "Co-op SPSP Reach" and the SPSP Reach performed by the player's character alone.
FIG. 38(a) shows a temporary stop display of the effect symbol 35 continuing from FIG. 36(f) and FIG. 37(f).
In FIG. 38(b), the effect pattern 35 starts to change again (beginning to move away in the depth direction), and the effect pattern 35 finally becomes invisible in FIG. 34(c).

When this variable display accompanies re-variation (promotion), the production pattern 35 moves (approaches) toward the player in FIG. It changes to a mode (eg, "5" "5" "5" probability variation pattern) and is temporarily stopped.

Then, with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of fluctuation of the special symbols), the effect symbol 35 is fixed and stopped in FIG. 34(e).
When this variable display is not accompanied by a re-variation (promotion), the production pattern 35 moves (approaches) toward the player in FIG. There is no change from the outcome of (a) (promotion failure), and the player is provisionally suspended.
Then, in accordance with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of fluctuation of the special symbols), the effect symbol 35 is fixed and stopped in FIG. 34(g).

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the SP reach is lost.
FIG. 35(a) shows the temporary stop display of the effect pattern 35 continuing from FIG. 36(h) and FIG. 37(h).
In FIG. 35(b), a screen conversion effect is performed with the effect pattern 35 left. For example, the screen blacks out as a conversion effect.
Then, in FIG. 35(c), when the blackout ends, the effect screen is returned to the normal effect screen (at the time of start of fluctuation), and the effect pattern 35 is also returned to the decorated mode, and is oscillatingly displayed. be done.

After that, with the end of the fluctuation time (stop of the fluctuation of the special symbols), as shown in FIG. 35(d), the effect symbols 35 are fixed and stopped in a losing mode (“4”, “5”, “4”).
As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the SP reach is finished, the large effect pattern 35 stops (losing) without the character or the like. After that, the screen is blacked out as a conversion performance, and when the performance screen returns to the normal screen (the screen before the development of the reach) after the blackout, the performance pattern 35 returns to the decorated state and is fixed.

[Change effect of the change icon]
Next, the change effect of the variable icon (suspended icon) performed in the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described.
(1) Icon Disconnection Change Effect In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, two types of change effects of the variable icon 36, which will be described below, are performed. One is a pending change effect in which the state of the variable icon 36 is changed by cutting the variable icon with a sword.
FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an example of the icon disconnection change effect.
The icon disconnection change effect can be executed when it is decided to perform the hold change effect in the hold change determination process performed at the time of starting winning.
In FIG. 40(a), for example, when the variation icon 36 is green, the sword image 37 is displayed and the icon cutting change effect is started.
In FIG. 40(b), the sword image 37 cuts the variable icon 36, the sound effect of "Zubaba" and the character image 38 are displayed, and the variable icon 36 is about to be cut.
In FIG. 40(c), when the sound effect of "Bassari" and the character image 38 are displayed, the variable icon 36 is cut off.
Then, in FIG. 40(d), the change icon 36 becomes "red", indicating that the change is successful, and the pending change effect is performed.
On the other hand, after FIG. 40(b), if the sound effect and character image 38 of "Bassari" are not displayed as shown in FIG. The change icon 36 remains "green" without disconnection, resulting in a change failure and no pending change effect.

The icon disconnection change effect can be performed according to the table shown in FIG.
It should be noted that when the above-mentioned "cooperative attack effect (character A)", which is a substantial change effect of the variable icon, is performed, it is possible not to perform the icon cutting change effect. That is, the variable icon change of the "cooperative attack effect (character A)" and the variable icon change of the icon disconnection change effect can be mutually exclusive.

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing a pending change scenario table when execution of a pending change effect is confirmed in the pending change determination process performed at the time of starting winning.
In FIG. 41, the starting colors of pending changes are "blue", "green", and "red", but the default "white" may be used as a matter of course.
During normal reach, a hold change effect specified in the change scenario is performed with a probability of 10%, during SP reach, a hold change effect specified in the change scenario is performed with a probability of 50%, and during SPSP reach. With a probability of 90%, the pending change effect specified in the change scenario is performed.
First, a description will be given of a holding change mode in the case of a big hit. If you win from normal reach, the starting color is "blue". There is a 40% chance that change scenario 1 will be selected in which the change icon remains 'blue' during normal reach, and change scenario 2 will be selected with a 60% probability that the change icon will remain 'green' during normal reach. is selected.

When winning from SP reach, if the starting color is "blue", with a probability of 10%, change scenario 3 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach and SP reach, With a probability of 20%, the variable icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach, change scenario 4 that changes to "green" during SP reach is selected, and with a probability of 25%, the variable icon is normal reach Change scenario 5 that changes to “green” during SP reach and remains “green” during SP reach is selected, and with a probability of 45%, the change icon changes to “green” during normal reach, SP reach Change scenario 6 is selected, changing to 'red' in the middle.
In the case of winning from SP reach, if the starting color is "green", with a probability of 20%, change scenario 7 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "green" during normal reach and during SP reach, 80 Change scenario 8 is selected in which the variation icon is maintained in "green" during normal reach and changes to "red" during SP reach with a probability of %.

In the case of winning from SPSP reach, if the starting color is "blue", there is a 4% probability that the change icon will remain "blue" during normal reach, during SP reach, and during SPSP reach Change scenario 9 is selected, and a change scenario 10 is selected in which the variable icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach and during SP reach and changes to "green" during SP reach with a probability of 6%.
In addition, with a probability of 9%, change scenario 11 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach, changes to "green" during SP reach, and remains "green" during SP reach. Then, with 11% probability, change scenario 12 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach and remains "green" during SP reach and SP reach.
In addition, with a probability of 30%, change scenario 13 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach, changes to "red" during SP reach, and remains "red" during SP reach. be done.
In addition, with a probability of 40%, change scenario 14 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach, "red" during SP reach, and "gold" during SP reach. .

In the case of winning from SP SP reach, if the starting color is "green", there is a 30% probability that the change icon will remain "green" during normal reach and change to "red" during SP reach. , A change scenario 15 that is maintained in "red" during SP reach is selected, and with a probability of 70%, the change icon is maintained in "green" during normal reach and changed to "red" during SP reach A change scenario 16 is selected that changes and changes to "gold" during SPSP reach.

In the case of winning from SPSP reach, if the starting color is "red", there is a 40% probability that the change icon will remain "red" during normal reach, during SP reach, and during SPSP reach Change scenario 17 is selected, and with a probability of 60%, the change scenario 18 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "red" during normal reach and SP reach, and changes to "gold" during SP SP reach.

A description will be given of a holding change mode in the case of losing.
If you lose from normal reach, the starting color is "blue". Change scenario 21 in which the variable icon remains “blue” during normal reach is selected with a probability of 60%, and change scenario 22 in which the variable icon remains “green” during normal reach is selected with a probability of 40%. is selected.

In the case of losing SP reach and the starting color is "blue", with a probability of 45%, the variation icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach and during SP reach Change scenario 23 is selected, With a probability of 25%, the variable icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach, change scenario 24 is selected that changes to "green" during SP reach, and with a probability of 20%, the variable icon is normal reach A change scenario 25 that changes to “green” during normal reach and remains “green” during SP reach is selected, and with a probability of 10%, the change icon changes to “green” during normal reach and SP reach A change scenario 26 is selected that changes to "red" in the middle.
In the case of losing from SP reach, if the starting color is "green", with a probability of 80%, change scenario 27 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "green" during normal reach and during SP reach, 20 A change scenario 28 is selected in which the variable icon remains "green" during normal reach and changes to "red" during SP reach with a probability of %.

Change scenario 29 in which the change icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach, during SP reach, and during SPSP reach, with a probability of 40% when losing from SPSP reach and the starting color is "blue". is selected, and a change scenario 30 is selected in which the variable icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach and SP reach, and changes to "green" during SP reach, with a probability of 30%.
In addition, with a probability of 11%, change scenario 31 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "blue" during normal reach, changes to "green" during SP reach, and maintains "green" during SP reach. With a probability of 9%, a change scenario 32 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach and remains "green" during SP reach during SP reach.

In addition, with a probability of 6%, change scenario 33 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach, changes to "red" during SP reach, and remains "red" during SP reach. be done.
In addition, with a probability of 4%, change scenario 34 is selected in which the change icon changes to "green" during normal reach, "red" during SP reach, and "gold" during SP reach. .

In the case of losing from SP reach, if the starting color is "green", there is a 70% chance that the change icon will remain "green" during normal reach and change to "red" during SP reach. , A change scenario 35 that is maintained in "red" during SP reach is selected, and with a probability of 30%, the change icon is maintained in "green" during normal reach and changed to "red" during SP reach A change scenario 36 is selected that changes and changes to "gold" during SPSP reach.

Change scenario 37 in which the change icon is maintained in "red" during normal reach, during SP reach, and during SPSP reach, with a probability of 60% when losing from SPSP reach and the starting color is "red". is selected, and with a probability of 40%, a change scenario 38 is selected in which the change icon is maintained in "red" during normal reach and SP reach and changes to "gold" during SP SP reach.
In addition, the change in the hold shown in FIG. 43 is only an example, and more finely, at the start of fluctuation, before reach, after reach, during reach, the first half of SP reach, the latter half of SP reach, the first half of SPSP reach, the latter half of SPSP reach Any timing may occur.

The icon disconnection change effect is performed based on the pending change scenario table of FIG. 41 described above.
In the pending change scenario shown in FIG. 41, during normal reach, the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of success of 15%, and the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of failure of 10%. The rest is a case where the icon disconnection change effect is not performed.
During the SP reach, the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of success of 20%, and the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of failure of 5%. The rest is a case where the icon disconnection change effect is not performed.
During the SPSP reach, the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of success of 30%, and the icon cutting change effect is performed with a probability of failure of 2%. The rest is a case where the icon disconnection change effect is not performed.
Therefore, after the SP reach, there is a high possibility that the variable icon 36 that has been slashed "Zubaba" will be cut "cut off" and the display change will succeed (a successful icon cutting change effect will be performed).

Another change effect of the hold icon is a cherry blossom hold (petal hold) effect.
(2) “Cherry blossom suspension performance”
FIG. 42 is a diagram outlining how the variable icon changes in the "cherry blossom pending effect".
When the “cherry blossom suspension effect” is executed, the variable icon 36 is changed to a form in the shape of cherry blossom petals (petal suspension icon 36S).
As shown in FIG. 42, in the initial state of the petal-holding icon 36S, there is, for example, one pink petal. After that, a change effect is performed in which the number of colored petals changes from 2 to 5. Of course, there are cases where the colored petals do not change from the single petal in the initial mode. As the number of colored coins increases, the expectation of a big hit increases. Even if the number of colored petals changes up to the maximum of 5, it only indicates the degree of expectation based on the number of colored petals. In addition, the above-mentioned icon disconnection change effect is the same, and only indicates the degree of expectation based on the color after the change.
On the other hand, as a feature of the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the number of colored flower petals of the flower petal holding icon 36S reaches 5 under a specific condition, the degree of expectation indicated is greatly increased. The specific condition is to stay in a production zone called "evil star zone".
The "evil star zone" itself is not a high-expectation production, and the "cherry blossom suspension production" basically only shows the level of expectation based on the number of colored petals.
However, when the “Cherry Blossom Suspension Effect” is performed during the “Evil Star Zone” and the maximum five petals are colored, the highly anticipated “Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Effect” will be performed, and the “Super Growth SPSP Reach” will be performed. It leads to the expected reach performance.

In addition, regardless of the jackpot or loss, if the change develops to normal reach, there is a 10% chance that the "evil star zone" will be executed, and if the change develops to SP reach, there will be a 20% chance that the "evil star zone" will be executed. Zone" is executed, and if the change is an SPSP reach that does not include a "cherry blossom full bloom effect", there is a 10% chance that the "evil star zone" will be executed, and if the SPSP reach includes a "cherry blossom full bloom effect", 100 "Evil Star Zone" is executed with a % probability.
If the variation results in a big win, there is a high possibility that it will develop into an SP reach, and if the variation results in a loss, there is a high possibility that it will develop into an SP reach.
“Evil Star Zone” is a notice effect that is more likely to be executed in SP reach, which is more likely to fail than SP SP reach. That is, the "evil star zone" is an effect in which the degree of reliability (expectation) is set to be low. However, 100% selection is made in the SPSP reach where the "cherry blossoms in full bloom effect" is performed, so in that case, the effect is executed as a highly reliable effect.

Overall, the "Evil Star Zone" is more reliable than the "Sakura Suspension Production" Or, conversely, the "Sakura Suspension Production" is generally more reliable than the "Evil Star Zone" It can be a performance.

FIG. 43 is a diagram for explaining the "cherry blossom suspension effect" performed during the "evil star zone".
For example, the SP reach shown in FIG. 43(a) is performed. It may be normal reach or before reach.
When the evil star Y appears in FIG. 43(b) and covers the entire screen, the "evil star zone" begins in FIG. 43(c).
During the stay in the "evil star zone", the variable icon 36 changes to the petal suspension icon 36S in FIG. Of course, the "cherry blossom suspension effect" can be performed regardless of whether or not the "evil star zone" is executed.
In FIG. 43(d), as a result of performing a "growth charge" effect in which the number of colored petals of the petal holding icon 36S is increased, when up to five petals are colored, a "cherry tree" is displayed as shown in FIG. Full Bloom Production” is performed, and it develops into “super-growth SPSP reach” and so on.
The “cherry blossoms in full bloom effect” effect can be developed from the “evil star zone”, and is a highly expected effect that is likely to be executed at a higher probability at the time of a big win than in the case of a loss.
Using the table below, when the “evil star zone” that develops into the “cherry blossom full bloom effect” is being performed, by executing the “cherry blossom suspension effect” in which up to 5 petals are colored, It is possible to make sure that when the “cherry blossom suspension performance” in which up to five petals are colored in the “star zone” is executed, it develops into the “cherry blossom full bloom performance”.
``Cherry blossom suspension effect'', which can be developed from the ``evil star zone'' to a highly anticipated ``cherry blossom full bloom effect'', has extremely high expectations compared to the ``cherry blossom suspension effect'' that is performed in other cases regardless of the number of colors. , the "growth charge" effect is full of interest for the player.
It should be noted that the change effect of the variable icon in FIG. 41 described above is also performed regardless of whether or not the "evil star zone" is executed.
However, the presence or absence of execution of the "evil star zone" has no effect on the change effect of the normal change icon, and the degree of color change always indicates the degree of expectation for the big win of the change that is being performed. .

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing a table (change number determination table) for determining the number of colored petals of the petal suspension icon in the "cherry blossom suspension effect".
FIG. 44(a) is a change number determination table in the case of a variable production pattern in which the advance notice of cherry blossoms in full bloom is not performed, but the "evil star zone" is performed. In this case, the cherry blossom pending icon 36S does not change to five colored petals.
In the case of a jackpot from SP reach, there is a probability of 10% that the cherry blossom holding icon 36S does not change and only one colored petal remains. Then, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to 2 colored petals with a probability of 30%, 3 colored petals with a 50% probability, and 4 colored petals with a 10% probability.
When the SPSP reach becomes a big hit, there is a probability of 5% that the cherry blossom holding icon 36S does not change and only one colored petal remains. Then, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to 2 colored petals with a probability of 15%, 3 colored petals with a 25% probability, and 4 colored petals with a 55% probability.

In the case of losing from normal reach, there is a 90% chance that the cherry blossom pending icon 36S will not change and only one colored petal will remain. Then, with a probability of 10%, the cherry blossom reserved icon 36S changes to two colored petals.
In the case of losing from SP reach, there is a 10% chance that the cherry blossom pending icon 36S will not change and only one colored petal will remain. Then, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to 2 colored petals with a probability of 30%, 3 colored petals with a 50% probability, and 4 colored petals with a 10% probability.
If the SPSP reach is lost, there is a 5% chance that the cherry blossom holding icon 36S will not change and the number of colored petals will remain one. Then, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to 2 colored petals with a probability of 15%, 3 colored petals with a 25% probability, and 4 colored petals with a 55% probability.

FIG. 44(b) is a changing number determination table when the "evil star zone" is not performed.
In the case of a big hit from the SP reach, there is a probability of 10% that the cherry blossom holding icon 36S does not change and only one colored petal remains. Then, with a probability of 25%, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S will change to 2 colored petals, 45% of the time will change to 3 colored petals, and 10% of the time will change to 4 colored petals. 5 (maximum) colored petals with a 100% chance.
When the SPSP reach becomes a big hit, there is a probability of 3% that the cherry blossom holding icon 36S does not change and only one colored petal remains. Then, with a probability of 12%, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to two colored petals, with a 20% probability of changing to three colored petals, with a 30% probability of changing to four colored petals, and 35 The number of colored petals changes to 5 (maximum) at the rate of %.

In the case of losing from normal reach, there is a 90% chance that the cherry blossom pending icon 36S will not change and only one colored petal will remain. Then, with a probability of 10%, the cherry blossom reserved icon 36S changes to two colored petals.
In the case of losing from SP reach, there is a 10% chance that the cherry blossom pending icon 36S will not change and only one colored petal will remain. Then, with a probability of 25%, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S will change to 2 colored petals, 45% of the time will change to 3 colored petals, and 10% of the time will change to 4 colored petals. 5 (maximum) colored petals with a 100% chance.
If the SPSP reach is lost, there is a 3% chance that the cherry blossom pending icon 36S will not change and only one colored petal will remain. Then, with a probability of 12%, the cherry blossom holding icon 36S changes to two colored petals, with a 20% probability of changing to three colored petals, with a 35% probability of changing to four colored petals, and 30 The number of colored petals changes to 5 (maximum) at the rate of %.

FIG. 44(c) is a change number determination table in the case where the advance notice of cherry blossoms in full bloom is performed after the "evil star zone" is performed.
In this case, regardless of the ready-to-win effect or the big hit determination result, the number of colored petals of the cherry blossom holding icon 36S unconditionally changes to 5 (maximum).

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the icon disconnection change effect and the notice effect using the hold icon including the “cherry tree hold effect” are realized by the process described below performed by the effect control board 120 .
FIG. 45 is a flowchart for explaining pending change determination processing executed by the CPU of the effect control board.
In step S1001, the sub CPU 121 of the effect control board 120 determines whether or not to execute the "cherry blossom pending effect".
If the provisionally determined variable performance pattern corresponds to normal reach, SP reach, and SPSP reach not including "cherry blossom full bloom performance", it is decided to execute "cherry blossom suspension performance" with the variation with a probability of 10%. If the provisionally determined variable performance pattern corresponds to a performance including a "cherry blossom full-bloom performance", it is determined with a probability of 100% that the "cherry blossom suspension performance" is executed with the variation.
If it is determined to execute the "cherry blossom pending effect" (Yes in step S1001), the sub CPU 121 determines to execute the "cherry blossom pending effect" and sets a flag for the change in step S1002. The details of the "cherry blossom suspension effect" such as the changing number of petals are determined at the time of the change.
When it is determined not to execute the "cherry blossom suspension effect" (No in step S1001), the sub CPU 121 determines in step S1003 whether or not to perform a suspension change effect. If the look-ahead result is normal reach, the hold change effect is performed based on the hold change scenario shown in FIG. 41 with a probability of 10%, and if it is SP reach, the hold change scenario shown in FIG. If it is SPSP reach, the hold change effect based on the hold change scenario shown in FIG. 41 is performed with a probability of 90%.
If it is determined to perform a hold change effect (Yes in step S1003), the sub CPU 121 determines a hold change scenario based on the hold change scenario table of FIG. 41 and sets a flag for the change in step 1004. .
As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the “cherry blossom suspension effect” and the suspension change effect are executed mutually exclusively, and are not executed in parallel or in succession.

FIG. 46 is a flowchart for explaining the announcement effect determination process for determining the announcement effect using the suspension icon including the icon disconnection change effect and the "cherry blossom suspension effect".
In step S1101, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not to execute the "evil star zone". Regardless of whether it is a big hit or a loss, for example, if the variation develops to normal reach, there is a 10% chance to execute the "Evil Star Zone", and if the variation develops to SP reach, there is a 20% chance. Execute "Evil Star Zone", and if the change develops into SPSP reach that does not include "Cherry blossom full bloom effect", execute "Evil Star Zone" with a 10% probability and include "Cherry blossom full bloom effect" If it is a change that develops into SPSP reach, 100% probability to execute "evil star zone".
Further, in step S1101, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not it has been determined in the suspension change determination process of FIG. 45 to execute the "sakura suspension effect".
If it is determined that the “cherry blossom suspension effect” is to be executed (Yes in step S1101), the sub CPU 121 determines the number of petals to be changed in the “cherry blossom suspension effect” in step S1103 based on the changing number determination table of FIG. decide.

When it is determined that the “cherry blossom suspension effect” is not to be executed (No in step S1101), the sub CPU 121 determines in step S1104 whether the suspension change effect is to be executed in the suspension change determination process of FIG. judge.
When it is determined that execution of the pending change effect is determined (Yes in step S1104), the sub CPU 121 determines the scenario of the icon disconnection effect that ends successfully in step S1105.
If it is determined that the pending change effect is not to be executed (No in step S1104), the sub CPU 121 determines the scenario of the icon disconnection effect that ends in failure (false) in step S1106.

[Yakuren Gate]
By the way, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when a big win is achieved, the big winning opening is not unconditionally opened with the lapse of time.
The big prize opening is opened on the condition that the game ball passes through an area called a win-win gate provided at an appropriate place in the right area of the game board 10 after the big winning game state. Therefore, the gaming machine of the present embodiment includes a detection switch (not shown) for detecting that a game ball has passed through the game ball.
It should be noted that the gate 15 (right gate) provided in the right side area of the game area may also serve as the role gate. In that case, the gate detection switch 15a of the right gate is the detection switch for detecting that the game ball has passed through the combination gate.
When a game ball passes through the right gate during the valid period of the gates, a lottery for normal symbols is carried out and the big prize opening is opened.
The gate 15 provided in the left side area of the game area cannot serve as a combination gate.
In such a game machine, there is a time lag between the start of a big win and the opening of the big prize hole, and the time from the start of a big win to the start of opening of the big prize hole when the game balls pass through the gates. It is desirable that the performance (music) of the above and the performance (music) after the start of the opening of the big prize opening are connected without a sense of incompatibility.

FIG. 47 is a diagram for explaining control for seamlessly connecting effects (music) before and after the opening of the big winning opening after the start of the big winning in the gaming machine of the present embodiment.
・ After the start of the jackpot / opening (first period)
When the game machine enters a jackpot game state by winning a jackpot, an opening performance is performed.
As shown in FIG. 47(a), in the opening effect, the image display device 31 displays a first instruction display 400 such as "Aim right" and a second instruction display 400 such as "Aim for the right" that requires the game ball to pass through the gates to satisfy a predetermined condition. 2 instruction display 401 is performed. At the same time, the intro part (A part) of the big-hit middle music that is played back after the start of the round game is repeatedly played back. Here, the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 are different in display size and instruction content. For example, the first instruction display 400 is displayed in a relatively small size in the upper right area of the image display device 31, and displays a plurality of rightward arrows flowing from left to right to instruct the player to hit right. It is an instruction.
The second instruction display 401 is displayed in a large size in the central area of the image display device 31, and displays characters such as hitting to the right (aim right!) and highlighting such characters from the left side. The player is instructed to hit to the right by making the display flow to the right.
Incidentally, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 48, the first instruction display 400 is not performed immediately after the opening effect is started.
As shown in FIG. 47(b), some of the displays with higher priority (the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 instructing hitting to the right) are repeatedly displayed as moving images, and the priority is higher than that. Some low-level displays (background screens, etc.) are displayed as still images (single pictures).
When the round game is started, the round effect is displayed, and only the first instruction display 400 out of the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 that have been displayed until then is continued to be displayed.
As shown in FIG. 47(a), when the game ball passes through the yakuren gate and the conditions are met during the playback output of the intro part (A part) of the song during the jackpot, the A part being played is played to the end. Output. The second instruction display 401 such as "Aim right" on the image display device 31 is continuously displayed until the A part is completely reproduced. This first instruction display 400 is continuously displayed during a round game, which will be described later. The intro part (Part A) is repeatedly reproduced until the conditions are satisfied, and the output sound volume is reduced if the passage of the opening gate is not performed for a predetermined period of time. When passing through the Yakuren gate is detected while the output volume is low, the output volume is returned to the original volume and the main part (B part) is output.

・Opening of the big prize gate / round game (second period)
As shown in FIG. 47(a), when the reproduction output of the A part is completed as the condition is established, an effect is performed in which the display and sound are different from those in the first period.
That is, the reproduction output of the main part (B part) of the mid-jackpot song is started. Along with this, the image display device 31 displays an effect image (round display) during the jackpot game, and also continues to display the first instruction display 400 . This round display is, of course, a display different from the opening effect.
Using the period until the condition is satisfied (the game ball passes through the gate), the intro part of the song during the jackpot is repeatedly played back, and when the condition is met, the main part of the song during the jackpot is played back. As a result, it is possible to seamlessly reproduce and output the jackpot music whose content changes before and after the conditions are met without a sense of incompatibility.
It should be noted that the instruction display for right-handed hitting and the switching timing of music have been described as being at the same timing, but the switching may be performed at different timings. For example, when the conditions are met, the display of the second instruction display 401 may be stopped, the round display may be performed, and the intro part (part A) may be continuously reproduced to the end.

Here, an example of a gaming machine provided with one type or one type of one type of gate, and switching voice, music, and display as the player passes through the gate is shown, but other types of gaming machines can be
For example, it may be a 2-type or 1-type 2-type game machine. In this gaming machine, a small winning state occurs when a game ball wins a prize in a V winning area provided in a large winning opening. Here, when a small win is achieved, the big prize opening is opened, and a display such as "Aim for V" and a voice such as "Aim for V" are repeatedly output in order to notify the player of the launch to the V prize area. When a game ball enters the V area in this state, the output is switched to the sound and display during the round. The control of the present embodiment can also be applied in such cases.
Also, it may be a one-type or one-type-one-type gaming machine, which is a so-called V probability changing machine that changes the probability by passing through a specific V area. In this game machine, the game state after the big win becomes the probability variable game state by winning the big win and the game ball winning in the V winning area provided in the big winning opening. Here, when a big win is achieved, the big prize opening is opened, and a display such as "Aim for V" and a voice such as "Aim for V" are repeatedly output in order to notify the player of the launch to the V winning area. When a game ball enters the V area in this state, the output is switched to the sound and display during the round. The control of the present embodiment can also be applied in such cases.
Alternatively, in a game machine where you can switch the selection of production by operating the chance button, the sound and display are switched before and after the button operation (when the button is operated during the variable production or during the jackpot, the production is switched, and the sound and display are also changed. It switches from the one that prompts the button operation up to that point). The control of the present embodiment can also be applied in such cases.

FIG. 48 is a diagram showing a display example of the image display device before and after the yakutsu gate is activated.
FIG. 48(a) shows a display example of the image display device 31 when a jackpot is won in a normal game state in which the left hand is played.
(a-1) shows a state in which the jackpot symbols are stopped. Here, the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 (right hitting instruction) such as "Aim right" explained with reference to FIG. 47 are not performed.
(a-2) shows a state in which the jackpot is started and the opening effect is being executed. Also in this case, the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 (right hitting instruction) such as "Aim right" explained with reference to FIG. 47 are not performed.
As an opening effect, a display such as "challenge bonus" is displayed on the background screen to indicate the type of jackpot to be executed. The effect sound output here is a effect sound indicating that the "challenge bonus" will be executed.
When a big win is achieved in the normal game state, the opening effect is executed for a relatively long time (for example, 10 seconds), so even if the first instruction display 400 and the second instruction display 401 are performed at this timing, the game ball will not be shot. Since it is meaningless and useless, at this timing, the instruction display for instructing the player to hit to the right is not performed.

(a-3) shows a state in which the Yakuren gate is enabled. In (a-3), the same "challenge bonus" display as in (a-2) is displayed on the background screen. After the opening period of (a-2) has passed, the Yakutsu gate becomes effective. Here, first, the first instruction display 400 is displayed superimposed on the display of "challenge bonus" that has been displayed on the background screen from (a-2). After that, a second instruction display 401 is displayed by a cut-in effect superimposed on the display of "Challenge Bonus". At this time, the intro part (A part) of the middle hit song is repeatedly reproduced.
(a-4) shows a state in which a game ball passes through the winning gate and a round game is executed. Here, the round effect is displayed and the first instruction display 400 is continuously displayed. At this time, the main part (B part) of the song during the jackpot is reproduced.

FIG. 48(b) shows a display example of the image display device 31 when a jackpot is won during a variable probability game or a time-saving game in which the player hits to the right.
(b-1) shows a state in which the jackpot symbols are stopped. Here, the second instruction display 401 "Aim right" described in FIG. 46 is not performed. In addition, the first instruction display 400 displayed in the variable probability gaming state is continuously displayed.
(b-2) shows a state in which the jackpot is started and the opening effect is being executed. Here, the second instruction display 401 "Aim right" described in FIG. 47 is not performed. Note that the first instruction display 400 is continuously displayed.
Instead of displaying the "challenge bonus" that was performed in FIG. 48(a-2), another opening display that is displayed during consecutive games is performed on the background screen. Since the opening performance is executed for a relatively short period of time (for example, two seconds) when a jackpot is won by consecutive games, even if the first instruction display 400 is displayed at this timing, it is not so disadvantageous to the player. The first instruction display 400 is continuously displayed so that the round game can be enjoyed as soon as the yakuren gate becomes effective.

(b-3) shows a state in which the Yakuren gate is enabled. In (b-3), the same opening display as in (b-2) is displayed on the background screen.
After the opening period of (b-2) has elapsed, the Yakutsu gate becomes effective. Here, the second instruction display 401 is superimposed on the opening display of (b-2) and displayed by a cut-in effect. At this time, the intro part (A part) of the song during the jackpot is repeatedly reproduced as the effect sound. Note that the first instruction display 400 is continuously displayed.
(b-4) shows a state in which a game ball passes through the winning gate and a round game is being executed. Here, a display such as "Hyper Bonus" is displayed so as to indicate the type of jackpot that is being executed as a round effect. At this time, the main part (B part) of the song during the jackpot is reproduced. It should be noted that the music output at the consecutive game may be the same music as the music output at the time of the first hit, or may be a different music.

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

1 game machine, 10 game board, 13 first start port, 14 second start port, 31 image display device, 35 effect pattern, 110 main control board, 111 main CPU, 112 main ROM, 113 main RAM, 120 effect control board , 121 sub-CPU, 122 sub-ROM, 123 sub-RAM, 140 lamp control board, 150 image control board, 151 host CPU, 152 host RAM 152 host ROM

Claims (1)

an image display device that displays a performance image;
an audio output device that outputs a production sound;
a shooting means for shooting game media toward a game area in accordance with a player's operation;
production control means for executing display control for displaying a production image on the image display device and output control for outputting a production sound from the audio output device;
a game state control means for controlling a first game state and a controllable second game state after the first game state ends;
a detection means capable of detecting that a game medium has passed through a predetermined area;
The first game state includes a normal game state and a specific game state that is controllable after the second game state ends and is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state,
The effect image includes a first effect image that instructs to launch a game medium into the predetermined area, a second effect image different from the first effect image, and a specific image,
the specific image can be displayed simultaneously with the first effect image;
the specific image can be displayed simultaneously with the second effect image;
In the normal game state, the specific image is not displayed,
displaying the specific image in the specific game state;
In the second game state, it is possible to execute a notification effect of displaying the first effect image and outputting a first effect sound,
Until the detection means detects that the game medium has passed through the predetermined area during execution of the notification effect, the first effect sound is repeatedly output at a first volume, and after the start of the notification effect, the When a predetermined time elapses without the detecting means detecting that the game medium has passed through the predetermined area, the volume of the first effect sound is reduced to a second volume smaller than the first volume, and the predetermined area is reached. is changed from the first effect image to the second effect image, and a second effect sound different from the first effect sound is generated in response to the detection by the detection means that the game medium has passed through the output at a volume of
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images