JP7294646B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko game machine.

In a conventional gaming machine, when a game ball enters a starting hole provided in a game area, it is determined whether or not a jackpot game is to be played, and a predetermined pattern is changed, and after a predetermined period of time, the predetermined pattern is displayed. It is common to stop the operation and notify the result of the above determination.

In addition, in the above gaming machine, when the game ball enters the starting hole while the symbols are changing, the information used for determining whether or not to play the jackpot game is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, 4) can be reserved and stored.

In addition, the information that is stored on hold is displayed (on hold display), for example, on the first display device (for example, the start winning memory display area 5H in the image display device 5) controlled by the effect control board 12 (for example, , Patent Document 1).

JP 2018-117764 A

However, there is still room for improvement in favorably performing hold display.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to preferably perform a hold display in view of such circumstances.

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises a start opening formed in a game area in which a game ball can flow down; a holding storage means for holding and storing judgment information acquired by the entry of a game ball into the start opening; Determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player based on determination information; Prior determination means for determination, symbol display means for executing variable display and stop display of symbols according to the result of the determination , a normal game state, and a specific game state more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. controllable game state control means; suspension display means for displaying a suspension display corresponding to the number of suspension memories in a suspension display area; has a display mode change determination means for determining whether to change to a different second display mode, and a ready-to-win effect execution means for executing a ready-to-win effect that can notify the result of the determination, and the normal game state and the In the specific game state, when a plurality of pending displays are performed in the pending display area, it is possible to execute a synchronous action effect in which the pending displays operate in synchronization, and the synchronous action effect is performed by the plurality of It is possible to execute when the second display mode is included in the pending display, and it is possible to make the synchronous action effect invisible during execution of the ready-to-win effect, and the special game is performed by executing the ready-to-win effect. When it is notified that the is not to be executed, it is possible to visually recognize the synchronous action effect after the notification and before the stop display of the symbol, and in the normal game state, the ready-to-win effect When it is notified to execute the special game by the execution of, after the notification and before the stop display of the symbol is performed, it is possible to visually recognize the synchronous operation effect, while the specific game In the state, when it is notified that the special game is to be executed by the execution of the ready-to-win effect, it is possible to prevent the synchronous action effect from being visually recognized after the notification and before the symbol is stopped and displayed. It is characterized by

By configuring in this way, when the second display mode is included in the plurality of suspension displays, a synchronous operation effect is executed in which the plurality of suspension displays operate in synchronization, so that the suspension display is suitable without impairing the aesthetic appearance. It can be performed.

According to the present invention, it is possible to preferably perform the hold display.

1 is an exterior front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is an external rear view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a front view of a game board according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a diagram showing a special symbol hit determination table and a normal symbol hit determination table according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram showing a special symbol determination table and a normal symbol determination table according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the winning special design details which concern on embodiment of this invention. It is a diagram showing a special symbol variation pattern table according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the determination information storage area|region of main RAM which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 4 is a flow chart showing a main control board main process according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a flow chart showing setting value change processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing set value confirmation processing according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a flow chart showing main control board timer interrupt processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing input switch detection processing according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is a flow chart which shows processing at the time of the 1st starting opening detection concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart which shows processing at the time of the 2nd starting opening detection concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart which shows special design related processing concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart showing a special symbol variation start time process according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart showing processing during special symbol fluctuation according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart which shows winning game processing concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart which shows the production control board main processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart showing the effect control board timer interrupt processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing main command reception processing (1/2) according to the embodiment of the present invention; 10 is a flowchart showing main command reception processing (2/2) according to the embodiment of the present invention; 6 is a flowchart showing main processing of an image/sound control unit according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a flowchart showing image generation processing according to the embodiment of the present invention; 6 is a flowchart showing image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart showing main processing of a light emission drive control unit according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a flowchart showing light emission control processing according to the embodiment of the present invention; 6 is a flow chart showing light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a time chart 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention; 2 is a time chart 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 3 is a time chart 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a time chart 4 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 5 is a time chart 5 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 6 is a time chart 6 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 7 is a time chart 7 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 8 is a time chart 8 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 9 is a time chart 9 according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is an animation diagram corresponding to time charts 8 and 9 according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a time chart 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a time chart 11 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a time chart 12 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a first animation diagram showing a rendering mode according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 11 is a second animation diagram showing a rendering mode according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 11 is a third animation diagram showing a rendering mode according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is a figure which shows the icon definition for every production|presentation mode which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 13 is a time chart 13 according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is a time chart 14 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 15 is a time chart 15 according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is a time chart 16 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a fourth animation diagram showing a rendering mode according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 15 is a fifth animation diagram showing a rendering mode according to the embodiment of the present invention;

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, a pachinko game machine 1 will be described as an example of a game machine according to the present invention. In the following description, "front", "rear", "left", "right", "upper" and "lower" refer to the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. pointing.

(External configuration of pachinko game machine 1)
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko game machine 1 is pivotally supported by an outer frame 2 for installation on a game machine installation island (not shown) of a game parlor, and a game board 6 shown in FIG. a glass frame 4 pivotally supported by the middle frame 3 and opposed to the front side of the game board 6 so that the game board 6 can be visually recognized through transparent glass; and the middle frame 3 and a receiving tray member 5 which is pivotally supported by the glass frame 4 and positioned below the glass frame 4 and capable of storing game balls. In addition, the glass frame 4 and the receiving plate member 5 may be configured as a separate type, or may be configured as an integrated type.

In addition, the middle frame 3 is provided with a shooting device (not shown) for shooting game balls to the game area 7 of the game board 6, and a shooting handle 8 for making this shooting device perform a shooting operation. is provided. The shooting handle 8 is gripped by the player and can be rotated within a predetermined range so that the shooting intensity when shooting the game ball into the game area 7 can be adjusted by the amount of rotation. It's becoming For example, when it is rotated by the first rotation amount (when it is the first firing intensity), the game ball is shot to the left side of the game area 7 (so-called "left hitting" is possible), and the first When the ball is rotated by a second amount of rotation larger than the amount of rotation (in the case of the second firing intensity), the game ball is shot to the right side of the game area 7 (so-called "right-handed shot"). ” is possible).

Although not shown, the firing handle 8 is provided with a handle touch sensor. This handle touch sensor is turned ON when the player grips the shooting handle 8 , and the ON signal is input to the payout control board 300 . Thereby, it can be grasped that the shooting handle 8 is held by the player.

Also, the glass frame 4 is provided with a light emitting device 9 (lamp, LED, etc.) so that the pachinko game machine 1 can be decorated by emitting light. For example, in the special symbol winning determination process described later, it is possible to execute an effect of notifying the winning by emitting light in rainbow colors based on the fact that the winning is determined.

Also, the glass frame 4 is provided with a speaker 10 for outputting voice and sound effects. For example, when the normal game state described below is controlled, music corresponding to the normal game state can be output, and when the time-saving game state described later is controlled, music corresponding to the time-saving game state is output. It is possible.

The receiving tray member 5 is composed of an upper receiving tray 5a and a lower receiving tray 5b. When the amount of game balls stored in the upper receiving tray 5a exceeds a predetermined amount, the game balls are dispensed to the lower receiving tray 5b. It has become. In addition, the receiving tray member 5 includes a ball eject button 11 for ejecting the game balls stored in the upper receiving tray 5a to the lower receiving tray 5b at the end of the game, and a game ball release device (not shown). a ball lending button 12 for requesting the payout of the ball, a card return button 13 for requesting the return of the valuable value medium inserted into the insertion slot of the game ball lending device, and the balance for displaying the balance of the valuable value medium A display unit 12a and a ball lendable lamp 12b for notifying that the ball lending by operating the ball lending button 12 is possible are provided.

Further, the tray member 5 is provided with a performance button 14 and a performance lever 15 that can be operated by the player when the operation promoting performance is executed. In addition, the receiver member 5 can be operated by the player to adjust the volume of sound and sound effects output from the speaker 10, adjust the amount of light emitted from the light emitting device 9, and adjust the amount of light emitted from the image display device 26, which will be described later. A cross key button 16 is provided for adjusting the amount of emitted light. Note that the effect button 14 and the effect lever 15 may be provided independently, or may be provided integrally.

(Regarding the configuration of the rear side of the pachinko game machine 1)
Next, based on FIG. 2, the configuration of the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described. Various control boards such as a main control board 100, an effect control board 200, a payout control board 300 and a payout device 304, and a power supply board 400 are provided on the back side of the pachinko game machine 1 (exactly , these various control boards are attached to the rear surface of the middle frame 3).

A RAM clear switch 105 is also provided on the main control board 100 . The RAM clear switch 105 is a switch for initializing game information that is rewritten in the area of the main RAM 103 when a game is played. For example, when the closing time of the amusement arcade is approaching while the time-saving game state is in effect, if the manager turns on the power while pressing the RAM clear switch 105, the game information in the time-saving game state is cleared, and the game information is cleared at the opening time of the next day. , It can be started from the normal game state.

The RAM clear switch 105 is also a switch for switching set values in a setting change state, which will be described later. Details will be described later in the flow chart. For example, in the case of providing six levels of set values, if the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed once while the set value "1" is displayed on the display 104, which will be described later, the set value When the setting value "1" is changed to the setting value "2" and the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed once, the setting value is changed from "2" to the setting value "3". , set value “4”, set value “5”, and set value “6”, and when the set value “6” is displayed on the display 104, when the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed once, the set value The set value is switched from "6" to "1".

Although the RAM clear switch 105 is provided on the main control board 100, it may be provided on the power supply board 400 or may be provided directly on the middle frame 3, for example, as long as it can be input to the main control board 100.

The main control board 100 is also provided with a setting change keyhole 31 (also referred to as a setting key SW in this embodiment). The setting change keyhole 31 is used when setting one of a plurality of stages of setting values, which will be described later. Specifically, a setting change key (not shown) managed by a store clerk is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and rotated clockwise by 90 degrees (rotated from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction), When the power of the pachinko game machine 1 is turned on (the power switch 400a is turned on) while pressing the RAM clear switch 105, a setting change state is entered in which setting values can be set. Details of the setting change state will be described later with a flowchart.

The setting change keyhole 31 is also used to check the currently set value. Specifically, a setting change key managed by a store clerk is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and rotated clockwise by 90 degrees (rotated from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction) so that the pachinko machine 1 When the power is turned on (the power switch 400a is turned on), a setting confirmation state is entered in which setting values can be confirmed. Details of the setting confirmation state will be described later with a flowchart.

It should be noted that the setting change keyhole 31 can be rotated by a setting change key. can be detected.

Although the setting change keyhole 31 is provided in the main control board 100, the installation location is not limited to this. For example, the middle frame 3 may be provided with a setting change keyhole 31 .

A display 104 is also provided on the main control board 100 . If the display 104 is in the setting change state or the setting confirmation state, the setting value is displayed. The number of payouts/the number of outs in the normal game state)×100" is displayed.

Note that the game performance information is calculated for each interrupt (for example, every 4 ms) in a state other than the setting change state or the setting confirmation state (for example, the state in which the interrupt is permitted in step S18 of FIG. 10). The current section and the past three sections (one section before, two sections before, and three sections before) are displayed at predetermined display timings (for example, every five seconds). It is possible. That is, display of current section→elapsed predetermined time (elapsed 5 seconds)→display of past section (1)→elapsed of predetermined time (elapsed 5 seconds)→display of past section (2)→elapsed predetermined time (5 seconds) elapsed)→display of past section (3)→elapsed predetermined time (elapsed 5 seconds)→display of current section.

(Regarding the configuration of the game board 6)
Next, based on FIG. 3, the configuration of the game board 6 of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described.

The game board 6 is made of a veneer material or a transparent synthetic resin material, and an image display device 26 is detachably attached to the back side thereof. In addition, the game board 6 is formed with a game area 7 in which game balls can roll. A member 19 is formed. In addition, the game area 7 includes a gate member 20 through which a game ball can pass, a first starting hole 21 through which a game ball can enter, and a stage 17 for facilitating ball entry into the first starting hole 21. , a second starting hole 22 into which a game ball can enter, a normal winning hole 23 into which a game ball can enter, and a large winning hole into which a game ball can enter when a winning game described later is being executed. 24, an out port 25 for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports outside the game area (game ball discharge gutter), a movable body 28 that can move vertically, and others (not shown). Game nails, pinwheels, etc. are provided.

(Regarding gate member 20)
The gate member 20 is provided in the right central portion of the game area 7, and allows the game ball to pass through when the game ball is shot to the right side of the game area 7, i.e., when the game ball is hit to the right. It's becoming In addition, it is always open upwards to always allow the passage of game balls. Then, when the game ball passes through the gate member 20, the later-described "passing gate detection processing" is performed, and whether or not the protruding member (not shown) provided in the second start port 22 is protruded is "normal". A "symbol hit determination process" is performed, and a "normal symbol variation game" for deriving the determination result of the normal symbol hit determination process is executed after the normal symbol variation time elapses.

When the game ball further passes through the gate member 20 while the normal symbol variation game based on passage through the gate member 20 is being performed, the execution of the normal symbol variation game based on the passage is suspended. Except for the normal symbol variation game being executed, a maximum of "4" can be reserved. Specifically, the main RAM 103 is provided with a reserved storage area for the normal symbol variation game, and the reserved storage area corresponds to the currently varying normal symbol variation game as shown in FIG. 9(B). ``the relevant variation storage area'', the ``first storage area'' corresponding to the normal symbol variation game to be performed after the currently varying normal symbol variation game is finished, hereinafter referred to as the ``second storage area'', and `` It consists of a "third storage area" and a "fourth storage area". The stored determination information (random value) is transferred, the determination information (random value) stored in the "second storage area" is transferred to the "first storage area", and the "second storage area" is stored in the " The determination information (random value) stored in the "third storage area" is transferred, the determination information (random value) stored in the "fourth storage area" is transferred to the "third storage area", and the "fourth storage area" is transferred. storage area is empty.

(Regarding the first start port 21)
The first starting port 21 is provided in the central part of the game area 7, and when the game ball is shot to the left side of the game area 7, so-called "left hitting", the game ball enters. It is possible. In addition, it is always open upwards and always allows game balls to enter. Then, when the game ball enters the first start port 21, for example, "3" game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if any reserved storage area other than the prize balls is empty, a special symbol is displayed. Hit determination processing is performed, the special symbol and decorative symbol image and the fourth symbol image to be described later are variably displayed, and after the fluctuation time described later has passed, the determination result (special symbol and decorative symbol) of the special symbol hit determination process is derived. (Confirmed display) "symbol variation game" is executed.

When a game ball enters the first starting hole 21 while the symbol changing game based on the ball entering the first starting hole 21 is being performed, execution of the symbol changing game based on the entering ball is suspended. A maximum of "4" can be reserved except for the symbol variation game being executed.

Specifically, the main RAM 103 is provided with a reserved memory area for the symbol variation game, and as shown in FIG. The variation storage area", the "first storage area" corresponding to the symbol variation game to be played after the currently varying symbol variation game is over, and hereinafter referred to as the "second storage area" and the "third storage area". ” and a “fourth storage area”. Then, when the pattern variation game that is currently fluctuating in a state where the determination information (random value) is stored in all of the reserved storage areas is completed, the "variation storage area" The stored determination information (random value) is transferred, the determination information (random value) stored in the "second storage area" is transferred to the "first storage area", and the "second storage area" is stored in the " The determination information (random value) stored in the "third storage area" is transferred, the determination information (random value) stored in the "fourth storage area" is transferred to the "third storage area", and the "fourth storage area" is transferred. storage area is empty.
Although the first starting port 21 is a ball-entering port through which a game ball can enter, it may be configured as a passage area through which a game ball can pass.

(Regarding the second starting port 22)
The second starting port 22 is provided in the right central part of the game area 7, and when the game ball is shot to the right side of the game area 7, so-called "right hitting", the game ball enters. Ball is enabled. In addition, unlike the first starting port 21, the second starting port 22 is not always open upward, and in principle does not allow entry of game balls (it is in a "closed" state). That is, the second starting port 22 has a protruding member that can protrude forward, and only when this protruding member protrudes forward ("open" state), the game ball can enter. It becomes possible.

Regarding whether or not to allow the game ball to enter the game ball by projecting the protruding member forward, when it is determined that the normal symbol hit is determined in the normal symbol hit determination process, the "opening and closing of the second start port" in FIG. It is possible to open and close in the opening and closing mode shown in "Mode". Then, when the game ball enters the second start port 22, for example, "2" game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if any of the reserved storage areas are empty in addition to the prize balls, the pattern changes. the game is running.

When a game ball enters the second starting hole 22 while the pattern changing game based on the ball entering the second starting hole 22 is being performed, execution of the symbol changing game based on the entering ball is suspended. A maximum of "4" can be reserved except for the symbol variation game being executed. Since the specific configuration of the main RAM 103 related to suspension is the same as that of the first start port 21 described above, description thereof will be omitted.

As the second starting opening 22, a protruding member movable in the front-rear direction is used, but a so-called "electric tulip" having movable wing pieces may be used.
Further, the second starting port 22 is a ball-entering port through which game balls can enter, but may be configured as a passage area through which game balls can pass.

Further, in the present embodiment, the game ball enters the first starting port 21 and the second starting port 22, the special symbol hit determination process is performed, and the special symbol, the decorative symbol image and the fourth symbol image are variably displayed. Then, after the variation time elapses, the determination result of the special symbol hit determination process (special symbol, decorative symbol image, and fourth symbol image) is derived (confirmed display). , Sometimes simply referred to as "game of 1 variation". Also, the execution of the "symbol variation game" may be referred to as "variation display".

Further, when one game ball enters the first starting port 21, the first special symbol display device 27a and the image display device 26 display "symbol variation" based on the entry of one game ball. "Game" is executed, and when one game ball enters the second starting port 22, the second special symbol display device 27b and the image display device 26 indicate that one game ball has entered. Based on the "symbol variation game" is executed. Therefore, the "symbol variation game" is a generic term for games played on the first special symbol display device 27a and the image display device 26, and also by the second special symbol display device 27b and the image display device 26. It refers to the generic name of the game that is played.

In addition, in the present embodiment, deriving the determination result (special symbol and decorative symbol image and fourth symbol image) of the special symbol hit determination process after the variation time in the symbol variation game has passed means (special symbol and decoration This is called "confirmed display" of the symbol image and the fourth symbol image). On the other hand, in the symbol variation game, temporarily stopping the decorative symbol image before the variation time elapses is referred to as "temporary stop display" of the decorative symbol image. Examples of the "temporary stop display" include "reach", which will be described later, and "shake fluctuation display" before "fixed display". "Shake fluctuation display" before "fixed display" means, for example, that the decorative pattern image is "temporarily stopped" at "767" or the like, and then "fixedly displayed" at "767", or once " ``Temporary stop display'' for the display of the failure of ``767'', and after performing a reversal effect to derive ``777'', ``777'' is ``confirmed display'', or variable display performed at the branch point. be done.

(Regarding the regular prize gate 23)
The normal winning openings 23 are provided in the lower left of the game area 7 with "3" and "1" in the lower right, totaling "4". A game ball can be entered when so-called "left-handed" is performed, and "1" normal winning opening 23 at the lower right is provided when so-called "right-handed" is performed. A game ball can enter. In addition, the normal prize winning opening 23 is always open upward like the first starting opening 21, and always permits entry of game balls. Then, when game balls enter the normal winning hole 23, for example, "8" game balls are paid out as prize balls. In addition, the arrangement position of the normal winning openings 23 can be arbitrarily changed, and the number thereof may be less than "4". Also, the number of prize balls may be different between the "3" normal winning holes 23 on the lower left and the "1" normal winning holes 23 on the lower right.

(Regarding Grand Prize Gate 24)
The big winning opening 24 is provided in the lower right part of the game area 7, and a game ball can be entered when so-called "right-handed hitting" is performed. In addition, the big winning opening 24 has an opening and closing door, and when a winning is determined in the special symbol winning determination process, a winning game is executed, the opening and closing door tilts forward, and the game ball enters. allow. Then, when game balls enter the big winning hole 24, for example, "12" game balls are paid out as prize balls.

Here, in the winning game, the opening/closing door of the big winning opening 24 is opened (tilted forward) over the number of awarded rounds shown in FIG. Then, it opens (tilts forward) for 29.5 seconds (S=seconds) per round, and when the entry of 10 game balls is detected by the later-described large winning hole detection SW 24a before 29.5 seconds have elapsed. , 29. Even before 29.5 seconds have elapsed, the opening/closing door is closed to proceed to the next round, and this is repeated for the prescribed number of rounds. On the other hand, when 29.5 seconds (so-called "attacker full open") elapses before 10 game balls are detected by the big winning hole detection SW 24a, the opening/closing door is closed to proceed to the next round. Become. In this case, one round game ends without reaching 10 balls, which is the prescribed number of entering balls per round, which is disadvantageous for the player.

In the present embodiment, an opening/closing door that tilts forward is used as the big prize opening 24, but a so-called "electric tulip" may be used, or a "shutter member" that advances and retreats in the front-rear direction may be used. good.

(Regarding the image display device 26)
The image display device 26 has a display area over substantially the entire area, is provided so as to be positioned above the stage 17, and can display a symbol variation game and effect images in the display area. That is, based on the fact that the game ball entered the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22 and the special symbol hit determination process was performed, the left decorative symbol image 26a, the middle decorative symbol image 26b, and the right decorative symbol image 26a were displayed. The pattern image 26c is varied (vertically scrolled) in the variable display area. In addition, even when the game ball enters the first start port 21 and the game ball enters the second start port 22, the left decorative pattern image 26a, the middle decorative pattern image 26b, and the right decorative pattern image 26a are common. The pattern image 26c is fluctuated (vertically scrolled) in the variable display area (the special pattern display device is different, but the decorative pattern image used in the image display device 26 is common).

Then, the performance image is displayed within the fluctuation time described later, and when the fluctuation time elapses, if the winning is achieved, for example, "7" is stopped in each decorative design image, and the decorative design combination of "777" is performed. Winning is reported by making a definite display. On the other hand, in the case of a loss, for example, the combination of the decorative symbols "765" is displayed as a confirmation to notify that the game is a loss.

Separately from each decorative design image, a fourth design image 26d (the "fourth" design next to the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, and the right decorative design image 26c) is displayed on the right side of the display area. It can be displayed in the lower part, and in synchronism with each decorative pattern image, variable display and fixed display are possible. In addition, the image display device 26 displays a first start opening pending number image 26e that displays the number of holdings of the symbol variation game at the first start opening 21 as "0" to "4", and a symbol variation at the second start opening 22. A second starting opening pending number image 26f displaying the number of pending games as ``0'' to ``4'', and a first starting opening displaying the number of pending symbol variation games in the first starting port 21 with a suspended ball image. 1st starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26g, 1st starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26h, 1st starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26i, 1st starting opening 4th reserved ball image 26 display area j and ( In FIG. 3, simply indicated as "g", "h", "i", and "j"), the number of pending symbols in the second starting port 22 is displayed as a pending ball image. 1 holding ball image display area 26k, second starting opening second holding ball image display area 26l, second starting opening third holding ball image display area 26m, second starting opening fourth holding ball image display area 26n (Fig. 3 , simply indicated as "k", "l", "m", and "n"), can be displayed. Also, a variation icon display area 26o (simply indicated as "o" in FIG. 3) for displaying an icon image corresponding to the symbol variation game currently being executed can be displayed.

In addition, the number of reservations displayed in the first starting opening reserved number image 26e and the number of reservations displayed in the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j is, in principle, synchronized (except when a command error or the like occurs), and the number of reservations displayed in the second start opening reservation number image 26f and the second start opening first reservation ball image display area 26k to the second In principle, it is synchronized with the number of reservations displayed in the starting port fourth reservation ball image display area 26n (except when a command error or the like occurs). For example, when "4" is displayed in the first starting opening reserved number image 26e, "4" is displayed in the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. is displayed.

The number of reservations displayed as the first starting opening reservation number image 26e and the number of reservations displayed as the second starting opening reservation number image 26f may be hereinafter referred to as "number reservation". In addition, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26h, the first starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26i, the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image 26 display area j, second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, second starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, second starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26m and the reserved ball image displayed in the second starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n may be referred to as a "reserved icon" below. Further, the icon image displayed in the variable icon display area 26o may be hereinafter referred to as "the variable icon".

In addition, the variation icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26h, the first starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26i, the first Starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j, second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, second starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, second starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26m, Although the second starting port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n is displayed on the image display device 26, it is not limited to this, and may be displayed on an LED, a lamp, or the like. may be displayed on another display device (for example, a second image display device).

The left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, the right decorative design image 26c, and the fourth design image 26d can display design images from "1" to "8", and are used for the special design hit determination process. If the judgment result is a hit, any combination of symbols "111", "222", "333", "444", "555", "666", "777", and "888" can be displayed. is.

On the other hand, when the determination result of the special symbol hit determination process is a loss, it is possible to display a combination of symbols other than the combination of symbols described above. If it is a loss, in the special symbol variation pattern described later, when a special symbol variation pattern with "reach" is determined, for example, a combination of symbols such as "767" is confirmed and displayed, and a special symbol without "reach" is displayed. When the symbol variation pattern is determined, for example, a combination of symbols such as "765" is definitely displayed.

Note that "ready" means a state in which the left decorative design image 26a and the right decorative design image 26c are displaying the same number image (temporary stop display), and the middle decorative design image 26b is being variably displayed. In this embodiment, when the determination result of the "special symbol winning determination process" is a winning, it is always configured to go through "reach", so the player can expect a win. You can say that.

The fourth pattern image 26d may simply display a one-digit number or a two-digit number instead of combining the above-described patterns. You may enable it to identify the kind of , a loss, and a design.

(Regarding the pattern display device 27)
The pattern display device 27 is provided outside the game area (outside the outer rail member 18), which is an area different from the game area 7 of the game board 6. As shown in FIG. As also shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 displays a first special symbol which is controlled by the main control board 100 to execute a symbol variation game based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 21. A display 27a and a second special symbol display 27b for executing a symbol variation game based on the entry of a game ball into the second starting port 22 are provided. Here, the first special symbol display device 27a and the second special symbol display device 27b are composed of 7-segment display devices. symbol) flashes, and when it comes to the timing of deriving the determination result of the special symbol hit determination process, if it is a loss, "-" (horizontal bar symbol) is displayed (confirmed display), and if it is a hit, for example, " 7” is illuminated (confirmed display). In other words, the “special pattern” refers to a pattern whose display is controlled by the main control board 100 .

In the present embodiment, the "special design", the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, the right decorative design image 26c, and the fourth design image 26d are simply referred to as "design" or "identification design". It is sometimes called “information”. Also, the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, the right decorative design image 26c, and the fourth design image 26d managed by the effect control board 200 may be collectively referred to as "sub-designs".

Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 21. A first special symbol suspension display 27c to be displayed and a second special symbol suspension display 27d to display the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game based on the game ball entering the second starting port 22 are provided. ing.

1st special design reservation indicator 27c, and 2nd special design reservation indicator 27d are each configured with two dot LED indicators, "turn off", "turn on", "flashing" by the number of can be displayed. For example, if the number of pending is '0' then both dot LED indicators are 'off', if the number of pending is '1' then one is 'on' and the other is 'off'. If the number of pending is "2", both are "lighted", and if the number of pending is "3", one is "lighted" and the other is "blinking", and the number of pending When it is "4", both are "blinking". In the following, the first special symbol holding indicator 27c and the second special symbol holding indicator 27d are indicated by "○", lighting is indicated by "●", and flashing is indicated by "◎". .

In addition, the first special symbol reservation display 27c includes the number of reservations displayed as the above-described first starting opening reservation number image 26e, and the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth In principle, in synchronization with the number of reservations displayed in the reservation ball image display area 26j (except when a command error or the like occurs), the second special symbol reservation display 27d is the above-described second start opening reservation number image 26f and the number of holds displayed as the second starting port first held ball image display area 26k to the second starting port fourth held ball image display area 26n are synchronized (command except when an error occurs). For example, when the first special symbol reservation display 27c both "blinks" (when the number of reservations is four), "4" is displayed as the first start opening reservation number image 26e, and the first start opening number "4" held ball images are displayed in the 1 held ball image display area 26g to the first start opening fourth held ball image display area 26j. In the following description, the first special symbol reservation display 27c and the second special symbol reservation display 27d may be referred to as "main reservation display".

In addition, although the 1st special design reservation indicator 27c and the 2nd special design reservation indicator 27d were each constituted by two dot LED indicators, it is not limited to this. For example, a liquid crystal display device whose display is controlled by the main control board 100 may be provided and displayed on the liquid crystal display device.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 has a normal symbol display device which is controlled by the main control board 100 to execute a normal symbol variation game based on the passage of the game ball through the gate member 20. 27e is provided. The normal symbol display device 27e is composed of two dot LED display devices, and in the normal symbol variation game, from the start of variation, one is lit and the other is extinguished, one is extinguished and the other is lit. When it comes to the timing of deriving the determination result of the normal symbol hit determination process by repeatedly executing the mode of causing and the mode to cause, and when it comes to the timing of deriving the determination result of the normal symbol hit determination process, a final display is performed by lighting one if it is a loss and turning off the other. is turned off and the other is turned on.

Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is controlled by the main control board 100 to display the number of suspensions of the normal symbol variation game based on the passage of the game ball through the gate member 20. A normal symbol holding display 27f is provided. In addition, the normal design reservation display device 27f, like the above-described first special design reservation display device 27c and the second special design reservation display device 27d, is composed of two dot LED indicators, and the number of reservations Since the display mode of is also the same, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the symbol display device 27 is controlled by the main control board 100 for display, and indicates the number of openings of the big winning opening 24 in the winning game described above. A round indicator 27g is provided for displaying "Number reference)". The round indicator 27g is composed of "4" dot LED indicators, which are provided for 5 rounds and 10 rounds, respectively, as shown in FIG. Then, for example, when the special pattern A wins, the LED display for 10 rounds lights up, and the others go out, and when the special pattern B hits, the LED display for 5 rounds. lights up and the others go out.

In addition, the game board 6 is provided with a plurality of board illumination devices 29 (for example, full-color LEDs). The decorativeness of the game machine 1 is enhanced. For example, the board illumination device 29 can decorate the entire game area 7 of the game board 6, as indicated by reference numeral 29 in FIG. Moreover, in order to make the display contents of the image display device 26 stand out, all the panel illumination devices 29 can be turned off. Further, the predetermined light emission pattern is composed of a plurality of light emission patterns that define the light emission speed, the color of light emitted, the LEDs that emit light and the LEDs that do not emit light, and the like.

Also, on the right side of the image display device 26 (so-called "center accessory"), a first special symbol sub-reserving display 29a and a second special symbol sub-reserving display 29b as one aspect of the board lighting device 29 are provided. and are provided. The first special symbol sub-reserving display device 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserving display device 29b are display-controlled by the effect control board 200, and each consist of two dot LED displays. It is possible to display the number of pending by "lighting" and "blinking". For example, if the number of pending is '0' then both dot LED indicators are 'off', if the number of pending is '1' then one is 'on' and the other is 'off'. If the number of pending is "2", both are "lighted", and if the number of pending is "3", one is "lighted" and the other is "blinking", and the number of pending When it is "4", both are "blinking". In the following, the first special symbol sub-holding display 29a and the second special symbol sub-holding display 29b are indicated by "○", lighting is indicated by "●", and flashing is indicated by "◎". There is

In addition, the first special symbol sub-holding display 29a includes the number of holdings displayed as the first starting opening holding number image 26e, and the first starting opening first holding ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth holding. In principle, the number of reservations displayed in the sphere image display area 26j is synchronized (except when a command error or the like occurs), and the second special symbol sub-reservation display 29b is the second starting port reservation number image 26f. In principle, the number of reservations displayed is synchronized with the number of reservations displayed as the second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n (command error, etc. (unless it occurs). For example, when both the first special symbol sub-reservation display 29a "blinks" (when the number of reservations is four), "4" is displayed as the first start opening reservation number image 26e, and the first start opening "4" held ball images are displayed in the first held ball image display area 26g to the first start port fourth held ball image display area 26j. In the following, the first special symbol sub-suspension display 29a and the second special symbol sub-suspension display 29b may be referred to as "sub-suspension display".

Although the first special symbol sub-reserving display device 29a and the second special symbol sub-reserving display device 29b are each configured with two dot LED displays, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image may be displayed on a display device other than the image display device 26 (for example, a second image display device).

(Internal configuration of pachinko game machine 1)
Next, based on FIG. 4, the internal configuration of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described. It should be noted that the description of the configuration of the game board 6 in FIG. 3 will be omitted as appropriate.

The pachinko game machine 1 has a main control board 100, an effect control board 200, a payout control board 300, and a power supply board 400 mounted behind the middle frame 3 (see FIG. 2). Then, as shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100 and the effect control board 200 only communicate one-way from the main control board 100 to the effect control board 200 via a harness or the like (not shown). are connected so that Also, the main control board 100 and the payout control board 300 are connected via a harness or the like so as to enable two-way communication. In addition, the power supply board 400 receives supply of external power via a power plug (not shown), and sends the supplied external power to any of the main control board 100, the effect control board 200, and the payout control board 300. It is connected so that it can be supplied

In addition, the main control board 100 is connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., so that inputs from various switches can be made possible, and controls display of various displays and drive control of various solenoids. As possible, they are connected via harnesses, relay boards, or the like. In addition, the production control board 200 is connected via a harness, a relay board, etc. so that input from various SW is possible, and a harness or They are connected via a relay board or the like.

(Regarding main control board 100)
The main control board 100 is provided with a main CPU 101 that performs control processing, a main ROM 102 that stores control programs necessary for the control processing, and a main RAM 103 that is capable of reading and writing necessary for the control processing. Although not shown, it also includes an interrupt controller circuit that gives an interrupt signal to the main CPU 101, a hard random number generation circuit that generates random numbers within a certain range, and the like. Note that the control processing in the main CPU 101 will be detailed later using a flowchart.

Further, the main RAM 103 is provided with a storage area for managing various information. For example, a set value storage area for storing set value information, a special symbol state flag storage area for storing a special symbol state, a game state storage area for storing a game state, a winning state storage area for storing a state in a winning game, A normal design state flag storage area for storing the state of the normal design, and a normal design per state storage area for storing the state in the normal per design game.

Further, the main RAM 103 is provided with a counter for managing various information (time and number of times). For example, there are a time management counter for managing various times, a time saving number counter for managing the number of time saving, and a round number counter for managing the number of rounds in a winning game.

(Regarding frame open detection SW3a)
The frame open detection SW3a is provided on the middle frame 3, and is used when the glass frame 4 is opened, when the glass frame 4 and the middle frame 3 are opened, or when the middle frame 3 is opened. It is possible to detect the "open" state, such as, and to detect the "closed" state when the glass frame 4 and the middle frame 3 are closed. In other words, the frame open detection SW 3a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating the closed state is input to the main control board 100 when the switch is in the above-described "closed" state. will be On the other hand, in the above-described "open" state, the information indicating the above-described closed state is not input to the main control board 100, so that the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) is in the above-described "open" state. can be detected to be in

(Regarding gate detection SW 20a)
The gate detection SW 20 a is provided inside the passage opening of the gate member 20 of the game board 6 and is a SW for detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate member 20 . In other words, the gate detection SW 20a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and when the passage of the game ball is detected, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. Become. Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) to which the detected information is input does not execute the normal symbol variation game in the normal symbol suspension display 27f, and the number of suspensions of the normal symbol variation game is "0". In the case of , immediately control to execute the normal symbol variation game, and when the number of suspension of the normal symbol variation game is "1" to "3", to suspend the execution of the normal symbol variation game , and when the number of suspensions of the normal symbol variation game is "4", control is performed so as not to suspend the execution of the normal symbol variation game.

(Regarding the first starting opening detection SW 21a)
The first starting opening detection SW21a is provided inside the winning opening of the first starting opening 21 of the game board 6, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the first starting opening 21. That is, the first starting hole detection SW21a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when a game ball is detected to enter, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. will be Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101), which has received the detected information, causes the payout control board 300 to pay out three game balls as prize balls due to the game balls entering the first starting port 21. process.

Further, when an input is made from the first starting port detection SW 21a, the main control board 100 does not execute the symbol variation game on either the first special symbol display device 27a or the second special symbol display device 27b. And, when the number of reservations on the first special symbol reservation display 27c and the second special symbol reservation display 27d is "0", the first special symbol display 27a immediately executes the symbol variation game. When the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game in the first special symbol suspension display 27c is "1" to "3", control is performed to suspend the execution of the symbol variation game, and the first special symbol When the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game on the suspension display 27c is "4", the execution of the symbol variation game is controlled not to be suspended.

(Regarding the second start opening detection SW 22a)
The second starting opening detection SW22a is provided inside the winning opening of the second starting opening 22, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the second starting opening 22. That is, the second starting hole detection SW22a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and when a game ball is detected to enter, the detected information is input to the main control board 100. will be Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101), which has received the detected information, causes the payout control board 300 to pay out two game balls as prize balls due to the game balls entering the second starting port 22. process.

Further, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) executes the symbol variation game on both the first special symbol display device 27a and the second special symbol display device 27b when an input is made from the second starting port detection SW 22a. If not, and the number of reservations on the second special symbol reservation display device 27d is "0", immediately control the second special symbol display device 27b to execute the symbol variation game, When the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game on the 2 special symbol suspension display 27d is "1" to "3", control is performed to suspend the execution of the symbol variation game, and the second special symbol suspension display 27d When the number of suspensions of the symbol variation game is "4", the execution of the symbol variation game is controlled not to be suspended.

(Regarding the second start port opening/closing solenoid 22b)
The second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b is provided behind the second starting port 22, and is a solenoid for causing the projecting member provided in the above-described second starting port 22 to perform an opening/closing operation. That is, the second start opening opening/closing solenoid 22b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc. When the determination is made, the second starting port opening/closing solenoid 22b is drive-controlled so as to open and close in the opening/closing mode shown in FIG.

(Regarding normal winning opening detection SW 23a)
The normal winning hole detection SW23a is provided inside the winning hole of the normal winning hole 23 of the game board 6, and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the normal winning hole 23. In other words, the normal winning hole detection SW 23a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the detected information is input to the main control board 100 when a game ball is detected to enter. will be Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101), which receives the detected information, causes the payout control board 300 to pay out 8 game balls as prize balls due to the game balls entering the normal winning hole 23. process.

(Regarding the big winning opening detection SW 24a)
The big winning hole detection SW 24 a is provided inside the big winning hole 24 and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the big winning hole 24 . In other words, the big winning hole detection SW 24a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the detected information is input to the main control board 100 when a game ball is detected to enter. will be Then, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101), which receives the detected information, causes the payout control board 300 to pay out 12 game balls as prize balls due to the game balls entering the big winning hole 24. process. In addition, the main control board 100 (main CPU 101 ) transmits to the effect control board 200 a special prize winning command indicating that a game ball has entered the special prize opening 24 . As a result, the effect control board 200 can also recognize the entry state of the game ball into the big winning opening 24 .

(Regarding the grand prize opening opening/closing solenoid 24b)
The large winning opening opening/closing solenoid 24b is provided behind the large winning opening 24, and is a solenoid for causing the opening/closing door provided in the large winning opening 24 to perform an opening/closing operation. That is, the main control board 100 and the large winning opening opening/closing solenoid 24b are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc. In order to open and close the opening and closing door, the big winning opening opening and closing solenoid 24b is driven and controlled.

(Regarding the OUT port detection SW 25a)
The out port detection SW 25 a is provided inside the entrance of the out port 25 and is a SW for detecting that a game ball has entered the out port 25 . In other words, the outlet detection SW 25a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the detected information is input to the main control board 100 when an entry of a game ball is detected. It will be. Thereby, the out number can be grasped in the main control board 100 .

(Regarding the first special symbol display 27a)
The first special symbol display device 27a is provided in the symbol display device 27, is display-controlled by the main control board 100, and is used to execute a symbol variation game based on the entry of a game ball into the first starting port 21. is an indicator of That is, the first special symbol display 27a and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) controls the symbol variation on the first special symbol display 27a. When the game execution condition is established, the display of the symbol variation game is controlled on the first special symbol display device 27a. It should be noted that the fulfillment of the symbol variation game execution condition on the first special symbol display device 27a means that a negative determination is made in the processing of step S105-2-4 in the "special symbol variation start processing" (see FIG. 18) described later. time applies.

(Regarding the second special symbol display 27b)
The second special symbol display device 27b is provided in the symbol display device 27, is display-controlled by the main control board 100, and is used to execute a symbol variation game based on the entry of a game ball into the second starting port 22. is an indicator of That is, the second special symbol display 27b and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) controls the symbol fluctuation on the second special symbol display 27b. When the game execution condition is established, the display of the symbol variation game is controlled on the second special symbol display 27b. It should be noted that the fulfillment of the symbol variation game execution condition on the second special symbol display device 27b means that a negative determination is made in the processing of step S105-2-1 in the "special symbol variation start processing" (see FIG. 21). Applicable.

(Regarding the first special symbol holding display 27c)
The first special symbol suspension display 27c is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is display-controlled by the main control board 100 to indicate suspension of the symbol variation game based on the entry of the game ball into the first start port 21. A display for displaying numbers. That is, the first special symbol holding display 27c and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 detects the game ball from the first starting opening detection SW21a. , the display control of the first special symbol reservation indicator 27c is performed (turned off to light or turned on to flash) when the upper limit value (four pieces) of the hold is not reached. On the other hand, when the symbol variation game based on the game ball entering the currently varying first start port 21 is completed, the display control of the first special symbol reservation indicator 27c is performed (from blinking to lighting, or from lighting to extinguished). cause).

(Regarding the second special symbol holding display 27d)
The second special symbol suspension display 27d is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is display-controlled by the main control board 100 to indicate suspension of the symbol variation game based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port 22. A display for displaying numbers. That is, the second special symbol holding display 27d and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 detects the game ball from the second starting opening detection SW 22a. is input, when the upper limit value (four pieces) of the reservation is not reached, the second special symbol reservation indicator 27d is displayed and controlled (turned off to light, or lighted to blink). On the other hand, when the symbol variation game based on the game ball entering the currently varying second starting port 22 ends, the second special symbol holding display 27d is displayed and controlled (from flashing to lighting, or from lighting to extinguished). cause).

(Regarding normal symbol display 27e)
The normal symbol display 27e is provided in the symbol display device 27, and is a display for executing a normal symbol variation game whose display is controlled by the main control board 100. FIG. That is, the normal symbol display 27e and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) executes the normal symbol variation game on the normal symbol display 27e. When the condition is satisfied, the normal symbol variation game is displayed and controlled on the normal symbol display 27e.

(Regarding the normal symbol holding display 27f)
The normal symbol suspension display 27f is provided in the symbol display device 27, is display-controlled by the main control board 100, and displays the number of suspensions of the normal symbol variation game based on the game ball passing through the gate member 20. It is a display for In other words, the normal symbol holding display 27f and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and the main control board 100 (main CPU 101) receives the information that the game ball is detected from the gate detection SW 20a. When inputting, when the upper limit value (four pieces) of the reservation is not reached, the display of the normal design reservation indicator 27f is controlled (lighted from light or blinked from light). On the other hand, when the currently fluctuating normal symbol variation game ends, the display of the normal symbol reservation display 27f is controlled (from flashing to lighting or from lighting to extinguished).

(Regarding the round indicator 27g)
The round display device 27g is provided in the pattern display device 27, is display-controlled by the main control board 100, and is a display device for displaying the number of openings of the big winning opening 24 in the winning game described above. In other words, the round indicator 27g and the main control board 100 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc. For example, when the symbol variation game determined as winning in the special symbol winning determination process ends, the first special symbol At the timing of displaying a special symbol (for example, "7") indicating a win on the display 27a, the lighting of the LED indicator of the number of rounds corresponding to the determined winning game is controlled. When the winning game is being executed, the round indicator 27g is continuously controlled to turn on, and when the winning game ends, the round indicator 27g is controlled to go out.

(About production control board 200)
As shown in FIG. 4, the effect control board 200 is provided with a effect control unit 200a. It has a sub-ROM 202 for storing, and a sub-RAM 203 capable of reading and writing necessary for the effect control processing. In addition, an image/sound control unit 200b connected to the performance control unit 200a via a harness or the like so as to enable two-way communication is provided. a sound ROM 205 for storing sound data; a CGROM 206 for storing image data; and a VRAM 207 having a frame buffer for storing image generation data and the like. Further, there is provided a light emission drive control section 200c which is connected to the production control section 200a via a harness or the like so as to enable two-way communication. a light emission drive CPU 208 that performs light emission control processing, a light emission drive ROM 209 that stores a control program necessary for the light emission control processing and the drive control processing, and a light emission drive RAM 210 that is capable of reading and writing necessary for the light emission control processing and the drive control processing. have.

Further, the effect control section 200a is connected so that operation information from the effect button detection SW 14a, operation information from the effect lever detection SW 15a, and operation information from the cross key detection SW 16a can be input.

(Regarding effect button detection SW 14a)
The effect button detection SW 14a is provided in the effect button 14, and is a SW for detecting that the effect button 14 is pressed by the player when the effect button 14 is in the operation effective period. That is, the effect button detection SW 14a and the effect control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating that the effect button 14 has been pressed is input to the effect control board 200. ing. Then, the effect control board 200 that receives the information indicating that the effect button 14 has been pressed controls the effect corresponding to the depression of the effect button 14 via the image display device 26 and the speaker 10 . Here, for the effect button 14, for example, in a symbol variation game, an operation valid period is set for a predetermined time, and the effect button detection SW 14a detects only depression when the operation valid period is set.

(Regarding the production lever detection SW 15a)
The production lever detection SW 15a is provided in the production lever 15, and is a SW for detecting that the production lever 15 is operated by the player when the production lever 15 is in the operation valid period. That is, the production lever detection SW 15a and the production control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating that the production lever 15 has been operated is input to the production control board 200. ing. Then, the effect control board 200 that receives the information indicating that the effect lever 15 has been operated controls the effect corresponding to the operation of the effect lever 15 via the image display device 26 and the speaker 10 . Here, for the effect lever 15, for example, in a symbol variation game, an operation valid period is set for a predetermined period of time, and the effect lever detection SW 15a detects only operations when the operation valid period is set.

(Regarding cross key detection SW 16a)
The cross-key detection SW 16a is provided on the cross-key button 16, and is a SW for detecting that the cross-key button 16 has been pressed by the player. That is, the cross key detection SW 16a and the effect control board 200 are connected via a harness, a relay board, etc., and information indicating that the cross key button 16 has been operated is input to the effect control board 200. It's becoming

As described above, by operating the cross key button 16, the amount of light emitted from the light emitting device 9 and the amount of light emitted from the image display device 26 can be adjusted. Specifically, when the up button of the cross key button 16 is pressed, the amount of light can be increased (stepwise), and when the down button of the cross key button 16 is pressed, the amount of light can be decreased (step by step). When the right button of the cross key button 16 is pressed, the volume can be increased (stepwise), and when the left button of the cross key button 16 is pressed, the volume can be lowered (step by step).

The amount of light may be set in three stages of "strong", "medium", and "weak", or may be further divided into five stages. In addition, the volume may be set in three stages of "high", "medium", and "low", or may be set in five subdivided stages. Also, a level gauge image indicating the degree of adjustment of the amount of light or sound volume, or an adjustment sound may be emitted.

The adjustment of the amount of light and the adjustment of the sound volume can be performed when the symbol variation game is not performed, but may be performed even when the symbol variation game is performed. In this case, it is preferable to perform the adjustment without generating the level gauge image or the adjustment sound, or by displaying in a small size and outputting the adjustment sound at a low volume. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the effect image and the effect sound corresponding to the symbol variation game from being hindered by the level gauge image and the adjustment sound.

An image display device 26 is connected to the image/sound control unit 200b so that image information generated by the image/sound control unit 200b can be displayed. A speaker 10 is connected to the image/sound control unit 200b so that sound information generated by the image/sound control unit 200b can be output.

(Regarding speaker 10)
As described with reference to FIG. 1, the speaker 10 can output voice and sound effects. For example, if the closed state information is not input from the above-described frame open detection SW 3a, a notification sound indicating that the middle frame 3 is in the open state is output. That is, the speaker 10 and the image/sound control unit 200b are connected via a harness, a relay board, or the like, and the sound described above is output from the speaker 10 under the control of the image/sound control unit 200b.

Further, the light emitting device 9 and the board lighting device 29 are connected to the light emission drive control section 200c, and the light emission can be controlled by the light emission drive control section 200c. A board drive device 30 is connected to the light emission drive control section 200c, and the movable body 28 can be driven and controlled via the board drive device 30. FIG.

(Regarding movable body 28)
The movable body 28 is provided on the game board 6 and is capable of actions such as "falling", "rocking", and "rotating". Performing these actions suggests the possibility of winning.

Although not shown, it also includes an interrupt controller circuit that gives an interrupt signal to the sub CPU 201, a hard random number generation circuit that generates random numbers within a certain range, and the like.

(Regarding payout control board 300)
As shown in FIG. 4, the payout control board 300 includes a payout CPU 301 for performing payout control processing, a payout ROM 302 for storing control programs necessary for the payout control processing, and reading and writing necessary for the payout control processing. A possible payout RAM 303 is provided. A payout device 304 is connected to the payout control board 300 via a harness or the like. By controlling the payout device 304, game balls are paid out to the upper tray 5a.

Specifically, in the main control board 100, for example, when the information that the game ball is detected from the first start hole detection SW21a described later is input, the main control board 100 is operated to pay out three prize balls. A payout command signal is transmitted to the payout control board 300, and the payout control board 300 receiving this controls the payout device 304 to pay out three prize balls to the upper tray 5a. When the payout of the three prize balls is completed, a payout completion signal is transmitted from the payout control board 300 to the main control board 100, and the information that the game ball is detected is inputted from the first start hole detection SW21a. Complete the payout of game balls for.

Also, the discharge control board 300 is connected to the firing handle 8 via a harness or the like, and the firing handle 8 is gripped when the player touches the above-described handle touch sensor provided on the firing handle 8. The amount of rotation of the firing handle 8 is input according to the amount of the firing volume (not shown) provided on the firing handle 8 .

Also, the payout control board 300 is connected to a launcher 305 via a harness or the like, and by controlling the launcher 305 , game balls are launched into the game area 7 . Specifically, the payout control board 300 receives information that the player is gripping the shooting handle 8 from the shooting handle 8 and inputting the amount of rotation of the shooting handle 8 , and the shooting corresponding to the amount of rotation of the shooting handle 8 . The intensity controls the shooting device 305 to shoot the game ball.

Although not shown in FIG. 4, the payout control board 300 is connected to receive an input signal from the ball lending button 12 shown in FIG. When the lending button 12 is operated by the player, the payout control board 300 controls the payout device 304 so that the number of game balls corresponding to one operation of the lending ball button 12 (for example, 125 balls) is increased. is dispensed to the upper tray 5a.

(Regarding the power supply board 400)
As shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100, the effect control board 200, and the payout control board 300 are connected to the power supply board 400 via harnesses and the like, and as described above, the power supply plug (not shown). , the supplied external power is supplied to any of the main control board 100, the effect control board 200, and the payout control board 300. Although not shown, the power supply board 400 is provided with a conversion circuit or the like for converting external power (AC 100 volts) to DC 24 volts.

(Regarding the special symbol hit judgment table)
The special symbol hit determination table shown in FIG. 5A is stored in the main ROM 102 . Here, in the present embodiment, setting values in "6" stages can be set. Then, for example, when "1" is set as the set value, the main CPU 101 refers to the special symbol hit determination table for the set value "1" shown in (A) and performs the special symbol hit determination process. If other set values are set, the special symbol hit determination process is performed with reference to a special symbol hit determination table for each set value (not shown). In addition, common to the first start port and the second start port means that even if the game ball enters the first start port 21, even if the game ball enters the second start port 22, the special symbol to be referred to It shows that the decision table is common. Note that the set value is not limited to "6" stages, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, "4" stages or "2" stages may be used. Moreover, it is not necessary to provide a setting value.

Then, in the special symbol hit determination table for the set value "1" of (A), when the game state is the normal game state and when it is the time saving game state, the special symbol hit determination process When the probability of determination is ``1/319'' and the probability of determination as a loss is ``318/319'', and the game state is a probability variable game state, it is determined as a win in the special symbol win determination process. The probability of winning is "1/32", and the probability of being judged to be lost is "31/32". That is, when the game state is the probability variation gaming state, than the normal gaming state and the time-saving gaming state, the probability of being determined to be hit fluctuates about 10 times, so the probability variation gaming state is the normal gaming state and the time-saving gaming It can be said that the game state is more advantageous for the player than the state.

In addition, in the special symbol hit determination table for the set value "1" of (A), the hit determination probability is as described above, but in the special symbol hit determination table with other set values (not shown), the special symbol hit determination table The probability of being determined as winning in the symbol winning determination process is different. For example, in the special symbol hit determination table for the set value "6", when the game state is the normal game state and when it is the time-saving game state, the probability of being determined as a hit in the special symbol hit determination process is At "1/280", the probability that it is determined to be lost is "279/280", and when the game state is a variable game state, the probability that it is determined to be a hit in the special symbol hit determination process is " 1/28", the probability of being determined to be lost is "27/28". In this way, by enabling different hit probabilities to be set for each set value, it becomes easier for the amusement arcade to manage the put-out balls.

In addition, in the time-saving gaming state and the variable probability gaming state, as compared to the normal gaming state, as shown in FIG. 5 (B) described later and FIG. Since it is easy to win and an advantageous opening and closing mode is selected as the opening and closing mode of the projecting member of the second start port 22 when hitting a win, the variable probability game state is the most advantageous game state for the player, Next, the time-saving game state is a game state advantageous to the player, and the normal game state is the most disadvantageous game state for the player.

In the following, the normal gaming state and the time saving gaming state may be collectively referred to as a low probability state, and the variable probability gaming state may be referred to as a high probability state. In addition, the low probability state is sometimes referred to as a non-variable short state or a non-variable short state. It may be said that the ball rate is improved.

(Regarding normal pattern hit judgment table)
The normal symbol hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B is stored in the main ROM 102 . Then, when the game state is the normal game state, the probability that it is determined as winning in the normal symbol winning determination process is "4/256", and the probability that it is determined as losing is "252/256". , When it is a time-saving game state and when it is a probability variable game state, the probability that it is determined to be hit in the normal symbol hit determination process is "251/256", and the probability that it is determined to be lost is "5/256". ”. Therefore, compared to the normal game state, in the case of the time-saving game state or the probability variable game state, it is easier to determine that it is a win in the normal symbol win determination process, and it can be said that it is an advantageous game state for the player. . Incidentally, in the present embodiment, the set value is not provided in the normal symbol hit determination table, but the set value may be provided in the same manner as the special symbol hit determination table. For example, the set value "6" may be easier to hit in the normal symbol hit determination than the set value "1".

(About the special design decision table)
The special symbol determination table of FIG. 6(A) shows the result of the special symbol hit determination process performed based on the game ball entering the first start hole 21, and the case of winning and the case of losing. (1) a table for the first starting port 21 and a game ball entering the second starting port 22, which is referred to when determining the special symbol to be confirmed and displayed on the first special symbol display 27a; As a result of the special symbol hit determination processing being performed, it is referred to when determining the special symbol to be confirmed and displayed on the second special symbol display 27b depending on whether it is a win or a loss. , which are stored in the main ROM 102 . Then, the main CPU 101 refers to the table corresponding to the starting hole into which the game ball entered, and determines the special symbol based on the determination result of the special symbol winning determination process.

Then, in the special symbol determination table of (1) in FIG. 6A, as a result of performing the special symbol winning determination process, if the result is a winning, the main CPU 101 determines "special symbol A", "special symbol B". , and "special symbol C", any one of the special symbols is determined. Specifically, when the game ball enters the first starting hole 21, a random number for determining the special symbol is acquired, and one of the special symbols is determined by referring to the acquired random number for determining the special symbol. do. For example, if the obtained random number for determining the special symbol is "0 to 9", "special symbol A" is determined, and if the random number for determining the acquired special symbol is "10 to 64", "special symbol B" is determined. is determined, and if the acquired random number for special symbol determination is "65 to 99", "special symbol C" is determined. Then, when the special symbol is determined, the "number of rounds to be provided" and the "game state after winning" are determined uniquely. When the "special symbol A" is determined, 10 rounds are given as the "number of rounds given", and a probability variable game state is given as the "game state after winning". Further, when "special symbol B" is determined, 5 rounds are given as the "number of given rounds", and a variable probability game state is given as the "game state after winning". Further, when the "special symbol C" is determined, 10 rounds are given as the "number of given rounds", and a time-saving game state is given as the "game state after winning". On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol win determination process is a loss, the main CPU 101 determines a "special symbol D", and the "special symbol D" contains the "number of rounds to be given" and the "number of rounds after winning". Since "game state" is not defined, a winning game is not provided.

In addition, in the special symbol determination table (2) of FIG. 6(A), when the result of the special symbol winning determination processing is a winning, the main CPU 101 determines "special symbol E", "special symbol F". , determine one of the special symbols. A specific determination method is the same as (1) in FIG. Then, for example, if the acquired random number for determining the special symbol is "0 to 64", "special symbol E" is determined, and if the random number for determining the acquired special symbol is "65 to 99", "special symbol Determine F. When the "special symbol E" is determined, 10 rounds are given as the "number of rounds given", and a probability variable game state is given as the "game state after winning". Further, when the "special symbol F" is determined, 10 rounds are given as the "number of given rounds", and a time-saving game state is given as the "game state after winning". On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol win determination process is a loss, the main CPU 101 determines "special symbol G".

Thus, the rate at which the probability variation gaming state is given is the first start port 21 "65%", the second start port 22 is also "65%", so the rate of entering the probability variation gaming state , there is no difference between the first starting port 21 and the second starting port 22 . On the other hand, as for the "number of rounds given", 10 rounds are always given to the second start port 22, and 5 rounds are never given, so a winning game is given based on the ball entering the first start port 21. It can be said that giving a winning game based on the entry of the ball into the second starting port 22 is advantageous for the player, rather than doing so. In this embodiment, no set value is provided in the special symbol determination table, but a set value may be provided. For example, when the set value is "1" and when the set value is "6", the determination ratio of the special symbol may be different. In that case, the rate of entry into the variable probability gaming state is common to all set values, but the "number of rounds to be granted" may be set to have different rates for each set value. For example, the number of advantageous rounds may be more likely to be given when the set value is "6", or the number of more advantageous rounds may be more likely to be given when the set value is "1".

(Regarding normal design decision table)
The normal symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B is stored in the main ROM 102, and when the normal symbol hit determination process is performed based on the passage of the game ball through the gate member 20, the result is a hit; It is a table to be referred to when determining a normal symbol to be fixedly displayed on the normal symbol display 27e, depending on whether it is a loss or not. When the game state is the normal game state and the result of the normal symbol winning determination process is a win, the main CPU 101 selects "normal symbol A" in the normal symbol determination process performed in the normal symbol related process. is determined, and if it is a loss, "normal symbol B" is determined. In addition, when the game state is the time-saving game state and when the game state is the variable probability game state, as a result of performing the normal symbol win determination process, if it is a win, it is performed in the normal symbol related process. In the ordinary symbol determination process, the "ordinary symbol C" is determined, and if it is lost, the "ordinary symbol D" is determined.

It should be noted that, in the normal symbol as well, the content to be provided is uniquely determined, as in the above-described special symbol. When "normal pattern A" is determined, the protruding member of the second starting port 22 opens "1" time at "0.9S", and when "normal pattern B" is determined, the second starting port 22 projecting member does not open. Further, when the "normal symbol C" is determined, the protruding member of the second starting port 22 is opened "3" times at "1.8S", and when the "normal symbol D" is determined, the second The projecting member of the starting port 22 does not open. Therefore, compared to the normal gaming state, if the time-saving gaming state or the variable probability gaming state is a hit, the opening and closing mode of the projecting member of the second start port 22 is advantageous, so the game It can be said that it is an advantageous game state for the player.

Incidentally, in the present embodiment, no setting value is provided in the normal symbol determination table, but a setting value may be provided in the same manner as in the special symbol determination table. For example, for each set value, the probability of being determined to be hit in the normal symbol hit determination process may be different, and in the case of the set value "6", it is easier to hit than in the case of the set value "1". or vice versa. Moreover, the opening/closing mode of the second starting port 22 may be different for each set value. For example, in the case of the set value "6", it may be opened and closed in an opening and closing manner that is more advantageous than in the case of the set value "1", or vice versa.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the details of the winning special symbol. "Special symbol A", "Special symbol C", "Special symbol E", and "Special symbol F" open the opening/closing door of the big winning port 24 for 29.5 seconds per round, and 10 game balls enter. When 29.5 S elapses before the ball is detected or the entry of 10 game balls is detected, the opening/closing door of the big winning opening 24 is closed. Then, when the closing interval time 2S elapses, the next round is started, and this is repeated for 10 rounds. It should be noted that, after the 10 rounds are completed, the winning game ending (for example, 10S) is entered.

"Special pattern B" is that the opening and closing door of the big winning port 24 is opened 29.5 seconds per round, and the entry of 10 game balls is detected, or before the entry of 10 game balls is detected. After 29.5 seconds have passed, the opening/closing door of the big winning opening 24 is closed. Then, when the closing interval time 2S elapses, the next round is started, and this is repeated for 5 rounds. In addition, after the end of 5 rounds, the winning game ending (for example, 10S) is shifted to. Although not shown, there is no set value difference for the round opening/closing mode.

(About the special symbol variation pattern table)
The special symbol variation pattern table of FIG. 8 is stored in the main ROM 102 and is a table referred to when determining the variation time in the symbol variation game. When the game state is the normal game state, the main CPU 101 selects one of "variation pattern 1" to "variation pattern 5" when the result of the special symbol win determination process is a loss. Determining fluctuation patterns. Specifically, when the game ball enters the first start port 21 or the second start port 22, obtain a random number for determining the variation pattern, and refer to the obtained random number for determining the variation pattern. , determine the variation pattern. Although not shown, when the game ball enters the first start port 21 or the second start port 22, a reach determination random number is acquired, and the reach determination random number corresponds to the random number for executing reach. When doing so, determine one of the variation patterns from "variation pattern 2" to "variation pattern 5", and if the random number for reach determination does not correspond to the random number for executing reach, select "variation pattern 1" You may make it decide. On the other hand, when the game state is the normal game state, the main CPU 101 refers to the random number for determining the variation pattern if the result of the special symbol winning determination processing is a win, and determines "variation pattern 6". One of the fluctuation patterns is determined from among to "variation patterns 11".

Then, when the variation pattern is determined, the “details of presentation” and the “variation time” (seconds S) are uniquely determined. When "variation pattern 1" is determined, "regular variation" is determined as "description content", and "7S" is determined as "variation time". Here, "normal fluctuation" refers to fluctuation that does not reach reach. Further, when "variation pattern 2" is determined, "normal reach" is determined as the "description", and "15S" is determined as the "variation time". Here, "normal reach" refers to a reach that does not perform a special development effect (for example, once a temporary stop display is performed in the event of a failure, and then the middle decorative pattern image 26b is changed). Since the selection rate at time is low and the selection rate at the time of loss is high, it is positioned as a reach with low expectations for winning.

Further, when "variation pattern 3" is determined, "super reach" is determined as the "description", and "40S" is determined as the "variation time". Here, "super reach" refers to a reach in which a development effect is performed during the execution of reach (normal reach), and a real image is displayed on the image display device 26 at the development destination, for example, and the selection ratio at the time of winning. is higher than “normal reach” and the selection rate at the time of loss is lower than “normal reach”, so it is positioned as a reach with a higher expectation than “normal reach”.

Further, when "fluctuation pattern 4" is determined, "pseudo run 2 normal reach" is determined as the "effect content", and "50 s" is determined as the "variation time". In addition, although "pseudo consecutive" will be described in detail later, "pseudo consecutive 2 normal reach" has a higher expectation of winning than only "normal reach", and a reach with a lower expectation of winning than "super reach" Positioned as Further, when "variation pattern 5" is determined, "pseudo-run 3 super reach" is determined as the "effect content", and "70S" is determined as the "variation time". "Pseudo-ream 3 super reach" is positioned as a reach with a higher expectation of winning than only "super reach". In addition, "variation pattern 6" to "variation pattern 9" are different from "variation pattern 2" to "variation pattern 5" only in losing or winning, and the contents of the effect and the variation time are the same, so the explanation is omitted. do.

Further, when "variation pattern 10" is determined, "pseudo-run 4 super reach" is determined as the "effect content" and "90S" is determined as the "variation time". Here, "pseudo-run 4 super reach" is a variation pattern that is selected only in the case of winning, so when "pseudo-run" described later is performed four times, winning is determined at that time. Further, when "variation pattern 11" is determined, "full rotation reach" is determined as the "details of effect", and "120 seconds" is determined as the "variation time". Here, "full rotation reach" means that the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, and the right decorative design image 26c are "111", "222", "333", "444", "555", This is a reach that scrolls while aligning "666", "777", and "888", and finally displays "777" as a fixed display. It should be noted that "fluctuation pattern 11" may be selected only when "special symbol A" in FIG. 6 is determined. In this case, since not only winning but also the game state after winning is provided with a variable probability game state, the player can be made to play the game by making the player want to perform "full rotation reach". It leads to improvement of amusement interest.

In addition, the main CPU 101, when the game state is the time-saving game state and when the variable probability game state, as a result of the special symbol winning determination processing, if the result is a loss, "variation pattern 12" to " One of the variation patterns is determined from among the variation patterns 15. When "variation pattern 12" is determined, "reduced variation" is determined as "description content", and "2S" is determined as "variation time". Here, the "shortening variation" refers to variation in which the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, and the right decorative design image 26c are stopped simultaneously, and the game state is the time-saving game state. And when it is in the probability variation gaming state, the result of the special symbol hit determination process is performed, and if it is a loss, this "shortening variation" is likely to be selected, so the time saving gaming state and , The variable game state can be efficiently digested.

Further, when "fluctuation pattern 13" is determined, "reach swaying" is determined as the "description", and "10S" is determined as the "variation time". Here, the "ready-to-win" is, for example, by temporarily stopping and displaying the "7" symbol as the left decorative symbol image 26a and by prompting whether or not to temporarily stop and display the 7 symbol as the right decorative symbol image 26c. It is a production that incites whether or not reach is formed. As a result of "ready-to-win", for example, when 8 symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed as the right decorative design image 26c, no ready-to-win is formed and, for example, 7 designs are temporarily stopped and displayed as the right decorative design image 26c. In this case, a reach is formed and develops into a “variable short medium super reach” in “variation pattern 15” and “variation pattern 17” described later.

Further, when "variation pattern 14" is determined, "super reach in variable short time" is determined as the "description", and "30S" is determined as the "variation time". Here, "super reach during variable short time" is a "super reach" dedicated to the time saving game state and probability variable game state, and is different from the "super reach" performed in the normal game state.

Further, when the "variation pattern 15" is determined, the "description content" is determined as "stretching reach→variable short medium super reach", and the "variation time" is determined as "40S". "Variation pattern 16" and "Variation pattern 17" are different from "Variation pattern 14" and "Variation pattern 15" only in losing or winning. . In addition, the selection rate of "Reach Influence → Variable Short Medium Super Reach" is higher than "Variable Short Medium Super Reach" at the time of winning, and the selection ratio at the time of losing is lower than "Variable Short Medium Super Reach". Therefore, it is positioned as a reach with a higher expectation of winning than “variable short medium super reach”.

The special symbol variation patterns described above are not limited to those shown in FIG. 8, and may further include a plurality of special symbol variation patterns. For example, even in the normal game state, "shortening variation" (2S) may be provided. In addition, the special symbol variation pattern table referred to by the number of reserved balls of the symbol variation game of the first start port 21 may be changed, or the special symbol variation pattern table referred to by the number of reserved balls of the symbol variation game of the second start port 22 may be changed. The symbol variation pattern table may be changed. For example, in the case of losing, if the number of reserved balls is 4, it is easier to select "normal fluctuation" of "variation pattern 1" than when the number of reserved balls is 1, and the game is improved. You may make it improve operation.

In addition, when a loss is determined in the time-saving gaming state or the variable probability gaming state, and as a result of starting the symbol variation game of the second starting port 22, when the number of reserved balls of the second starting port 22 becomes 0, For example, it is possible to select the 0:00 normal variation (losing) consisting of 30S and secure the time for the game ball to enter the second starting port 22 .

Also, the special symbol variation pattern table to be referred to may be changed depending on the set value. For example, a special symbol variation pattern that is easy to select for each set value may be provided, or a special symbol variation pattern that can be selected only by the set value may be provided. As a result, it is possible to guess (or comprehend) what the set value is from the effect contents of the executed special symbol variation pattern, which leads to an improvement in game interest.

(Regarding the determination information storage area of the main RAM)
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) provided in the main RAM 103. As shown in FIG.

As described above, the main RAM 103 is provided with (A) a reserved storage area corresponding to special symbols and (B) a reserved storage area corresponding to normal symbols. Determination information (random value) related to the special symbol can be stored in each of the "variable storage area", "first storage area", "second storage area", "third storage area", and "fourth storage area". , Also in the second start port 22, the "variable storage area", the "first storage area", the "second storage area", the "third storage area", and the "fourth storage area" are each determined according to the special symbol. Information (random value) can be stored. ” can store the determination information (random number value) relating to each normal symbol.

(Regarding control processing performed by the main CPU 101)
Control processing performed by the main CPU 101 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 20. FIG.

(Regarding main processing on the main control board)
FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the main processing performed in the main control board 100. As shown in FIG. This processing is started by the main CPU 101 of the main control board 100 when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on and voltage is supplied from the power supply board 400 to each control board.

(Step S1)
In step S1, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a power outage (power outage state). As a result, if the power is interrupted (power outage state), the process of step S1 is repeatedly executed, and if the power is not interrupted (power outage state), the process proceeds to step S2. It should be noted that during a power outage (power outage state), the process can be executed using a backup power supply (not shown).

(Step S2)
In step S2, the main CPU 101 prohibits interrupts. As a result, the main CPU 101 executes only the process of FIG. 10 until the interrupt is permitted in S18, which will be described later. Then, when the interrupt is prohibited, the process proceeds to step S3.

(Step S3)
In step S3, the main CPU 101 determines whether the RAM clear switch 105 is ON (depressed). That is, it is determined whether the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on (the power switch 400a is turned on) while the RAM clear switch 105 is pressed. As a result, when the RAM clear switch 105 is ON, the process proceeds to step S4, and when the RAM clear switch 105 is not ON, the process proceeds to step S9.

(Step S4)
In step S4, the main CPU 101 determines whether the setting change key is at the setting change position. For example, when it is detected that the setting change key is inserted into the setting change keyhole 31 and that the setting change key is rotated by 90 degrees, it is determined that the setting change key is at the setting change position. If not, it is determined that the setting change key is not at the setting change position. As a result, if the setting change key is in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S5, and if the setting change key is not in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S7.

(Step S5)
In step S5, the main CPU 101 performs set value change processing shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 11 . Then, when the set value changing process is completed, the process proceeds to step S6.

(Step S6)
In step S6, the main CPU 101 transmits a power-on command. The power-on command is a command indicating that the power has been turned on. When the effect control board 200 receives the command, the effect control board 200 sends the image display device 26 via the image/sound control unit 200b, for example, "powering on."' is displayed, and the speaker 10 outputs a voice saying 'Power is being turned on'. Then, when the power-on command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S7)
In step S7, the main CPU 101 initializes areas 1 and 2 of the main RAM 103 (excluding the set value storage area) when the RAM clear switch 105 is ON and the power switch 400a is ON. As a result, for example, if the game is in the time-saving game state when the amusement arcade closes, it can be started from the normal game state when the amusement arcade opens the next day. After initializing the areas 1 and 2 of the main RAM 103 (excluding the setting value storage area), the process proceeds to step S8.

(Step S8)
In step S8, the main CPU 101 transmits a power-on command. Then, when the power-on command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S9)
In step S9, the main CPU 101 determines whether the setting change key is at the setting change position. As a result, when the setting change key is in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S10, and when the setting change key is not in the setting change position, the process proceeds to step S11.

(Step S10)
In step S10, the main CPU 101 performs set value confirmation processing shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 12 . Then, when the set value confirmation process is completed, the process proceeds to step S11.

(Step S11)
In step S11, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not there is backed up data. For example, when the power of the pachinko game machine 1 is turned off, a backup process (not shown) is performed to hold data, store a checksum, and turn on a backup flag. If the backup flag is ON, it is determined that there is backed up data, and if the backup flag is not ON, it is determined that there is no backed up data. As a result, when there is backed up data, the process proceeds to step S12, and when there is no backed up data, it is determined that the power is turned on for the first time, and the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S12)
In step S<b>12 , the main CPU 101 calculates the checksum of the area of the main RAM 103 . After calculating the checksum of the area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S13.

(Step S13)
In step S13, the main CPU 101 determines whether the checksum of the area of the main RAM 103 is normal. For example, it is determined whether the checksum value stored in the backup process (not shown) matches the checksum value calculated in step S12. If they match, the checksum is determined to be normal. , the checksum is determined to be incorrect. As a result, when the checksum is normal, the process proceeds to step S15, and when the checksum is not normal, the process proceeds to step S14.

(Step S14)
In step S14, the main CPU 101 performs game stop processing (error setting). Specifically, an error command for performing error notification using the light emitting device 9, the speaker 10, the image display device 26, etc. is transmitted to the effect control board 200, or the setting value change processing of FIG. 11 is not performed. For as long as possible, a process is performed that makes it impossible to cancel the error. Then, the process remains as long as the set value change process of FIG. 11 is not performed.

(Step S15)
In step S15, the main CPU 101 performs return processing. That is, the state before the power failure state is restored normally. When the state before the power failure state is restored normally, the process proceeds to step S16.

(Step S16)
In step S16, the main CPU 101 transmits a power restoration command. The power restoration command is a command indicating that the power has been restored, and when the effect control board 200 receives the command, the effect control board 200 sends, for example, the image display device 26 via the image/sound control unit 200b, "Power is being restored. ' is displayed, and the speaker 10 outputs a voice saying 'Power is being restored'. Then, when the power restoration command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S17)
In step S17, the main CPU 101 sets CTC. That is, the CTC (counter timer circuit), which has the function of creating a pulse output with a constant period and the function of time measurement, etc., is set so that the main control board timer interrupt processing, which will be described later, is periodically performed every 4 ms. , set the time constant register of the CTC. After setting the CTC, the process proceeds to step S18.

(Step S18)
At step S18, the main CPU 101 permits an interrupt. Then, when the interrupt is permitted, it waits, and after that, main control board timer interrupt processing, which will be described later, is performed every 4 ms.

(Regarding setting value change processing)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S5 of the main control board main process) showing the set value changing process performed in the main control board 100. FIG. Note that the state in which the processing of FIG. 11 is being performed corresponds to the above-described "setting change state".

(Step S5-1)
In step S5-1, the main CPU 101 initializes the area of the main RAM 103 (excluding the set value storage area). Then, after initializing the areas of the main RAM 103 (excluding the set value storage area), the process proceeds to step S5-2.

(Step S5-2)
In step S5-2, the main CPU 101 transmits a set value changing command. The setting value changing command is a command indicating that the setting value is being changed, and when the effect control board 200 receives the command, the image display, for example, is performed via the image/sound control unit 200b. The device 26 displays "setting change in progress", and the speaker 10 outputs the voice "setting change in progress". Then, when the set value changing command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S5-3.

(Step S5-3)
At step S5-3, the main CPU 101 reads out the current set value and displays it on the display 104. FIG. For example, if the set value stored in the set value storage area of the main RAM 103 is "1", the display 104 displays "1". Then, when the current set value is read out and displayed on the display 104, the process proceeds to step S5-4.

(Step S5-4)
At step S5-4, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a set value change operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON. If the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the process proceeds to step S5-5, and if the RAM clear switch 105 is not turned ON, the process proceeds to step S5-7.

(Step S5-5)
At step S5-5, the main CPU 101 performs processing for changing the setting value. For example, when the set value is "1" and the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value is changed to "2", and when the set value is "2" and the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, If the set value is changed to "3" and the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON when the set value is "3", the set value is changed to "4" and when the set value is "4", the RAM When the clear switch 105 is turned on, the set value is changed to "5", and when the set value is "5", when the RAM clear switch 105 is turned on, the set value is changed to "6", and the set value is changed to "5". 6", if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value is changed to "1". After changing the set value, the process proceeds to step S5-6.

(Step S5-6)
In step S5-6, the main CPU 101 displays the changed set value on the display 104 (for example, the rightmost segment). For example, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON when the set value "1" is displayed, the set value "2" is displayed, and when the set value "2" is displayed, the RAM clear switch 105 is turned on, the set value "3" is displayed, and when the RAM clear switch 105 is turned on while the set value "3" is being displayed, the set value "4" is displayed and the set value "4" is displayed. is displayed, if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON, the set value "5" is displayed; if the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON while the set value "5" is displayed, When "6" is displayed and the RAM clear switch 105 is turned ON while the set value "6" is being displayed, the set value "1" is displayed. Then, when the changed set value is displayed on the display 104, the process proceeds to step S5-7.

(Step S5-7)
At step S5-7, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a set value confirmation operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether the setting change key is at a position (vertical direction) rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from a position (horizontal direction) rotated clockwise 90 degrees. Then, if the setting value confirmation operation is performed, the process proceeds to step S5-8, and if the setting value confirmation operation is not performed, the process proceeds to step S5-4.

(Step S5-8)
In step S5-8, the main CPU 101 stores the set value in the set value storage area of the main RAM 103. FIG. That is, when a desired set value is displayed on the display 104 and the setting change key is turned counterclockwise by 90 degrees (vertical direction), the set value of the pachinko game machine 1 is determined. become. As a result, subsequent games are played based on the stored set values. After the set value is stored in the set value storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S5-9.

(Step S5-9)
At step S5-9, the main CPU 101 makes the display 104 non-display. That is, the set value displayed on the display 104 in step S5-6 is hidden. Then, when the display 104 is turned off, the process proceeds to step S5-10.

(Step S5-10)
At step S5-10, the main CPU 101 transmits a set value information command. The setting value information command is a command indicating information about the setting value. When the effect control board 200 receives the command, the effect control board 200 stores the information about the setting value in the sub-RAM 203, and executes a setting value suggesting effect described later. Then, the setting value information stored in the sub-RAM 203 is referred to. In addition, when receiving the command, the effect control board 200 terminates the above-described notification of "the setting is being changed". Then, when the set value information command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S6 of the main control board main process.

(Regarding setting value confirmation processing)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S10 of the main control board main process) showing the set value confirmation process performed in the main control board 100. FIG. It should be noted that the state in which the processing in FIG. 12 is being performed corresponds to the "setting confirmation state" described above.

(Step S10-1)
In step S10-1, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value checking command. The setting value checking command is a command indicating that the setting value is being checked. Upon receiving the command, the effect control board 200 performs image display via the image/sound control unit 200b, for example. The device 26 is displayed to indicate that "settings are being checked", and the speaker 10 is made to output a voice saying that "settings are being checked". Then, when the setting value checking command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S10-2.

(Step S10-2)
At step S10-2, the main CPU 101 reads out the current set value and displays it on the display 104. FIG. For example, if the set value stored in the set value storage area of the main RAM 103 is "1", the display 104 displays "1". When the current set value is read out and displayed on the display 104, the process proceeds to step S10-3.

(Step S10-3)
In step S10-3, the main CPU 101 determines whether an end operation has been performed. Specifically, it is determined whether the setting change key is at a position (vertical direction) rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from a position (horizontal direction) rotated clockwise 90 degrees. Then, if the end operation is performed, the process proceeds to step S10-4, and if the end operation is not performed, the process is looped until the end operation is performed.

(Step S10-4)
In step S10-4, the main CPU 101 makes the display 104 non-display. That is, the set value displayed on the display 104 in step S10-2 is hidden. When the display 104 is turned off, the process proceeds to step S10-5.

(Step S10-5)
In step S10-5, the main CPU 101 transmits a setting value confirmation end command. The setting value confirmation end command is a command indicating that the setting value confirmation process has ended, and the effect control board 200 terminates the above-described notification such as "setting is being confirmed" when receiving the command. Then, when the set value confirmation end command is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S11 of the main control board main process.

(Regarding main control board timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the main control board timer interrupt processing performed in the main control board 100. As shown in FIG. This processing is executed by interrupting the above-described main control board main processing periodically (for example, every 4 ms).

(Step S101)
In step S101, the main CPU 101 saves information stored in the register. After saving the information stored in the register, the process proceeds to step S102.

(Step S102)
In step S102, the main CPU 101 performs time management processing for updating the timer used in the game (for example, opening time of the big winning opening 24, etc.). After updating the timer used in the game, the process proceeds to step S103.

(Step S103)
In step S103, the main CPU 101 updates the initial value random numbers such as the random numbers for winning determination, the random numbers for determining special symbols, and the random numbers for determining variation patterns. When various random number updating processes are completed, the process proceeds to step S104.

(Step S104)
At step S104, the main CPU 101 detects an input from each switch shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 14 . Then, when an input from each SW is detected, the process proceeds to step S105.

(Step S105)
In step S105, the main CPU 101 performs processing related to special symbols. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 17 . Then, when the process related to the special symbol ends, the process proceeds to step S106.

(Step S106)
In step S106, the main CPU 101 performs processing related to normal symbols. For example, when the game ball passes through the gate member 20, the "normal symbol hit determination process" is performed, and the normal symbol determination and normal symbol fluctuation time are determined. Then, when the process relating to the normal symbol ends, the process proceeds to step S107.

(Step S107)
In step S107, the main CPU 101 performs processing related to the payout of game balls. For example, in the input SW detection process of step S104, when the entry of a game ball is detected, a payout command signal is sent to the payout control board 300 to pay out the corresponding prize ball. A payout command signal is set in the command transmission area of , and a payout completion signal is received from the payout control board 300 . Then, when the process related to the payout of game balls is completed, the process proceeds to step S108.

(Step S108)
In step S<b>108 , the main CPU 101 performs processing of transmitting various commands to the effect control board 200 . For example, in the process, the main CPU 101 checks whether a command is set in the command transmission area, and if the command is set, sends the set command to the effect control board 200 or the payout control board 300. send to. When the command transmission process ends, the process proceeds to step S109.

(Step S109)
In step S109, the main CPU 101 controls display of special symbols (variation display and determination) in the first special symbol display 27a when the symbol variation game is based on the entry of a game ball into the first starting port 21. display), and in the case of a symbol variation game based on the entry of a game ball into the second starting port 22, the second special symbol display 27b controls the display of special symbols (variation display and final display). conduct. Also, based on the fact that the game ball has entered each starting port and the symbol variation game in each starting port has ended, the first special symbol reservation display 27c and the second special symbol reservation display 27d is also displayed. Then, when the display control of the special symbols is completed, the process proceeds to step S110.

(Step S110)
In step S110, the main CPU 101 performs normal symbol display control (variable display and fixed display) on the normal symbol display 27e. Further, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate member 20 and the fact that the normal symbol variation game has ended, the display control of the normal symbol reservation display 27f is also performed. Then, when the display control of the normal symbols is completed, the process proceeds to step S111.

(Step S111)
In step S111, the main CPU 101 performs game performance information management processing. Specifically, the game performance information is calculated by the above-described formula of "(the number of game balls paid out in the normal game state / the number of outs in the normal game state) x 100", and the calculated game performance information is displayed on the display device 104. is displayed. When the game performance information management process is completed, the process proceeds to step S112.

(Step S112)
In step S112, the main CPU 101 restores the information saved in step S101 to the register. Then, when the saved information is returned to the register, the main control board timer interrupt processing is terminated.

(Regarding input switch detection processing)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S104 of the main control board timer interrupt process) showing the input switch detection process performed in the main control board 100. FIG.

(Step S104-1)
In step S104-1, the main CPU 101 performs a first start port detection process. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 15 . Then, when the process at the time of detection of the first starting port ends, the process proceeds to step S104-2.

(Step S104-2)
In step S104-2, the main CPU 101 performs processing when detecting the second start port. Note that this process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 16 . Then, when the process at the time of detection of the second starting opening is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-3.

(Step S104-3)
In step S104-3, the main CPU 101 receives the information that the game ball has been detected from the normal winning hole detection SW 23a, and causes the payout control board 300 to pay out eight game balls as prize balls. A process of setting a payout command signal in a command transmission area for payout is performed. Then, when the normal winning hole detection process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-4.

(Step S104-4)
In step S104-4, when the main CPU 101 receives the information that the game ball has been detected from the big winning hole detection SW 24a, the main CPU 101 causes the payout control board 300 to pay out 12 game balls as prize balls. A process of setting a payout command signal in a command transmission area for payout is performed. Also, in order to notify that a game ball has entered the big winning hole 24 using the image display device 26 or the like, a big winning hole ball detection signal is set in the command transmission area. Notification using the image display device 26 or the like means that, for example, when more than 10 game balls per round are detected by the large winning opening detection SW 24a (also referred to as over winning), the image display device 26 notifies that fact. Notification by display or sound from the speaker 10 can be mentioned. Then, when the big winning opening detection process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-5.

(Step S104-5)
In step S104-5, the main CPU 101 receives the information that the passing of the game ball has been detected from the gate detection SW 20a, and if the number of suspensions of the normal symbol variation game is less than "4", the normal symbol variation game is executed. 1 is added to the number of reserves, a random number value used for the normal symbol hit determination process is obtained, and stored in a normal symbol variation game reserve storage area provided in the main RAM 103 . In addition, in order to perform an effect corresponding to the passage of the game ball through the gate member 20, a process of setting a gate passage command in the command transmission area is performed. Then, when the passage gate detection processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S104-6.

(Step S104-6)
In step S104-6, the main CPU 101 performs processing when information indicating that a game ball has been detected is input from the out-hole detection SW 25a. For example, in order to transmit the out-port passage command to the effect control board 200, the out-port passage command is set in the command transmission area. Then, when the out-port detection processing is completed, the processing moves to step S105 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Regarding processing when detecting the first starting port)
FIG. 15 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S104-1 of the input switch detection process) showing the first start opening detection process performed in the main control board 100. As shown in FIG.

(Step S104-1-1)
At step S104-1-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the information indicating that the game ball has been detected has been input from the first starting opening detection SW 21a. Then, when the information that the game ball has been detected from the first starting hole detection SW21a is input, the processing is shifted to step S104-1-2, and the game ball entering is detected from the first starting hole detection SW21a. If the information has not been input, the process proceeds to step S104-2 of the input switch detection process.

(Step S104-1-2)
In step S104-1-2, the main CPU 101 transmits a payout command to cause the payout control board 300 to pay out three game balls as prize balls in response to the game balls entering the first starting port 21. Set the prize ball command in the area. Then, when the prize ball command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-1-3.

(Step S104-1-3)
In step S104-1-3, the main CPU 101 determines whether the "fourth storage area" is stored. That is, it is determined whether or not the number of pending symbol variation games at the first start port 21 is "4". If the "fourth storage area" is stored, the process proceeds to step S104-2 of the input switch detection process, and if the "fourth storage area" is not stored, step S104-1- 4 is processed.

(Step S104-1-4)
At step S104-1-4, the main CPU 101 acquires a random value for hit determination. The random number value acquired in the process is used in the later-described winning determination process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 18). Then, when the hit determination random number value is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-1-5.

It should be noted that the random number value for hit determination may be obtained before step S104-1-3. Then, if it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth storage area" has been stored, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-5)
At step S104-1-5, the main CPU 101 acquires a special symbol determination random number value. The random number value acquired in the process is used in the later-described winning determination process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 18). Then, when the special symbol determination random number value is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-1-6.

It should be noted that the acquisition of the special symbol determination random number value may be performed before step S104-1-3. Then, if it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth storage area" has been stored, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-6)
At step S104-1-6, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for determining a special symbol variation pattern. The random number value acquired in the process is used in the later-described winning determination process (step S104-1-8) and the special symbol variation start process (see FIG. 18). Then, when the random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-1-7.

It should be noted that the random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern may be obtained before step S104-1-3. Then, if it is determined in step S104-1-3 that the "fourth storage area" has been stored, the obtained random number value may be discarded.

(Step S104-1-7)
In step S104-1-7, the main CPU 101 stores the hit determination random number value, the special symbol determination random number value, and the special symbol variation pattern determination random value value as determination information in an empty storage area. For example, if the "third storage area" is stored and the "fourth storage area" is empty, each random value is stored in the "fourth storage area". After each random value is stored in a free storage area, the process proceeds to step S104-1-8.

(Step S104-1-8)
At step S104-1-8, the main CPU 101 performs a winning determination process. This winning judgment process is a process for judging whether or not the random number obtained in step S104-1-4 is a hit prior to the special symbol winning judgment process in the special symbol variation start time process (see FIG. 18). be. As a result, for example, if the hit determination random number value stored in the "fourth storage area" in step S104-1-7 is a hit, the notice effect ("prefetch effect" described later) is performed across a plurality of fluctuations. can be executed. When the winning determination process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-1-9.

(Step S104-1-9)
In step S104-1-9, the main CPU 101 sets the first starting opening winning command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the first starting opening winning command to the effect control board 200. FIG. In addition, the first start opening winning command also includes information on the determination result of the winning determination process in step S104-1-8, and the effect control board 200 receives the command to determine the winning time. It is possible to recognize whether the judgment result of the process is a win or a loss. Then, when the first start opening winning command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-1-10.

(Step S104-1-10)
In step S104-1-10, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved storage area specification command in the command transmission area in order to send the reserved storage area specification command to the effect control board 200. FIG. The reserved storage area specification command is a command that indicates the storage status of the determination information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103. For example, if it is not stored in any reserved storage area, "-", "0" if only the relevant variable storage area is stored, "1" if stored up to the first storage area, "2" if stored up to the second storage area, up to the third storage area This command includes information such as "3" if stored, and "4" if stored up to the fourth storage area. As a result, the performance control board 200 can also recognize the storage status of the determination information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103 . Then, when the reserved storage area designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-2 of the input switch detection process.

(Regarding the process when detecting the second starting port)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S104-2 of the input switch detection process) showing the second start opening detection process performed in the main control board 100. As shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 16 differs from FIG. 15 only in the starting port, but the basic processing content is the same, so the description will be omitted as appropriate.

(Step S104-2-1)
In step S104-2-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the information indicating that the game ball has been detected has been input from the second start opening detection SW 22a. Then, when the information that the game ball has been detected from the second start hole detection SW22a is input, the process proceeds to step S104-2-2, and the game ball entry is detected from the second start hole detection SW22a. If the information has not been input, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input switch detection process.

(Step S104-2-2)
In step S104-2-2, the main CPU 101 transmits a payout command to cause the payout control board 300 to pay out two game balls as prize balls in response to the game balls entering the second starting port 22. Set the prize ball command in the area. Then, when the prize ball command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-2-3.

(Step S104-2-3)
In step S104-2-3, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the "fourth storage area" is stored. That is, it is determined whether or not the number of pending symbol variation games at the second starting port 22 is "4". Then, if the "fourth storage area" is stored, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input switch detection process, and if the "fourth storage area" is not stored, step S104-2- 4 is processed.

(Step S104-2-4)
In step S104-2-4, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for hit determination. Then, when the hit determination random number value is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-2-5.

(Step S104-2-5)
At step S104-2-5, the main CPU 101 obtains a special symbol determination random number value. Then, when the special symbol determination random number value is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-2-6.

(Step S104-2-6)
At step S104-2-6, the main CPU 101 acquires a random number value for determining a special symbol variation pattern. Then, when the random number value for determining the special symbol variation pattern is obtained, the process proceeds to step S104-2-7.

(Step S104-2-7)
In step S104-2-7, the main CPU 101 stores the hit determination random number value, the special symbol determination random number value, and the special symbol variation pattern determination random value value as determination information in an empty storage area. After each random value is stored in a free storage area, the process proceeds to step S104-2-8.

(Step S104-2-8)
At step S104-2-8, the main CPU 101 performs a winning determination process. When the winning determination process is completed, the process proceeds to step S104-2-9.

(Step S104-2-9)
In step S104-2-9, the main CPU 101 sets the second starting opening winning command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the second starting opening winning command to the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the second start opening winning command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-2-10.

(Step S104-2-10)
In step S104-2-10, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved storage area specification command in the command transmission area in order to send the reserved storage area specification command to the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the reserved storage area designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S104-3 of the input switch detection process.

(Regarding special symbol related processing)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S105 of the main control board timer interrupt process) showing the special symbol related processing performed in the main control board 100. FIG.

(Step S105-1)
In step S105-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103 stores a flag indicating that the game is stopped. For example, when the main CPU 101 starts the variation of the special symbol, it sets a value “1” indicating that the special symbol status flag is being varied (step S105-2-13 in FIG. 18 to be described later). When stopping the variation of the symbols, the value "0" indicating that the game is stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area (step S105-4-3 in FIG. 19 to be described later). After setting the value "0" indicating that the game is stopped, the value "2" indicating the winning game is set in the case of winning. Then, if the value "0" indicating that it is stopped is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2, and if the value "0" indicating that it is stopped is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-3. to migrate.

(Step S105-2)
In step S105-2, the main CPU 101 performs special symbol variation start processing shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 18 . Then, when the special symbol variation start time processing is completed, the processing is shifted to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt processing.

(Step S105-3)
In step S105-3, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103 stores a flag indicating that the game is changing. Then, when the value "1" indicating that it is fluctuating is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4, and if the value "1" indicating that it is fluctuating is not set, the process proceeds to step S105-5. to migrate.

(Step S105-4)
At step S105-4, the main CPU 101 performs the special symbol changing process shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 19 . Then, when the special symbol fluctuation process is completed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5)
In step S105-5, when the main CPU 101 determines that the value "0" indicating that it is stopped is not set and that the value "1" that indicates that it is fluctuating is not set, the winning game is set, and the winning game process shown in FIG. 20 is performed. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 20 . Then, when the winning game process is completed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding special symbol fluctuation start processing)
FIG. 18 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S105-2 of special symbol related processing) showing the special symbol variation start time processing performed in the main control board 100. FIG.

(Step S105-2-1)
In step S105-2-1, the main CPU 101 stores the "relevant variation storage area" to "fourth storage area" in the reserved storage area of the symbol variation game corresponding to the second start port 22 provided in the main RAM 103. A determination is made as to whether the status is "-", which is not suspended in any of them. Then, if the number of reservations corresponding to the second starting port 22 is not "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-2, and the number of reservations corresponding to the second starting port 22 is "-". If there is, the process proceeds to step S105-2-4.

(Step S105-2-2)
In step S105-2-2, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the number of pending of the second starting port 22. FIG. Regarding the subtraction, as described in the above-mentioned "Regarding the second start port 22", after sliding the judgment information (random value) of the "variable storage area" to "fourth storage area", Emptying the storage area of "1" corresponds to this. Along with this, the display of the second special symbol reservation display 27d also changes to a display mode (from "blinking" to "lighting" or from "lighting" to "lighting out") according to the number of reservations. Then, when "1" is subtracted from the number of suspensions of the second starting port 22, the process proceeds to step S105-2-3.

(Step S105-2-3)
In step S105-2-3, the main CPU 101 sets the second starting opening subtraction command in the command transmission area described above in order to subtract the number of reservations managed by the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the second start opening subtraction command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-8.

(Step S105-2-4)
In step S105-2-4, the main CPU 101 reserves any of the "variable storage area" to the "fourth storage area" in the reserve storage area corresponding to the first start port 21 provided in the main RAM 103. It is determined whether the state is "-". Then, if the number of reservations corresponding to the first start port 21 is not "-", the process proceeds to step S105-2-5, and the number of reservations corresponding to the first start port 21 is "-". If there is, the process moves to step S105-2-7.

(Step S105-2-5)
In step S105-2-5, the main CPU 101 subtracts "1" from the number of reservations of the first starting port 21. FIG. Regarding the subtraction, as described in the above-mentioned "Regarding the first start port 21", after sliding the determination information (random value) of the "variable storage area" to "fourth storage area", Emptying the storage area of "1" corresponds to this. Along with this, the display of the first special symbol reservation display 27c also changes to a display mode (from "blinking" to "lighting" or from "lighting" to "lighting out") according to the number of reservations. Then, when "1" is subtracted from the number of reservations of the first starting port 21, the process proceeds to step S105-2-6.

(Step S105-2-6)
In step S105-2-6, the main CPU 101 sets the first starting opening subtraction command in the command transmission area described above in order to subtract the number of reservations managed by the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the first start port subtraction command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-8.

(Step S105-2-7)
In step S105-2-7, the main CPU 101 determines that the player is not playing unless the symbol variation game is played for a predetermined period of time, and displays the model name and manufacturer name on the image display device 26. A demo command is set in the command transmission area in order to display the demo screen (demo effect). Then, when the demo command is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

Although the details are omitted, when the symbol variation game is finished and the result is "-" which is not stored in any of the reservation storage areas, it becomes "waiting for customers". "Waiting for customers" means, for example, the sub-symbols confirmed and displayed in the last completed symbol variation game, the background image displayed in the last completed symbol variation game, the variation icon display area 26o, The first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (the second starting opening reserved ball image display area may also be included) are displayed. For example, it is a state in which an image or the like is additionally displayed to notify that the adjustment of the volume or the amount of light is possible. Then, when a predetermined time elapses in "waiting for customer", "demonstration effect" is executed. In addition, in the "demonstration effect", the sub-symbols and background images displayed in "waiting for customers", the variable icon display area 26o, the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start opening The fourth reserved ball image display area 26j (which may also include the reserved ball image display area of the second starting port) is not displayed, and for example, the model name and manufacturer name are displayed using the entire display area. Then, when a predetermined period of time elapses in the "demonstration effect", it becomes "waiting for customers" again.

(Step S105-2-8)
In step S105-2-8, the main CPU 101 sets the reserved storage area specification command in the command transmission area in order to send the reserved storage area specification command to the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the reserved storage area designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-9.

(Step S105-2-9)
In step S105-2-9, after performing step S105-2-2, when the main CPU 101 reaches the relevant process, the determination information (random value) acquired and stored in the second start opening detection process is stored. On the other hand, after performing step S105-2-5, if the process is reached, the determination information (random value) acquired and stored in the first start opening detection process is used to number) is hit determination information (random value). Furthermore, the main CPU 101 determines a special symbol based on the determination result. For example, if it is determined that the determination information (random value) acquired and stored in the first start opening detection process is a hit, one of the special symbols A to C is determined, and when the first start opening is detected If it is determined that the determination information (random number value) acquired and stored in the process is wrong, the special symbol D is determined. Then, when the special symbol hit determination process is completed, the process proceeds to step S105-2-10.

(Step S105-2-10)
At step S105-2-10, the main CPU 101 determines the special symbol variation pattern in the symbol variation game. Then, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S105-2-11.

(Step S105-2-11)
At step S105-2-11, the main CPU 101 designates a special symbol variation pattern in the command transmission area in order to transmit a command indicating the special symbol variation pattern determined at step S105-2-10 to the effect control board 200. set command. For example, when "variation pattern 9" is determined in step S105-2-10, a special symbol variation pattern designation command indicating "variation pattern 9" is set. Then, when the special symbol variation pattern designation command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-2-12.

(Step S105-2-12)
At step S105-2-12, the main CPU 101 sets the time management counter of the main RAM 103 to a variation time (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the special symbol variation pattern determined at step S105-2-10. For example, when "fluctuation pattern 9" is determined, the fluctuation time "70 seconds" is set. After setting the variable time, the process proceeds to step S105-2-13.

(Step S105-2-13)
At step S105-2-13, the main CPU 101 sets a value “1” indicating that the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103 is fluctuating. Thereby, it can be recognized that the special symbol is changing. Also, in this process, subtraction of the variable time set in step S105-2-12 is started. Then, in the special symbol state flag storage area, when the value "1" indicating that it is fluctuating is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

In the description of FIG. 18 above, if there is the determination information of the second start port 22 in step S105-2-1, the special symbol hit determination process is executed with priority over the first start port 21. The special symbol hit determination process may be executed in the order in which the ball is entered into the first starting hole 21 and the second starting hole 22.例文帳に追加

(Regarding processing during special symbol fluctuation)
FIG. 19 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S105-4 of the special symbol related process) showing the special symbol changing process performed in the main control board 100. FIG.

(Step S105-4-1)
In step S105-4-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether the set variable time has elapsed in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. FIG. For example, when "fluctuation pattern 9" is determined and "70S" is set, it is determined whether "70S" has passed. In addition, for the convenience of transmitting a symbol stop command, which will be described later, to the effect control board 200, the timing for determining that the timer has elapsed may be brought forward. For example, if it is "fluctuation pattern 9", the timer may determine that the timer has elapsed when "69 S" has elapsed. In this way, the timing at which the special symbols are confirmed and displayed on the first special symbol display device 27a and the second special symbol display device 27b and the timing at which the sub-symbols are confirmed and displayed on the image display device 26 are significantly different. can be prevented. Then, when the special symbol variation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-4-2, and when the special symbol variation time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process. to migrate.

(Step S105-4-2)
In step S105-4-2, the main CPU 101 transmits a symbol stop command for stopping the sub-symbols being variably displayed on the image display device 26 to the effect control board 200. Set stop command. Then, when the symbol stop command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-3.

(Step S105-4-3)
In step S105-4-3, the main CPU 101 sets a value "0" indicating that the game is stopped in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. FIG. Thereby, it can be recognized that the special symbol is stopped. Then, when the value "0" indicating that the game is stopped is set in the special symbol state flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S105-4-4.

(Step S105-4-4)
In step S105-4-4, the main CPU 101 determines whether a value is set in the time-saving number counter provided in the main RAM 103 or not. A value is set in this time-saving number counter in a winning game process, which will be described later. Then, if the value is set in the time saving number counter, the process moves to step S105-4-5, and if the value is not set in the time saving number counter, the process moves to step S105-4-9 do.

(Step S105-4-5)
In step S105-4-5, the main CPU 101 subtracts (subtracts 1) the value of the time saving counter. Then, when the value of the time saving number counter is subtracted (subtracted by 1), the process proceeds to step S105-4-6.

(Step S105-4-6)
In step S105-4-6, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the value of the time saving number counter after subtraction is "0". Then, if the value of the time saving number counter after subtraction is "0", the process proceeds to step S105-4-7, and if the value of the time saving number counter after subtraction is not "0", step S105 - Transfer the process to 4-9.

(Step S105-4-7)
At step S105-4-7, the main CPU 101 changes the game state to the normal game state. For example, in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, "0" is stored in the normal game state, "1" is stored in the time-saving game state, and "2" is stored in the probability variable game state. Stored. Therefore, in this process, the game state storage area of the main RAM 103 is set to "0". Then, when the game state is changed to the normal game state, the process proceeds to step S105-4-8.

(Step S105-4-8)
In step S105-4-8, the main CPU 101 sets the game state command (normal) in the command transmission area in order to transmit the game state command indicating the normal game state to the effect control board 200. FIG. When the game state command indicating the normal game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-9.

(Step S105-4-9)
At step S105-4-9, the main CPU 101 determines whether the result of determination at step S105-2-9 in FIG. 18 is winning. Then, if it is a win, the process moves to step S105-4-10, and if it is not a win, the process moves to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-4-10)
At step S105-4-10, the main CPU 101 sets a value “2” indicating a winning game in the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103. FIG. Thereby, it can be recognized that it is a winning game. Then, in the special symbol state flag storage area, when the value "2" indicating the winning game is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-11.

(Step S105-4-11)
At step S105-4-11, the main CPU 101 shifts to a winning opening to notify that a winning game has started. For example, in the winning state storage area of the main RAM 103, the state of the winning game is stored. Set to '2' if it is an interval between rounds and '3' if it is an ending. In addition, although not shown, for example, the game state when winning is normal game state, time-saving game state, probability variation game state, even if it is any of the game state, once in the normal game state and Then, when the game is shifted to the winning opening, the process shifts to step S105-4-12.

(Step S105-4-12)
In step S105-4-12, the main CPU 101 sets the hit opening command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the win opening command for executing the effect corresponding to the opening of the winning game to the effect control board 200. . Then, when the winning opening command is set, the process proceeds to step S105-4-13.

(Step S105-4-13)
At step S105-4-13, the main CPU 101 sets the time corresponding to the opening of the winning game (for example, “10 seconds”) in the time management counter of the main RAM 103. FIG. Then, when the time corresponding to the winning opening is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding winning game processing)
FIG. 20 is a flowchart (subroutine of step S105-5 of special symbol-related processing) showing the winning game processing performed in the main control board 100. As shown in FIG.

(Step S105-5-1)
In step S105-5-1, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the winning opening is in progress. That is, it is determined whether or not "0" indicating a winning opening is set in the winning state storage area of the main RAM 103 . It should be noted that when the big winning opening is opened in step S105-5-3, which will be described later, the value of the winning state storage area changes from "0" to "1". If it is during the winning opening, the process proceeds to step S105-5-2, and if it is not during the winning opening, the process proceeds to step S105-5-4.

(Step S105-5-2)
At step S105-5-2, the main CPU 101 determines whether the time corresponding to the winning opening set at step S105-4-13 of FIG. 19 (for example, "10 seconds") has elapsed. Then, if the time corresponding to the winning opening has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S105-5-3, and if the time corresponding to the winning opening has not elapsed, step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt processing. to process.

(Step S105-5-3)
In step S105-5-3, the main CPU 101 opens the big winning opening 24 by driving the big winning opening opening/closing solenoid 24b. Also, in the time management counter of the main RAM 103, the open time of 29.5 seconds is set. As a result, the first round of the winning game is started. In this process, the value of the winning state storage area is changed from "0" to "1". Then, when the big winning opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-4)
At step S105-5-4, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the big winning opening is open. It is determined whether or not "1" indicating that the big winning hole is open is set in the winning state storage area of the main RAM 103. - 特許庁Then, when the big winning opening is being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-5-5, and when the big winning opening is not being opened, the process proceeds to step S105-5-7.

(Step S105-5-5)
In step S105-5-5, the main CPU 101 determines whether 29.5 seconds have passed while the big winning hole 24 remains open without 10 balls being detected by the big winning hole detection SW 24a, or the main CPU 101 detects the big winning hole. It is determined whether or not 10 balls have been detected by the SW 24a, or whether any condition for closing the big winning opening has been established. Then, if the condition for closing the big winning opening is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S105-5-6, and if the closing condition for the big winning opening is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process. to migrate.

(Step S105-5-6)
In step S105-5-6, the main CPU 101 shifts to an inter-round interval that constitutes a period from when the big winning port 24 is closed to when it is next opened. In this process, the value of the winning state storage area is changed from "1" to "2". When the inter-round interval is entered, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-7)
In step S105-5-7, the main CPU 101 determines whether the interval between rounds is in progress. That is, it is determined whether or not "2" indicating the inter-round interval is set in the winning state storage area of the main RAM 103 . If it is during the interval between rounds, the process proceeds to step S105-5-8, and if it is not during the interval between rounds, the process proceeds to step S105-5-13.

(Step S105-5-8)
In step S105-5-8, the main CPU 101 determines whether it is time to end the final round. For example, in step S105-5-11, which will be described later, as a result of updating (incrementing or decrementing) the number of rounds, if the number of remaining rounds is "0", it is determined that the last round has ended. If it is the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-5-9, and if it is not the end of the final round, the process proceeds to step S105-5-11.

(Step S105-5-9)
In step S105-5-9, the main CPU 101 shifts to an ending informing that the winning game has ended. In this process, the value of the winning state storage area is changed from "2" to "3". Also, the time corresponding to the ending of the winning game (for example, 10 seconds) is set in the time management counter of the main RAM 103 . Then, when the process is shifted to the ending, the process shifts to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-10)
In step S105-5-10, the main CPU 101 sets the ending command in the command transmission area in order to transmit the ending command for executing the effect corresponding to the ending of the winning game to the effect control board 200. Then, when the ending command is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-11)
At step S105-5-11, the main CPU 101 updates the value of the round number counter of the main RAM 103. FIG. The update method may be increment or decrement. For example, when 5 rounds are awarded, the round number counter of the main RAM 103 may be set to "5" and decremented by 1 each time one round is completed. may be incremented by 1 each time one round is digested instead of setting "5" to . After updating the number of rounds, the process proceeds to step S105-5-12.

(Step S105-5-12)
At step S105-5-12, the main CPU 101 opens the big winning opening 24 by driving the big winning opening opening/closing solenoid 24b. Also, in the time management counter of the main RAM 103, the open time of 29.5 seconds is set. As a result, the second and subsequent rounds of the winning game are started. In this process, the value of the winning state storage area is changed from "0" to "1". Then, when the big winning opening 24 is opened, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-13)
At step S105-5-13, the main CPU 101 determines whether the time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the ending set at step S105-5-9 has passed. Then, if the time corresponding to the ending has passed, the process proceeds to step S105-5-14, and if the time corresponding to the ending has not passed, step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process. to process.

(Step S105-5-14)
In step S105-5-14, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol is one of "special symbol A", "special symbol B" and "special symbol E". That is, it is determined whether the special symbol determined based on the hit is one of "special symbol A", "special symbol B", and "special symbol E". Then, if the special symbol is one of "special symbol A", "special symbol B", and "special symbol E", the process proceeds to step S105-5-15, and the special symbol is "special symbol A". , "special symbol B" and "special symbol E", the process proceeds to step S105-5-18.

(Step S105-5-15)
At step S105-5-15, the main CPU 101 sets the gaming state to the variable probability gaming state. Therefore, in this process, "2" is set in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. FIG. When "2" is set in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-5-16.

(Step S105-5-16)
In step S105-5-16, the main CPU 101 transmits the game state command (variable probability) to the effect control board 200 to transmit the game state command (variable probability) indicating the variable probability game state. Set to area. Then, when the game state command indicating the variable probability game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-5-17.

(Step S105-5-17)
At step S105-5-17, the main CPU 101 sets the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103 to a value "0" indicating that the game is stopped. Then, in the special symbol state flag storage area, when the value "0" indicating that the game is stopped is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S105-5-18)
In step S105-5-18, the main CPU 101 sets the game state to the time-saving game state. Therefore, in this process, "1" is set in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103. FIG. When "1" is set in the game state storage area of the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-5-19.

(Step S105-5-19)
In step S105-5-19, the main CPU 101 sets the time saving frequency counter provided in the main RAM 103 to "100". As a result, the time saving game state of "100" times starts from the next variation. When "100" is set in the time-saving number counter provided in the main RAM 103, the process proceeds to step S105-5-20.

(Step S105-5-20)
In step S105-5-20, the main CPU 101 sets the above-described command transmission area in order to transmit a game state command (time saving) indicating the time saving game state to the effect control board 200. FIG. Then, when the game state command (time saving) indicating the time saving game state is set, the process proceeds to step S105-5-21.

(Step S105-5-21)
At step S105-5-21, the main CPU 101 sets the special symbol state flag storage area of the main RAM 103 to a value "0" indicating that the game is stopped. Then, in the special symbol state flag storage area, when the value "0" indicating that the game is stopped is set, the process proceeds to step S106 of the main control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding control processing performed by the sub CPU 201)
Control processing performed by the sub CPU 201 will be described with reference to FIGS. 21 to 24. FIG. 21 to 24 are stored in the sub ROM 202, and the sub CPU 201 reads out the control program from the sub ROM 202 and performs control processing according to the read control program.

(Step S200)
In step S200, the sub CPU 201 determines whether the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a power outage (power outage state). As a result, when the power is interrupted (power outage state), the process of step S200 is repeatedly executed, and when the power is not interrupted (power outage state), the process proceeds to step S201. It should be noted that during a power outage (power outage state), the process can be executed using a backup power supply (not shown).

(Step S201)
In step S201, the sub CPU 201 performs initial setting processing for initializing the values of internal registers and the like. After completing the initial setting process, the process proceeds to step S202.

(Step S202)
In step S202, the sub CPU 201 sets CTC. That is, a CTC (counter timer circuit) that has a function to create a pulse output with a constant period and a function to measure time is set, and the effect control board timer interrupt processing, which will be described later, is performed periodically every 4 ms. , set the time constant register of the CTC. After setting the CTC, the process proceeds to step S203.

(Step S203)
In step S203, the sub CPU 201 prohibits the interruption of the effect control board timer interrupt process which is periodically executed by interrupting the effect control board main process. When the interrupt is prohibited, the process proceeds to step S204.

(Step S204)
In step S204, the sub CPU 201 updates the random number for effect. Then, when the effect random number updating process ends, the process proceeds to step S205.

(Step S205)
In step S205, the sub CPU 201 permits the interruption of the effect control board timer interrupt process which is periodically executed by interrupting the effect control board main process. Then, when the interrupt is permitted, the process moves to step S203 again, and thereafter steps S203 to S205 are looped.

(Regarding production control board timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing the effect control board timer interrupt processing performed in the effect control board 200. As shown in FIG. This process is a process that is executed by interrupting the above-described effect control board main process periodically (for example, every 4 ms).

(Step S300)
In step S300, the sub CPU 201 saves the contents of the register to the stack area. After saving the contents of the register to the stack area, the process proceeds to step S301.

(Step S301)
In step S<b>301 , the sub CPU 201 performs processing for updating the timer managed by the effect control board 200 . After updating the timer, the process proceeds to step S302.

(Step S302)
In step S302, the sub CPU 201 performs input processing of the operation device. For example, when the effect button 14 is operated, operation information is input from the effect button detection SW 14a, and when the effect lever 15 is operated, operation information is input from the effect lever detection SW 15a, and the cross key button 16 is operated. If so, input operation information from the cross key detection SW 16a. When the operation information is input, the sub CPU 201 controls the image display device 26, the speaker 10, and the like to perform an effect. Then, when the operation device input processing is completed, the processing proceeds to step S303.

(Step S303)
In step S303, the sub CPU 201 performs main command reception processing shown in FIGS. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. Then, when the main command reception process ends, the process proceeds to step S304.

(Step S304)
In step S304, the sub CPU 201 performs processing for transmitting a subcommand. A subcommand is a command set in the main command receiving process of FIGS. 23 and 24, which will be described later. In the process, the subcommand is transmitted to the image/sound control section 200b and the light emission drive control section 200c. . Then, the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c that have received the subcommand control the effects of display, sound, light emission, and drive corresponding to the subcommand. Then, when the subcommand is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S305.

(Step S305)
In step S305, the sub CPU 201 restores the contents saved in the stack area in step S300 to the register. Then, when the contents saved in the stack area are returned to the register, the effect control board timer interrupt processing is terminated.

(Regarding main command reception processing)
FIG. 23 is a flowchart (a subroutine of step S301 of the effect control board timer interrupt process) showing the main command receiving process 1/2 performed in the effect control board 200. As shown in FIG.

(Step S301-1)
In step S301-1, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a power-related information command has been received. The power-related information command includes the above-described power-on command and power-recovery command. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-2, and if none of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-4.

(Step S301-2)
In step S301-2, the sub CPU 201 performs a power-related information command reception process. For example, when a power-on command is received, a corresponding subcommand is set and a power restoration command is issued in order to notify that "power is being turned on" via the light-emitting device 9, speaker 10, or image display device 26. When it is received, a corresponding subcommand is set in order to notify that "the power supply is being restored" via the light emitting device 9, the speaker 10, or the image display device 26. FIG. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-3.

(Step S301-3)
In step S301-3, the sub CPU 201 sets a power source related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the power source related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-4)
In step S301-4, the sub CPU 201 determines whether an error-related information command has been received. The error-related information command is, for example, a magnetic sensor error (severe error) sent when an illegal magnetism is detected, or a plate sent when game balls exceeding a predetermined amount are stored in the lower tray 5b A full tank error (minor error) and the like can be mentioned. If an error-related information command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-5, and if any of these commands has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-7.

(Step S301-5)
In step S301-5, the sub CPU 201 performs processing when receiving an error-related information command. For example, when a serious error is received, the corresponding subcommand is set to notify the error using the entire display area of the image display device 26, and when a light error is received, the display of the image display device 26 is set. Set the corresponding subcommand to perform error notification using a part of the area. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-6.

(Step S301-6)
In step S301-6, the sub CPU 201 sets an error-related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the error-related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-7)
In step S301-7, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not it has received a start port related information command. The starting opening related information command includes the above-described first starting opening winning command, second starting opening winning command, first starting opening subtraction command, second starting opening subtraction command, reserved storage area designation command. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-8, and if none of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-10.

(Step S301-8)
In step S301-8, the sub CPU 201 performs a start port related information command reception process. For example, when a command indicating winning is received, the corresponding subcommand is set to update (add) the "hold number" or "hold icon", and when a command indicating subtraction is received, "number Set the corresponding subcommands to update (subtract) "hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon". Also, a corresponding subcommand is set to make the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c recognize the current storage status of the judgment information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103. FIG.
In addition, when receiving the first starting opening winning command or the second starting opening winning command, the sub CPU 201 refers to the information of the determination result of the winning determination process included in the command, and the variable icon or the pending icon (the color of the variable icon and the pending icon described in the "holding prefetch effect" described later) is determined. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-9.

(Step S301-9)
In step S301-9, the sub CPU 201 sets the starting port related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the starting port related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-10)
In step S301-10, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a variation pattern related information command has been received. The variation pattern related information command includes the above-mentioned special symbol variation pattern designation command. Then, if the command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-11, and if the command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-13.

(Step S301-11)
In step S301-11, the sub CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a variation pattern related information command. For example, when a special symbol variation pattern specification command is received, a variation performance pattern is determined from a variation performance pattern determination table (not shown). In the variation performance pattern determination table, one special symbol variation pattern is associated with one or more variation performance patterns. For example, if it is "normal fluctuation" (7S) of "variation pattern 1", one corresponding fluctuation effect pattern (7S) is prepared, and "super reach" (40S) of "variation pattern 3" For example, a plurality of corresponding variable effect patterns (40S) are prepared. Then, when "variation pattern 3" is received, any one variation performance pattern is determined from a plurality of prepared variation performance patterns. In addition, since a plurality of prepared variation performance patterns have different performance contents, a plurality of performances can be executed for one variation pattern. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-12.

(Step S301-12)
In step S301-12, the sub CPU 201 sets the variation pattern related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the variation pattern related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-13)
At step S301-13, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a symbol designation related information command has been received. The symbol specification related information command includes a winning special symbol specifying command, a small winning special symbol specifying command, and a losing special symbol specifying command. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-14, and if none of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-16.

(Step S301-14)
In step S301-14, the sub CPU 201 performs processing when receiving a symbol designation related information command. For example, when a win symbol designation related information command is received, a combination of symbols corresponding to the win in the sub symbols (for example, "777") is determined, and when a losing symbol designation related information command is received, A combination of symbols (for example, "524") corresponding to the failure in the sub-symbols is determined. Then, when the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-15.

(Step S301-15)
In step S301-15, the sub CPU 201 sets a pattern designation related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the pattern designation related subcommand to the image/sound control section 200b and the light emission drive control section 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-16)
In step S301-16, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a symbol stop related information command has been received. Then, when the symbol stop related information command is received, the process moves to step S301-17, and when the symbol stop related information command is not received, the process moves to step S301-19.

(Step S301-17)
In step S301-17, the sub CPU 201 performs a pattern stop related information command reception process. Specifically, a process for stopping the sub-symbols displayed in a variable manner is performed. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-18.

(Step S301-18)
In step S301-18, the sub CPU 201 sets the symbol stop related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the symbol stop related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Regarding main command reception processing)
FIG. 24 is a flowchart (a subroutine of step S301 of the effect control board timer interrupt process) showing the main command receiving process 2/2 performed in the effect control board 200. As shown in FIG.

(Step S301-19)
At step S301-19, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not a gaming state related information command has been received. The game state related information command includes a game state command (normal), a game state command (time saving), and a game state command (variable probability). If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-20, and if none of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-22.

(Step S301-20)
At step S301-20, the sub CPU 201 performs a game state related information command reception process. Specifically, when the game state command (normal) is received, the process of determining the effect (background, etc.) corresponding to the normal game state is performed, and when the game state command (time reduction) is received, the time saving game state When the game state command (variable probability) is received, the processing of determining the effect (background etc.) corresponding to the variable probability game state is performed. Then, after finishing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-21.

(Step S301-21)
In step S301-21, the sub CPU 201 sets the game state related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the game state related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-22)
At step S301-22, the sub CPU 201 determines whether a demo command has been received. If the demo command has been received, the process proceeds to step S301-23, and if the demo command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S301-25.

(Step S301-23)
In step S301-23, the sub CPU 201 performs processing when a demonstration command is received. Specifically, processing for starting the demonstration effect is performed. Then, when the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S301-24.

(Step S301-24)
In step S301-24, the sub CPU 201 sets a demonstration-related subcommand in the subcommand transmission area in order to transmit the demonstration-related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. As a result, the image/sound control unit 200b that has received the subcommand causes the image display device 26 to display a demonstration movie image (company logo, etc.), and the light emission drive control unit 200c causes the light emitting device 9 to display the image during the demonstration. Light is emitted according to the light emission pattern. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-25)
In step S301-25, the sub CPU 201 determines whether or not it has received a win-related information command. Win-related information commands include opening commands, ending commands, and other win-related commands. If any of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-26, and if none of these commands have been received, the process proceeds to step S301-28.

(Step S301-26)
In step S301-26, the sub CPU 201 performs a win-related information command reception process. Specifically, when an opening command is received, processing is performed to determine the effect (background, etc.) corresponding to the opening, and when an ending command is received, processing is performed to determine the effect (background, etc.) corresponding to the ending. I do. Then, after completing the processing, the processing moves to step S301-27.

(Step S301-27)
In step S301-27, the sub CPU 201 sets a hit-related subcommand in the sub-command transmission area in order to transmit the hit-related subcommand to the image/sound control unit 200b and the light emission drive control unit 200c. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

(Step S301-28)
In step S301-28, the sub CPU 201 performs processing corresponding to other received commands. For example, when a setting value changing command, a setting value information command, a setting value checking command, and a setting value confirmation end command are received, processing corresponding to these received commands is performed. After finishing the process, the process proceeds to step S302 of the effect control board timer interrupt process.

Here, examples of various effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described below.

(Look-ahead effect)
The look-ahead effect is the timing at which the game ball enters the first start port 21 or the second start port 22, and prior to the special symbol hit determination process in the special symbol variation start time process (FIGS. 15 and 16 Winning time determination process) is performed, and it is an effect that is executed based on the determination result of the preliminary determination process. If the look-ahead effect is not installed, for example, when the game ball enters the first start port 21, after acquiring and storing the determination information (random number value), special symbol hit determination is performed in the special symbol variation start processing. Since the process is performed, even if the judgment information (random value) is stored in the "fourth storage area", it will not be judged whether it is a hit or not until the judgment information (random value) is moved to the "variable storage area" not. Therefore, even if you have obtained the judgment information (random value) of "hit", you will have a sense of anticipation of winning at the stage before the judgment information (random value) is transferred to the "variable storage area". It is not possible to execute a performance that enhances the performance. However, if a look-ahead effect is installed, for example, "pre-determination processing (determination processing at the time of winning a prize)" is performed, and after determining "hit" or "losing", determination information (random value ) is transferred (including the variation transferred to the relevant variation storage area), continuous production can be executed, so the determination information (random value) is transferred to the "variation storage area". You will be able to raise the expectation of "hit" from the previous stage.

A specific example of the look-ahead effect is a "suspended look-ahead effect". "Reservation look-ahead effect" mainly refers to the variation icon displayed in the variation icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j. It is an effect using the reserved icon to be displayed and the reserved icon displayed in the second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n. For example, when the determination information (random value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third storage area", when the game ball enters the first start port 21, the determination information (random value) is stored in the "fourth storage area" numerical value) is stored, pre-determination processing is performed. Then, based on the determination result of the preliminary determination process, if it is determined to perform the pending look-ahead effect, the default normal color (white) pending icon and displays a different lookahead pending icon. As the prefetch pending icon, for example, there are multiple types such as "white flashing", "blue", "green", "red", "gold", "rainbow", "character A", "character B", and "character C". , Multiple stages of display are possible, and if the judgment result of the preliminary judgment process is "hit", "white flashing", "blue", "green", "red", "gold", "rainbow", " Character A", "Character B", and "Character C" can be displayed. Any one of "red", "gold", "character A", and "character B" can be displayed. Then, only in the case of "hit", "Rainbow" and "Character C" can be selected. In the case of "losing", "blinking white" and "blue" are made easy to select, and the degree of expectation for winning "red", "gold" and "character B" is increased. In addition, when the ball is entered, it is "blinking white", but it is possible to change to an icon with a high probability of winning, such as "blue" or "green", each time a "game with 1 variation" is performed. It is also possible to display "gold" from the time of ball entry. In the following, such an effect may be referred to as a "suspended change effect".

Note that "Character A", "Character B", and "Character C" may not be selected in a variation pattern in which a reach is performed, but may be selected in a variation pattern in which a reach is performed. Alternatively, selection may be made according to a variation pattern in which super reach is performed.

Further, as a specific example of another effect of the look-ahead effect, there is a "zone effect". A “zone effect” is a effect mainly using the image display device 26 . For example, when the determination information (random value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third storage area", when the game ball enters the first start port 21, the determination information (random value) is stored in the "fourth storage area" numerical value) is stored, pre-determination processing is performed. Then, when it is determined that the zone effect is to be performed based on the determination result of the preliminary determination process, for example, in the next symbol variation game, the image display device 26 displays "When all the special symbols are aligned, enter the ○○ zone!" And so on, after performing a production to incite the rush, align the special symbols and rush into the "○○ zone", and the determination information (random value) stored in the above-mentioned "fourth storage area" ” until the change is moved to “○○ zone” effect. During execution of this "XX zone" effect, the image display device 26 displays a telop such as "In the XX zone". The "zone effect" is more likely to be executed when it is determined to be "win" in the preliminary determination process, and is less likely to be executed when it is determined to be "losing". It is possible to make the player have great expectations for the award of one game.

Further, as a specific example of another effect of the look-ahead effect, there is a "chance continuous notice". The “chance eye continuous notice” is an effect using the left decorative design image 26a, the middle decorative design image 26b, and the right decorative design image 26c mainly displayed on the image display device 26. FIG. For example, when the determination information (random value) is stored up to the above-mentioned "third storage area", when the game ball enters the first start port 21, the determination information (random value) is stored in the "fourth storage area" numerical value) is stored, pre-determination processing is performed. Then, when it is determined that the chance consecutive effect is performed based on the determination result of the preliminary determination process, for example, the symbol variation game corresponding to the determination information (random value) stored in the "first storage area" is executed. Confirmation display, symbol variation game confirmation display corresponding to the determination information (random value) stored in the "second storage area", and determination information (random value) stored in the "third storage area" The combination of the decorative pattern images of the same color is stopped in the confirmation display of the pattern variation game and the. For example, in the decorative pattern image, '333' and '777' are red, '111' and '555' are green, and '222' and '444' are red. , "666" and "888" are composed of blue, combinations of only red such as "337" and "773", combinations of only green such as "115" and "551", and combinations of "246" and "246". ” and “628”, which are blue only combinations, are displayed over multiple variations, creating an effect that makes people expect that a win will be awarded in the subsequent symbol variation game. In addition, in the case of winning, it is easy to select a combination with only red, and in the case of losing, it is easy to select a combination with only blue. is increasing.

(Pseudo consecutive notice)
The pseudo-continuous notice is an effect using the left decorative symbol image 26a, the middle decorative symbol image 26b, the right decorative symbol image 26c, and the pseudo-continuous dedicated symbols that are mainly displayed on the image display device 26. In the "game", by repeating the temporary stop display of the decorative pattern, it is an effect that makes it appear as if the variation is being performed multiple times. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, pseudo-runs can be executed 2, 3, or 4 times, and the higher the number of times, the higher the expectation of winning (in this embodiment, 4 times). hit confirmed). As a specific effect content, for example, "5" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the left decorative design image 26a, "6" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the right decorative design image 26c, and "Pseudo" is displayed as the middle decorative design image 26b. "Next exclusive symbol (for example, "NEXT")" is temporarily stopped, and again all the decorative symbol images are variably displayed (at this point, pseudo-continuous two times), and "5" is again displayed as the left decorative symbol image 26a. ' is temporarily stopped, '6' is temporarily stopped displayed as the right decorative design image 26c, and 'pseudo continuous exclusive design (for example, 'NEXT')' is temporarily stopped displayed as the middle decorative design image 26b, Again, all the decorative pattern images are variably displayed (at this point, 3 times of the pseudo-run. After that, the same is true for 4 times of the pseudo-run). When "5" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the decorative design image 26a and "5" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the right decorative design image 26c, two pseudo-continuations are performed, and in the second temporary stop display, the left decorative design image is displayed. When "5" is temporarily stopped and displayed as 26a and "6" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the right decorative symbol image 26c, the pseudo run is 3 times (the same applies to 4 pseudo runs hereinafter). In addition, once the ready-to-win state is reached, a so-called "pseudo-run after reach", in which a "pseudo-run dedicated symbol (for example, "NEXT")" is temporarily stopped and displayed as the middle decorative symbol image 26b, or, for example, the first temporary run is displayed. At the start of the fluctuation after the stop display, a notice (symbol stop notice) that a "pseudo-consecutive exclusive pattern (for example, "NEXT")" will be temporarily stopped is displayed in the middle decorative pattern image 26b, and at that point, the pseudo It is also possible to execute an effect such that three times or more in a row is confirmed.

(Regarding control processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204)
Next, control processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204 will be described with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27. FIG. 25 and 26 show the image/sound control unit main processing performed by the image/sound CPU 204, and FIG.・This is the timer interrupt processing of the sound control unit.

(Step S400-1)
In step S400-1, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether various subcommands have been received. That is, it is determined whether any subcommand is received from the effect control section 200a. It should be noted that the subcommand is received by the image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing in FIG. If various subcommands have been received, the process proceeds to step S400-2, and if various subcommands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-2)
In step S400-2, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image/sound setting processing. Specifically, processing for setting an image and sound corresponding to the received subcommand is performed. When the image and sound corresponding to the subcommand are set, the set image is generated in the image generation process of step S400-7 described later, and the set sound is generated in the sound generation process of step S400-8. It is output from the image display device 26 and the speaker 10 in step S400-9. When the image/sound setting process is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-3.

(Step S400-3)
In step S400-3, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether or not a start port-related subcommand has been received. Then, when the start port related subcommand is received, the process proceeds to step S400-4, and when the start port related subcommand is not received, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-4)
In step S400-4, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing for updating a pending number counter (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b. In other words, the image/sound control unit 200b can also recognize the storage status of the determination information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103 by the start opening-related subcommands transmitted from the effect control unit 200a. That is, even in the pending number counter provided in the image/sound control unit 200b, "-" that is not stored in any pending storage area, "0" that is stored only in the change storage area, and the first storage area "1" is stored up to the second storage area, "2" is stored up to the second storage area, "3" is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" is stored up to the fourth storage area. It is possible. A dedicated RAM may be provided for the pending number counter, or the VRAM 207 may be used. Then, when the pending number counter is updated, the process proceeds to step S400-5.

(Step S400-5)
In step S400-5, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether the frame switching flag is ON in a flag management area (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b. The frame switching flag is turned ON every 33 ms because it is turned ON by the image/sound control section timer interrupt processing in FIG. That is, in the image display device 26, one frame of image is displayed every 33 ms. A dedicated RAM may be provided as a management area for managing the frame switching flag, or the VRAM 207 may be used. If the frame switching flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S400-6, and if the frame switching flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S400-1.

(Step S400-6)
In step S400-6, the image/sound CPU 204 turns off the frame switching flag. Then, when the frame switching flag is turned OFF, the process proceeds to step S400-7.

(Step S400-7)
In step S400-7, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image generation processing shown in FIG. This processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 26 . Then, when the image generation process ends, the process proceeds to step S400-8.

(Step S400-8)
In step S400-8, the image/sound CPU 204 performs sound generation processing. Specifically, sound information per frame is generated based on the content set in step S400-2. This will generate an image and sound in one frame. Then, when the sound generation process ends, the process proceeds to step S400-9.

(Step S400-9)
In step S400-9, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing for outputting the generated image and sound in one frame. As a result, the generated image in one frame is displayed on the image display device 26 and the generated sound in one frame is output from the speaker 10 . When the output process is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-1.

(About image generation processing)
FIG. 26 is a flowchart (a subroutine of step S400-7 of the image/sound control unit main processing) showing the image generation processing performed in the image/sound control unit 200b.

(Step S400-7-1)
In step S400-7-1, the image/sound CPU 204 increments the frame update counter (not shown) provided in the image/sound control unit 200b by "1". The frame update counter is a counter that is incremented by "1" every 33ms. A dedicated RAM may be provided for the frame update counter, or the VRAM 207 may be used. Then, when the frame update counter is "+1", the process proceeds to step S400-7-2.

(Step S400-7-2)
In step S400-7-2, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether the value of the frame update counter is "3". That is, it is determined whether 3 frames and 99 ms have passed. If the value of the frame update counter is "3", the process proceeds to step S400-7-3, and if the value of the frame update counter is not "3", the process proceeds to step S400-7-9. to migrate.

(Step S400-7-3)
In step S400-7-3, the image/sound CPU 204 performs a process of reading the pending number counter. That is, the pending number counter is "-" that is not stored in any of the pending storage areas, "0" that is stored only in the relevant variable storage area, "1" that is stored up to the first storage area, and "1" that is stored in the first storage area. It reads out which of "2" is stored up to the storage area, "3" is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" is stored up to the fourth storage area. Then, when the pending number counter is read, the process proceeds to step S400-7-4.

(Step S400-7-4)
In step S400-7-4, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether or not the pending number counter has been updated. That is, it is determined whether or not the pending number counter has been updated within 99ms. The "update" here means that the value of the pending number counter has changed, or that the value of the pending number counter has not changed, but both "increase" and "decrease" occur, resulting in " ±0” is also included. That is, the pending number counter can also store an update history, and the image/sound CPU 204 can recognize that the pending number counter has been updated if there is an update history, and that the pending number counter has not been updated if there is no update history. recognizable. Then, if the pending number counter has been updated, the process proceeds to step S400-7-5, and if the pending number counter has not been updated, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-5)
In step S400-7-5, the image/sound CPU 204 determines whether the value of the pending number counter has changed since the previous reading. That is, during 99ms, did the value of the pending number counter change, or did the value of the pending number counter not change but both "increase" and "decrease" occurred, resulting in "±0"? , to determine. Then, if the value of the pending number counter has changed, the process proceeds to step S400-7-6, and if the value of the pending number counter has not changed, the process proceeds to step S400-7-7. do.

(Step S400-7-6)
In step S400-7-6, the image/sound CPU 204 determines the display contents of the value after the change without omitting the change process for "hold the number". Also, regarding the "suspended icon", the display content is determined based on the changed value without omitting the changing process. Here, the "change process" is the change process of the pending number counter during 99ms. For example, if the pending number counter changes from '1' to '2' within 99ms, the 'hold number' is updated from '1' to '2' without omitting the changing process, A new "hold icon" is displayed. Then, when the display contents are determined by the changed value, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-7)
In step S400-7-7, the image/sound CPU 204 omits the changing process for "hold numbers" and determines the display contents based on the values read out last time. As for the "suspended icon", the change process is not omitted, and the display contents are determined based on the value after the change. For example, when the holding number counter changes from "1" to "2" and then changes from "2" to "1" within 99 ms (when both the start-up win and the start of the symbol variation game occur ) does not display "1" → "2" → "1", but maintains the display of "1" (omitting the change process), and the "hold icon" is 1 A display is performed that increases by one and decreases by one (the process of change is not omitted). Then, when the display contents are determined based on the values read out last time, the process proceeds to step S400-7-8.

(Step S400-7-8)
In step S400-7-8, the image/sound CPU 204 clears the frame update counter. That is, after finishing the determination of the display contents related to the suspension, which is performed every 99 ms, the process of setting the frame update counter to "0" is performed. After clearing the frame update counter, the process proceeds to step S400-7-9.

(Step S400-7-9)
In step S400-7-9, the image/sound CPU 204 performs image generation processing. That is, when the processing of steps S400-7-3 to S400-7-8 is finished and the processing is reached, image generation processing reflecting the processing contents is performed. When the image generation process is completed, the process proceeds to step S400-8.

In FIG. 26, when the frame update counter reaches "3", the display contents related to the number hold and the hold icon are determined. For example, it may be more than "3" or less than "3". For example, when the frame update counter reaches "1", the display contents related to the number hold and the hold icon may be determined. That is, the display contents related to the number pending and the pending icon may be determined every 33 ms.

(Regarding image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing performed in the image/sound CPU 204 . This processing is executed by interrupting the above-described image/sound control unit main processing periodically (for example, every 33 ms).

(Step S500)
In step S500, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing for receiving various subcommands. That is, a process of receiving various subcommands from the effect control section 200a is performed. When various subcommands are received, the process proceeds to step S501.

(Step S501)
In step S501, the image/sound CPU 204 performs processing for updating the frame counter and the like. After updating the frame counter and the like, the process proceeds to step S502.

(Step S502)
In step S502, the image/sound CPU 204 turns on the frame switching flag. Then, when the frame switching flag is turned ON, the image/sound control unit timer interrupt processing is terminated.

(Regarding control processing performed by the light emission driving CPU 208)
Next, control processing performed by the light emission driving CPU 208 will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 to 30. FIG. 28 and 29 show the light emission drive control unit main processing performed by the light emission drive CPU 208, and FIG. This is timer interrupt processing.

(Step S600-1)
In step S600-1, light emission driving CPU 208 determines whether various subcommands have been received. That is, it is determined whether any subcommand is received from the effect control section 200a. It should be noted that the subcommand is received in the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt process of FIG. If various subcommands have been received, the process proceeds to step S600-2, and if various subcommands have not been received, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-2)
In step S600-2, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs light emission/drive setting processing. Specifically, the setting of the light emission pattern of the light emitting device 9 and the like and the setting of the driving pattern of the movable body 28 corresponding to the received subcommand are performed. When the light emission pattern of the light emitting device 9 or the like corresponding to the subcommand is set, light emission is controlled by the light emission pattern set in step S600-7 described later. , is driven and controlled according to the driving pattern set in step S600-8, which will be described later. When the light emission/driving setting process is completed, the process proceeds to step S600-3.

(Step S600-3)
In step S600-3, light emission drive CPU 208 determines whether or not a start port-related subcommand has been received. Then, when the start port related subcommand is received, the process proceeds to step S600-4, and when the start port related subcommand is not received, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-4)
In step S600-4, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of updating a pending number counter (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c. That is, even in the light emission drive control section 200c, it is possible to recognize the storage status of the determination information storage area (reserved storage area) of the main RAM 103 based on the start opening-related subcommands transmitted from the effect control section 200a. That is, even in the reservation number counter provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c, "-" which is not stored in any reservation storage area, "0" which is stored only in the change storage area, and the first storage area It is possible to recognize "1" that is stored, "2" that is stored up to the second storage area, "3" that is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" that is stored up to the fourth storage area. is. A dedicated RAM may be provided for the pending number counter, or the light emission driving RAM 210 may be used. After updating the pending number counter, the process proceeds to step S600-5.

(Step S600-5)
In step S600-5, the light emission drive CPU 208 determines whether the frame switching flag is ON in a flag management area (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c. The frame switching flag is turned ON every 33 ms because it is turned ON by the timer interrupt processing of the light emission drive control unit in FIG. As a result, for example, the display of the sub-hold display is updated every 33 ms. A dedicated RAM may be provided as a management area for managing the frame switching flag, or the light emission driving RAM 210 may be used. If the frame switching flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S600-6, and if the frame switching flag is not ON, the process proceeds to step S600-1.

(Step S600-6)
In step S600-6, the light emission driving CPU 208 turns off the frame switching flag. Then, when the frame switching flag is turned OFF, the process proceeds to step S600-7.

(Step S600-7)
In step S600-7, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs light emission control processing shown in FIG. Note that this processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 29 . When the light emission control process ends, the process proceeds to step S600-8.

(Step S600-8)
In step S600-8, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs drive control processing. Specifically, when the driving pattern of the movable body 28 is set in step S600-2, the driving control of the movable body 28 is performed. When the drive control process ends, the process proceeds to step S600-1.

(About light emission control processing)
FIG. 29 is a flowchart (a subroutine of step S600-7 of the main processing of the light emission drive control section) showing the light emission control processing performed by the light emission drive control section 200c.

(Step S600-7-1)
In step S60-7-1, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs a process of incrementing the frame update counter (not shown) provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c by "1". The frame update counter is a counter that is incremented by "1" every 33 ms. A dedicated RAM may be provided for the frame update counter, or the light emission driving RAM 210 may be used. Then, when the frame update counter is "+1", the process proceeds to step S600-7-2.

(Step S600-7-2)
In step S600-7-2, light emission driving CPU 208 determines whether the value of the frame update counter is "3". That is, it is determined whether 3 frames and 99 ms have passed. If the value of the frame update counter is "3", the process proceeds to step S600-7-3, and if the value of the frame update counter is not "3", the process proceeds to step S600-7-9. to migrate.

(Step S600-7-3)
In step S600-7-3, the light emission driving CPU 208 performs a process of reading the pending number counter. That is, the pending number counter is "-" that is not stored in any of the pending storage areas, "0" that is stored only in the relevant variable storage area, "1" that is stored up to the first storage area, and "1" that is stored in the first storage area. It reads out which of "2" is stored up to the storage area, "3" is stored up to the third storage area, and "4" is stored up to the fourth storage area. Then, when the pending number counter is read, the process proceeds to step S600-7-4.

(Step S600-7-4)
In step S600-7-4, light emission driving CPU 208 determines whether or not the pending number counter has been updated. That is, it is determined whether or not the pending number counter has been updated within 99 ms. The "update" here means that the value of the pending number counter has changed, or that the value of the pending number counter has not changed, but both "increase" and "decrease" occur, resulting in " ±0” is also included. That is, the pending number counter can also store an update history, and the light emission drive CPU 208 can recognize that the pending number counter has been updated if there is an update history, and recognize that the pending number counter has not been updated if there is no update history. can. Then, if the pending number counter has been updated, the process proceeds to step S600-7-5, and if the pending number counter has not been updated, the process proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-5)
In step S600-7-5, the light emission drive CPU 208 determines whether the value of the pending number counter has changed since the previous reading. That is, during 99 ms, whether the value of the pending number counter changed, or whether the value of the pending number counter did not change but both "increase" and "decrease" occurred, resulting in "±0" , to determine. Then, if the value of the pending number counter has changed, the process proceeds to step S600-7-6, and if the value of the pending number counter has not changed, the process proceeds to step S600-7-7. do.

(Step S600-7-6)
In step S600-7-6, the light emission drive CPU 208 determines the light emission contents of the "sub-suspend display" with the changed value without omitting the change process. Here, the "change process" is the change process of the pending number counter during 99ms. For example, if the pending number counter changes from '1' to '2' within 99ms, the 'sub-hold indicator' is updated from '1' to '2' without omitting the changing process. do. Then, when the content of light emission is determined by the changed value, the process proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-7)
In step S600-7-7, the light emission driving CPU 208 omits the changing process for the "sub hold display" and determines the light emission content based on the value at the time of the previous reading. For example, if the holding number counter changes from "1" to "2" and then changes from "2" to "1" within 99 ms (when both the start-up win and the start of the symbol variation game occur ), the "sub hold indicator" emits light as follows: "○○" (one lights up, the other goes out) → "●●" (both lights up) → "○○" (one lights up, the other goes out) Instead, the light emission of "●○" (one is lit, the other is extinguished) is maintained (the change process is omitted). Then, when the content of light emission is determined based on the value at the time of the previous reading, the process proceeds to step S600-7-8.

(Step S600-7-8)
In step S600-7-8, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs processing to clear the frame update counter. That is, after finishing the determination of the light emission content related to the suspension, which is performed every 99 ms, the process of setting the frame update counter to "0" is performed. After clearing the frame update counter, the process proceeds to step S600-7-9.

(Step S600-7-9)
In step S600-7-9, the light emission drive CPU 208 performs light emission control processing. That is, when the processing of steps S600-7-3 to S600-7-8 is completed and the processing is reached, light emission control processing reflecting the processing contents is performed. When the light emission control process is completed, the process proceeds to step S600-8.

In FIG. 29, when the frame update counter reaches "3", the light emission content of the sub-hold display is determined, but the value of the frame update counter for determining the light emission content can be set arbitrarily. For example, it may be more than "3" or less than "3". For example, when the frame update counter reaches "1", the content of light emitted by the sub-hold indicator may be determined. That is, the content of light emitted by the sub-hold display may be determined every 33 ms.

(Regarding light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 30 is a flow chart showing a light emission drive controller timer interrupt process performed by the light emission drive CPU 208. As shown in FIG. This processing is executed by interrupting the above-described light emission drive control unit main processing periodically (for example, every 33 ms).

(Step S700)
In step S700, the light emission driving CPU 208 performs processing for receiving various subcommands. That is, the process of receiving various subcommands from the effect control section 200a is performed. When various subcommands are received, the process proceeds to step S701.

(Step S701)
In step S701, the light emission driving CPU 208 performs processing for updating the frame counter and the like. After updating the frame counter and the like, the process proceeds to step S702.

(Step S702)
In step S702, the light emission driving CPU 208 turns on the frame switching flag. Then, when the frame switching flag is turned ON, the light emission drive control unit timer interrupt processing ends.

Next, the first characteristic portion according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 to 43. FIG. Specifically, FIGS. 31 to 43 are diagrams showing the characteristics of updates related to the “main pending display”, “sub pending display”, “number pending”, “relevant pending icon” and “suspended icon”. is.

The "frame update counter" in the figure corresponds to the contents described in step S400-7-1 in FIG. 26 and step S600-7-1 in FIG. That is, it indicates that one frame image is displayed every 33 ms.
In addition, the "holding number counter" in the drawing corresponds to the holding number counter provided in the image/sound control unit 200b and the holding number counter provided in the light emission drive control unit 200c.
Further, the "main reservation display device" in the figure corresponds to the above-described first special symbol reservation display device 27c. In addition, of course, the second special symbol reservation display device 27d may be included.
Further, the "sub-suspended display device" in the figure corresponds to the above-described first special symbol sub-suspended display device 29a. In addition, the second special symbol sub-holding display 29b may of course be included.
In addition, the "number pending" in the figure corresponds to the number of pending displayed as the first start gate pending number image 26e described above. Of course, the number of reservations displayed as the second start opening reservation number image 26f may be included.
In addition, the "variation pending icon" and "suspension icon" in the figure refer to the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first holding ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth holding It corresponds to the spherical image display area 26j. Of course, the second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k to the second starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n may be included.

(About time chart 1)
FIG. 31 is a time chart 1 according to the embodiment of the invention. A time chart 1 shows an example in which the pending number counter does not increase or decrease for 99 ms.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display ” LEDs are lit. The "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 of FIG.

Further, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspend display" is processed as shown in FIG. , each is updated according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here, "2").
That is, two LEDs of the "sub hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as "number hold", the hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, and the first start opening first hold ball A pending icon B is displayed in the image display area 26g, and a pending icon C is displayed in the first starting port second pending ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (until 99ms has elapsed). continue.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "subject variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "subject variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display ” LEDs are lit.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the process, each is updated according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here, "2").
That is, two LEDs of the "sub hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as "number hold", the hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, and the first start opening first hold ball A pending icon B is displayed in the image display area 26g, and a pending icon C is displayed in the first starting port second pending ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (until 99ms has elapsed). continue.

In this way, if the pending number counter does not increase or decrease within 99ms, even if the next update cycle is at "4F", the "sub-holding display" will not display the display content at "1F" (the LED is 2 The display content (“2” is displayed) on “1F” is maintained for “holding numbers”, and the “variable icon” and “holding icon” are displayed on “1F” (The holding icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, the holding icon B is displayed in the first starting opening first held ball image display area 26g, and the holding icon C is displayed in the first starting opening second held ball image display area 26h. display) is maintained.

(About time chart 2)
FIG. 32 is time chart 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 2 shows an example in which the pending number counter is incremented by 1 during 99 ms. Note that, since this is an example of an increase, a description of the "variable icon" will be omitted.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly the "hold number counter" is "2", and the "main reserve display ” LEDs are lit. The "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 of FIG.

Further, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspend display" performs the processing shown in FIG. Each is updated according to the value of the "counter" (here, "2").
That is, two LEDs of the "sub hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as "number hold", the hold icon A is displayed in the variable icon display area 26o, and the first start opening first hold ball A pending icon B is displayed in the image display area 26g, and a pending icon C is displayed in the first starting port second pending ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (after 99ms has elapsed). continue.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104-1-3 is negative). is. At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third storage area" (see FIG. 9), and the "reserve number counter" changes to " 3”.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T1", for example. In other words, the "main reserve indicator" indicates that the reserve storage area for the first start port is stored up to the "third storage area", and the display content is such that one LED blinks and the other LED lights up. is updated to
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents in "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") ("timing T1” is not updated at substantially the same timing).

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the 'holding number counter' is '3', and the 'main holding indicator' is a display content in which one LED blinks and the other LED lights up.
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" maintain the display contents in "1F" without being updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "3", and the "main reservation display ” indicates that one LED is blinking and the other LED is lit.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspend indicator" performs the processing shown in FIG. According to the value of the "counter" (here, "3"), the display contents corresponding to the winning at the "timing T1" are updated.
That is, the "sub-hold indicator" is updated to display content in which one LED blinks and the other LED lights up, and the "number hold" is updated from "2" to "3", As for the "suspended icon", a suspended icon D is displayed in the first start port third suspended ball image display area 26i. In addition, when the "holding icon" is displayed in each holding ball image display area, as shown by the holding icon D, a small circular image is first displayed, and the circular image gradually becomes larger, and then the normal It is displayed with a display animation such as reaching the display size of . In this way, by displaying the pending icon corresponding to the prize winning with the display animation, it is possible to make the appearance more interesting than when the icon is displayed in the normal display size.

Then, the 'sub-suspend display', 'suspend number', and 'suspend icon' continue their display contents until the frame update counter reaches '3' (until 99 ms has elapsed).
As described above, the "sub hold indicator", "number hold", and "hold icon" are more time lag than the "main hold indicator" from the time a prize is won to the starting point until the display is updated. It can be said that

(About time chart 3)
FIG. 33 is a time chart 3 according to the embodiment of the invention. A time chart 3 shows an example in which the pending number counter is decremented by 1 during 99 ms.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display ” LEDs are lit. The "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 of FIG.
Note that at "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol variation game corresponding to icon A of the "variable icon" is confirmed and displayed, and at the timing when the frame update counter after the confirmation display reaches "3", " The icon A of the “variable icon” has been deleted. That is, until "timing T1", which will be described later, a so-called inter-variation interval between the first symbol variation game and the second symbol variation game is assumed.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the process, each is updated according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here, "2").
That is, two LEDs of the "sub hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as "number hold", the hold icon B is displayed in the first starting port first hold ball image display area 26g, and the first A holding icon C is displayed in the starting port second holding ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (after 99ms has elapsed). continue.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "subject variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing at which "pending subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first starter of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first memory area" (see FIG. 9), and the "holding number counter" changes to " 1”.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T1", for example. In other words, the "main reserve indicator" shows that the reserve storage area for the first starting port is stored up to the "first storage area", and the display content that one LED lights up and the other LED goes out. is updated to
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents of "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3"). (the update is not performed at the timing substantially the same as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "holding number counter" is "1", and the "main holding indicator" is a display content in which one LED lights up and the other LED goes out.
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents in "1F" without being updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "1", and the "main reservation display , one LED is lit and the other LED is extinguished.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the processing, the display content corresponding to the pending subtraction at the "timing T1" is updated according to the value (here, "1") of the "holding number counter".
That is, the "sub-hold indicator" is updated to display content in which one LED is lit and the other LED is extinguished, and the "number hold" is updated from the display of "2" to the display of "1", Suspended icon B, which had been displayed in the first starting port first suspended ball image display area 26g until then, slides to the variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as "the variable icon". The reserved icon C displayed in the second reserved ball image display area 26h slides to the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g.

Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (until 99ms has elapsed). continue.
As described above, the "sub-hold indicator", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" are updated after the hold subtraction occurs compared to the "main hold indicator". It can be said that a time lag is likely to occur by

(About time chart 4)
FIG. 34 is time chart 4 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Time chart 4 shows an example in which the pending number counter increases by one during 99 ms and then decreases by one.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area" (see FIG. 9), and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "2", Two "Main Hold Indicator" LEDs are lit. The "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 of FIG.
Note that at "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol variation game corresponding to icon A of the "variable icon" is confirmed and displayed, and at the timing when the frame update counter after the confirmation display reaches "3", " The icon A of the “variable icon” has been deleted. In other words, until "timing T2", which will be described later, a so-called inter-variation interval between the first symbol variation game and the second symbol variation game is assumed.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the process, each is updated according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here, "2").
That is, two LEDs of the "sub hold indicator" are lit, "2" is displayed as "number hold", the hold icon B is displayed in the first starting port first hold ball image display area 26g, and the first A holding icon C is displayed in the starting port second holding ball image display area 26h. Then, the "sub-suspended display device", "suspended number", "subject variable icon" and "suspended icon" will display the relevant display contents until the next frame update counter reaches "3" (after 99ms has elapsed). continue.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "subject variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing at which the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 during the interval between fluctuations (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104- 1-3 denied). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "3" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T1", for example. In other words, the "main reserve indicator" indicates that the reserve storage area for the first start port is stored up to the "third storage area", and the display content is such that one LED blinks and the other LED lights up. is updated to
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" will maintain the display contents in "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") ("timing T1” is not updated at substantially the same timing).

Next, "timing T2" is the timing at which "pending subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and the "reserve number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start port-related subcommand.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T2", for example. That is, the "main reservation display" is updated to the display content in which the two LEDs light up, indicating that the reservation storage area for the first starting port is stored up to the "second storage area".
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents of "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3"). (the update is not performed at the timing substantially the same as "timing T1").

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the 'holding number counter' is '2' and the 'main holding indicator' has two LEDs lit.
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents in "1F" without being updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display , two LEDs are lit.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the process, according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here "2"), the display content corresponding to the starting entrance winning at "timing T1" and the holding subtraction at "timing T2" The displayed contents are updated accordingly.
However, in this example, the pending number counter is "±0" because it is incremented by one at "timing T1" and decremented by one at "timing T2".
In this way, if the pending number counter increases by 1 during 99 ms and then decreases by 1, and as a result, the pending number counter becomes "±0",
Since the display of the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, neither the display indicating the increase nor the display indicating the decrease are omitted.
Since the display of the "sub-hold display" is updated every 33 ms, both the display indicating the increase and the display indicating the decrease are omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained visually.
Since the display is updated every 33ms, the display indicating the increase and the display indicating the decrease are both omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained visually.
Although the “relevant pending icon” and “suspended icon” are updated every 33 ms, neither the display indicating the increase nor the display indicating the decrease is omitted. That is, once the holding icon D is displayed in the first starting opening third holding ball image display area 26i, after that, the holding icon B that has been displayed in the first starting opening first holding ball image display area 26g is The holding icon C that has been slid to the variation icon display area 26o and displayed as the "variation icon" and that has been displayed in the first starting opening second holding ball image display area 26h until then is changed to the first starting opening The holding icon D, which is slid to the 1 held ball image display area 26g and temporarily displayed in the 1st start opening 3rd held ball image display area 26i, slides to the 1st start opening 2nd held ball image display area 26h. ,
It has characteristics such as

The reason for this configuration is that, for example, the player is likely to be gazing at the image display device 26 during the game, and the "sub hold display device" provided at a position away from the image display device 26 ” received less attention. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the degree of attention, "relevant pending icon" and "suspended icon", "number pending">"sub pending display device".
In addition, since the "number pending" is displayed in the lower right corner of the display area and is an image with a smaller display size than the "subject pending icon" and "suspended icon", the "subject pending icon" and "suspended icon" The "icon" is easier for the player to see than the "number holding". Therefore, from an easily visible point of view, "relevant pending icon" and "suspended icon">"numberpending".
In other words, for the "retained icon" and the "retained icon" which are highly visible to the player and have the same update cycle, neither the display indicating the increase nor the display indicating the decrease is omitted. By displaying with , it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable, and compared to the "retained icon" and the "retained icon", the degree of attention of the player is low, and it is difficult to see, "retained number" , and the "sub-suspended display device", by omitting both the display indicating the increase and the display indicating the decrease, it is possible to reduce processing related to image generation (for example, display amount to be updated).

Further, in this embodiment, when the frame update counter reaches "3" (every 99 ms), the display of the "sub pending display", "number pending", "subject pending icon" and "suspended icon" is updated. there is
The reason for this is that, for example, compared to the case of updating with a shorter update period, the possibility of occurrence of a start-up win or pending subtraction is higher. Then, when the probability of occurrence of a start-up win or a pending subtraction increases, the phenomenon shown in FIG. 34 is more likely to occur. Then, if a phenomenon such as that shown in FIG. 34 occurs, omitting what can be omitted can more effectively reduce processing related to image generation (for example, display amount to be updated).
As described above, when the frame update counter reaches "3" (every 99 ms), the display of the "sub pending display", "number pending", "subject pending icon" and "suspended icon" is updated. The frame update counter for display update can be changed as appropriate. For example, it may be "1" or "5".

In addition, in FIG. 34, when the holding icon D is once displayed in the first starting opening second holding ball image display area 26h, the display animation is normal in the first starting opening second holding ball image display area 26h. After reaching the display size, it may be slid to the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26h, or before the display animation reaches the normal display size, the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area It may be slid to 26h.
As a result, in the former case, the player can clearly recognize that the increased hold is newly displayed, and in the latter case, the corresponding hold ball image display area (icon) can be quickly displayed. Since the icons can be displayed, it is possible to realize suitable icon display.

(About time chart 5)
FIG. 35 is a time chart 5 according to the embodiment of the invention. Time chart 5 shows an example in which the pending number counter is decremented by 1 during 99 ms and then incremented by 1.
First, "1F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display ” LEDs are lit. The "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms in step S109 of FIG.
Note that at "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol variation game corresponding to icon A of the "variable icon" is confirmed and displayed, and at the timing when the frame update counter after the confirmation display reaches "3", " The icon A of the “variable icon” has been deleted. That is, until "timing T1", which will be described later, a so-called inter-variation interval between the first symbol variation game and the second symbol variation game is assumed.

Next, "2F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "1" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "subject variable icon" and "hold icon" are not updated.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing at which "pending subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T1", for example. In other words, the "main reserve indicator" indicates that the reserve storage area for the first start port is stored up to the "first storage area", and the display content that one LED lights up and the other LED goes out. is updated to
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents of "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3"). (the update is not performed at the timing substantially the same as "timing T1").

Next, "timing T2" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104-1-3 is negative). is. At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and the "reserve number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start port-related subcommand.
Since the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, it can be updated at the same or substantially the same timing as the "timing T2", for example. That is, the "main reservation display" is updated to the display content in which the two LEDs light up, indicating that the reservation storage area for the first starting port is stored up to the "second storage area".
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" maintain the display contents in "1F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") ("timing T1” is not updated at substantially the same timing).

Next, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the 'holding number counter' is '2' and the 'main holding indicator' has two LEDs lit.
On the other hand, the "sub-hold display", "number hold", "corresponding variable icon" and "hold icon" maintain the display contents in "1F" without being updated.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly, the "reservation number counter" is "2", and the "main reservation display , two LEDs are lit.

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspended display device" performs the processing shown in FIG. In the process, according to the value of the "holding number counter" (here "2"), the display content corresponding to the holding subtraction at "timing T1" and the starting entrance winning at "timing T2" corresponded The displayed contents are updated accordingly.
However, in this example, since it decreased by one at "timing T1" and increased by one at "timing T2", the pending number counter is "±0".
In this way, if the pending number counter is decremented by 1 during 99 ms and then incremented by 1, resulting in the pending number counter being "±0",
Since the display of the "main pending display" is updated every 4 ms, neither the display indicating the decrease nor the display indicating the increase is omitted.
Since the display of the "sub-holding display" is updated every 33 ms, both the display indicating the decrease and the display indicating the increase are omitted. In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained visually.
Since the display is updated every 33ms, the display indicating the decrease and the display indicating the increase are both omitted in the "holding of numbers". In other words, the display content of "1F" is maintained visually.
Although the “relevant pending icon” and “suspended icon” are updated every 33 ms, neither the display indicating the decrease nor the display indicating the increase is omitted. That is, the pending icon B, which had been displayed in the first start port first pending ball image display area 26g until then, slides to the variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as the "variable icon". The holding icon C displayed in the first starting opening second held ball image display area 26h slides to the first starting opening first held ball image display area 26g, and the first starting opening third held ball image display area 26i. , the pending icon D is displayed with display animation.
It has characteristics such as
As a result, the same effects as those described in the description of FIG. 34 are obtained.
34 and 35 (phenomenon in which both decrease and increase occur within a predetermined frame) are easy to execute the symbol variation game, and the time-saving game state and probability variable game state in which the starting gate winning is likely to occur. It can be said that this is more likely to occur in the normal game state than in the normal game state. Therefore, the contents described with reference to FIGS. 34 and 35 (configurations that may or may not be omitted depending on the display device) are more effective when executed in the time-saving gaming state or probability-variable gaming state.
In addition, in this embodiment, in any of the normal gaming state, the time-saving gaming state, and the variable probability gaming state, the contents explained in FIGS. However, it may be executed only in one of the game states, or may or may not be executed in the same game state. For example, even in the same game state, it may be executed in "A mode (A stage)" but not executed in "B mode (B stage)".

(About time chart 6)
FIG. 36 is a time chart 6 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 6 is a diagram comparing the display update start to display update completion of "number suspension" and "suspension icon" mainly when suspension subtraction is performed. It should be noted that the period until "timing T1" is the inter-fluctuation interval. In addition, in FIG. 36, mainly "number suspension" and "suspension icon" will be described, and description of "main suspension display" will be omitted.

First, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the "holding number counter" is "2", and the "sub-holding indicator", "holding number", and "holding icon" are not updated and maintain the display contents before "3F". ing.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing at which "pending subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
The "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" maintain the display content before "3F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") ("timing T1 ” is not updated at approximately the same timing).

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspend display" is processed by the processing shown in FIG. According to the value (here, "1") of the "number counter", the display content is updated to correspond to the pending subtraction at the "timing T1".
Here, "hold the number" starts the display update at "4F" and completes the display update at "4F". That is, the display of "2" is switched to the display of "1" at the "4F".
On the other hand, the "suspended icon" starts display update at "4F". In other words, the timing of starting display update is the same as that of “holding numbers”. However, as shown in FIG. 36, the pending icon B, which has been displayed in the first starting port first pending ball image display area 26g, is slid to the variable icon display area 26o, and the "variable icon" is displayed. , and the holding icon C that has been displayed in the first starting opening second holding ball image display area 26h until then is displayed by sliding to the first starting opening first held ball image display area 26g. , at "αF" (the value of α is an arbitrary value), the process of updating (the pending icon is sliding) occurs, and after that, at "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the display update is completed. Let Therefore, the display update is completed in the frame after the "number suspension". In other words, it can be said that the time required to update the display of the "pending icon" is longer than the time required to update the display of the "pending icon".

The reason for this configuration is that, as described above, the ``hold icon'' is easier for the player to see than the ``number hold''. The display update of the "suspended icon" takes longer than that of the "suspended number", thereby making it visually interesting.
In addition, "holding numbers" is not responsible for the above-mentioned "holding prefetch effect", but "holding icon" is responsible for "holding prefetch effect". can be used to change to a prefetch pending icon. With this configuration, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the update process (during the slide movement of the pending icon), thereby improving the game interest.

(Regarding time chart 7)
FIG. 37 is a time chart 7 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 7 is a diagram comparing the display update start to display update completion of "number pending" and "pending icon" mainly when the start-up winning is performed. Note that FIG. 37 differs from FIG. 36 only in whether it is a decrease or an increase, so the description will be omitted as appropriate.

“Timing T1” is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative and step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reservation storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "3" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
The "sub-hold display", "number hold", and "hold icon" maintain the display contents before "3F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") ("timing T1 ” is not updated at approximately the same timing).

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "third storage area", and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "3".

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "sub-suspend indicator" performs the processing shown in FIG. According to the value (here, "3") of the "number counter", the display content is updated to correspond to the start-up winning at "timing T1".
Here, "hold the number" starts the display update at "4F" and completes the display update at "4F". That is, the display of "2" is switched to the display of "3" at the "4F".
On the other hand, the "suspended icon" starts display update at "4F". In other words, the timing of starting display update is the same as that of “holding numbers”. However, as shown in FIG. 37, a new reserved icon D is displayed in the first start opening third reserved ball image display area 26i with the display animation described above. The value is an arbitrary value), the update process (holding icon D gradually increases), and after that, in "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the display update is completed (holding icon D is normal size). Therefore, the display update is completed in the frame after the "number suspension". In other words, it can be said that the time required to update the display of the "pending icon" is longer than the time required to update the display of the "pending icon".
As a result, the same effects as those described in the description of FIG. 36 are obtained.

(Regarding time chart 8)
FIG. 38 is a time chart 8 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 8 shows (Example 1) a case where a start-up prize has occurred in the variable display, and (Example 2) a case where a start-up prize has occurred while waiting for a customer. is a diagram comparing from the start to the completion of the display animation according to .

In (Example 1), "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). . At this timing, the “holding number counter” is “1”, and the “holding icon” maintains the display content before “3F” without being updated.

Next, in (Example 1), the "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104- 1-3 is denied). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and the "reserve number counter" becomes "2" due to the reception of the start port-related subcommand.
The "suspended icon" maintains the display content before "3F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") (not updated at substantially the same timing as "timing T1"). ).

Next, in (Example 1), "4F" is the timing at which the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. ). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "second storage area", and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "2".

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "holding icon" is displayed at "timing T1" in accordance with the value (here, "2") of the "holding number counter" in the processing shown in FIG. It will be updated to the display contents corresponding to the starting entrance prize in.
That is, at "4F", display update is started, and a new reserved icon C is displayed in a small size in the first start port second reserved ball image display area 26h with the display animation described above.

Next, in (Example 1), “αF” (the value of α is an arbitrary value) is a frame in the process of updating, and the hold icon C whose display started at “4F” is Shown in large size.
Then, in the subsequent "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the display animation of the hold icon C newly displayed in the first start opening second hold ball image display area 26h is completed, and the hold icon C is displayed normally. displayed in the size of

On the other hand, in (Example 2), "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). ). At this timing, the "holding number counter" is "-" and the "holding icon" is not displayed.

Next, in (example 2), "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104- 1-3 is denied). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is temporarily stored up to the "first storage area", and upon reception of the start port-related subcommand accompanying this, the "reserve number counter" is temporarily becomes "1". In addition, in the reserve storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103, the determination information temporarily stored up to the "first storage area" is then moved to the "0th storage area" (see FIG. 9). Accordingly, the pending number counter also becomes "0".
The "hold icon" is not displayed until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3").

Next, in (Example 2), "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. ). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

In addition, since the frame update counter has become "3", the "holding icon" is changed to "timing T1" in accordance with the value (here, "1") of the "holding number counter" in the processing shown in FIG. It will be updated to the display contents corresponding to the starting entrance prize in.
That is, at "4F", the display update is started, and a new reserved icon C is displayed in a small size in the first starting port first reserved ball image display area 26g with the display animation described above.

Next, in (Example 2), "αF" (the value of α is an arbitrary value) is a frame that completes the display animation of the holding icon C newly displayed in the first start opening first holding ball image display area 26g. is. That is, in the start-up winning while waiting for a customer, part (or all) of the updating process indicated by "αF" in (Example 1) is omitted. Therefore, in (Example 2), "αF" (the value of α is an arbitrary value) causes the pending icon to have a normal display size.
Then, after that, with "βF" (the value of β is an arbitrary value), the holding icon A displayed in the first start opening first holding ball image display area 26g is slid (shifted) to the variable icon display area 26o. )do.
Therefore, between (Example 1) and (Example 2), it can be said that (Example 1) has a longer execution time for the display animation of the pending icon to be newly displayed.

The reason for this configuration is that, in the case of (Example 2), once displayed in the first starting port first held ball image display area 26g with "αF", then slide movement (shift) with "βF". (There is no need in Example 1). First, the reserved icon A is displayed in the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, which may give the player a sense of discomfort. Therefore, in (Example 2), the update process is partially (or entirely) omitted, and after displaying the first starting port first held ball image display area 26g, the icon is quickly slid to the variation icon display area 26o. This is because it is necessary to prevent the above-described sense of incongruity by moving (shifting). On the other hand, in (Example 1), the variable display related to the previous symbol variation game is still performed, and there is no need to slide (shift) to the variable icon display area 26o. icon can be displayed. This makes it possible to display suitable icons.

(About time chart 9)
FIG. 39 is a time chart 9 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 9 shows (Example 2) a case in which a start-up prize has occurred while waiting for a customer and (Example 3) a case in which a start-up prize has occurred during a demonstration effect. is a diagram comparing from the start to the completion of the display animation according to . Since (Example 2) has already been described with reference to FIG. 38, the description thereof will be omitted here.

In (Example 3), "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). . At this timing, the "holding number counter" is "-" and the "holding icon" is not displayed. Here, "not displayed" means that the demonstration effect is in progress, so the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display. It is intended that region 26j is also not shown.

Next, in (Example 3), the "timing T1" is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104- 1-3 is denied). At this timing, the reserve storage area for the first start port of the main RAM 103 is temporarily stored up to the "first storage area", and upon reception of the start port-related subcommand accompanying this, the "reserve number counter" is temporarily becomes "1". In addition, in the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103, the determination information temporarily stored up to the "first storage area" is then moved to the "0th storage area". Accordingly, the pending number counter also becomes "0".
The "hold icon" is not displayed until the next update cycle (frame update counter is "3").

Next, in (example 3), "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. ). At this timing, the "holding number counter" is "0", and the new holding icon A is directly displayed in the normal display size in the variable icon display area 26o without the display animation described above. .
Therefore, between (Example 2) and (Example 3), it can be said that (Example 2) has a longer execution time of the display animation of the pending icon to be newly displayed.
In (Example 3) of FIG. 39, the display animation is not accompanied, but the display animation may be accompanied in a shorter time than (Example 2). In that case, as indicated by "βF" in (Example 2), once the holding icon is displayed in the first start opening first holding ball image display area 26g, it is then slid (shifted) to the variable icon display area 26o. ). In addition, there is no problem even if the display animation is executed for the same time as when waiting for customers.

The reason for this configuration is that in the case of (example 2), the customer is waiting, so the variable icon display area 26o, the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first start opening fourth While the reserved ball image display area 26j is displayed, in the case of (Example 3), since the demonstration effect is being performed, the change icon display area 26o, the first starting opening, the first reserved ball image display This is because the area 26g to the first start opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are not displayed. In other words, if the start-up prize was generated during the demonstration effect, the demo effect screen was ended, the variable display screen was displayed, and then the same display animation as during customer waiting was displayed. Even though the symbol variation game has started, it becomes more realistic that the reserved icon A is displayed in the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, which may cause the player to feel uncomfortable. . Therefore, in (Example 3), by directly displaying the new pending icon A in the variable icon display area 26o, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable as described above. This makes it possible to display suitable icons.

FIG. 40 is a display example of the contents explained in the time charts of FIGS.
In the figure, the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j are simply "o", "g", ""h","i", and "j".
In the variable display of (Example 1), in a display example when a starting opening winning occurs, before and after the starting opening winning, the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the first A starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j is displayed, and when a starting opening winning occurs, a new reserved icon is displayed in the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26h with display animation.
(Example 2) In the example of the display when a starter win occurs while waiting for a customer, before and after the starter win, the variable icon display area 26o, the first starter first reserved ball image display area 26g to the second The 1st start opening 4th reserved ball image display area 26j is displayed, and when the start opening winning prize occurs, the display animation is partially (or entirely) omitted in the 1st start opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26g. to display a suspended icon (indicated by a dotted line circle in the figure), and then quickly slide (shift) to the variable icon display area 26o.
(Example 3) During the demonstration effect, in the display example when the starting opening winning occurs, before and after the starting opening winning, the variable icon display area 26o, the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g to the third The 1st starting hole 4th reserved ball image display area 26j is not displayed, and when the starting hole winning occurs, the screen of the demonstration effect is ended, the screen of the variable display is displayed, and the variable icon display area 26o is displayed. , to directly display the variable icon.
(Example 1) to (Example 3) are display examples as described above.

(Regarding time chart 10)
FIG. 41 is a time chart 10 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 10 is a diagram showing how the pending icon is displayed when an irregularity occurs.

First, at timing (a), for example, a transmission error or a reception error of a start-related information command occurs, and the number of pending memories stored on the main control board 100 side and the number of pending memories stored on the effect control board 200 side This indicates that there is a difference between
That is, the reserved storage area of the main RAM 103 stores up to the "third storage area", the reserved storage area of the sub-RAM 203 stores up to the "first storage area", and the reserved number counter stores up to the "first storage area". is stored up to Therefore, although the reserved storage area of the sub-RAM 203 and the reserved number counter should be stored up to the "third storage area", they are stored only up to the "first storage area".
In addition, since the interval between fluctuations is assumed in the fluctuation icon display area 26o, the fluctuation icon is not displayed, and the reservation icon B is displayed in the first start opening first reservation ball image display area 26g. is displayed, and no pending icon is displayed in the other pending ball image display areas.

Next, at timing (b), pending subtraction is performed, and along with the start of fluctuation, a pending storage area specification command indicating a storage number of 2 is set at step S105-2-8 in FIG. This indicates that the command has been transmitted in the command transmission process of . Although not shown, it is assumed that the reserved storage area designation command indicating the storage number 2 is normally received in the effect control board 200 . Therefore, when the effect control board 200 receives the command, the storage number of the sub-RAM 203 changes from "1" to "2" in the same way as the storage number of the main RAM 103 is 2, and the storage number of the pending number counter also changes from "1". becomes "2".

Then, at the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" after that, in order to display the pending icon according to the value of the pending number counter, the pending icon C is displayed in the first starting port first pending ball image display area 26g , the holding icon D is displayed in the first starting port second holding ball image display area 26h. Since the pending subtraction is performed at the timing (b), the variation icon B is displayed in the variation icon display area 26o.
Here, when the holding icon C is displayed in the first starting opening first holding ball image display area 26g and the holding icon D is displayed in the first starting opening second holding ball image display area 26h, the display animation is performed. I am trying to display two at the same time without accompanying.
In other words, display animation is not used when correcting and displaying a pending icon that should not be displayed due to a command reception error or the like.
As a result, the normal hold icon can be displayed quickly, so that the player who notices the difference between the display content of the "main hold display" and the display content of the hold icon can feel it. It is possible to quickly eliminate the sense of incompatibility.

(Regarding time chart 11)
FIG. 42 is a time chart 11 according to the embodiment of the invention. The time chart 11 is a diagram showing how the pending icon is displayed when an irregularity occurs. In addition, FIG. 41 describes a case where the number of reserved memories stored on the main control board 100 side is larger than the number of reserved memories stored on the effect control board 200 side, but in FIG. 42, the effect control board 200 side A case will be described in which the number of reserved memories stored in is larger than the number of reserved memories stored in the main control board 100 side. Note that the description of the parts common to those in FIG. 41 will be omitted as appropriate.

That is, at the timing (b), reserve subtraction is performed, and with the start of fluctuation, a reserve storage area designation command indicating the number of memories 1 is set at step S105-2-8 in FIG. This indicates that the command has been transmitted in the command transmission process. Although not shown, it is assumed that the effect control board 200 has normally received a reserved storage area designation command indicating the number of storages of 1. Therefore, when the effect control board 200 receives the command, the storage number of the sub-RAM 203 changes from "4" to "1" in the same manner as the storage number of the main RAM 103 is 1, and the storage number of the pending number counter also changes from "4". becomes "1".

After that, at the timing when the frame update counter reaches "3", the pending icon B is shifted (display updated) to the variable icon display area 26o in order to display the pending icon according to the value of the pending number counter. )do. On the other hand, with respect to the pending icon C, the pending icon D, and the pending icon E, the following correction display is performed in order to display the pending icon corresponding to the value "1" of the pending number counter at this timing.
Reservation icon C: Shift (display update) from the first start opening second reservation ball image display area 26h to the first start opening first reservation ball image display area 26g.
Suspended icon D: Deleted in the first starting port third suspended ball image display area 26i.
Suspension icon E: Deleted in the first start port fourth suspension ball image display area 26j (deleted simultaneously with the suspension icon D).
As a result, the same effects as those described in the description of FIG. 41 are obtained.

(Regarding time chart 12)
FIG. 43 is a time chart 12 according to the embodiment of the invention. A time chart 12 shows an irregularity of the pending look-ahead effect in the start-up winning.

First, "3F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "2" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is denied). At this timing, the 'holding number counter' is '1', and the 'variable icon' and 'holding icon' are not updated and maintain the display content before '3F'.
Note that at "timing T0" (not shown), the symbol variation game corresponding to icon A of the "variable icon" is confirmed and displayed, and at the timing when the frame update counter after the confirmation display reaches "3", " The icon A of the “variable icon” has been deleted. That is, until "timing T1", which will be described later, a so-called inter-variation interval between the first symbol variation game and the second symbol variation game is assumed.

Next, "timing T1" is the timing at which "pending subtraction" is performed (for example, step S105-2-2 or step S105-2-5). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "0th storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "0" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
The "variable icon" and "suspended icon" will maintain the display content before "3F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") (at substantially the same timing as "timing T1"). not update in).

“Timing T2” is the timing when the game ball enters (wins) the first start hole 21 (for example, step S104-1-1 in FIG. 15 is affirmative, step S104-1-3 is negative). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and the "reserving number counter" becomes "1" due to the reception of the starting port-related subcommand.
The "variable icon" and "suspended icon" will maintain the display content before "3F" until the next update cycle (the frame update counter is "3") (at substantially the same timing as "timing T1"). not update in).
It should be noted that at "timing T2", it is assumed that the execution of the pending look-ahead effect has been achieved due to the start winning prize.

Next, "4F" is the timing when the frame update counter becomes "3" (for example, step S400-7-2 in FIG. 26 or step S600-7-2 in FIG. 29 is affirmative). At this timing, the reserved storage area for the first starting port of the main RAM 103 is stored up to the "first storage area", and accordingly the "reserved number counter" is "1".

In addition, since the frame update counter has reached "3", the "holding icon" is displayed at "timing T2" in accordance with the value (here, "1") of the "holding number counter" in the processing shown in FIG. It will be updated to the display contents corresponding to the starting entrance prize in.
Here, it is assumed that the sound generation process of step S400-8 of FIG. 25 was executed, but the image generation process of step S400-7 of FIG. 25 could not be executed. That is, it is assumed that the pending icon corresponding to the starting opening winning at "timing T2" could not be displayed in the first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26g.
In this case, since the sound generation process in step S400-8 of FIG. 25 has been executed, the execution of the pending look-ahead effect referred to in "timing T2", for example, the sound corresponding to the look-ahead pending icon "blue" (Piron ♪) is output from the speaker 10 . Therefore, although the "blue" prefetch pending icon is not displayed, the sound corresponding to the "blue" prefetch pending icon is output.
The sound corresponding to the prefetching pending icon has a different sound for each color of the prefetching pending icon. can also recognize.

Then, at "αF" thereafter, the "blue" look-ahead pending icon (blue pending), which is the display content corresponding to the starting point winning at "timing T2", is displayed in the first starting point first holding ball image display area 26g. to be displayed. At this timing, no sound corresponding to the prefetch pending icon (blue pending) is output.
In this way, even if the pending prefetching effect is won by the starting entrance winning, but the image generation process cannot be executed, a sound corresponding to the prefetching pending icon that should have been displayed is output separately. Therefore, if the player is a skilled player as described above, even if the prefetch pending icon is not displayed, the output sound will cause the prefetch pending icon of any color to be displayed after this (for example, at "αF"). be able to recognize

Next, a second characterizing portion according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 44 to 53. FIG. Specifically, FIGS. 44 to 53 are diagrams for explaining characteristic parts in action effects (displays) by the variable icon and the pending icon. In the explanations of FIGS. 44 to 53, the variable icons and suspended icons are collectively referred to simply as "icons".

First, with reference to FIG. 44, the effect of icon action will be described.
As shown in FIG. 44(a), the icons are formed in a diamond shape, and the image display device 26 has a first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, a first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h, 1st starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26i, 1st starting opening 4th reserved ball image 26 display area j, 2nd starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26k, 2nd starting opening 2nd reserved ball image When displayed in the display area 26l, the second starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26m, the second starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n, and the variation icon display area 26o, FIG. The action effect (display) indicated by is performed.

In the action effect (display), as shown in FIG. 44(a), a diamond-shaped icon rotates horizontally. )→(4)→(5)→(6)→(7), and returns to the initial position (0) again. That is, the numbers in parentheses shown in FIG. 44(a) indicate the action positions of the icons.

In FIG. 44(b), as an example, icons (normal color (white icon) is displayed, and each icon shows how an action effect (display) is performed.
In this case, the motion effects (displays) of the three icons are synchronized (all icons change to the same motion position at the same timing), and when multiple icons are displayed, the appearance is not spoiled. devised.

Note that an action effect (display) that is performed when an icon is displayed only in the variable icon display area 26o is referred to as a "single action effect". For example, the action effect (display) that is performed when the icon is displayed in the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g) is called "synchronized action effect".
In addition, without including the variable icon display area 26o (that is, in the case of a pachinko machine that does not have the variable icon display area 26o), one held ball image display area (for example, the first start opening first An action effect (display) performed when an icon is displayed in the held ball image display area 26g) is defined as a "single action effect", and at least two held ball image display areas (e.g., first start opening first held ball image The action effect (display) that is performed when the icon is displayed in the display area 26g and the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h) may be referred to as "synchronized action effect".

Next, another example of the synchronous action effect will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 45 shows the state of the synchronous action effect when the above-described "suspension change effect" is performed. In FIG. 45(a), a "normal color (white)" icon is displayed in the variation icon display area 26o and the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26g, and the first starting opening second reserved ball image is displayed. This indicates that a “blue” icon is displayed in the display area 26h. FIG. 44(b) shows an example in which the synchronous action effect is executed when a plurality of normal color (same color) icons are displayed. , and the three icons are synchronized (all icons change to the same position at the same timing). As a result, it is possible to keep the beauty of the game from being spoiled while giving expectation to the winning game by the "holding change effect".

As an example, the "blue" icon is used, but it is not limited to this, and even when the above-described "white flashing", "green", "red", "gold", and "rainbow" are displayed, the synchronous action effect is performed. (That is, even if the colors are different, if the icons have the same shape, the synchronous action effect may be executed). Further, there may be a color for which the synchronous action effect is performed and a color for which the synchronous action effect is not performed. For example, the "rainbow", which determines the "hit", may be kept from the initial position (0) shown in FIG. .
Also, if the normal color icon is not displayed and multiple icons corresponding to the "pending change effect" are displayed (for example, if multiple "blue" color icons are displayed), the synchronous action effect may be performed. Even with this configuration, it is possible to give the expectation of the winning game by the "holding change effect" and not spoil the aesthetic appearance.

In FIG. 45(b), a "normal color" icon is displayed in the variation icon display area 26o and the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26g, and the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h. , the icon of "character A" is displayed. When the character icons of characters A to C are displayed, the character icons do not move in synchronization with other icons (in the example of FIG. 45, the "normal color" icons), and the character icons act independently. A performance will be held. As a result, the "character" icon can be made more conspicuous to attract the player's attention. In addition, when the character icons of characters A to C are selected with a variation pattern equal to or greater than reach, the character icon does not synchronize with other icons, so special icons (for example, icons that perform reach) can be made to stand out.

Next, with reference to FIG. 46, another example of the synchronous action effect will be described.
FIG. 46 shows the state of the suspension stage up effect for prompting whether or not the icon displayed at the time of entering the ball is changed to an icon with a higher degree of expectation for winning. In FIG. 46(a), the normal color icon displayed in the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h pops out from the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h and is displayed in a larger size. , and it is fueling whether or not it will change to an icon with a higher probability of winning than a normal color icon. Incidentally, when the pending stage up effect is being performed, the synchronous action effect with other icons is interrupted. Then, FIG. 46(a) shows that the icon has changed to a "blue" icon, and at this time, it is displayed in the variation icon display area 26o and the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g. Both of the icons are located at the operating position (1), but the icon displayed in the first starting port second held ball image display area 26h remains at the initial position (0).
Then, when the icon displayed at the position protruded from the first starting port second reserved ball image display area 26h returns to the frame, the synchronous action effect with other icons is quickly resumed. That is, as shown in FIG. 46(a), three icons are displayed at the operating position (2). As a result, while recognizing that the icon has changed to an icon with a higher degree of expectation for the winning game by the holding stage up performance, the appearance is not spoiled by a quick return after the change and the resumption of the synchronous operation performance. can be done.

In FIG. 46(b), the normal color icon displayed in the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h pops out from the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h and is displayed in a larger size. , and it is fueling whether or not it will change to an icon with a higher probability of winning than a normal color icon. And unlike FIG. 46(a), it shows that the pending stage up effect was performed but the color of the icon did not change (so-called fake effect). At this time, the icons displayed in the variable icon display area 26o and the icon displayed in the first start opening first held ball image display area 26g are both located at the operating position (1), but the icons displayed in the first start opening second The icon displayed in the reserved ball image display area 26h remains at the initial position (0).
Then, when the icon displayed at the position protruding from the first start opening second reserved ball image display area 26h returns to the frame, the synchronous action effect with other icons is quickly resumed. That is, as shown in FIG. 46(b), three icons are displayed at the operating position (2). As a result, it is possible to make the player recognize that the icon has not changed due to the pending stage-up effect, and to prevent spoiling the aesthetic appearance by the quick return and the resumption of the synchronous action effect.

Next, with reference to FIG. 47, icon definition for each presentation mode will be described.
First, the production mode has "production mode 1" and "production mode 2". , sub-pattern design, icon design, etc. are different. For example, in the "production mode 1", the icon of "design 1" (for example, the rhombic design shown in FIG. 44) is displayed as the icon design, and in the "production mode 2", the icon of "design 2 ” (illustration is omitted, but, for example, a fan design) is displayed.
The "production mode 1" and "production mode 2" referred to here may be different production modes in the same game state. For example, in the normal game state, there may be times when "production mode 1" is performed and times when "production mode 2" is performed, and when "production mode 1" is performed in the variable probability game state , and when the "production mode 2" is performed.
Moreover, different production modes may be used in different game states. For example, "production mode 1" may be performed in the normal game state, and "production mode 2" may be performed in the variable probability game state.

In the "design 1" in the "production mode 1", the "synchronous action production pattern 1" (for example, the horizontal rotation production pattern shown in FIG. 44) is executed as a synchronous action production pattern. In "Design 2" in "Production Mode 2", "Synchronous Action Production Pattern 2" (not shown, for example, a production pattern in which a fan opens and closes) is executed as a synchronous action production pattern. there is That is, if the effect mode is different, the icon design and the synchronous action effect pattern of the icon are also different. This makes it difficult for the player to get tired of the game, which leads to an improvement in the performance interest.

Note that the production mode is not limited to this, and a plurality of types may be provided. In addition, although there are multiple types of production modes in the normal game state, a single type of production mode may be used in the variable probability game state. That is, a plurality of types of synchronous action effects are performed in the normal game state, but a single type of synchronous action effect may be performed in the variable probability game state. In addition, regardless of the type of production mode, a plurality of types of synchronous action effects are performed in the normal game state, but a single type of synchronous action effect may be performed in the variable probability game state. As a result, in the variable-probability gaming state in which winning games are likely to be obtained, attention is paid to other effects than the icons, and in the normal gaming state in which winning games are difficult to obtain and a feeling of boredom is likely to be felt, the icons can also be focused, thereby increasing the interest in the performance. lead to improvement.

Next, with reference to FIG. 48, an example of the execution timing of the synchronous action effect will be described.
T1 in (Example 1) indicates the end of the symbol variation game, and the pending number counter is updated from "2" to "1" at this timing. Note that the synchronous action rendering of the icon is not interrupted at T1, but is continuously executed. In other words, the sub-symbol is confirmed and displayed at T1 and the action is stopped, but the synchronous action presentation is continuously executed without stopping the action at T1 for the icon. As a result, the synchronous action presentation is not interrupted by the fixed stop, so that the synchronous action presentation is not interrupted and the appearance is not spoiled.

Note that the synchronous action effect may be interrupted at T1. As a result, it is possible to grasp that the symbol variation game has ended from the icon regardless of the sub-symbol.
Alternatively, the synchronous action effect may be stopped at T1, and the synchronous action effect may be started from the initial position (0) along with the start of the next symbol variation game. Thus, the start of the pattern variation game can be linked to the start of the initial position (0) of the synchronous action presentation, and the start of the pattern variation game can be recognized from the icon.

T1 in (Example 2) is the timing of the temporary stop display in the above-described pseudo consecutive notice. Also, T2 indicates the end of the symbol variation game as in (Example 1), and at this timing, the pending number counter is updated from "2" to "1". In (Example 2) as well, the synchronous action presentation of the icon is not interrupted at T2, and is continuously executed. Further, even at T1 when the temporary stop display is performed in the pseudo consecutive notice, the synchronizing action effect of the icon is continuously executed without being interrupted at T2. As a result, the same effect as (Example 1) can be obtained.

Note that the synchronous action effect may be interrupted at T1 and T2. As a result, the synchronous action effect is interrupted in both the fixed display and the temporary stop display, so that it is possible to make it appear as if a multiple-variation pattern variation game is being played in the pseudo consecutive notice.
Further, it may be interrupted at T2 but not interrupted at T1, or vice versa. As a result, even if the pseudo consecutive notice is given, it is possible to grasp whether or not the symbol variation game has ended from the state of the synchronous action presentation.

Next, with reference to FIG. 49, an example of the synchronous action effect will be described.
FIG. 49 assumes, for example, that the number-of-holds counter is "2" and variation pattern 5 is being executed.
Here, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, the variable icon and the hold icon are visibly displayed during normal fluctuation and normal reach, but the hold icon is visibly displayed during super reach. Instead, only the variable icon is displayed so that it can be visually recognized.
Therefore, the synchronous action effect can be visually recognized during normal fluctuation or during normal reach, but the synchronous action effect cannot be visually recognized during super reach.

FIG. 49 is a diagram for explaining features relating to the action positions of the icons at the timing when the synchronous action effect becomes invisible and the timing when the synchronous action effect becomes visible again under the above conditions.
T1 is the timing when normal reach develops to super reach. Therefore, at the timing, the pending icon is hidden, and the synchronous action effect becomes invisible.
Also, at this time, the icon operating position (see FIG. 44) is "5", indicating that the suspended icon is hidden when the icon operating position is "5". Since the variable icon is not hidden at T1, it is visibly displayed so that the icon movement positions are "5"→"6"→"7" . . .

T2 is the timing of redisplaying the background image that had been displayed when the normal reach was being performed, with the background image of the super reach being made non-display when a failure was reported in the super reach.
At this timing, the sub-symbols are displayed in a swinging variation, and the synchronous action effect becomes visible again.
Also, at this time, the icon action position is "2", indicating that the action position of the variable icon that was continuously displayed during the super reach is "2".
Then, the suspended icon that was hidden at T1 is redisplayed, and upon the redisplay, the suspended icon is redisplayed at the icon movement position "2" (together with the icon movement position of the variable icon). . By configuring in this manner, during super reach, the pending icon is not displayed and the synchronous action effect is not executed, thereby making it possible to draw attention to the content and result of super reach. In addition, after the super reach, by redisplaying the pending icon at the same icon action position as the variable icon (that is, by performing a synchronous action effect), it is possible to prevent spoiling the aesthetic appearance.

Note that FIG. 49 is merely an example, and may be changed as appropriate as follows.
For example, in FIG. 49, the variable icon is continuously displayed during Super Reach, but the variable icon may be hidden. In this case, when the icon is redisplayed at T2, the variable icon and the suspended icon may be redisplayed at the icon operation position "2", or the variable icon and the suspended icon may be redisplayed from the initial position "0". You can display it again. Further, the variable icon and the suspended icon may be redisplayed from the icon action position "5" when they were hidden at T1. This can prevent spoiling the aesthetic appearance.

In addition, in FIG. 49, the pending icon is hidden during super reach, but "invisible" is not limited to being hidden. may include the fact that the variable icon or the pending icon is shielded (becomes invisible due to shielding). That is, it may include a state in which the synchronous action effect is displayed but is hidden by the activated movable body and cannot be visually recognized by the player. Also, the scene shielded by the activated movable body is not limited to during super reach, and may be during normal fluctuation or during normal reach.

FIG. 50 is an example for each variation pattern in FIG.
(Example 1) in FIG. 50 is an execution example of the variation pattern 5 described in FIG. 49, so the description is omitted. On the other hand, (Example 2) shows an example of execution of variation pattern 9 . That is, it is an example of execution in the winning variation pattern. Also in this case, after the background image is restored at T2, the sub-symbol (for example, 777) is shake-variably displayed until the timing of final display at T3. Further, the synchronous action effect becomes visible again from T2 to T3.
In this way, regardless of whether it is a loss or a hit, after super reach, the suspended icon is redisplayed at the same icon action position as the variable icon (that is, by performing a synchronous action effect) so as not to spoil the aesthetics. can do.

FIG. 51 is a diagram for explaining another example of winning.
(Example 3) of FIG. 50 is an example in which the super reach wins and the sub symbol is displayed as it is with the super reach background image without restoring the background image. That is, when the win is confirmed and displayed at T2, the image display device 26 executes an opening effect, which is a winning game effect. Since the variation icon and the pending icon are not displayed during the winning game effect, in such a case, the synchronous action effect cannot be visually recognized from T1, and the winning game ends and the next symbol variation game is started. Remains invisible until
That is, when the super reach is lost, the synchronous action effect is redisplayed, but when the super reach is a hit, the synchronous action effect is not redisplayed, and the winning game effect may be entered as it is. In addition, the synchronous action effect will be redisplayed in some cases when Super Reach is successful, but the synchronous action effect will not be redisplayed in other cases (different from the above part) when Super Reach is successful. may Wins for which the synchronous action effect is not redisplayed include, for example, special symbol hits. Winning with special symbols means that, for example, if the player can operate the effect button 14 or the effect lever 15 to operate the movable body 28, the effect is executed, and as a result of the effect, the win is notified. It is a pattern used for occasions. In this case, for example, "7, special symbol, 7" is displayed as a sub-symbol to inform the player of the win.

Moreover, you may make it differ by a game state. For example, in the case of super reach (hit) in the normal game state, the synchronous action effect is redisplayed, but in the case of super reach (hit) in the time-saving game state or variable probability game state, even if the synchronous action effect is not redisplayed good. Thereby, advantageous game states such as a time-saving game state and a variable probability game state can be smoothly advanced.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 52 and 53, an example of a synchronous action effect in a scene where the game state has changed will be described. 52 and 53, there are some parts of the image display device 26 that are necessary for explanation and are omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 52 shows the end phase of the time saving game state, and FIG. 53 shows the phase just after shifting from the time saving game state to the normal game state.
FIG. 52(a) is a scene in which the time-saving game state remains four times. That is, the notification image 26P indicating the remaining number of possible games in the time-saving gaming state is displayed as "4".
Also, in this scene, it is assumed that the player is hitting to the right and entering the game ball into the second starting hole 22 . That is, the sub-symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and the second special symbol reservation display 27d executes "blinking together" indicating that the number of reservations is "4", and the variation icon display area 26o, 2nd starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26k, 2nd starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26l, 2nd starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26m, 2nd starting opening 4th reserved ball image display area Icons are displayed in 26n, and each icon is positioned at the initial position (0) and executing a synchronous action effect.

FIG. 52(b) is a scene in which the time-saving game state is remaining three times. That is, the notification image 26P indicating the remaining number of possible games in the time-saving gaming state is displayed as "3".
Also, in this scene, it is assumed that the player is hitting to the right and entering the game ball into the second starting hole 22 . That is, the sub-symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and the second special symbol reservation display 27d executes "blinking together" indicating that the number of reservations is "4", and the variation icon display area 26o, 2nd starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26k, 2nd starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26l, 2nd starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26m, 2nd starting opening 4th reserved ball image display area Icons are displayed in 26n, and each icon is located at the action position (2) and is executing a synchronous action effect.

FIG. 52(c) is the scene of the final variation of the time saving game state. That is, the notification image 26P indicating the remaining number of possible games in the time-saving gaming state is displayed as "Last".
Also, in this scene, it is assumed that the player is hitting to the right and entering the game ball into the second starting hole 22 . That is, the sub-symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and the second special symbol reservation display 27d executes "blinking together" indicating that the number of reservations is "4", and the variation icon display area 26o, 2nd starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26k, 2nd starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26l, 2nd starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26m, 2nd starting opening 4th reserved ball image display area Icons are displayed in 26n, and each icon is located at the action position (1) and is executing a synchronous action effect.

FIG. 52(d) is a final display scene of the final variation of the time-saving gaming state. That is, the display of "finishing time saving" to notify that the time saving game state has ended, and the sub symbols "5, 1, 6", for example, are fixedly displayed.
In addition, in this scene, "blinking together" indicating that the number of reservations is "4" is being executed on the second special symbol reservation display 27d, but with the confirmation display, the corresponding variable icon display area 26o The variation icon is hidden, and the second start opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second start opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second start opening third reserved ball image display in the image display device 26 All of the reserved icons in the area 26m and the second start port fourth reserved ball image display area 26n are also hidden.
Note that each display area may remain displayed while only the icons are hidden.

FIG. 53(e) shows the pattern corresponding to the holding icon displayed in the first holding ball image display area 26k of the second starting port first holding ball image display area 26k in the first variation when the time saving game state is finished and the normal game state is entered. variation game). That is, a left-handed shot image is displayed to prompt left-handed shots. It is assumed that the player has not launched the game ball into the game area 7 .
Also, in this scene, the sub-symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and "one flashes, the other lights up" indicating that the number of reservations is "3" is executed on the second special symbol reservation display 27d. However, the variation icon display area 26o, the second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26m, the second No icon is displayed in the second start opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n.
That is, in the time-saving gaming state of FIG. 52(c), in particular, the second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, the second starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second starting opening third reserved ball image 53(e), ( As indicated by f), (g), and (h), the symbol variation game is executed without displaying the variation icon and the pending icon on the image display device 26 . As a result, it is possible to prompt the player to enter the game ball into the first starting port 21 . In addition, it is possible to prevent misunderstanding that the time saving game state has not ended.

And FIG. 53(f) shows the second change when the time-saving game state ends and the normal game state (corresponding to the hold icon displayed in the second start opening second hold ball image display area 26l in FIG. 52) symbol variation game), and the second special symbol suspension display 27d indicates that "both lights up" indicating that the number of suspensions is "2" is being executed.
In addition, FIG. 53(g) shows the third change when the time-saving game state ends and the normal game state (corresponds to the hold icon displayed in the second start port third hold ball image display area 26m in FIG. 52) symbol variation game), and the second special symbol reservation display 27d indicates that "one is lit, the other is extinguished" indicating that the number of reservations is "1" is being executed. .
In addition, FIG. 53(h) shows the fourth change when the time-saving game state ends and the normal game state (corresponds to the reserved icon displayed in the second start opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n in FIG. 52). symbol variation game), and the second special symbol suspension display 27d indicates that "both lights off" indicating that the number of suspensions is "0" is being executed.
In this way, when executing the symbol variation game corresponding to the game ball entering the second starting hole 22 in the time-saving gaming state, the symbol variation is not displayed on the image display device 26. run the game. That is, in the time-saving game state, for example, as shown in FIG. 52(c), a synchronous action effect is executed, but in the normal game state, for example, as shown in FIG. I would say no. As a result, it is possible to prevent misunderstanding that the time saving game state has not ended.

Note that the examples of FIGS. 52 and 53 are merely examples, and may be changed as appropriate.
For example, in FIG. 53, each time the symbol variation game is started, the symbol variation game may be started by displaying the variation icon only in the variation icon display area 26o. That is, the synchronous action presentation may not be executed, but the independent action presentation may be executed. As a result, at least the icon corresponding to the change is displayed, so that it is possible to alleviate the player's sense of discomfort. In addition, the player can be entertained by the execution of the single action effect.

52 and 53, the transition from the time-saving game state to the normal game state has been described as an example, but it is not limited to this, and includes a game state transition such as shifting from the probability variable game state to the normal game state. In the case, it may be applied at the time of transition from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state.
In addition, it may be applied at the time of transition from the normal game state to the time-saving game state or probability variation game state. For example, 1st starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26g, 1st starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26h, 1st starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26i, 1st starting opening 4th reserved ball image When the holding icon is displayed in all of the display area 26j, when the game is shifted to the winning game, the same thing is done in the time saving game state and the variable probability game state after the winning game is completed (in this case, the first start opening first reserved ball image Pattern variation corresponding to the reserved icons of the display area 26g, the first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26h, the first starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26i, and the first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j the game runs without displaying the icon). Further, each time the symbol variation game is started, the symbol variation game may be started by displaying the variation icon only in the variation icon display area 26o.

Moreover, there is no particular problem even if all the icons are displayed in FIG. 53 and the symbol variation game is executed. That is, in the time-saving game state, for example, as shown in FIG. 52(c), the synchronous action effect is executed, and even in the normal game state, there is no problem even if the synchronous action effect by the corresponding hold icon is executed.

In addition, in the transition from the time-saving game state and the probability variable game state to the normal game state, it is configured as shown in FIG. 52 and FIG. The synchronous action effect may be executed in the changed game state without the configuration shown in FIG. 53 . Also, the relationship may be reversed.

(Regarding the application of the synchronous action effects to FIGS. 31 to 43)
Here, an example in which the synchronous action rendering is applied to the above-described FIGS. 31 to 43 will be described.
Synchronous action effects can also be applied to FIGS. 31-43.
For example, in the case of increase in FIG. 32, a small-sized circular image is first displayed, and the circular image gradually increases in size until it reaches the normal display size. I explained that there is
In this case, after the normal display size is reached, for example, if another icon is positioned at the operating position (1), the icon that has reached the normal display size is moved to the operating position (1) and the synchronous operation is performed. can perform the performance.
As a result, it is possible to provide visual enjoyment through the display animation while not impairing the aesthetic appearance.

For example, in the case of decrease in FIG. 33, the pending icon B, which had been displayed in the first start port first pending ball image display area 26g until then, is slid to the variable icon display area 26o, and "the variable icon , and the holding icon C, which had been displayed in the first start opening second held ball image display area 26h until then, slides to the first start opening first held ball image display area 26g.
In this case, the synchronous action effect may be executed even during the slide movement. As a result, for example, even if a plurality of icons are slid, it is possible to prevent the aesthetic appearance from being spoiled.
On the other hand, the synchronous action effect may not be executed during the slide movement (the icon may be slid while stopped). This allows the player to grasp that it is an interval between fluctuations.

For example, in the case where the holding number counter increases by one during 99 ms in FIG. 34 and then decreases by one, the holding icon D is displayed once in the first starting port third holding ball image display area 26i, and then, Suspended icon B, which had been displayed in the first starting port first suspended ball image display area 26g until then, slides to the variable icon display area 26o and is displayed as "the variable icon". The holding icon C displayed in the second held ball image display area 26h slides to the first starting opening first held ball image display area 26g, and is temporarily displayed in the first starting opening third held ball image display area 26i. It has been explained that the displayed hold icon D slides to the first starting port second hold ball image display area 26h.
In this case, after the suspended icon D reaches its normal display size, for example, if another icon is positioned at the operating position (1), the suspended icon D that has reached its normal display size and the other icon You may make it slide-move, executing the synchronous operation|movement production|presentation with. Thereby, it can be made not to spoil beauty.

For example, in the case where the holding number counter decreases by 1 during 99 ms in FIG. is slid to the variation icon display area 26o and displayed as "the variation icon", and the suspension icon C that has been displayed in the first start opening second retention ball image display area 26h until then is the first start It has been explained that the player slides to the first held ball image display area 26g and displays the held icon D in the first start opening third held ball image display area 26i with display animation.
In this case, the suspended icon B and the suspended icon C are slid while executing the synchronous action effect, and after the suspended icon D reaches the normal display size, the suspended icon B and the suspended icon C perform the synchronous action effect. It should be executed. Thereby, it can be made not to spoil beauty.

For example, in the irregular case in FIG. 41, it has been explained that the display animation is not accompanied by the corrected display of the pending icon that should not be displayed.
In this case, after the suspended icon is corrected and displayed, for example, if another icon is located at the operating position (1), the corrected suspended icon is set to the operating position (1) and the synchronous action effect is executed. be able to. As a result, it is possible to quickly display a normal pending icon and not to impair the appearance.

(Other modifications)
For example, when the game state shifts from the normal game state to the winning game to the variable probability game state or the time saving game state or the variable probability game state to the normal game state, the first start opening first reserved ball image display area 26g, the first start Second starting ball image display area 26h, first starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26i, first starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26j, second starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26k, Icons may be displayed in the second starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26l, the second starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26m, and the second starting opening fourth reserved ball image display area 26n. good too.
In this case, the icon associated with the first start port 21 and the icon associated with the second start port 22 may perform a synchronous action effect. This can enhance aesthetics.
On the other hand, the icon related to the first starting port 21 executes the synchronous action effect with the icon related to the first starting port 21 (the synchronous action effect is not executed with the icon related to the second starting port 22), and the second starting As for the icon related to the mouth 22, the icon related to the second start opening 22 may execute the synchronous action effect (the icon related to the first start hole 21 may not execute the synchronous action effect). Accordingly, it is possible to recognize that the icons are associated with different starting ports.
Alternatively, the synchronous action effect may be executed with the icon associated with one start port, but the synchronous action effect may not be executed with the icon associated with the other start port (the icon may not be operated). Accordingly, it is possible to recognize that the icons are associated with different starting ports.

The details of the means and the like described in the game machine will be described.
Acquired by entering a game ball into a starting hole (for example, first starting hole 21, second starting hole 22) formed in a game area (for example, game area 7) where a game ball can flow down and the starting hole Reserved storage means (for example, main RAM 103, sub-RAM 203) for holding and storing judgment information obtained (for example, random numbers acquired in each process in FIG. 15); Determination means (eg, main CPU 101) for determining whether or not to execute a game (eg, winning game) (eg, special symbol winning determination processing), and whether or not to execute the special game based on the determination information Pre-determination means (e.g., main CPU 101) for pre-determining (e.g., award-winning determination processing) prior to the determination means; (For example, the image display device 26) and, based on the result of the preliminary determination, the second display mode (for example, a white pending icon that is a normal color) different from the first display mode (for example, a white pending icon that is a normal color) and a display mode change determining means (for example, sub CPU 201) that determines whether to change to a blue pending icon), and when a plurality of pending displays are performed in the pending display area (for example, the first When the holding icon is displayed in the starting opening first held ball image display area 26g and the first starting opening second held ball image display area 26h), a synchronous operation effect in which the holding display operates in synchronization (for example, 44 (b)) can be executed, and the synchronous action effect is performed when the second display mode is included in the plurality of pending displays (for example, as shown in FIG. 45 (a) (when a plurality of pending icons include a blue pending icon).

In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine was used as an example, but the contents described in this embodiment can also be applied to a reel-type game machine (slot machine), or a rock-and-ball game machine. It can also be applied to an arrange ball game machine.

1 pachinko game machine 26 image display device 26o relevant variation icon display area 26g first starting opening first reserved ball image display area 26h first starting opening second reserved ball image display area 26i first starting opening third reserved ball image display area 26j 1st starting opening 4th reserved ball image display area 26k 2nd starting opening 1st reserved ball image display area 26l 2nd starting opening 2nd reserved ball image display area 26m 2nd starting opening 3rd reserved ball image display area 26n 2 starting point 4th ball holding image display area

Claims (1)

a starting port formed in a game area where game balls can flow down;
Reservation storage means for reserving and storing determination information acquired by entry of a game ball into the starting port;
determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player based on the determination information;
Pre-determining means for determining in advance whether or not to execute the special game based on the determination information prior to the determining means;
a symbol display means for executing variable display and stop display of symbols according to the result of the determination;
game state control means capable of controlling a normal game state and a specific game state more advantageous to the player than the normal game state;
a pending display means for displaying a pending display corresponding to the number of pending memories in a pending display area;
Display mode change determination means for determining whether to change the pending display to a second display mode different from the first display mode based on the result of the prior determination;
A ready-to-reach effect execution means for executing a ready-to-reach effect that can notify the result of the determination,
In the normal game state and the specific game state,
When a plurality of pending displays are performed in the pending display area, it is possible to execute a synchronous operation effect in which the pending displays operate in synchronization,
The synchronous action effect can be executed when the second display mode is included in the plurality of pending displays,
During execution of the ready-to-win effect, it is possible not to visually recognize the synchronous action effect,
When it is notified that the special game will not be executed by the execution of the ready-to-win effect, it is possible to visually recognize the synchronous operation effect after the notification and before the symbol is stopped,
In the normal game state,
When it is notified that the special game is to be executed by executing the ready-to-win effect, it is possible to visually recognize the synchronous action effect after the notification and before the symbol is stopped and displayed,
In the specific game state,
When execution of the special game is notified by execution of the ready-to-win effect, it is possible to prevent the synchronous action effect from being visually recognized after the notification and before the stop display of the symbol is performed.
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images