JP7297847B2 - game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

As shown in Patent Literature 1, a gaming machine has been proposed that includes setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside.

JP 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007)

In a gaming machine such as that described in Patent Literature 1, it is necessary to optimize control regarding setting of set values.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and it is an object of the present invention to optimize control related to setting of set values.

(A) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention
A gaming machine capable of executing specific control based on the passage of a game medium through a specific area,
A game control means capable of controlling a setting permission state for permitting setting of a set value and a setting confirmation state for confirming the set value;
specific information storage means for storing specific information that can specify that the setting permission state has been set;
It is possible to communicate with the game control means after the communication start processing by the game control means, and by enabling communication with the game control means, it becomes possible to give a game value, and based on a signal output from the game device an imparting means for imparting game value;
a display means;
When the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled, the communication start processing by the game control means is executed in common,
It is possible to impart a game value based on a signal output from the gaming device in common when the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled,
When an open state in which the door frame corresponding to the gaming machine is opened is detected in both when the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled, the The provision of game value based on the signal output from the gaming device is restricted,
limiting the specific control based on the passage of the game medium through the specific area when being controlled to the setting permission state;
limiting the specific control based on the passage of the game medium through the specific area when being controlled to the setting confirmation state;
The display means is capable of displaying a demo display that is common both after the setting permission state is terminated and after the setting confirmation state is terminated;
starting to output a specific signal in response to the start of control to the setting permission state;
stopping the output of the specific signal in response to the termination of the control to the setting permission state;
an output period of the specific signal corresponding to the control to the setting permission state is longer than a predetermined period;
The specific information storage means can store the specific information even after power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
When the power supply to the game machine is resumed and the specific information is stored in the specific information storage means, the game is stopped ,
When the setting permission state is controlled, the game state is initialized,
Based on the end of the setting permission state, after the notification corresponding to the end of the setting permission state is executed, it is notified that the game state has been initialized.
It is characterized by
(B) In addition, another aspect of the gaming machine is
A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of imparting game value (pachinko balls),
Specific control means (such as jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing) capable of executing specific control (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination) according to set values (step S21TM1690 etc. Game that executes processing a control microcomputer 100);
Setting permission state control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) to set the setting permission state for setting the setting value,
Open state detection capable of detecting an open state in which at least one of a game machine frame (game machine frame 3) and a door frame (glass door frame 3a) (for example, game machine frame 3) corresponding to the game machine is opened A game provided with means (a game machine frame open sensor capable of detecting that the game machine frame 3 is in an open state, and a door frame open sensor capable of detecting that the glass door frame 3a is in an open state. a payout control microcomputer 21TM370) having a machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300;
a specific processing means capable of executing a specific process for imparting a game value of a predetermined size when a game medium passes through a specific area;
storage means for storing the size of the game value that has not been completely given when a power failure occurs before the game value is given based on the specific process;
The specific processing means is
when the game medium passes through the specific area, the specific process can be executed based on receiving a specific signal from the specific control means;
When the setting permission state is controlled, the specific processing is not executed by not transmitting the specific signal from the specific control means,
capable of receiving the specific signal from the specific control means when the setting permission state is not controlled;
when the open state is detected when the setting permission state is not controlled, even if the specific signal is received from the specific control means, a process different from the specific process is executed;
When the open state is detected when the setting permission state is set and when the setting permission state is not set, the provision of game value is restricted (the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state). When the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289, thereby executing the payout of game media in the ball lending process and prize ball process. do not),
When power supply to the game machine is started,
being controllable to the setting permission state when the open state is detected;
A game value can be given based on the magnitude of the game value stored in the storage means;
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately control the provision of game value when the setting permission state is set.
(1) In addition, another aspect of the game machine is
A game machine (for example, a pachinko game machine 1) that can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot game state) that is advantageous to a player,
Suggestive effect execution means (for example, effect control CPU 120) capable of executing a suggestive effect (for example, ready-to-win effect) that suggests being controlled to the advantageous state;
A title notification means (for example, the effect control CPU 120) that can notify the title corresponding to the suggested effect,
The title notifying means can notify the title corresponding to the suggestive effect when a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the suggestive effect (for example, FIGS. 8-2 (D) and (F)).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to enhance the performance effect.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The suggestive effect executing means is capable of executing a plurality of types of the suggestive effects,
Among the plurality of types of suggestive effects, at least part of the effects within the predetermined period may be executed in a common mode (eg, FIG. 8-2(C)).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to make the player pay attention to which suggestive effect is to be executed, thereby improving interest.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
At a plurality of execution timings during execution of the suggestive effect, it is possible to execute a specific effect (for example, a development effect or a notice effect) that suggests being controlled to the advantageous state,
The execution timing of the specific effect may not be provided during the predetermined period.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to maintain the player's sense of expectation even after the title is announced.

(4) In any one of the gaming machines (1) to (3) above,
The suggestive effect executing means executes at least a first suggestive effect (for example, reach effects of super reach A and super reach B) and a second suggestive effect (for example, reach effects of super reach D and super reach E) as the suggestive effects. is possible and
In the second suggestive effect, the title notifying means may notify the title corresponding to the second suggestive effect from the start of the second suggestive effect.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to execute the notification of the title according to the suggestive effect, so the effect of the effect is improved.

(5) In the gaming machine of (4) above,
A ratio of control to the advantageous state may be higher when the first suggestive effect is executed than when the second suggestive effect is executed.
According to such a configuration, the performance effect is improved.

(6) In any one of the gaming machines (1) to (5) above,
The suggestive effect executing means may be capable of executing the suggestive effect in an effect mode related to the title notified during the predetermined period.
According to such a configuration, the performance effect is improved.

(7) In any one of the gaming machines (1) to (6) above,
detection means (for example, a stick controller 31A or a push button 31B) capable of detecting the action of the player;
Specific display execution means (for example, effect control CPU 120) that performs specific display (for example, small button image 31AK043, large button image 31AK047, stick image 31AK051) corresponding to the detection means,
The specific display execution means is
As the specific displays, a first specific display (for example, a small button image 31AK043) and a second specific display (for example, a large button image 31AK047 and a stick image 31AK051) that are more advantageous to the player than the first specific display are displayed. is possible and
In the non-effective period of detection by the detection means, after displaying the first specific display, the first specific display is changed to the second specific display (for example, FIG. 8-10 (E), FIG. 8-11 (I) )),
During the effective period of detection by the detection means, an action effect using the changed second specific display may be executed (for example, FIGS. 8-11 (J) and (K)).
According to such a configuration, the performance effect is improved.

(8) In any one of the gaming machines (1) to (7) above,
As a suggestive display suggesting the degree of expectation of the control to the advantageous state, a first suggestive display whose display size is the first size (shutter image 31AK061 of the first size displayed during the shutter effect shown in FIG. 8-12(a) display, etc.) and a second suggestive display whose display size is the second size (the second size reach title image 31AK062, etc. displayed during the reach title effect shown in FIG. 8-12 (d)). Means (for example, image display device 5, effect control CPU 120) is further provided,
The display means is
Multiple types of elements with different aspects (element E1 (banana), element E2 (melon), element E3 (apple), element E4 (watermelon), element E5 (strawberry) shown in FIGS. 8-12 (a) and (d)) etc.) (such as fruit patterns shown in FIGS. 8-12 (a) and (d)) can be displayed,
A plurality of types of elements are included in both the first suggestive display and the second suggestive display when both the first suggestive display and the second suggestive display are displayed in the pattern including the specific image. (the shutter image 31AK061 and reach title image 31AK062 shown in FIGS. 8-12(a) and 8-12(d) may be displayed such that the elements E1 to E5 are included).
According to such a configuration, the specific image can be preferably displayed regardless of the display size of the suggestive display. This makes it possible to accurately convey that the specific image has been displayed.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. In a gaming machine such as that described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it is necessary to appropriately execute control regarding the provision of game media when changing the set value. The invention according to means A1 to means A9 has been made in view of the above-described actual situation, and is to provide a gaming machine that appropriately executes control relating to the provision of game media.

The gaming machine of means A1 is
A gaming device capable of executing processing related to valuable values (prepaid balance, owned balls, stored balls, etc.) A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of receiving signals (VL signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, etc.) output from (card unit 21TM050),
Giving means (a payout control microcomputer 21TM370 for controlling a payout motor 21TM289) for giving game media based on a signal output from the gaming device;
Specific control means (such as jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing) capable of executing specific control (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination) according to set values (step S21TM1690 etc. Game that executes processing a control microcomputer 100);
Setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of changing the setting value to a setting change mode,
with
When the setting change mode is controlled, the provision of game media based on the signal output from the game device is restricted (1. When the setting change mode is controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 does not turn on the connection confirmation signal (does not output to the payout control board 21TM037), 2. The game control microcomputer 100 does not transmit the connection confirmation command when it is controlled in the setting change mode, so that the payout control micro 3. When the computer 21TM370 does not turn on the PRDY signal, 3. When the gaming machine frame open sensor detects that the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns on the PRDY signal. No, 4. By the game control microcomputer 100 not transmitting the connection confirmation command when being controlled in the setting change mode (by the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 not receiving the connection confirmation command), the payout control Even if the microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the BRQ signal is on, it does not turn on the EXS signal.)
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to appropriately control the provision of game media when the setting change mode is set.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, when the power switch 21TM055 is operated and the operating voltage is supplied to the main substrate 11, the game control microcomputer 100 confirms that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state. and that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the ON state, control is performed in a setting change mode in which the setting value can be changed. During the period in which the setting change mode is controlled, the connection confirmation signal is not output to the payout control board 21TM037 because the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 is not executed, and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Do not carry out ball lending.

The gaming machine of means A2 is
A gaming machine of means A1,
A game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing a game control timer interrupt process) having the specific control means and the setting change mode control means and controlling the progress of the game in the game machine,
The game control means has a setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling a setting confirmation mode capable of confirming the setting value,
The giving means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) can give game media when a special signal (connection confirmation signal) is input from the game control means,
The game control means does not output the special signal when it is controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 for outputting the connection confirmation signal is the setting change mode). after exiting mode, after exiting configuration confirmation mode),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible not to provide the game medium when the control is in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means A3 is
A gaming machine of means A1,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The giving means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) outputs a first predetermined signal (PRDY signal) to the gaming device, and based on the input of the first predetermined signal, the gaming device It is possible to provide game media based on the input of a second predetermined signal (BRDY signal) output from
When the control is in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the first predetermined signal is not output (1. PRDY signal is not turned on when no connection confirmation signal is input; 2. connection confirmation mode). PRDY signal is not turned on when no command is received),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible not to provide the game medium when the control is in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means A4 is
A gaming machine of means A1,
A game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing a game control timer interrupt process) having the specific control means and the setting change mode control means and controlling the progress of the game in the game machine,
At least one of the game control means and the provision means (for example, payout control microcomputer 21TM370) includes open state detection means ( A game machine frame equipped with a game machine frame open sensor capable of detecting that the game machine frame 3 is open and a door frame open sensor capable of detecting that the glass door frame 3a is open. Door frame open sensor 21TM300) is provided,
Regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, when the open state is detected, the application of game media is restricted (when the game machine frame 3 is in the open state, the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the PRDY signal is not turned on),
It is characterized by
According to this, when the game machine frame or the door frame is opened in order to control the setting change mode, it is possible to limit the provision of game media.

The gaming machine of means A5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means A1 to means A4,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The granting means outputs a grant preparation signal (turns on the EXS signal) in response to input of a grant request signal from the game device (turns on the BRQ signal), and outputs the grant preparation signal. When a grant command signal output from the gaming device in response to the input is input (when the card unit 21TM050 that detects the ON of the EXS signal turns off the BRQ signal), a game medium is deposited,
When the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the application preparation signal is not output even if the application request signal is input (the EXS signal is turned on even if the BRQ signal is detected to be on). do not),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible not to provide the game medium when the control is in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means A6 is
Any gaming machine selected from means A1 to means A5,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means, when the setting change condition is satisfied when power supply to the game machine is started (when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch ) when 21TM052 is on), control to the setting change mode,
The setting confirmation mode control means, when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied when power supply to the game machine is started (when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch ) if 21TM052 is off), control to the setting confirmation mode;
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to control to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode when power supply to the gaming machine is started.

The gaming machine of means A7 is
Any gaming machine selected from means A1 to means A6,
When the setting change mode is controlled, the game state is initialized (the RAM is cleared in step S21TM1410),
Based on the end of the control of the setting change mode, after executing the notification corresponding to the end of the control of the setting change mode (after blinking the setting value on the display monitor 21TM029), the game state is initialized. (display the letter "C" on the display monitor 21TM029),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the control of the setting change mode has ended and the game state has been initialized.

The gaming machine of means A8 is
Any gaming machine selected from means A1 to means A7,
A game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing a game control timer interrupt process) having the specific control means and the setting change mode control means and controlling the progress of the game in the game machine;
With production control means (production control CPU 120) that controls the execution of production,
The game control means further includes a setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling a setting confirmation mode capable of confirming the setting value,
The game control means outputs a command (setting change mode command, setting confirmation mode command) to the effect control means in accordance with being controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode,
The effect control means executes control related to the notification according to the command (displays "setting change in progress" on the image display device 5 when the setting change mode command is received, and when the setting confirmation mode command is received display "Confirming settings" on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

The gaming machine of means A9 is
Any gaming machine selected from means A1 to means A8,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
In accordance with the control to the setting change mode, the game state of the gaming machine is initialized (when the setting change mode is controlled, the RAM clearing process of step S21TM1410 is executed), and the setting confirmation mode is entered. The gaming state of the gaming machine is not initialized due to the control (if the gaming machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode, only when NO is determined in step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330, the RAM clearing process in step S21TM1410 is performed). is executed),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game parlor can select which of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode the control is to be performed, and can also select whether or not the game state is to be initialized.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. In a gaming machine such as that described in JP-A-2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it is necessary to appropriately execute control based on signals output from gaming devices when changing set values. The invention according to the means B1 to B7 has been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and aims to provide a gaming machine that appropriately executes control based on signals output from gaming devices.

The gaming machine of means B1 is
A gaming device capable of executing processing related to valuable values (prepaid balance, owned balls, stored balls, etc.) A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of receiving signals (VL signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, etc.) output from (card unit 21TM050),
Predetermined control means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370 for controlling payout motor 21TM289) for executing predetermined control (ball lending) based on a signal output from the gaming device;
Specific control means (such as jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing) capable of executing specific control (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination) according to set values (step S21TM1690 etc. Game that executes processing a control microcomputer 100);
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of changing the setting value to a setting change mode,
Regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, predetermined control based on the signal output from the game device can be executed (the game control microcomputer 100 is controlled to the setting change mode). Even during the period, the connection confirmation signal is set to the ON state, the connection confirmation command and the prize ball number command can be transmitted, and with the connection confirmation signal ON state, the connection confirmation command and the prize ball number command are received. For payout control The microcomputer 21TM370 can execute ball lending regardless of whether it is a period controlled in the setting change mode),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to appropriately execute the predetermined control based on the signal output from the game device, and to avoid the control burden when the predetermined control is not executed while being controlled in the setting change mode. .

The gaming machine of means B2 is
A gaming machine of means B1,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
When the predetermined control is interrupted based on the occurrence of a predetermined event (such as power failure) while the predetermined control is being executed, and then the control is performed in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the setting After the end of the change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the predetermined control is resumed (the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 interrupts ball lending when power failure occurs during execution of ball lending, and after resuming power supply When the game control microcomputer 100 shifts to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the ball rental is resumed after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends without immediately restarting the ball rental),
It is characterized by
According to this, even when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the occurrence of the predetermined event, the predetermined control can be appropriately executed.

The gaming machine of means B3 is
A gaming machine of means B1,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
When the predetermined control is executed, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the predetermined control is terminated (the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is powered off during execution of ball lending). When it occurs, the ball lending is forcibly terminated (stopped), and when the game control microcomputer 100 is controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode when the power supply is restored after that, the ball lending is not restarted, and the setting is changed. The ball lending will not be resumed even after the end of the mode or setting confirmation mode),
It is characterized by
According to this, the control for restarting the predetermined control after the end of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode becomes unnecessary, and the predetermined control can be simplified.

The gaming machine of means B4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means B1 to means B3,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means is controlled when the setting change condition is satisfied when power supply to the game machine is started (the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch 21TM052 is also ON). case), control to the setting change mode,
The setting confirmation mode control means, when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied when the power supply to the game machine is started (the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state and the clear switch 21TM052 is in the OFF state) case), control to the setting confirmation mode,
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to control to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode according to the conditions that are established when the power supply to the gaming machine is started.

The gaming machine of means B5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means B1 to means B4,
When the setting change mode is controlled, game information is initialized (when the setting change mode is controlled, the RAM is cleared in step S21TM1410),
When the setting value is changed in the setting change mode, after notifying the change of the setting value (after blinking the setting value on the display monitor 21TM029), the initialization of the game state is notified (display display the letter "C" on the monitor 21TM029),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the control of the setting change mode has ended and the game state has been initialized.

The gaming machine of means B6 is
Any gaming machine selected from means B1 to means B5,
A game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing a game control timer interrupt process) having the specific control means and the setting change mode control means and controlling the progress of the game in the game machine;
With production control means (production control CPU 120) that controls the execution of production,
The game control means further includes a setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling a setting confirmation mode capable of confirming the setting value,
The game control means outputs a command (setting change mode command, setting confirmation mode command) to the effect control means in accordance with being controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode,
The effect control means executes control related to notification according to the command (displays "setting change in progress" on the image display device 5 when the setting change mode command is received, and when the setting confirmation mode command is received "Confirming settings" is displayed on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

The gaming machine of means B7 is
Any gaming machine selected from means B1 to means B6,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
With the control to the setting change mode, the game state of the gaming machine is initialized (when the setting change mode is controlled, the RAM clearing process of step S21TM1410 is executed), and the setting confirmation mode is entered. The gaming state of the gaming machine is not initialized due to the control (if the gaming machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode, the RAM clearing process of step S21TM1410 is performed only when NO is determined in step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330). is executed),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can select either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode for control, and can also select whether or not to initialize the game state.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. In a gaming machine such as that described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it is necessary to appropriately execute control when a game medium passes through a specific area when changing set values. The invention according to means C1 to means C6 has been made in view of the above-described actual situation, and is to provide a gaming machine that appropriately executes control when a game medium passes through a specific area.

The gaming machine of means C1 is
Specific control (special Special control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing processing such as step S21TM1690) capable of executing jackpot determination processing in symbol process processing,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of changing the setting value to a setting change mode,
When the setting change mode is under control, the specific control is not executed even if the game medium passes through the specific area (the setting change mode is controlled before timer interrupt setting (step S21TM1500)). Therefore, during the period when the setting change mode is controlled, the special symbol process processing (big hit determination processing) of step S21TM1690 is not executed),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to prevent the specific control from being executed when there is a possibility that the set value will be changed.

The gaming machine of means C2 is
A gaming machine of means C1,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means is controlled when the setting change condition is satisfied when power supply to the game machine is started (the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch 21TM052 is also ON). case), control to the setting change mode,
The setting confirmation mode control means, when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied when the power supply to the game machine is started (the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state and the clear switch 21TM052 is in the OFF state) case), control to the setting confirmation mode,
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to control to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode according to the conditions that are established when the power supply to the gaming machine is started.

The gaming machine of means C3 is
A gaming machine of means C1 or means C2,
When the setting change mode is controlled, the game state is initialized (when the setting change mode is controlled, the RAM is cleared in step S21TM1410),
Based on the end of the control of the setting change mode, after executing the notification corresponding to the end of the control of the setting change mode (after blinking the setting value on the display monitor 21TM029), the game state is initialized. (display the letter "C" on the display monitor 21TM029),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the control of the setting change mode has ended and the game state has been initialized.

The gaming machine of means C4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means C1 to means C3,
A game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing a game control timer interrupt process) having the specific control means and the setting change mode control means and controlling the progress of the game in the game machine;
With production control means (production control CPU 120) that controls the execution of production,
The game control means further includes a setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling a setting confirmation mode capable of confirming the setting value,
The game control means outputs a command (setting change mode command, setting confirmation mode command) to the effect control means in accordance with being controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode,
The effect control means executes control related to the notification according to the command (displays "setting change in progress" on the image display device 5 when the setting change mode command is received, and when the setting confirmation mode command is received display "Confirming settings" on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

The gaming machine of means C5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means C1 to means C4,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
When the control is in the setting confirmation mode, even if the game medium passes through the specific area, the specific control is not executed (the setting confirmation mode is set before the timer interrupt is set (step S21TM1500). Therefore, during the period when the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the special symbol process processing (jackpot determination processing) of step S21TM1690 is not executed),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to prevent the specific control from being executed while the set value is being confirmed.

The gaming machine of means C6 is
Any gaming machine selected from means C1 to means C5,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
In accordance with the control to the setting change mode, the game state of the gaming machine is initialized (when the setting change mode is controlled, the RAM clearing process of step S21TM1410 is executed), and the setting confirmation mode is entered. The gaming state of the gaming machine is not initialized due to the control (if the gaming machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode, only when NO is determined in step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330, the RAM clearing process in step S21TM1410 is performed). is executed),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game parlor can select which of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode the control is to be performed, and can also select whether or not the game state is to be initialized.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. In a gaming machine such as that described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it is necessary to execute appropriate processing when the power supply is stopped when changing the setting value. The invention relating to means D1 to means D5 has been made in view of the above-described actual situation, and is to provide a gaming machine that executes appropriate processing when the power supply is stopped.

The gaming machine of means D1 is
Specific control means (such as jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing) capable of executing specific control (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination) according to set values (step S21TM1690 etc. Game that executes processing a control microcomputer 100);
Setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of changing the setting value to a setting change mode,
Setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling the setting confirmation mode for notifying the setting value in a confirmable manner;
Setting value storage means for storing setting values (setting value storage area of RAM 102 where setting values are stored),
The setting change mode control means, when power supply to the gaming machine is started, the first condition is established (the lock switch 21TM051 is ON) and the second condition is established (clear switch ( setting switch 21TM052 is in ON state) to control to the setting change mode,
The setting confirmation mode control means determines that the first condition is satisfied (the lock switch 21TM051 is ON) and the second condition is not satisfied (cleared state) when power supply to the game machine is started. The switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the OFF state), controlling to the setting confirmation mode,
The setting value is determined based on a specific operation (an operation of switching the lock switch 21TM051 from the ON state to the OFF state) in the setting change mode,
The setting value storage means stores the setting value before being controlled in the setting change mode when being controlled in the setting change mode (stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 before shifting to the setting change mode). The set values that have been set are stored continuously without being changed when shifting to the setting change mode),
In the setting change mode, the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped without the specific operation being performed (the power supply is cut off without performing the operation of switching the lock switch 21TM051 from the ON state to the OFF state), and then When the game machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode when the power supply to the game machine is restarted, the setting value stored in the setting value storage means is notified (the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the power is turned on). If so, the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 before shifting to the setting confirmation mode are displayed on the display monitor 21TM029),
It is characterized by
According to this, the game arcade clerk or the like can appropriately determine the set value when the power supply is stopped while the setting change mode is being controlled.

The gaming machine of means D2 is
A gaming machine of means D1,
The setting change mode control means performs a transition operation (operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051) and an initialization operation (to turn on the clear switch 21TM052) when power supply to the game machine is started. operation) is performed, control to the setting change mode,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls to the setting confirmation mode when the transition operation is performed and the initialization operation is not performed when power supply to the gaming machine is started.
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can select either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode for control.

The gaming machine of means D3 is
A gaming machine of means D1 or means D2,
When the setting change mode is controlled, the game state is initialized (the RAM is cleared in step S21TM1410),
Based on the end of the control of the setting change mode, a notification corresponding to the end of the control of the setting change mode is executed (blinking the set value on the display monitor 21TM029);
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the control of the setting change mode has ended.

The gaming machine of means D4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means D1 to means D3,
Game control means (game control microcontroller for executing game control timer interrupt processing) that has the specific control means, the setting change mode control means, and the setting confirmation mode control means, and controls the progress of the game in the game machine. computer 100);
With production control means (production control CPU 120) that executes control of production,
The game control means outputs a command (setting change mode command, setting confirmation mode command) to the effect control means in accordance with being controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode,
The effect control means executes a notification according to the command (displays "setting changing" on the image display device 5 when the setting change mode command is received, displays an image when the setting confirmation mode command is received). display "Confirming settings" on the device 5),
It is characterized by
According to this, the store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

The gaming machine of means D5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means D1 to means D4,
Timing after the start of power supply to the game machine (timing after the game control microcomputer 100 can execute the game control timer interrupt process after the end of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode) When the first condition or the second condition is satisfied, a predetermined notification is performed (the effect control CPU 120 outputs a lock switch operation command indicating that the lock switch 21TM051 has been operated, a clear switch (setting changeover switch ) When a setting changeover switch operation command indicating that 21TM052 has been operated is received from the game control microcomputer 100, "Operation of the lock switch has been detected.", "Operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected." is displayed on the image display device 5)
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible for a store clerk or the like of the amusement arcade to grasp that the first condition or the second condition is satisfied at the timing after the power supply is started.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. Further, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-200506 (paragraph 0102), a gaming machine is proposed in which a "jackpot signal" or the like is output from an external output terminal of a main control board. Regarding the gaming machine as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it may be necessary for the external device to grasp the status of the processing related to the change of the setting value. Even if the signal output technology of the conventional game machine described in JP-A-2014-200506 (paragraph 0102) is applied, there is a problem that it is difficult for the external device to grasp this. The inventions relating to means E1 to E8 have been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and provide a gaming machine in which the status of processing related to changes in set values can be grasped on the external device side. be.

The gaming machine of means E1 is
A game machine capable of executing specific control (jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing, etc.) according to set values (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination),
the setting value is changeable (changeable based on an operation in a setting change mode);
A specific signal (security signal) can be output from the first terminal (tenth terminal) in response to a predetermined event (abnormal winning, switch abnormality detection, magnetic error, RAM clear, etc.) occurring in the gaming machine,
A special signal (setting change corresponding signal) can be output from the second terminal (seventh terminal) in response to the processing related to the change of the setting value (transition to the setting change mode, transition to the setting confirmation mode). ,
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event and the execution of the processing related to the change of the set value can be notified to the outside in a distinguishable manner.

The gaming machine of means E2 is
The gaming machine of means E1,
The specific signal can be output in response to the start of power supply to the gaming machine (a security signal is output when the RAM is cleared);
Setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of controlling a setting change mode capable of changing the setting value when power supply to the game machine is started prepared,
When controlled to the setting change mode, it is possible to output both the specific signal and the special signal (output the security signal and the setting correspondence change signal at the same time);
It is characterized by
According to this, the specific signal can notify the outside that at least the possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode can be notified to the outside. It is possible to grasp that there is a possibility of being controlled by the mode.

The gaming machine of means E3 is
A gaming machine of means E2,
When both the specific signal and the special signal are output based on being controlled to the setting change mode, the output period of the specific signal is longer than the output period of the special signal (output of the setting corresponding change signal). The security signal will continue to be output for 30 seconds after the end of the
It is characterized by
According to this, the specific signal can be used to notify the outside that there is at least the possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode. It is possible to grasp that there is a possibility of being controlled in the change mode.

The gaming machine of means E4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means E1 to means E3,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
capable of outputting the special signal based on being controlled to the setting confirmation mode (outputting a setting correspondence change signal while being controlled to the setting confirmation mode);
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to notify the outside that there is a possibility of being controlled to the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means E5 is
The gaming machine of means E4,
When the power supply to the game machine is started, it is possible to control the setting confirmation mode (when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the OFF state. is controlled to the setting confirmation mode based on the
capable of outputting both the specific signal and the special signal based on being controlled to the setting confirmation mode (outputting a security signal and a setting correspondence change signal at the same time);
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to notify the outside by the specific signal that there is at least a possibility of being controlled to the setting confirmation mode. It is possible to grasp that there is a possibility of being controlled by the mode.

The gaming machine of means E6 is
The gaming machine of means E1,
Setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of controlling a setting change mode capable of changing the setting value when power supply to the game machine is started prepared,
Outputting the special signal when controlled to the setting change mode (outputting a setting change corresponding signal when controlled to the setting change mode), and outputting the specific signal when the setting change mode ends (If the RAM clear is executed, a security signal is output when the setting change mode ends),
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event can be notified to the outside while simplifying the signal output processing when the setting change mode is controlled.

The gaming machine of means E7 is
A gaming machine of means E1 or means E6,
Setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) capable of controlling a setting confirmation mode capable of confirming the setting value when power supply to the game machine is started prepared,
It is possible to output the special signal when controlled to the setting confirmation mode (output a setting change corresponding signal when controlled to the setting confirmation mode), and output the specific signal when the setting confirmation mode is terminated. (If the RAM clear is executed, a security signal is output when the setting confirmation mode ends),
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event can be notified to the outside while simplifying the signal output processing in the case of being controlled to the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means E8 is
Any gaming machine selected from means E1 to means E7,
Setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) capable of changing the setting value to a setting change mode,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
In the setting change mode, the setting value can be changed according to the setting change operation (the setting value can be changed by operating the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 and the lock switch 21TM051),
When the setting change operation is performed when neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled, a predetermined notification is made (the effect control CPU 120 determines that the lock switch 21TM051 has been operated). When receiving a setting changeover switch operation command indicating that the lock switch operation command indicating that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated from the game control microcomputer 100, "The operation of the lock switch was detected. ”, and “The operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected.” is displayed on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible for a store clerk or the like of the game arcade to grasp that an inappropriate setting change operation has been performed.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. Further, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-200506 (paragraph 0102), a gaming machine is proposed in which a "jackpot signal" or the like is output from an external output terminal of a main control board. Regarding the game machine as described in JP-A-2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it may be necessary for the external device to grasp information related to the setting value, but JP-A-2014-200506 Even if the signal output technique of the conventional game machine described in the publication (paragraph 0102) is applied, there is a problem that it is difficult for the external device to grasp this. The invention relating to the means F1 to F11 has been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and is intended to provide a game machine capable of grasping information related to setting values on the external device side.

The gaming machine of means F1 is
A game machine capable of executing specific control (jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing, etc.) according to set values (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination),
the set value can be changed to any one of a plurality of values (can be changed based on an operation in a setting change mode);
capable of outputting a special signal (setting change response signal) corresponding to processing related to changing the setting value (transition to setting change mode, transition to setting confirmation mode);
The special signal can be output in a special mode that can specify the set value (output a number of pulses corresponding to the set value),
It is characterized by
According to this, it becomes possible to notify the setting value of the gaming machine to the outside.

The gaming machine of means F2 is
A gaming machine of means F1,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) that can control the setting change mode that can change the setting value,
outputting the special signal of the special mode upon termination of the setting change mode (outputting a number of pulses corresponding to the determined set value when the setting change mode is terminated);
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to output from a common terminal a signal that notifies whether or not the setting change mode is being controlled and a signal that notifies the setting value of the gaming machine.

The gaming machine of means F3 is
A gaming machine of means F2,
Outputting a special signal in a non-special mode (a setting change corresponding signal that is ON while being controlled in the setting change mode) when being controlled in the setting change mode, and when the setting change mode ends. After temporarily stopping the output of the special signal (after temporarily turning off the setting change corresponding signal upon termination of the setting change mode), the special signal of the special mode (the number of pulse-like settings corresponding to the determined set value change response signal),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to notify the outside whether or not the setting change mode is being controlled by the special signal, and it is also possible to notify the outside of the setting value of the gaming machine.

The gaming machine of means F4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means F1 to means F3,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
outputting the special signal of the special mode upon completion of the setting confirmation mode (outputting a number of pulses corresponding to the displayed setting value when the setting confirmation mode is completed);
It is characterized by
According to this, it becomes possible to output a signal for notifying whether or not the setting confirmation mode is being controlled and a signal for notifying the setting value of the game machine from a common terminal.

The gaming machine of means F5 is
The gaming machine of means F4,
A special signal in a non-special mode (a setting change corresponding signal that is ON during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode) is output when being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, and upon completion of the setting confirmation mode. After temporarily stopping the output of the special signal (after temporarily turning off the setting change corresponding signal upon termination of the setting confirmation mode), the special signal of the special mode (the number of pulses corresponding to the displayed set value setting change response signal),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to notify the outside whether or not the setting confirmation mode is being controlled by the special signal, and it is also possible to notify the outside of the setting value of the gaming machine.

The gaming machine of means F6 is
Any gaming machine selected from means F1 to means F5,
In the special signal of the special mode, the setting value can be specified by the number of pulses (the setting value can be specified in the external device by setting the number of output times of the pulse-shaped setting change corresponding signal to be the same as the setting value. be),
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to easily specify the setting value in the external device.

The gaming machine of means F7 is
Any gaming machine selected from means F1 to means F6,
A specific signal (security signal) can be output in response to a predetermined event (abnormal prize winning, switch abnormality detection, magnetic error, RAM clear, etc.) that occurred in the gaming machine.
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event can be notified to the outside.

The gaming machine of means F8 is
The gaming machine of means F7,
outputting the specific signal (security signal) and the special signal (setting change response signal) from a common terminal (for example, outputting from a tenth terminal);
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event and the set value can be notified to the outside with a simple configuration.

The gaming machine of means F9 is
A gaming machine of means F7,
outputting the specific signal (security signal) and the special signal (setting change response signal) from different terminals (for example, outputting the security signal from the tenth terminal and outputting the setting change response signal from the seventh terminal);
It is characterized by
According to this, the occurrence of the predetermined event and the set value can be notified to the outside in a manner that can be clearly distinguished.

The gaming machine of means F10 is
Any gaming machine selected from means F1 to means F9,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200) that can control the setting change mode that can change the setting value,
In the setting change mode, the setting value can be changed according to the setting change operation (the setting value can be changed according to the operation of the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052),
Regardless of whether or not the setting change operation has been performed in the setting change mode, the special signal of the special mode is output upon termination of the setting change mode (when the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off, it is Regardless of whether or not the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 has been operated before, the number of pulses corresponding to the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is output as a setting change corresponding signal.) ,
It is characterized by
According to this, it is possible to reduce the processing load of the signal output processing by executing the common signal output processing regardless of whether or not the setting change operation is actually performed.

The gaming machine of means F11 is
Any gaming machine selected from means F1 to means F10,
Upon completion of the processing related to the change of the set value, the special signal of the special mode is output (at the end of the setting change mode, the number of pulses corresponding to the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 is output). output a setting change corresponding signal, and output a number of pulse-like setting change corresponding signals corresponding to the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 upon termination of the setting confirmation mode; After the output is completed, the special signal of the special mode is output (stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102) by a predetermined trigger (for example, the end of the jackpot game state, etc.) different from the processing related to the change of the set value output a number of pulse-like setting change corresponding signals corresponding to the set value that is set),
It is characterized by
According to this, since it becomes possible to notify the setting value to the outside at a predetermined trigger, it is possible to increase the chances that the setting value can be specified by the external device.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. In a gaming machine such as that described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it is necessary to appropriately execute control regarding the provision of game media when changing the set value. The inventions relating to means G1 to G10 have been made in view of the above-described actual situation, and provide a gaming machine that appropriately executes control relating to the provision of game media.

The gaming machine of means G1 is
A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) comprising a granting means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370 for controlling a payout motor 21TM289) capable of granting game value (pachinko balls),
Specific control means (such as jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing) capable of executing specific control (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination) according to set values (step S21TM1690 etc. Game that executes processing a control microcomputer 100);
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) capable of changing setting values to a setting change mode,
Open state detection capable of detecting an open state in which at least one of a game machine frame (game machine frame 3) and a door frame (glass door frame 3a) (for example, game machine frame 3) corresponding to the game machine is opened A game provided with means (a game machine frame open sensor capable of detecting that the game machine frame 3 is in an open state, and a door frame open sensor capable of detecting that the glass door frame 3a is in an open state. A payout control microcomputer 21TM370) having a machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300,
Regardless of whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, when the open state is detected, the provision of game value is limited (when the game machine frame 3 is in the open state, the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289, thereby not executing the payout of game media in the ball lending process and prize ball process);
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, when the setting change mode is being controlled, appropriate control can be executed regarding the awarding of game value.

The gaming machine of means G2 is
A gaming machine of means G1,
The setting change mode control means (the game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) detects the open state detection means (the game machine capable of detecting that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state). A payout control microcomputer 21TM370 having a game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 equipped with a frame open sensor and a door frame open sensor capable of detecting that the glass door frame 3a is in the open state detects the open state. When (a state in which the game machine frame 3 is open) is detected, it is possible to control the setting change mode (if YES in step S21TM3520, the processing after step S21TM3530 is executed);
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the setting change mode from being controlled in a state in which the open state of the game machine frame or the door frame is not detected.

The gaming machine of means G3 is
A gaming machine of means G1 or means G2,
It has a specific information storage means (RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100) that stores specific information (the value of the setting change flag) that can specify that the setting change mode is controlled,
The specific information storage means can store the specific information even after power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
The setting change mode control means can bring the game into a stopped state when the specific information is stored in the specific information storage means after power supply to the gaming machine is restarted (game When the setting change flag is set after the power is turned on, the control microcomputer 100 indicates that the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state, the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state, and the clear switch 21TM052 is in the ON state. , on the condition that it is shifted to the setting change mode, and if the condition for shifting to the setting change mode is not satisfied, it does not shift to the normal game process and loops until the power is turned off),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, after the power supply is restarted, it is possible to enter the game stop state when the specific information is stored in the specific information storage means.

The gaming machine of means G4 is
The gaming machine of means G3,
Corresponding to the end of the setting change mode, the specific information (the value of the setting changing flag) is erased (based on the operation of turning off the lock switch 21TM051, YES is determined in step S21TM3530, and the setting change mode is terminated. end, and the setting changing flag is cleared in step S21TM3710),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to shift to the normal game process after the setting change mode ends.

The gaming machine of means G5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means G1 to G4,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game (game control microcomputer 100 for executing game control timer interrupt processing),
The granting means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370 that controls the payout motor 21TM289) has the open state detection means, and determines whether or not to execute the giving of game value based on the detection of the open state. (When the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game medium is not paid out, When neither the game machine frame 3 nor the opening of the glass door frame 3a is detected, the game medium is paid out),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, since the granting means for controlling the granting of the game value has the open state detection means, it is easy to determine whether or not to execute the granting of the game value, and the processing load can be reduced.

The gaming machine of means G6 is
The gaming machine of means G5,
The granting means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370 that controls the payout motor 21TM289)
Based on the reception of information (number of payouts) on the awarding of game value from the game control means (game control microcomputer 100 for executing game control timer interrupt processing), execution of awarding of game value,
Storage means (RAM 21TM302 having an unpaid number storage buffer formed in a backup area in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370) capable of storing grant information (unpaid number) related to game value to be awarded,
The storage means can store the given information even after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
After the power supply to the game machine is restarted, the giving means executes the giving of game value according to the giving information stored in the storage means (if the power is turned off while the game medium is being paid out, the game value is given). If this occurs, the payout of game media is interrupted, the interrupted payout is resumed after the power is turned on, and the unpaid number of game media is paid out);
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to store the imparting information regarding the game value to be imparted after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and the information is stored after the power supply to the gaming machine is restarted. Since it is possible to give the game value corresponding to the given information, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of disadvantages for the player.

The gaming machine of means G7 is
Any gaming machine selected from means G1 to means G6,
It can be connected to a game device (card unit 21TM050),
The giving means (payout control microcomputer 21TM370 for controlling the payout motor 21TM289) gives a game value based on signals (VL signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, etc.) output from the gaming device,
When the open state is detected, the awarding of game value based on the signal output from the game device is restricted (the game machine frame door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is When the opening of the frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected, even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated, the card unit 21TM050 does not transmit the BRDY signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout of game media is executed. not),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, since the giving of game value while the game machine frame or the door frame is open is restricted, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of troubles associated with the giving operation while the game machine frame or the door frame is open. Maintenance work or the like can be smoothly performed while the game machine frame or the door frame is open.

The gaming machine of means G8 is
Any gaming machine selected from means G1 to means G7,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3580) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value is provided,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
The gaming state of the gaming machine is initialized as a result of being controlled to the setting change mode,
The game state of the game machine is not initialized due to the control in the setting confirmation mode (when the control is in the setting change mode, the clear switch 21TM052 is in the ON state, and in step S21TM3040 If a determination of YES is made, the RAM is cleared in step S21TM3050, or if a determination of YES is made in step S21TM3140, the RAM is cleared in step S21TM3150. , based on the fact that the clear switch 21TM052 is in the OFF state, the determination in step S21TM3040 is NO, so that the process does not proceed to step S21TM3050, or the determination in step S21TM3140 is NO, so that step S21TM3150 is performed. ),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, a game arcade clerk or the like can select either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode for control, and can also select whether or not to initialize the game state.

The gaming machine of means G9 is
The gaming machine of means G8,
A storage means (RAM 21TM302 having an unpaid number storage buffer formed in a backup area in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370) capable of storing grant information (data of unpaid number) related to game value to be awarded,
The given information is initialized as the game state of the game machine is initialized (when the step S21TM3050 for initializing the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or the RAM clear in step S21TM3150 is executed) Along with this, the RAM clear in step S21TM1880 for initializing the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is also executed. number data is initialized),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, since the gaming state of the gaming machine is initialized including the imparting information regarding the gaming value to be imparted, management in the gaming parlor can be facilitated.

The gaming machine of means G10 is
The gaming machine of means G8,
A storage means (RAM 21TM302 having an unpaid number storage buffer formed in a backup area in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370) capable of storing grant information (data of unpaid number) related to game value to be awarded,
The given information is not initialized regardless of whether the game state of the game machine is initialized (step S21TM3050 for initializing the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or RAM clear in step S21TM3150 is executed). Also, since the RAM clear in step S21TM1880 for initializing the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not executed, the unpaid number in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area within the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 data is not initialized),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, even when the gaming state of the gaming machine is initialized, the information regarding the game value to be awarded can be appropriately protected because the grant information is not initialized.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes a setting change means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. Further, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-200506 (paragraph 0102), a gaming machine is proposed in which a "jackpot signal" or the like is output from an external output terminal of a main control board. Regarding the gaming machine as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), the occurrence status of a predetermined event in the gaming machine and the execution status of the process related to the change of the setting value are displayed on the external device side. Although it may be necessary to distinguish and recognize, even if the signal output technology of the conventional game machine described in JP-A-2014-200506 (paragraph 0102) is applied, both are recognized on the external device side. There is a problem that it is difficult to distinguish and recognize them. The invention according to the means H1 to H5 has been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and distinguishes between the state of occurrence of a predetermined event in the game machine and the state of execution of processing related to change of set values on the external device side. To provide a game machine capable of being separately recognized.

The gaming machine of means H1 is
A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of executing specific control (jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing, etc.) according to set values (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination),
The setting value can be changed,
A specific signal (security signal) can be output in response to a predetermined event (RAM clear, game machine frame/door frame open detection, etc.) occurring in the game machine, and processing related to change of setting value (setting change mode) can output a specific signal,
The output period of the specific signal corresponding to the predetermined event differs from the output period of the specific signal corresponding to the processing related to the change of the setting value (the security signal is not controlled to the setting change mode after RAM clearing is executed). is output for 30 seconds, and when the RAM is cleared and the setting change mode is controlled, the output is for a period of 30 seconds added to the period during which the setting change mode is controlled),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, the occurrence of the predetermined event and the execution of the processing related to the change of the set value can be notified to the outside in a distinguishable manner.

The gaming machine of means H2 is
A game machine of means H1,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) capable of changing setting values to a setting change mode,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3580) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The output period of the specific signal differs depending on whether the setting change mode is controlled or the setting confirmation mode (the security signal is controlled to the setting change mode when the setting change mode is controlled). output for a period of 30 seconds added to the set period, and when controlled to the setting confirmation mode, output for a period of 50 ms added to the period controlled to the setting confirmation mode),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to externally distinguish between being controlled in the setting change mode and being controlled in the setting confirmation mode.

The game machine of means H3 is
A game machine of means H1 or means H2,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) capable of changing setting values to a setting change mode,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3580) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
When at least one of the transition operation and the initialization operation is performed when neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled, a predetermined notification is performed (the effect control CPU 120 When a lock switch operation command indicating that the lock switch 21TM051 has been operated and a setting changeover switch operation command indicating that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated are received from the game control microcomputer 100, "lock switch operation has been detected.” and “Operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected.” are displayed on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, a store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that an inappropriate setting change operation has been performed.

The gaming machine of means H4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means H1 to means H3,
A special signal (signal corresponding to setting change) can be output in response to processing related to setting value change (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode),
The specific signal (security signal) and the special signal (setting change response signal) are output from different terminals (for example, the security signal is output from the tenth terminal and the setting change response signal is output from the seventh terminal). ),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to externally distinguish between the occurrence of the predetermined event and the execution of the process related to the change of the set value, and the execution of the process related to the change of the set value. can be notified to the outside in a clearer manner.

The game machine of means H5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means H1 to means H4,
A special signal (signal corresponding to setting change) can be output in response to processing related to setting value change (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode),
The special signal can be output in a special mode that can specify the set value (output the number of pulses corresponding to the set value),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to notify the setting value of the gaming machine to the outside.

As shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), a gaming machine has been proposed that includes setting changing means for changing setting values in multiple stages based on a setting change operation from the outside. Further, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-200506 (paragraph 0102), a gaming machine is proposed in which a "jackpot signal" or the like is output from an external output terminal of a main control board. Regarding the gaming machine as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-200902 (paragraph 0007), it may be necessary for the external device to grasp the execution status of processing related to the setting value. Even if the signal output technology of the conventional game machine described in JP-A-2014-200506 (paragraph 0102) is applied, there is a problem that it is difficult for the external device to grasp this. The invention relating to means I1 to I6 has been made in view of the above-mentioned actual situation, and is to provide a gaming machine in which the execution status of processing related to set values can be grasped on the side of an external device. .

The gaming machine of means I1 is
A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of executing specific control (jackpot determination processing in special symbol process processing, etc.) according to set values (set values 1 to 6 with different ranges of random numbers for jackpot determination),
The setting value can be changed,
Start outputting a specific signal (security signal) in response to the start of control (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode) related to the setting value,
Stop outputting a specific signal (security signal) in response to the end of control (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode) related to the setting value,
The output period of the specific signal corresponding to the control related to the setting value is longer than the predetermined period (when the setting change mode is controlled, the security signal output period is 30 seconds or more, and when the setting confirmation mode is controlled) , the output period of the security signal is not less than 50 ms),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately notify the outside of the game machine of the control state related to the set value.

The gaming machine of means I2 is
A gaming machine of means I1,
capable of outputting a specific signal (security signal) corresponding to a predetermined event (RAM clear, game machine frame/door frame open detection, etc.) occurring in the game machine;
The output period of the specific signal corresponding to the predetermined event is different from the output period of the specific signal corresponding to the control (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode) related to the setting value (the security signal is generated when the RAM is cleared). If the setting change mode is not controlled, it is output for 30 seconds, and if the RAM is cleared and the setting change mode is controlled, it is output for a period of 30 seconds added to the setting change mode control period. ),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, the occurrence of the predetermined event and the execution of the processing related to the change of the set value can be notified to the outside in a distinguishable manner.

The gaming machine of means I3 is
A gaming machine of means I1 or means I2,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) capable of changing setting values to a setting change mode,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3580) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The output period of the specific signal differs depending on whether the setting change mode is controlled or the setting confirmation mode (the security signal is controlled to the setting change mode when the setting change mode is controlled). output for a period of 30 seconds added to the set period, and when controlled to the setting confirmation mode, output for a period of 50 ms added to the period controlled to the setting confirmation mode),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to externally distinguish between being controlled in the setting change mode and being controlled in the setting confirmation mode.

The gaming machine of means I4 is
Any gaming machine selected from means I1 to means I3,
A setting change mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3600) capable of changing setting values to a setting change mode,
A setting confirmation mode control means (game control microcomputer 100 capable of executing steps S21TM3540 to S21TM3580) that can control the setting confirmation mode that can confirm the setting value,
The setting change mode control means controls the setting change mode based on a transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on) and an initialization operation (an operation to turn on the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on). ,
The setting confirmation mode control means controls the setting confirmation mode based on the transition operation (an operation to turn on the lock switch 21TM051 when the power is turned on),
When at least one of the transition operation and the initialization operation is performed when neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled, a predetermined notification is performed (the effect control CPU 120 When a lock switch operation command indicating that the lock switch 21TM051 has been operated and a setting changeover switch operation command indicating that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated are received from the game control microcomputer 100, "lock switch operation has been detected.” and “Operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected.” are displayed on the image display device 5),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, a store clerk or the like of the game arcade can grasp that an inappropriate setting change operation has been performed.

The gaming machine of means I5 is
Any gaming machine selected from means I1 to means I4,
It is possible to output a special signal (setting change response signal) corresponding to the control (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode) related to the setting value,
The specific signal (security signal) and the special signal (setting change response signal) are output from different terminals (for example, the security signal is output from the tenth terminal and the setting change response signal is output from the seventh terminal). ),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to externally distinguish between the occurrence of the predetermined event and the execution of the process related to the change of the set value, and the execution of the process related to the change of the set value. can be notified to the outside in a clearer manner.

The gaming machine of means I6 is
Any gaming machine selected from means I1 to means I5,
It is possible to output a special signal (setting change response signal) corresponding to the control (setting change mode, setting confirmation mode) related to the setting value,
The special signal can be output in a special mode that can specify the set value (output the number of pulses corresponding to the set value),
It is characterized by
According to such a configuration, it is possible to notify the setting value of the gaming machine to the outside.

It is a front view of the pachinko game machine in this embodiment. It is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart showing an example of timer interrupt processing for game control. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a figure for demonstrating a variation pattern and the kind of reach. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of an advance notice effect determination process; FIG. It is a figure which shows the determination ratio in an advance notice production|presentation determination process. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example of a modification. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example of a modification. It is a figure which shows the production|presentation operation example of a modification. It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of the pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a payout control board. It is a rear view showing a pachinko game machine. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a display result determination table; (A) is a simplified front view of a main board, and (B) is an explanatory diagram for explaining display contents of a display monitor. It is an explanatory view showing a configuration of a part of the storage area in the RAM of the main substrate. It is the figure which showed the memory map of CPU in a main board. It is the figure which showed the RAM area|region corresponding to the storage area of main board|substrate RAM. (A) is a time chart showing the display time of items displayed on the display monitor; (B-1) to (B-6) are explanatory diagrams for explaining changes in display contents of the display monitor; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining movement of data stored in a storage area of a ring buffer; It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart showing an example of timer interrupt processing for game control. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display mode of a display monitor in a setting change mode; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display mode of a display monitor in a setting confirmation mode; (1) shows information displayed on the image display device when controlled to the setting change mode, and (2) shows information displayed on the image display device when controlled to the setting confirmation mode. It is a diagram. (1) to (3) are explanatory diagrams showing the effect modes of the setting suggesting effect, and (4) is an explanatory view showing a table for determining the effect mode of the setting suggesting effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the control signal output with respect to a payout control board from a game control board. It is an explanatory view showing an example of the content of the control command transmitted and received between the game control board and the payout control board. 3 is a block diagram showing signal lines and the like used for transmitting and receiving control signals and control commands; FIG. It is a sequence diagram showing the transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer during normal operation. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing main processing executed by a payout control CPU; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption processing which CPU for payout|payout control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline|summary of the ball lending limitation method in this embodiment. FIG. 4 is a timing chart for explaining communication between the card unit and the pachinko gaming machine; It is a timing chart showing the first ball lending limit method. It is a timing chart showing a second ball lending limit method. It is a timing chart showing a third ball lending limit method. It is a timing chart showing a fourth ball lending limit method. FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of not restricting ball lending during the setting change mode; It is a timing chart showing an example of resuming the payout after the end of the setting change mode. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing an example of forcibly terminating a payout upon transition to a setting change mode; It is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer during normal operation. It is a timing chart showing the transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer during the period controlled in the setting change mode. It is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer during a period in which the game machine frame or the glass door frame is open. (1) is an explanatory diagram showing control in the case where power is interrupted before setting values are determined, and (2) is an explanatory diagram showing control in the case where power is interrupted after setting values are determined. It is a figure which shows a warning screen when setting change operation is performed during a game. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of signals output from each output terminal; 4 is a timing chart showing output periods of a security signal and a setting change response signal; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between a set value and an output mode of a setting change response signal; FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing an output mode and an output period of a setting change corresponding signal; It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control main processing. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of power-on processing; 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of power-on processing; (1) A diagram showing a value displayed on the display monitor when the setting value is not the normal value, (2) A diagram showing the value displayed on the display monitor when the setting value is the normal value. . FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a method of restricting ball lending based on detection of the open state of the gaming machine frame. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a method of resuming ball lending after detection of the open state of the gaming machine frame is completed; It is a timing chart showing a method of resuming ball rental without shifting to the setting change mode after the power is turned off. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a method of forcibly terminating ball lending by shifting to a setting change mode after power failure; It is a timing chart showing a method of moving to the setting change mode after power off and restarting ball lending. It is a timing chart showing a method of limiting the payout of prize balls based on the detection of the open state of the frame for the gaming machine. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a method of restarting prize ball payout after completion of detection of the open state of the frame for gaming machine; It is a timing chart showing a method of restarting prize ball payout without shifting to the setting change mode after the power is turned off. It is a timing chart showing a method of forcibly terminating the prize ball payout by shifting to the setting change mode after the power is turned off. It is a timing chart showing a method of shifting to a setting change mode after power off and restarting prize ball payout. 4 is a timing chart showing output periods of a security signal and a setting change response signal; FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing output periods of a security signal and a setting change response signal; FIG.

(Basic explanation)
First, the basic configuration and control of the pachinko game machine 1 (also the configuration and control of a general pachinko game machine) will be described.

(Structure of pachinko machine 1, etc.)
FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko game machine 1, showing the arrangement layout of the main members. A pachinko game machine (game machine) 1 is roughly composed of a game board (gauge board) 2 constituting a game board surface and a game machine frame (underframe) 3 supporting and fixing the game board 2 . A game area is formed in the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is shot from a predetermined ball shooting device and hit into the game area.

At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area), a variable display (also called a special game) of special symbols (also called special symbols) as a plurality of types of special identification information is displayed. A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided. Each of these consists of a 7-segment LED or the like. The special symbols are represented by numbers indicating "0" to "9" and lighting patterns such as "-". The special symbol may include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off.

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

The special symbols variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A are also called "first special symbols", and the special symbols variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B are also called "second special symbols". Also, a special game using the first special is called a "first special game", and a special game using the second special is also called a "second special game". In addition, the number of special symbol display devices that variably display the special symbols may be one.

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2 . The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display) or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence), and displays various effects images. The image display device 5 may be composed of a projector and a screen. Various effect images are displayed on the image display device 5 .

For example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronism with the first special game and the second special game, a plurality of types of decorative patterns (such as patterns showing numbers) as decoration identification information different from the special patterns. variable display is performed. Here, in synchronization with the first special game or the second special game, decorative symbols are variably displayed (for example, vertically direction scroll display and update display). In addition, the variable display of the special figure game and the decorative pattern that are executed in synchronism is generically called simply variable display.

A display area may be provided on the screen of the image display device 5 for displaying suspended display corresponding to the variable display whose execution is suspended and active display corresponding to the variable display being executed. Suspended display and active display are also collectively referred to as variable display corresponding display corresponding to variable display.

The number of variable representations that are reserved is also referred to as the number of reserved memories. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special game is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special game is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count is also referred to as the total reserved memory count.

At a predetermined position of the game board 2, a first suspension display 25A and a second suspension display 25B each including a plurality of LEDs are provided. , the number of first reserved memories is displayed, and the second reserved display 25B displays the number of second reserved memories according to the number of lit LEDs.

Below the image display device 5, a winning ball device 6A and a variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

Winning ball device 6A, for example, forms a first starting winning opening that is kept in a constant open state in which game balls can enter, for example, by a predetermined ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first start winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls are paid out, and the first special game can be started.

The variable winning ball device 6B (ordinary electric accessory) forms a second starting winning hole that changes between a closed state and an open state by a solenoid 81 (see FIG. 2). The variable winning ball device 6B is provided with, for example, an electric tulip-shaped accessory having a pair of movable winglets. comes close to the winning ball device 6A, and the closed state in which the game balls do not enter the second starting winning opening (also referred to as the second starting winning opening being closed). On the other hand, the variable winning ball device 6B is in an open state in which the game ball can enter the second start winning opening (second start It is also said that the prize-winning mouth is open.). When the game ball enters the second start winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls are paid out, and the second special game can be started. Note that the variable winning ball device 6B may be any device that changes between a closed state and an open state, and is not limited to a device provided with an electric tulip-shaped accessory.

At predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, four positions on the left and right of the lower part of the game area), there are provided general winning holes 10 which are always kept open by predetermined ball receiving members. In this case, when the player enters one of the general winning openings 10, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls are paid out as prize balls.

Below the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7 having a large winning hole is provided. The special variable winning ball device 7 is provided with a large winning opening door that is driven to open and close by a solenoid 82 (see FIG. 2), and the special winning opening as a specific area that changes between an open state and a closed state by the large winning opening door. Form.

As an example, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big winning door (for the special electric accessory) is in the OFF state, the big winning door closes the big winning door, and the game ball is pushed out. You will not be able to enter (pass through) the prize gate. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big winning gate door is in the ON state, the big winning gate door opens the big winning gate, making it easier for the game ball to enter the big winning gate. Become.

When game balls enter the big winning hole, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. When the game balls enter the big winning hole, more prize balls are paid out than when the game balls enter the first starting winning hole, the second starting winning hole and the general winning hole 10, for example.

Entering a game ball into each winning hole including the general winning hole 10 is also called "winning". In particular, winning a prize to a starting opening (first starting winning opening, second starting winning opening starting opening) is also referred to as starting winning.

A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display device 20 is composed of a 7-segment LED or the like, and performs variable display of normal symbols as a plurality of types of normal identification information different from special symbols. The normal symbols are represented by numbers indicating "0" to "9", lighting patterns such as "-", and the like. The normal pattern may include a pattern in which all the LEDs are turned off. Such a variable display of normal patterns is also called a normal pattern game.

A passage gate 41 through which game balls can pass is provided on the left side of the image display device 5 . Based on the game ball passing through the passage gate 41, the normal game is executed.

Above the normal pattern display 20, a normal pattern holding display 25C is provided. The general pattern suspension display 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the normal pattern suspension storage number, which is the number of general pattern games whose execution is suspended, by the number of lit LEDs.

The surface of the game board 2 is provided with, in addition to the above structure, a windmill for changing the flowing direction and speed of the game ball and a large number of obstacle nails. At the bottom of the game area, an out port is provided for taking in game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports.

Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the game machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 for game effects is provided at the periphery of the game area. ing. The game effect lamp 9 includes an LED.

At a predetermined position (not shown in FIG. 1) of the game board 2, a movable body 32 that operates according to the performance is provided.

A ball hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball toward the game area by the ball shooting device is provided at the lower right portion of the game machine frame 3 .

At a predetermined position of the game machine frame 3 below the game area, game balls paid out as prize balls and game balls lent from a predetermined ball lending machine are held (stored) so as to be supplied to the ball shooting device. ) is provided with a batted ball supply plate (upper plate). Below the upper plate, there is provided a batted ball supply plate (lower plate) from which prize balls are dispensed when the upper plate is full.

A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by a player is attached to a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area. The stick controller 31A is provided with a trigger button that can be pressed by the player. An operation on the stick controller 31A is detected by a controller sensor unit 35A (see FIG. 2).

At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, there is provided a push button 31B that allows the player to perform a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation. An operation on the push button 31B is detected by a push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2).

The pachinko game machine 1 is provided with a stick controller 31A and a push button 31B as detection means for detecting actions (operations, etc.) of the player, but detection means other than these may be provided.

(Overview of Game Progress)
A game ball is shot toward a game area by a player's rotation operation of a ball hitting operation handle 30 provided in the pachinko game machine 1 . When the game ball passes through the passage gate 41, the normal pattern display device 20 starts the normal pattern game. In addition, when the game ball passes through the passage gate 41 during the period during the execution of the previous normal game (when the game ball passes through the passage gate 41 but the normal game based on the passage cannot be executed immediately) , the normal game based on the passage is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In this general pattern game, if a specific normal pattern (normal pattern winning pattern) is stopped and displayed, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern winning". On the other hand, if a normal pattern (normal pattern losing pattern) other than the normal pattern per pattern is stop-displayed as the determined normal pattern, the display result of the normal pattern becomes "normal pattern losing". When it comes to "normal game", the variable winning ball device 6B is opened for a predetermined period of time and the opening control is performed (the second start winning opening is opened).

When a game ball enters the first starting winning hole formed in the winning ball device 6A, the first special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A is started.

When the game ball enters the second starting winning hole formed in the variable winning ball device 6B, the second special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B is started.

In addition, when the game ball enters (wins) the start winning opening during the period during which the special game is running, or during the period when it is controlled to the big win game state or the small win game state described later (although the start win has occurred If the special game based on the starting prize cannot be executed immediately), the execution of the special game based on the entry is suspended up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4).

In the special symbol game, when a specific special symbol (a big hit symbol, for example, "7", the actual symbol varies depending on the type of the big hit to be described later) is stopped and displayed as a fixed special symbol, it becomes a "big hit" and a big winning symbol. If a predetermined special symbol (a small winning symbol, for example, "2") different from the symbol is stop-displayed, it becomes a "small winning". Also, if a special symbol (losing symbol, for example, "-") different from the big-hit symbol or the small-hit symbol is stop-displayed, it becomes "losing".

After the display result in the special game becomes "big win", the game is controlled to a big win game state as an advantageous state for the player. After the display result in the special game becomes "small hit", it is controlled to the small win game state.

In the jackpot game state, the jackpot formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined manner. The open state is the timing of the elapse of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds or 1.8 seconds) and the timing until the number of game balls entering the big winning opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 9). It will continue until whichever comes first. The predetermined period is an upper limit period during which the big winning slot can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter also referred to as an upper limit opening period. One cycle in which the big winning opening is opened in this way is called a round (round game). In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeatedly executed until it reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (15 times or 2 times).

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

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

In the small winning game state, the big winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. For example, in the small winning game state, the same opening mode as the big winning game state when some jackpot types etc.), the big prize opening is opened. In addition, you may provide a small-hit classification also in a "small-hit" like a big-hit classification.

After the jackpot game state is finished, depending on the jackpot type, it may be controlled to a time-saving state or a variable probability state.

In the time saving state, the control (time saving control) that shortens the average special figure fluctuation time (period of varying the special figure) than the normal state is executed. In the time-saving state, by shortening the average normal figure fluctuation time (the period during which the normal figure is changed) than in the normal state, and by improving the probability of becoming a "normal figure hit" in the general figure game than in the normal state, etc. Control (high opening control, high base control) that makes it easier for game balls to enter the second start winning opening is also executed. Since the time-saving state is a state in which the variation efficiency of the special symbols (especially the second special symbols) is improved, it is an advantageous state for the player.

In the variable probability state (probability variable state), in addition to the time-saving control, the variable probability control in which the probability that the display result is a "jackpot" is higher than in the normal state is executed. The variable probability state is a state in which the variation efficiency of the special symbols is improved, and in addition, a "big hit" is likely to occur, so it is a further advantageous state for the player.

The time saving state and the variable probability state are continued until one of the end conditions such as execution of the special game for a predetermined number of times and start of the next big win game state is established first. The end condition that the special figure game of a predetermined number of times has been executed is also referred to as a number cut (number cut time reduction, number cut probability variable, etc.).

The normal state means a game state other than a special state such as an advantageous state such as a jackpot game state that is advantageous to the player, a time saving state, a variable probability state, etc., and the display result in the normal game is "normal game". The pachinko gaming machine 1, such as the probability and the probability that the display result in the special game will be a "jackpot", returns to the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when the system is reset, a predetermined return after power-on) It is the state controlled in the same way as when processing is not executed).

The state in which probability variable control is executed is also called a high probability state, and the state in which probability variable control is not executed is also called a low probability state. A state in which time-saving control is performed is also referred to as a high-based state, and a state in which time-saving control is not performed is also referred to as a low-based state. Combining these, the short-time state is also called a low-probability-high base state, the probability-variable state is a high-probability-high base state, and the normal state is a low-probability-low base state. The high probability state and the low base state are also referred to as the high probability low base state.

After the small win game state is over, the game state is not changed, and the game state before the display result of the special figure game becomes "small win" is continuously controlled (however, "small win" occurs If the special game at the time is the special game for the predetermined number of times in the above cut, the game state is naturally changed). In addition, there may not be a "small hit" as a display result of a special figure game.

In addition, the game state may change based on the fact that the game ball has passed through a specific area (for example, a specific area within the big winning opening) during the jackpot game state. For example, when the game ball passes through the specific area, it may be controlled to the probability variable state after the big hit game state.

(Progress of production, etc.)
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, various effects (effects such as notifying the progress of the game and exciting the game) are executed according to the progress of the game. The production will be described below. The effect is performed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 5. In addition to or instead of the display, sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R and/or the game effect lamp 9 This may be performed by turning on/off, operation of the movable body 32, or the like.

As an effect executed according to the progress of the game, the first special game or the second In response to the start of the 2 special figure game, the variable display of the decoration pattern is started. At the timing when the display result (also called fixed special pattern) is stopped and displayed in the first special game or the second special game, a fixed decorative pattern (combination of three decorative patterns) which is the display result of variable display of decorative patterns ) is also stopped (derived).

During the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative design to the end of the variable display, the variable display of the decorative design may be in a predetermined ready-to-win state (ready-to-win state is established). Here, the ready-to-win mode means that when the decorative symbols stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 constitute a part of the jackpot combination described later, the decorative symbols that are not stopped and displayed are displayed in a variable manner. It is the aspect that is continuing.

Further, a ready-to-win effect is executed in response to the above-described ready-to-win mode during the variable display of decorative symbols. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, the display result (the display result of the special game or the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern) is a "big win" (also called the "big win reliability" or "big win expectation") depending on the performance mode. A plurality of different types of ready-to-win effects are executed. The ready-to-win performance includes, for example, a normal reach and a super-to-win with higher reliability than the normal reach.

When the display result of the special game is a "big hit", a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived as a display result of the variable display of decorative patterns on the screen of the image display device 5 (decoration The display result of the variable display of the pattern becomes a "jackpot"). As an example, the same decoration patterns (for example, "7" etc.) are stop-displayed together on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle" and "right" decoration pattern display areas 5L, 5C and 5R. .

In the case of the ``variable probability big hit'' controlled to the variable probability state after the end of the big win game state, odd decorative patterns (for example, "7" etc.) are stopped and displayed, and the variable probability state is entered after the end of the big win game state. In the case of an uncontrolled "non-probability variable jackpot (normal jackpot)", even-numbered decorative symbols (for example, "6") may be stopped and displayed together. In this case, odd-numbered decorative patterns are also called probability variable patterns and even-numbered decorative patterns are also called non-probable variable patterns (normal patterns). After becoming a ready-to-win mode with non-probability variation symbols, a promotion performance may be executed to finally become a "probability variation big hit".

When the display result of the special figure game is "small hit", on the screen of the image display device 5, as a display result of the variable display of decorative patterns, a fixed decorative pattern (for example, " 1, 3, 5", etc.) are derived (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes a "minor hit"). As an example, decoration symbols constituting a chance eye are stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the “left”, “middle” and “right” decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C and 5R. In addition, when the display result of the special game is a "big hit" of some jackpot types (jackpot types in the same manner as the small win game state), and when it becomes a "minor hit" , a common fixed decoration pattern may be derived and displayed.

When the display result of the special game is "Loss", the variable display mode of the decorative pattern does not become the ready-to-win mode, and the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination (" Also referred to as "non-reach loss".) may be stopped (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes "non-reach loss"). In addition, when the display result is "losing", after the mode of variable display of the decorative pattern becomes the ready-to-win mode, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is a predetermined ready-to-win combination ("reach losing") that is not a big hit combination. (Also called) fixed decorative pattern is displayed stop (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is "reach lost").

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

Also, in the image display device 5, the decorative patterns are temporarily stopped during the variable display of the decorative patterns, and then the variable display is restarted, so that one variable display is simulated as a plurality of variable displays. A pseudo continuous effect may be executed.

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

Further, for example, when a special game or the like is not being executed, a demonstration (demonstration) image is displayed on the image display device 5 (customer waiting demonstration effect is executed).

(Substrate configuration)
The pachinko game machine 1 is equipped with a main board 11, an effect control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, etc., as shown in FIG. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are arranged on the back surface of the pachinko game machine 1 .

The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and the progress of the above-mentioned games in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (execution of a special game (including management of suspension), execution of a general-purpose game (including management of suspension), jackpot game state, small hit game state, game state, etc.) has a function to control. The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103. , a random number circuit 104 and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105 .

The CPU 103 executes a program stored in the ROM 101 to perform processing for controlling the progress of the game (processing for realizing the functions of the main substrate 11). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (variation patterns described later, effect control commands described later, data such as various tables referred to when making various decisions described later) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as the main memory. . The RAM 102 is a backup RAM that retains stored contents for a predetermined period of time even if the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is stopped in part or in its entirety. All or part of the program stored in the ROM 101 may be developed in the RAM 102 and executed on the RAM 102 .

The random number circuit 104 counts updatably numerical data representing various random numbers (game random numbers) used to control the progress of the game. The game random numbers may be updated (updated by software) by the CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program.

The I/O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described later) are input, various signals (first special symbol display device 4A, second special symbol display device 4B, normal symbol display device 20, first reservation It includes an output port for transmitting a signal for controlling (driving) the indicator 25A, the second hold indicator 25B, the normal figure hold indicator 25C, and a solenoid drive signal).

The switch circuit 110 receives detection signals from various switches (gate switch 21, starting switch (first starting switch 22A and second starting switch 22B), count switch 23) for detecting game balls A detection signal indicating that the switch has been turned on by entering) is captured and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signal means that the passage or entry of the game ball has been detected.

Solenoid circuit 111, a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 (for example, a signal to turn on the solenoid 81 and the solenoid 82), to the solenoid 81 for normal electric accessories and the solenoid 82 for the big winning entrance door transmit.

The main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), as part of the control of the progress of the game, produces a production control command (a command to specify (notify) the progress of the game, etc.) according to the progress of the game. 12. The effect control command output from the main board 11 is relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the effect control board 12. - 特許庁The effect control command includes, for example, various determination results on the main board 11 (for example, the display result of the special game (including the jackpot type), the variation pattern used when executing the special game (details will be described later). )), game status (for example, start and end of variable display, opening status of big winning slots, occurrence of winning, number of reserved memories, game status), commands specifying error occurrence, and the like.

The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the effect control command, and produces effects based on the received effect control command (various effects according to the progress of the game, (including various notifications such as driving of the movable body 32, error notification, power failure recovery notification, etc.).

The performance control board 12 is equipped with a performance control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control section 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I/O 125.

The effect control CPU 120 executes a program stored in the ROM 121 to execute a process for executing the effect together with the display control unit 123 (a process for realizing the above function of the effect control board 12, and the effect to be executed (including the decision, etc.). At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 121 are used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

The effect control CPU 120 displays the execution of the effect based on the detection signal from the controller sensor unit 35A and the push sensor 35B (a signal that is output when an operation by the player is detected and appropriately indicates the operation content). The controller 123 may also be instructed.

The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), etc., and executes an effect based on an effect execution instruction from the effect control CPU 120 .

The display control unit 123 causes the image display device 5 to display a performance image by supplying a video signal corresponding to the performance to be executed to the image display device 5 based on the performance execution instruction from the performance control CPU 120 . The display control unit 123 further supplies a sound designation signal (a signal designating the sound to be output) to the sound control board 13 in order to output sound synchronized with the display of the effect image and turn on/off the game effect lamp 9 . Also, it supplies a lamp signal (a signal specifying the lighting/extinguishing mode of the lamp) to the lamp control board 14 . Further, the display control unit 123 supplies a signal for operating the movable body 32 to the movable body 32 or a driving circuit for driving the movable body 32 .

The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits for driving the speakers 8L and 8R, drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, and outputs the sound designated by the sound designation signal from the speakers 8L and 8R. Let

The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits for driving the game effect lamp 9, drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the lamp signal, and turns on/off the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the lamp signal. do. In this manner, the display control unit 123 controls sound output and lighting/extinguishing of the lamp.

The effect control CPU 120 executes voice output, lamp lighting/extinguishing control (supply of sound designation signals and lamp signals, etc.), and control of the movable body 32 (supply of signals for operating the movable body 32, etc.). You may do so.

The random number circuit 124 counts updatably numerical data indicating various random numbers (random numbers for effects) used for executing various effects. The effect random number may be updated by effect control CPU 120 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

I / O 125 mounted on the production control board 12 has an input port for taking in production control commands transmitted from, for example, the main board 11, and various signals (video signal, sound designation signal, lamp signal). and an output port of

Boards other than the main board 11, such as the effect control board 12, the sound control board 13, and the lamp control board 14, are also called sub-boards. A plurality of sub-boards may be provided for each function as in the pachinko game machine 1, or one sub-board may be configured to have a plurality of functions.

(motion)
Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko game machine 1 will be described.

(Major operations of the main substrate 11)
First, main operations in the main board 11 will be described. When power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes game control main processing. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing game control main processing executed by the CPU 103 on the main substrate 11. As shown in FIG.

In the game control main process shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 103 first sets interrupt prohibition (step S1). Subsequently, necessary initial settings are performed (step S2). Initial settings include stack pointer setting, internal device register setting (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.), setting to make RAM 102 accessible, and the like.

Next, it is determined whether or not the output signal from the clear switch is ON (step S3). The clear switch is mounted, for example, on the power board. When the clear switch is turned on and the power is turned on, an output signal (clear signal) is input to the game control microcomputer 100 through the input port. If the output signal from the clear switch is ON (step S3; Yes), initialization processing (step S8) is executed. In the initialization processing, the CPU 103 performs RAM clear processing for clearing flags, counters, and buffers stored in the RAM 102, and sets initial values in the work area.

Moreover, CPU103 transmits the production|presentation control command which instruct|indicates initialization to the production|presentation control board 12 (step S9). When the effect control CPU 120 receives the effect control command, for example, the image display device 5 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized.

If the output signal from the clear switch is not ON (step S3; No), it is determined whether backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (backup RAM) (step S4). When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped due to an unexpected power failure or the like (power failure), the CPU 103 executes the power supply stop processing immediately before the pachinko game machine 1 becomes inoperable due to the stoppage of the power supply. In this process when the power supply is stopped, a process of turning on a backup flag indicating that data is to be backed up in the RAM 102, a data protection process of the RAM 102, and the like are executed. Data protection processing includes adding an error detection code (checksum, parity bit, etc.) and backing up various data. The data to be backed up includes not only various data (including various flags, states of various timers, etc.) for progressing the game, but also the states of the backup flags and error detection codes. In step S4, it is determined whether or not the backup flag is ON. If the backup flag is off and backup data is not stored in the RAM 102 (step S4; No), an initialization process (step S8) is executed.

If backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (step S4; Yes), the CPU 103 checks the backed up data (using an error detection code) to determine whether the data is normal (step S5). In step S5, for example, it is determined whether or not the data in the RAM 102 matches the data when the power supply was stopped, using a parity bit or a checksum. If it is determined that they match, it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is normal.

If it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is not normal (step S5; No), the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply was stopped, so initialization processing (step S8) is executed.

If it is determined that the data in the RAM 102 is normal (step S5; Yes), the CPU 103 performs recovery processing (step S6) to return the internal state of the main substrate 11 to the state when the power supply was stopped. In the recovery process, the CPU 103 sets the work area based on the contents stored in the RAM 102 (the contents of the backed up data). As a result, the game state at the time of stopping the power supply is restored, and when the special symbols are fluctuating, the fluctuation of the special symbols is resumed from the state before restoration by executing the game control timer interrupt process described later. will be

And CPU103 transmits the production|presentation control command which instruct|indicates restoration from a power failure to the production|presentation control board 12 (step S7). In accordance with this, an effect control command that designates the game state before the power cut that is backed up, and if the special game is being executed, the effect control that designates the display result of the special game that is being executed You may make it transmit a command. These commands can use the same commands as the commands set for transmission in the special symbol process described later. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the effect control command specifying the restoration time from the power failure, for example, the image display device 5 notifies that the power failure has been restored or is being restored from the power failure. Display the screen for The effect control CPU 120 may perform appropriate screen display based on the effect control command.

After completing the recovery process or the initialization process and transmitting the effect control command to the effect control board 12, the CPU 103 executes the random number circuit setting process for initializing the random number circuit 104 (step S10). Then, the register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 100 is set so that the timer interrupt is periodically applied every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) (step S11), and the interrupt is permitted (step S12 ). After that, loop processing is entered. Thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 at predetermined time intervals (for example, 2 ms), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing.

When the CPU 103 that has executed such game control main processing receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the timer interrupt process for game control shown in FIG. 4 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby, through the switch circuit 110, the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, and the second start port. It is determined whether or not detection signals have been received from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 (step S21). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko game machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be generated if necessary according to the diagnosis result (step S22). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, jackpot information (information indicating the number of occurrences of jackpots, etc.), start information (start Data such as information indicating the number of wins, etc.), probability change information (information indicating the number of times the odd state has occurred, etc.) is output (step S23).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (step S24). After that, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process (step S25). CPU103 by executing the special symbol process processing for each timer interrupt, management of execution and suspension of the special symbol game, control of the big hit game state and small hit game state, control of the game state, etc. are realized (details later).

Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S26). By the CPU 103 executing normal symbol process processing for each timer interrupt, management of execution and suspension of the normal symbol game based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball passing through the passage gate 41), It is possible to control the opening of the variable winning ball device 6B based on the "normal game hit". The execution of the normal pattern game is performed by driving the normal pattern display device 20, and the normal pattern reservation number is displayed by lighting the normal pattern reservation display device 25C.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, as part of the game control timer interrupt processing, processing when power failure occurs, processing for paying out prize balls, and the like may be performed. After that, the CPU 103 executes command control processing (step S27). The CPU 103 may transmit and set an effect control command in each of the processes described above. In the command control process of step S27, a process of transmitting the effect control command set for transmission to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 is performed. After executing the command control process, after permitting the interrupt, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of the process executed in step S25 shown in FIG. 4 as the special symbol process process. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 103 first executes a starting winning determination process (step S101).

In the starting prize determination process, the process of detecting the occurrence of the starting prize, storing pending information in a predetermined area of the RAM 102, and updating the number of pending memories is executed. When a starting prize is generated, a random number value for determining the display result (including the jackpot type) and the variation pattern is extracted and stored as pending information. Further, based on the extracted random number value, a process of prefetching and judging a display result or a variation pattern may be executed. After storing the pending information and the number of pending memories, the transmission setting for transmitting the effect control command for designating the determination result such as the generation of the start winning, the number of pending memories, and the prefetch determination to the effect control board 12 is performed. . The effect control command at the time of starting winning thus set to be transmitted is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 by, for example, executing the command control process of step S27 shown in FIG. is transmitted to

After executing the starting prize determination process in S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes of steps S110 to S120 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM102. In addition, in each process (steps S110 to S120) of the special symbol process process, transmission setting for transmitting the effect control command corresponding to each process to the effect control board 12 is performed.

The special symbol normal process of step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0" (initial value). In this special symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not to start the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game based on the presence or absence of pending information. In addition, in the special symbol normal processing, based on the random number value for determining the display result, whether or not the display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is a "big hit" or "small hit", and the type of the big hit in the case of "big hit". is determined (predetermined) before the display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, in the special symbol normal process, a fixed special symbol (any one of a big hit symbol, a small winning symbol, or a losing symbol) to be stopped and displayed in the special symbol game is set according to the determined display result. After that, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "1", and the special symbol normal process ends. In addition, the special figure game using the second special figure may be executed with priority over the special figure game using the first special figure (also called special figure 2 priority digestion). Also, the winning order of the game balls to the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening may be stored, and the condition for starting the special game may be established in the order of winning (also called winning order).

When making various decisions based on random numbers, various tables stored in the ROM 101 (tables in which decision values to be compared with random numbers are assigned to decision results) are referred to. Other decisions on the main board 11 and various decisions on the effect control board 12 are the same. Various tables are stored in the ROM 121 of the effect control board 12 .

The variation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "1". In this variation pattern setting process, one of a plurality of variation patterns is selected using random numbers for determining the variation pattern based on the result of pre-determination as to whether the display result is a "big hit" or a "small hit." including the process of determining In the variation pattern setting process, when the variation pattern is determined, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "2", and the variation pattern setting process ends.

The variation pattern is the execution time of the special game (special figure fluctuation time) (also the execution time of variable display of decorative patterns), the form of variable display of decorative patterns (whether or not there is a reach, etc.), and the variable display of decorative patterns. It specifies the content of the production (type of reach production, etc.), and is also called a variable display pattern.

The special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". This special symbol variation processing includes a process of setting for varying the special symbols in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and the elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure Also, it is determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached the special figure variation time corresponding to the variation pattern. Then, when the elapsed time from the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "3", and the special symbol variation processing ends.

The special symbol stop processing of step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3". In this special symbol stop processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B stop the variation of the special symbol, and stop display (derivate) the fixed special symbol which is the display result of the special symbol. It includes a process to set for Then, when the display result is "big hit", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "4". On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off and the display result is "small hit", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "8". Moreover, when the display result is "losing", the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0". When the display result is "small hit" or "losing", when it is controlled to the time saving state or the probability variable state, and when the end of the number cut is established, the game state is also updated. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated, the special symbol stop processing ends.

The jackpot opening preprocessing of step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "4". This jackpot opening pre-processing includes processing for making settings for starting a round in the jackpot game state and opening the jackpot, based on the fact that the display result is a "jackpot". is When opening the big winning opening, a process of supplying a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big winning opening door is executed. At this time, for example, an upper limit opening period for opening the big winning opening and an upper limit execution number of rounds are set according to the type of the jackpot. When these settings are completed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5", and the big hit opening pretreatment is completed.

The process during jackpot opening of step S115 is performed when the value of a special figure process flag is "5". In this process during the opening of the big win, there is a process of measuring the elapsed time from opening the big winning hole, and based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, the big winning hole is counted. It includes processing for determining whether or not it is time to return from the open state to the closed state. Then, when returning the large winning opening to the closed state, after executing processing such as stopping the supply of the solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the large winning opening door, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "6", The process during jackpot opening is terminated.

The jackpot opening post-processing of step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". This jackpot opening post-processing includes processing for determining whether or not the number of executions of rounds in which the jackpot is opened has reached a set upper limit execution count, and a jackpot gaming state when the upper limit execution count is reached. It includes processing to make settings for terminating . Then, when the number of executions of the round has not reached the upper limit number of executions, the value of the special process flag is updated to "5", while when the number of executions of the round reaches the upper limit number of executions, the special process flag The value is updated to "7". When the value of the special figure process flag is updated, the jackpot release post-processing ends.

The jackpot end processing of step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "7". This jackpot end processing includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending production is executed as a production operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state, and a probability change corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state. It includes processing for performing various settings for starting control and time saving control. When such setting is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", and the jackpot ending process ends.

Small hit opening pretreatment of step S118 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "8". This small hit opening pre-processing includes a process of setting to open the big winning opening in the small win game state based on the display result being "small win". At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "9", and the small hit opening preprocessing ends.

Small hit during opening processing of step S119 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "9". In this process during opening of the small prize, there is a process of measuring the elapsed time from opening the big winning opening, and the timing of returning the big winning opening from the open state to the closed state based on the measured elapsed time. It includes processing for determining whether or not When the big winning opening is returned to the closed state and the end timing of the small winning game state comes, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "10", and the small winning open processing is ended.

Small hit end processing of step S120 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "10". This small-hit end processing includes processing of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period in which the performance operation for informing the end of the small-hit game state is executed elapses. Here, when the small winning game state ends, the game state in the pachinko game machine 1 before entering the small winning game state is continued. When the waiting time at the end of the small winning game state has passed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0", and the small winning end processing ends.

(Major operations of production control board 12)
Next, main operations in the effect control board 12 will be described. In the effect control board 12, when the power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board or the like, the effect control CPU 120 is activated, and the effect control main processing as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is executed. When the production control main processing shown in FIG. Perform register setting of the mounted CTC (counter/timer circuit). Also, an initial operation control process is executed (step S72). In the initial motion control process, control for initial motion of the movable body 32, such as control for driving the movable body 32 to return it to the initial position and control for confirming a predetermined motion, is executed.

After that, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is turned on (step S73). The timer interrupt flag is set to ON every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S73; No), the process of step S73 is repeated and waits.

Also, on the side of the effect control board 12, an interrupt for receiving the effect control command from the main board 11 is generated in addition to the timer interrupt that occurs each time a predetermined time elapses. This interrupt is an interrupt generated when, for example, the effect control INT signal from the main substrate 11 is turned on. When an interrupt occurs due to the effect control INT signal being turned on, the effect control CPU 120 automatically sets interrupt prohibition, but when using a CPU that does not automatically enter an interrupt prohibition state, interrupt It is desirable to issue a prohibition instruction (DI instruction). The effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process in response to the interruption caused by the effect control INT signal being turned on. In this command reception interrupt process, the effect control command is taken in from a predetermined input port for receiving the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 among the input ports included in the I/O 125 . The effect control command taken in at this time is stored in the effect control command reception buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example. After that, the effect control CPU 120 ends the command reception interrupt process after setting the interrupt permission.

If the timer interrupt flag is ON at step S73 (step S73; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared to be turned off (step S74), and command analysis processing is executed (step S75). In the command analysis process, for example, after reading various effect control commands that are transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer, the read effect control command Corresponding settings and controls are performed. For example, the read production control command is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the read production control command is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 so that the content specified by the production control command can be confirmed by the production control process processing or the like. It turns on the provided reception flag. Further, when the effect control command specifies the game state, the display control unit 123 may be instructed to display a background according to the game state.

After executing the command analysis process in step S75, the effect control process process is executed (step S76). In the effect control process processing, for example, the display operation of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5, the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the decorative light emitters such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED, and the movable body 32 Control to operate various production devices such as driving operation of is performed. Further, determination, determination, setting, and the like are performed according to the effect control command and the like transmitted from the main board 11 regarding the control contents of the effect operation using various effect devices.

Random number update processing for production|presentation is performed following the production|presentation control process processing of step S76 (step S77), and at least one part of the random number for production|presentation used by the production|presentation control board 12 side is updated by software. After that, the process returns to step S73. Other processing may be performed before returning to the processing of step S73.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing executed in step S76 of FIG. 6 as the effect control process processing. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a pre-reading notice setting process (step S161). In the pre-reading notice setting process, for example, based on the effect control command at the time of start winning transmitted from the main substrate 11, determination, determination, setting, etc. for executing the pre-reading notice effect are performed. Also, a process for displaying a pending display is executed based on the number of pending memories specified from the effect control command.

After executing the process of step S161, the effect control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the processes of steps S170 to S177 as described below according to the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 122, for example.

The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "0" (initial value). This variable display start waiting process is a process of determining whether or not to start variable display of decorative patterns on the image display device 5 based on whether or not a command designating the start of variable display has been received from the main substrate 11. and so on. When it is determined to start the variable display of the decoration pattern on the image display device 5, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "1", and the variable display start waiting process is terminated.

The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "1". In this variable display start setting process, based on the display result and the variation pattern specified by the effect control command, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (determined decorative pattern), the form of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the ready-to-win effect, and various other Whether or not to execute various effects such as advance notice effects, its mode, execution start timing, etc. are determined. Then, an effect control pattern (collection of control data for instructing the display control unit 123 to execute the effect) reflecting the determination result or the like is set. After that, based on the set effect control pattern, the display control unit 123 is instructed to start execution of variable display of decorative symbols, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2", and the variable display start setting process is terminated. The display control unit 123 causes the image display device 5 to start variable display of the decorative design in response to an instruction to start execution of variable display of the decorative design.

The effect process during variable display in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "2". In this variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to display the effect image based on the effect control pattern set in step S171 on the display screen of the image display device 5. , driving the movable body 32, outputting voices and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting commands (sound effect signals) to the voice control board 13, and outputting commands (illumination signals) to the lamp control board 14. Various effects are controlled during the variable display of decorative patterns, such as turning on/off/blinking the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs by output. After performing such effect control, for example, an end code indicating the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern is read from the effect control pattern, or a command designating to stop display of the fixed decorative pattern is received from the main board 11. Corresponding to the fact that the player has done so, the fixed decoration pattern which becomes the display result of the decoration pattern is stopped and displayed. When the fixed decoration pattern is stopped and displayed, the value of the production process flag is updated to "3", and the production process during variable display ends.

The special figure per waiting process of step S173 is a process executed when the value of the production process flag is "3". In this special figure hit waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not an effect control command designating the start of the big hit game state or the small hit game state is received from the main substrate 11 . Then, when receiving the production control command designating the start of the jackpot game state or the small hit game state, if the command designates the start of the jackpot game state, the value of the production process flag is set to "6". ”. On the other hand, if the command designates the start of the small-hit game state, the value of the production process flag is updated to "4", which is the value corresponding to the small-hit production process. Also, when the waiting time for receiving the command has passed without receiving a command designating the start of the big win game state or the small win game state, it is determined that the display result in the special figure game was "losing". Then, the value of the production process flag is updated to "0" which is the initial value. When the value of the production process flag is updated, the special figure per waiting process is terminated.

The production process during the small hit of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the production control process flag is "4". In this small-hit mid-performance process, the performance control CPU 120 sets, for example, a performance control pattern corresponding to the performance content in the small-hit game state, and executes various performance controls in the small-hit game state based on the set content. . In addition, in the small-hit middle production process, for example, in response to receiving a command designating to end the small-hit game state from the main board 11, the value of the production process flag is set to a value corresponding to the small-hit end production. It is updated to a certain "5", and the effect processing during the small hit is ended.

The small hit end production process of step S175 is a process executed when the value of the production control process flag is "5". In this small hit end effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the small win game state, etc., and various effect control at the end of the small win game state based on the setting content. to run. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value of "0", and the small winning end effect process is terminated.

The effect process during the big hit in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "6". In this big-hit production process, the production control CPU 120 sets, for example, production control patterns corresponding to the production contents in the big-hit game state, and executes various production controls in the big-hit game state based on the set contents. In addition, in the big-hit production process, for example, in response to receiving a command designating to end the big-hit game state from the main board 11, the value of the production control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the ending production process. 7", and the effect processing during the big hit is finished.

The ending effect process of step S177 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is "7". In this ending effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the big win game state, etc., and controls various effects of the ending effect at the end of the big win game state based on the setting contents. Execute. After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value of "0", and the ending effect process is terminated.

(Modified example of basic explanation)
The present invention is not limited to the pachinko game machine 1 described in the basic description above, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the above basic description is a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as prizes based on the occurrence of winning, but the game media are enclosed and points are awarded based on the occurrence of winning. It may be an enclosed game machine.

Only one type of pattern (for example, a symbol indicating "-") is displayed during the variable display of the special pattern, and the variable display may be performed by repeating display and extinguishing of the pattern. Further, even if the pattern is displayed during the variable display, the pattern may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (the symbol indicating "-" may not be displayed as a display result).

In the above basic explanation, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shown as the gaming machine, but medals are inserted to set a predetermined number of bets. A slot machine capable of executing a game (for example, a big bonus , regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, and CZ (hereinafter referred to as a slot machine equipped with one or more bonuses, etc.).

The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to being distributed/provided on a detachable recording medium to a computer device or the like included in the pachinko game machine 1. It may be distributed by being installed in a storage device possessed by the software. Further, the program and data for realizing the present invention can be distributed by being downloaded from another device on the network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. I don't mind.

The game can be executed not only by inserting a detachable recording medium, but also by temporarily storing programs and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. Alternatively, it may be directly executed using hardware resources of other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game may be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

In this specification, expressions for comparing various ratios such as the execution ratio of effects (expressions such as “high”, “low”, “different”) indicate that one is a ratio of “0%”. may contain. For example, the ratio of one is "0%" and the other is "100%" or less than "100%".

(Description of Characteristic Portion 31AK)
Next, the characteristic portion 31AK of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 8-1 is a diagram for explaining variation patterns and types of reach in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8-1(A), in the present embodiment, the variable display mode of the decorative pattern does not become the ready-to-win mode, and the display result is "losing". -2, The variable display mode of the decorative pattern becomes the reach mode, and the display result is "losing". are prepared.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8-1(B), in the present embodiment, ready-to-win effects such as normal reach and super-to-reach A to E are executed. In this embodiment, the ready-to-win effect is also referred to as a suggestive effect suggesting that the jackpot state is controlled. The reliability (jackpot reliability) when each reach is executed is normal reach < super reach E < super reach D < super reach C < super, as represented by the number of black stars in FIG. 8-1 (B) The reach B is higher than the super reach A. In addition, you may provide the reach which confirms that it will become a big hit.

In this embodiment, super reach is performed via normal reach. Further, during the ready-to-win effect of the super reach, there is a case where a developing effect to develop (promote) to a more reliable reach is executed. Variation patterns PA3-1 to PA3-4, etc. and variation patterns PB3-1 to PB3-4, etc. shown in FIG. 8-1(A) are variation patterns corresponding to execution of the development effect. Note that FIG. 8-1(A) shows a variation pattern in which the reliability level develops to super reach, which is one level higher, but a variation pattern in which the reliability level develops by two levels or more is also provided. Also, a variation pattern in which the development effect is executed multiple times may be provided.

In this embodiment, except for the normal reach which has the lowest reliability, the title of the reach is announced at a predetermined timing after establishment of the reach. As shown in FIG. 8-1(B), the notification mode of the title differs depending on the type of reach. Specifically, for the super reach E, which has the lowest reliability among the super reach, the title of the reach is notified only by display, and for the other super reach, the title is notified by display and sound. In this way, the title notification is executed by more production devices for reach with a high degree of reliability than for reach with a low degree of reliability. As a result, it is possible to effectively arouse the player's sense of anticipation, thereby improving the performance effect. Note that the notification mode of the title may be arbitrarily changed depending on the reliability or not depending on the reliability. Also, even in the same ready-to-win effect, the notification mode may be changed according to the actual display result or the like. Also, the font (Gothic, Mincho, etc.) and typeface (line script, square script, etc.) of title characters may be changed according to the type of reach.

The notification of the title of the reach (title notification) is not limited to indicating the title itself such as the name of the reach, but may indicate the name of the character appearing in the reach effect, the content of the reach effect, and the like.

(Example of production operation of characteristic portion 31AK)
Next, an example of an effect operation in this embodiment will be described. The following production operations are executed by the production control CPU 120 executing the production control process based on the production control command transmitted from the main substrate 11. FIG. FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3 are diagrams showing an example of the effect operation of super ready-to-win in this embodiment. FIG. 8-2(A) shows that variable display of decorative patterns is executed in the "left", "middle" and "right" decorative design display areas 5L, 5C and 5R of the image display device 5. ing. After that, for example, as shown in FIG. 8-2(B), the decorative symbols showing the number 7 on the "left" and "right" stop and enter the ready-to-win mode. After that, the production branches according to the type of reach.

(Super Reach A)
In the case of super reach A, as shown in FIG. 8-2(C), the character 31AK001, which is a friendly character, is displayed on the image display device 5, and the ready reach effect is started. Here, for example, an animation using the character 31AK001 is displayed. When a predetermined period of time elapses after the start of the super reach effect, such as when the introduction part of the reach effect of super reach (also referred to as super reach effect) ends, as shown in FIG. 8-2 (D), the image display device 5 The title 31AK002 of Super Reach A (here, the characters "SP Reach A") is displayed on the entire screen, and the voice corresponding to the Reach title name (here, "Super Reach A") is output from the speaker 8. Thus, the title of Super Reach A is announced. After that, the title 31AK002 of Super Reach A is erased, and as shown in FIG. The succeeding part of the ready-to-reach performance of super ready-to-reach A is executed. A production in which characters confront each other is also called a battle production. In the battle production, if an ally character wins, it becomes a big hit, and if the ally character is defeated, it becomes a loss.

It should be noted that when the lines are displayed on the image display device 5 during the super ready-to-win effect, a sound corresponding to the lines may be output from the speaker 8 . In addition, the words are not limited to being displayed in balloons as shown in FIG.

(Super Reach B)
In the case of super reach B, as shown in FIG. 8-2(C), the character 31AK001 is displayed on the image display device 5 and the ready reach effect is started. Here, for example, an animation using the character 31AK001 is displayed. When a predetermined period of time elapses after the start of the super ready-to-win effect, such as when the introductory portion of the super ready-to-win effect ends, the super ready-to-win effect B title 31AK005 is displayed on the entire screen of the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 8-2(F). (Here, the characters “SP reach B”) are displayed, and a voice corresponding to the reach title name (here, “super reach B”) is output from the speaker 8, so that the title of super reach B is displayed. be notified. After that, the title 31AK005 of Super Reach B is erased, and as shown in FIG. The succeeding part of the ready-to-win performance of super ready-to-win B in which .

In this way, in super ready-to-win A and super ready-to-win B, the title of ready-to-win is reported when a predetermined period has passed since the start of the super ready-to-win effect. By doing so, the title can be notified after the introduction part of the super ready-to-win effect is shown to the player, so that the effect of the title notification can be enhanced.

In addition, Super Reach A (Fig. 8-2 (C) → (D) → (E) ...) and Super Reach B (Fig. 8-2 (C) → (F) → (G) ...) Then, in the introductory part until the title is announced, the super ready-to-win effect is executed in a common effect mode (FIG. 8-2(C)). By doing so, it is possible to make the player pay attention to which super reach will be achieved after the start of the super reach effect and which title will be announced. In super reach A and super reach B, it is not limited to making the production mode until the title is announced completely common, but at least one You may make it make the part into a common production mode. For example, in the introductory portion of Super Reach A and Super Reach B, a Super Reach production (for example, a production that displays an enemy character or suggests an enemy character) is executed in a manner related to the title notified after that. can be By doing so, the performance effect is improved, and the player pays attention to the performance. In this way, the title notification may be executed after making it possible to specify which super reach is to be achieved.

(Super Reach D)
In the case of super reach D, as shown in FIG. 8-2 (H), the title 31AK007 of super reach D (here, "SP reach D" characters) is displayed in a part of the center of the image display device 5 At the same time, the title of Super Reach D is announced by outputting a voice corresponding to the title name of Reach from the speaker 8 (here, "Kill the enemy"). In this way, in super reach D, the title is announced at the start of the super reach effect. Further, under the title 31AK007, an expectation level suggestion display 31AK008 that suggests the level of expectation of the reach is displayed. The degree of expectation is represented by the number of black stars as shown in FIG. 8-2(H). Here, the degree of expectation is the degree of expectation for a big hit, but it does not have to be completely consistent with the degree of reliability of the reach.

It should be noted that the notification by voice of Super Reach D is not to notify the title name as it is, but to notify the content of Reach. As described above, in this embodiment, the notification mode of title notification by sound is varied depending on the type of reach. As a result, the notification mode of the title notification is diversified, and the interest is improved.

After the title is notified in Super Reach D, the character 31AK001 is displayed on the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 8-2(I). At this time, the title 31AK007 and the expectation suggestive display 31AK008 continue to be displayed in a reduced size in the upper right portion of the image display device 5 or the like. By doing so, the player can grasp the degree of expectation of the reach even during the reach performance. Incidentally, FIG. 8-2 (I) shows the same effect content as FIG. 8-2 (C) (super reach A, super reach B), but a super reach effect dedicated to super reach D is executed. may

After that, as shown in FIG. 8-2(J), character 31AK009, which is an enemy character, is displayed, dialogue 31AK004 of character 31AK001 is displayed, and reach effect of super reach D in which character 31AK001 and character 31AK009 confront each other is performed. executed.

(Super Reach E)
In the case of super reach E, as shown in FIG. 8-3 (A), the title 31AK010 of super reach E (here, the characters "SP reach E") are displayed in the upper left part of the image display device 5. By doing so, the title of Super Reach E is announced. Note that in Super Reach E, the title is not announced by voice. In addition, along with the display of the title 31AK010, the character 31AK001 and the enemy character 31AK011 are displayed, the line 31AK004 of the character 31AK001 is displayed, and the reach effect of the super reach E in which the character 31AK001 and the character 31AK011 confront each other is performed. executed. In this way, in Super Ready-to-Wear E, titles are announced together with the progress of the ready-to-win effect. In super reach E, the title 31AK010 continues to be displayed during the reach effect.

In the ready-to-win performance of super ready-to-win E with low reliability of big hit, the title is notified without stopping the progress of the ready-to-win performance, thereby preventing the player from having excessive expectations. On the other hand, in the reach effects of super reach A, super reach B, and super reach D, the progress of the reach effect is stopped and the title is announced (Fig. 8-2 (D), (F) , (H)). By doing so, the title notification can be executed in accordance with the super ready-to-win effect, and the effect of the effect is improved. It should be noted that the title notification may be performed without stopping the progress of the reach even in the super reach performance such as the super reach A, the super reach B, and the super reach D. Contrary to this embodiment, in the ready-to-win effect of super ready-to-win with high reliability of big win, the title may be notified without stopping the progress of the ready-to-win effect. In the ready-to-win performance of super ready-to-win with low reliability of big win, the progress of the ready-to-win performance may be stopped and the title may be announced.

(Title notification timing)
As described above, in this embodiment, in super ready-to-reach A and super ready-to-reach B, the title is announced after a predetermined period of time has passed after the start of the super ready-to-win effect, and in super ready-to-win D and super ready-to-E, the super ready to play effect is announced. The title is announced at the start. By doing so, the title notification can be executed according to the ready-to-win effect, and the effect of the effect is improved. In this embodiment, in super reach A and super reach B with high reliability of big hit, the title is notified after a predetermined period has passed after the start of super reach performance, and super reach D and super reach D with low reliability of big hit are announced. In E, the title is notified at the start of super reach production, but in the case of reach with high reliability of big hit, the title is notified at the start of super reach production, and in the case of reach with low reliability of big hit, super. The title may be announced after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the ready-to-win effect.

(title display area)
In addition, in this embodiment, in super reach A and super reach B, the title is announced on the entire screen (first area) of the image display device 5, and in super reach D and super reach E, the image display device 5 A title is announced in a part (second area) of the screen of . By doing so, the title notification can be executed according to the ready-to-win effect, and the effect of the effect is improved. In particular, when the hit reliability is high, title notification is performed in a wider display area than when the reliability is low, so effective title notification is possible. Note that the title notification on the entire screen of the image display device 5 may be displayed in a size that fits in the entire screen, or the title may be displayed on the entire background as a background for title notification. It may be a thing (title notification using the entire screen) or the like. In addition, the display areas for title notification may be differentiated between super reach A and super reach B, and the display areas for title notification may be differentiated between super reach D and super reach E.

The method of differentiating the display area for title notification according to the ready-to-win effect is not limited to the example of this embodiment, and the display area for title notification may be arbitrarily changed according to the ready-to-win effect. For example, when the hit reliability is high, the title notification may be performed in a narrower display area than when the reliability is low. Further, when the display area for title notification is changed according to the ready-to-win effect, the display area may be changed as in this embodiment, or the display location may be changed.

(Expectation indication)
In this embodiment, in the title announcement in super reach A and super reach B with high reliability of big hit, super reach D with lower reliability of big hit than super reach A and super reach B is displayed without displaying the expectation degree indication. In the title notification in , the expectation level suggestion display was displayed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming repetitive. In addition, in the title notification of the super reach E, which has a lower reliability of the big hit than the super reach D, the expectation suggestive display is not displayed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from losing his sense of expectation due to the display of the expectation suggesting display indicating that the reliability is low in the reach with the low reliability. At least a part of the super reach A, the super reach B, and the super reach E may display the expectation level suggestion display.

The indication of the level of expectation is not limited to the number of black stars as shown in Fig. 8-2 (H). You may make it display the numerical value corresponding to . In addition, as shown in FIG. 8-2 (H), etc., in the case of indicating by the number of black stars, the number of levels of expectations may be increased by enabling display of black stars equivalent to half (half). .

(Title display end timing)
In addition, in this embodiment, in super reach A and super reach B, after the title is displayed, the title is erased and the super reach effect is executed. As a result, in the super reach A and the super reach B, attention can be paid to the reach effect. Also, in super reach D and super reach E, after the title is displayed, the title continues to be displayed until a final effect, which will be described later, is executed. As a result, in super reach D and super reach E, the type of reach can be grasped even during the super reach performance. Further, by doing so, the title notification can be executed according to the ready-to-win effect, and the effect of the effect is improved. Note that the display end timing of the title can be changed arbitrarily because the effect can be improved at any time.

In addition, here, the effect operation of the reach effect of the super reach C is omitted, but for example, the title notification and the expectation suggestive display according to the reliability of the big hit may be executed.

(Decision production)
After each ready-to-win performance is executed, at the timing of deriving the display result (end stage of variable display), a decision performance for informing whether or not the display result will be a ``jackpot'' is executed. The fixed effects include a fixed effect indicating that the display result is a "big hit" and a fixed effect indicating that the display result is a "loss". In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8-3(B), an effect of displaying an image 31AK012 on the image display device 5 is executed. Thereafter, if the display result is "big hit", an image 31AK013 indicating that the friendly character has won is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-3(C), and as shown in FIG. 8-3(D), A fixed decorative pattern that is a jackpot combination is derived. If the display result is "losing", an image indicating that the friendly character has been defeated is displayed, and a fixed decorative pattern that is a reach-losing combination is derived.

In this embodiment, even if the title is continuously notified during the ready-to-win effect, the title notification is finished before the final effect is executed. As a result, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the decided effect, and to perform a well-balanced title notification.

In the production operation examples shown in FIGS. 8-2 and 8-3, during the ready-to-win production of super-ready-to-win, the decoration pattern is reduced in the lower right portion of the image display device 5 to perform variable display. , How to display the decorative pattern during the ready-to-win production may be arbitrary. For example, the decoration pattern may not be displayed during the ready-to-win effect, or the display mode (size, position, shade, number, etc.) may be changed depending on the type of the ready-to-win effect.

It should be noted that, when displaying characters permanently displayed during the pending display, active display, and variable display, and display related to cellphone interlocking on the image display device 5, they are not displayed as appropriate during the ready-to-win effect of super reach in order to draw attention to the ready-to-reach effect. may be At that time, during low-reliability ready-to-win effects such as super ready-to-win E, these displays may remain displayed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from having excessive expectations due to the low-reliability ready-to-win effect, and to make the player pay attention to the ready-to-win effect in the highly-reliable ready-to-win effect.

(development production)
Next, an example of the effect operation when the development effect is executed will be described. As shown in FIG. 8-4 (A), when the development effect is executed while the ready-to-reach effect of super reach D is being executed (title notification of super reach D is being executed), FIG. As shown in (B), the ready-to-win effect is interrupted and an effect is executed in which the screen is torn. After that, when it develops to super reach A, as shown in FIG. 8-4(C), the title of super reach A is announced, and the reach performance of super reach A is executed. In the case of developing into super reach B, as shown in FIG. 8-4(D), the title of super reach B is announced, and the reach effect of super reach is executed. In this way, when the development effect is executed, the title notification of the development source reach is switched to the development target reach title notification, so that it becomes easy to understand which reach has developed. As shown in FIG. 8-4, when the destination reach is a reach in which title notification is performed by display and sound, the title notification is performed again by display and sound.

The development effect is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 8-4(B). You may make it display. By setting it as such production|presentation, an unexpected production|presentation can be performed. It should be noted that there may be a fake development production such as a production in which the screen gradually cracks but the reach does not develop.

(Suggestion of expectations)
In the production operation example shown in FIG. 8-2 (H), the expectation suggestive display 31AK008 was designed to display black stars indicating the degree of expectation from the beginning. It is also possible to execute an expectation level suggesting effect in which an expectation level is suggested by becoming a black star.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8-5(A), when announcing the title of Super Reach D, an expectation suggestive display 31AK021 of five white stars is displayed first. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-5(B), a black star 31AK022 larger than the star of the expectation indication indication 31AK021 is displayed, and as shown in FIG. An effect is executed to fit in one of the white stars of the degree suggestive display 31AK021. At this time, the speaker 8 outputs a sound "pin" indicating that the number of black stars indicating the degree of expectation has increased. As shown in FIGS. 8-5 (D) and (E), the same effect is repeated a number of times corresponding to the expected degree of reach. At this time, the sound (volume, scale, tone quality, etc.) output from the speaker 8 may be changed stepwise each time it is repeated (every number of stars). At the stage where the number of black stars corresponding to the level of expectation fits in the level of expectation suggestive display 31AK021, the black stars are highlighted by shining as shown in FIG. 8-5(F). By doing so, it becomes easy to understand that the expectation level suggesting effect has ended.

In the example shown in FIGS. 8-5 (A) to (F), black stars are displayed one by one and the expectation level indicated by the expectation level suggestion display is raised one step at a time, but two black stars are displayed. One or more may be displayed so that the degree of expectation is raised by two or more stages. Alternatively, a half black star may be displayed to raise the expectation level by half. In this case, different sounds or the same sound may be output according to the number of stars displayed (the number of levels of rising expectations). For example, the same sound may be output when half black stars are displayed and when one black star is displayed. The same sound may be output when two and a half black stars are displayed and when three black stars are displayed. Moreover, there may be a case where the sound is not output. By doing so, the expectation degree suggesting effects are diversified, and the effects of the effects are improved. In addition, the same black star image will be displayed regardless of the number of stages of expectations that increase at once, and the black stars will increase according to the number of stages of expectations that will increase. You may make it perform the production|presentation which does.

(Direction mode)
There may be a plurality of effect modes in the effect device such as the image display device 5, the speaker 8, and the game effect lamp 9. In different effect modes, even when the same command (for example, a command specifying a variation pattern) is transmitted from the main substrate 11, the effect based on the command is executed in different effect modes. In each production mode, the background displayed on the image display device 5, the character, the motif, the sound output from the speaker 8, etc. may be different. The effect mode may be automatically changed according to the number of times of variable display or the game state, or may be changed by the player's operation.

FIGS. 8-5(G) to (L) show an example of the effect operation of the title notification and the expectation suggesting effect in the special mode when the normal mode and the special mode are provided as the effect modes. In the normal mode, the title notification and expectation suggesting effects are executed as shown in FIGS. 8-5(A) to (F). In the special mode, the ready-to-reach performance based on the variation pattern of super ready-to-reach D is the ready-to-reach performance of super ready-to-reach D2 that is different from the ready-to-reach performance of super ready-to-win D. Therefore, when the fluctuation pattern of super reach D is specified, the title 31AK023 of super reach D2 is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-5(G). At this time, a sound corresponding to the title name of READY is output from the speaker 8, but a sound different from that in the normal mode (for example, a sound with a different tone) is output. Also, the expectation level suggestion display 31AK024 in super reach D2 is not star-shaped but diamond-shaped.

After that, as shown in FIG. 8-5(H), a black rhombus 31AK025 larger than the star of the expectation indication display 31AK024 is displayed, and as shown in FIG. An effect is executed to fit in one of the white rhombuses of the degree suggestion display 31AK024. At this time, a sound "pong" is output from the speaker 8 indicating that the black rhombus indicating the degree of expectation has increased. As shown in FIGS. 8-5 (J) and (K), the same effect is repeated a number of times corresponding to the expected degree of reach. When the number of black rhombuses corresponding to the degree of expectation has settled in the expectation suggestive display 31AK024, the black rhombuses are highlighted by shining as shown in FIG. 8-5(L). In this way, by varying the notification mode of the title according to the effect mode (the state when the ready-to-win effect is executed) determined according to the player's selection and the game state, etc., the effect is diversified and the effect is enhanced. improves.

FIG. 8-5 shows an example of the effect operation when the variation pattern of Super Reach D is specified, but other reach effects (title notification, expectation degree) depending on the effect mode (state when the reach effect is executed) (including suggestive effects) may be made different. Depending on the effect mode (the state when the ready-to-win effect is executed), whether or not to report the title of ready-to-win, and the execution ratio of the title to be reported may be varied. For example, when a predetermined effect mode is selected, the title of ready-to-win may not be announced. By doing so, it is possible to execute an effect according to the taste of the player, thereby improving the effect of the effect.

In this embodiment, the expectation level is suggested by the number of black stars in the expectation level indication display, and the expectation level suggestion effect is executed to gradually increase the number of black stars. It is also possible to execute an expectation level suggesting effect in which the number of displays suggesting is gradually reduced. Such an expectation level suggesting effect may be executed in addition to the expectation level suggesting effect of this embodiment, or may be executed instead.

(Another example of development production)
In the case of executing the expectation degree suggesting effect in which the display indicating the degree of expectation of the expectation degree suggesting display is increased step by step, the development effect may be executed after increasing the display indicating the degree of expectation. In this case, when the display indicating the degree of expectation is increased after the development effect, the display to be increased may be displayed all at once instead of step by step. For example, as shown in FIG. 8-6 (A), the title of Super Reach D is notified, and after completing the effect of gradually increasing black stars, as shown in FIG. 8-6 (B), the image display A development effect is executed in which the button image 31AK031 is displayed on the device 5 . Here, when an operation to the push button 31B is detected, as shown in FIG. , Super Reach C titles are announced. In this way, when the development effect is executed, the title notification of the development source reach is switched to the title notification of the development destination reach, so that it becomes easy to understand which reach has developed. Under the title 31AK032, an expectation suggestive display 31AK033 with three black stars is highlighted. Even if the number of black stars increases by two or more, they are displayed at once. It should be noted that after the movable body 32 has moved, it is also possible to execute a development effect in which the title and the expectation suggestive display are changed.

(Notice production)
In this embodiment, as the advance notice effect, a title advance notice for giving notice of the degree of reliability of a big hit is executed according to the title notification mode (for example, the display color of the title, etc.). For example, as shown in FIG. 8-7 (A), the title 31AK036 of Super Reach A is displayed in black, and the sound corresponding to the title name of Reach A is output from the speaker 8, so that the title of Super Reach A is displayed. is announced, the title announcement is executed in which the display color of the title 31AK036 changes to red as shown in FIG. 8-7(B). Thus, the title is displayed in black when the title announcement is not performed, and the title is displayed in a color other than black when the title announcement is performed. In the title announcement shown in FIG. 8-7, the display mode (display color) of the title may change after the reach title is announced by voice. By doing so, it is possible to enhance the effect of the advance notice effect. Note that the timing at which the title is displayed in a color other than black is not limited to this, and the title may be displayed in a color other than black from the start of display of the title.

Further, when a title announcement is executed in which the display mode (display color) of the title is changed, after the display mode of the title is changed, a sound corresponding to the display mode after the change may be output. By doing so, it is possible to enhance the effect of the advance notice effect. Also, the title notification by voice may be executed after the display mode (display color) of the title is changed. In this case, the sound may be output according to the display mode (display color) of the changed title.

(Execution timing of title notification)
It is preferable that the notification of the title in reach is executed at a timing other than the execution timing of the effect (specific effect) such as the advance effect and the development effect, which increases the expectation of being controlled to the big hit advantage state. By doing so, once the title is announced, an effect that raises the degree of expectation can be executed, so that the player's sense of expectation can be maintained.

FIG. 8-8 is a flow chart showing an example of the announcement effect determination process for determining whether or not the announcement effect is to be executed and the mode of effect. The advance notice effect determination process is executed by the effect control CPU 120 within the variable display start setting process of step S171 in FIG. In the advance notice effect determination process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variation pattern specified from the command transmitted from the main substrate 11 is the super reach variation pattern (step 31AKS001).

If it is a super reach variation pattern (step 31AKS001; Yes), the display color of the super reach title (whether or not to execute a title announcement) is determined (step 31AKS002).

In step 31AKS002, the display color of the super ready-to-win title is determined according to whether the display result is a "big hit" or a "losing", for example, at the determination ratio shown in FIG. 8-9(A). As shown in Figure 8-9 (A), the display colors of the Super Reach titles are "black", "red", "black" to "red", and "black" to "fruit pattern". Those that change, those that change from "red" to "fruit pattern" are provided, and the reliability of the big hit increases in this order (ascending order). That is, the reliability of the big win differs depending on the timing of changing the display color of the title. By doing so, the player will pay attention to the change timing of the display color of the title, and the performance effect will be improved.

In addition, the "fruit pattern" may be displayed in bold and the characters themselves may be "fruit pattern", or the background portion of the title display area may be "fruit pattern". . There may be a pattern displayed as a “fruit pattern” from the beginning. As for the display color that changes, it is sufficient that the display color changes after the title notification is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-7. For the object whose display color changes, there may be a plurality of timings at which the display color changes. Then, the big win reliability may be varied according to the timing at which the display color changes. Also, since the title display period differs depending on the type of super reach, the timing at which the display color changes may differ depending on the type of super reach. In the case of a super reach that has a long title display period (for example, super reach D or super reach E), a plurality of change timings may be provided and one of the change timings may be determined. In the case of super reach with a short title display period (for example, super reach A or super reach B), the number of changing timings may be one or less than that of super reach with a long title display period.

If there are a normal mode and a special mode as production modes, the display color of the title is determined by the determination ratio shown in FIG. 8-9 (A) in the normal mode, and as shown in FIG. Determines the display color of the title at a rate different from that in the normal mode. In the special mode, the pattern of display colors and the order of reliability may be different from those in the normal mode. In this way, by varying the manner of execution of the title announcement (display color and display color change timing) depending on the presentation mode, the presentation is diversified and the presentation effect is improved.

In this embodiment, as the advance notice production, a speech advance notice for notifying the reliability of the big hit is executed according to the display mode of the character's speech in the ready-to-win production of the super reach (for example, the display color of the speech).

After determining the display color of the title of super ready-to-win, the display color of the character's words in the ready-to-win effect of super ready-to-win (whether or not to execute advance notice of the words) is decided (step 31AKS003).

In step 31AKS003, depending on whether the display result is "big win" or "losing", the display color of the lines in the ready-to-win effect is determined, for example, by the determination ratio shown in FIG. 8-9(C). As shown in FIG. 8-9(C), the display colors of the lines in the ready-to-win effect are "white", "red", and those that change from "white" to "red". ), the reliability of the big win is high. In other words, the reliability of the big win differs depending on the change timing of the display color of the words. By doing so, the player will pay attention to the change timing of the display color of the words, and the production effect will be improved. As for the display color changing, the display color may be changed after the words are displayed. For the object whose display color changes, there may be a plurality of timings at which the display color changes. Then, the big win reliability may be varied according to the timing at which the display color changes.

Also, the reliability of the big win may be different depending on the combination of the effect modes of the title notice and the dialogue notice. For example, when the same effect mode (display color) is included in the title notice and the dialogue notice, the reliability of the big win may be increased when the same effect mode is used. Also, the reliability of the big win may differ depending on the combination of the change timings of the presentation modes of the title notice and the speech notice. For example, when the change timing is the same, the big win reliability may be higher than when the change timing is different, or the big win reliability may be different depending on which change comes first. By doing so, it is possible to draw attention to the respective change timings of the title notice and the dialogue notice.

If there are a normal mode and a special mode as production modes, the special mode may determine the display color of the words at a rate different from that in the normal mode. In the special mode, the pattern of display colors and the order of reliability may be different from those in the normal mode.

It should be noted that, in place of the speech notice, a notice effect for notifying the reliability of the big hit may be executed by a change in the effect mode of the ready-to-win effect. In that case, in the advance notice effect, a plurality of change timings of the effect mode may be provided so that the reliability of the big win differs according to the change timing.

After determining the display color of the lines in the ready-to-win effect, or when it is determined that the change pattern is not super-ready-to-win (step AK31S001; No), the presence or absence of other advance notice effects and the effect mode are determined (step AK31S004). After that, the decision results in 31AKS002 to 31AKS004 are stored in a predetermined area of RAM 122 (step AK31S005), and the advance notice effect decision processing is terminated.

In this embodiment, it is possible to execute the title notice and the dialogue notice in the case of super reach. and at least one of the speech announcement may be made executable. Also, the title notice and dialogue notice are explained as being determined by the decision ratio shown in FIG. 8-9, but the decision ratio is arbitrary. good. By doing so, it is possible to execute the notice effect according to the type of ready-to-win, and the effect of the effect is improved.

In this embodiment, the title notice and the dialogue notice differ in the number of executable rendering modes (the number of display colors that can be displayed). By doing so, the presentation becomes diverse and the presentation effect is enhanced. In the title announcement and the dialogue announcement, the number of executable effects may be changed arbitrarily, and the number and types of executable effects may be the same. By doing so, it is possible to execute a notice effect with a sense of unity, and the player can easily grasp the reliability of the big win.

(Action production)
When the effect mode between the title notice and the dialogue notice changes, an effect indicating that the effect mode will change may be executed. For example, an action effect image may be displayed on the image display device 5, and an effect effect in which the image affects at least one of the title and the dialogue may be executed. After the action effect is executed, the effect mode (display color) of the title or lines may be changed. The effect mode of effect effect (effect effect image, etc.) may be common to both the title and the dialogue. It should be noted that there may be a case where the effect mode of the title or lines does not change even though the action effect is executed. When the action effect is to be executed, whether or not to execute the effect effect, the execution timing, and the mode of effect may be determined based on the determination results relating to the title notice and the dialogue notice. Such determination may be performed in the process of step AK31S004. For example, depending on the presentation mode of the action presentation, the rate at which the presentation mode of at least one of the title notice and the dialogue notice changes (the rate at which the presentation mode changes due to the action presentation) may be different. It is possible to make the ratio of the dialogue notice and the change of which production mode (the ratio of which effect is applied) different, or the ratio of what color (how many stages) the change is made to be. . By executing such an action effect, the player will pay attention to which of the title or the words will be affected when the action effect image is displayed, thereby improving the effect. In addition, when there are a plurality of production modes, whether or not to execute the action production and the production mode may be determined at different ratios according to the production modes. By doing so, it is possible to execute an action effect according to the effect mode, and the effect of the effect is improved.

As another example of such an action effect, at least one effect mode (display color) of either the title or the dialogue is selected according to the effect content of the ready-to-win effect (for example, the action of the character, the effect content in the battle effect, etc.). may change. By doing so, the player will pay attention to the contents of the ready-to-win effect.

The present invention is not limited to the pachinko game machine 1 described in the characteristic portion 31AK, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, all of the features described in the above embodiments are not essential components, and can be omitted as appropriate.

(Sub LCD)
As a sub display device different from the image display device 5 , a sub liquid crystal may be provided on the game board 2 or the game machine frame 3 . Although expressed as a sub-liquid crystal here, the sub-display device may be composed of an organic EL or a dot-matrix LED. The sub-liquid crystal device may be fixed, for example, in the vicinity of the image display device 5, or may be movable or retractable. The sub-liquid crystal executes various effects such as a notice effect and display of a pending display. For example, title notification may be performed in the sub-liquid crystal. When the title is continuously displayed after the title notification as in the super reach D and the super reach E of the above embodiment, the sub liquid crystal may display the title and the degree of expectation suggestive display. In this case, after the title is announced on the image display device 5, the title and the degree of expectation suggestive display may be displayed on the sub-liquid crystal. By doing so, the title and the expectation level suggesting display can be displayed without interfering with the super reach effect on the image display device 5, and the title and the expectation level suggesting display become easy to understand.

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to notification of the title of the ready-to-win effect as a suggestive effect has been described. may For example, as a preview effect (for example, a pre-read preview effect), when executing a pre-read zone effect that shifts to a plurality of zones (stages, effect modes, etc.) with different background images and effect modes on the image display device 5, the transitioned zone The present invention may be applied to the title notification of. In the case of presenting a mission ("reach with 7", "annihilate the enemy using a stick controller", etc.) and executing a mission effect that gives the player an advantage when the mission is accomplished, The present invention may be applied to mission title notification.

(Modification 1 of characteristic portion 31AK)
In the above embodiment, when the timing for deriving the display result comes, a decided effect is executed to notify whether or not the display result will be a "big hit", and then the display result is shown ( Figure 8-3 (B) to (D)). Instead of such a determined effect, at a predetermined timing before deriving the display result, an operation effect that prompts the operation of the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B is executed, and if a predetermined operation is detected during the operation valid period. The display result may be displayed by displaying the win or loss of the battle effect, temporarily stopping the display result, or the like. By doing so, the display result is shown according to the player's operation, so that the player's willingness to participate in the game can be increased, and the interest is improved.

FIGS. 8-10 and 8-11 are diagrams showing an example of a super ready-to-win effect operation in a modified example in which an operation effect is executed and a display result is displayed according to the operation. As shown in FIG. 8-10(A), after the image display device 5 enters the reach state, for example, as shown in FIG. 31AK042 is displayed, and as shown in FIGS. 8-10(C) to (F) and FIGS. 8-11(G) to (I), a ready-to-win effect is executed in which characters 31AK041 and 31AK042 face each other.

As shown in FIG. 8-10(C), a small button image 31AK043 and a regulation line 31AK044 superimposed on the small button image 31AK043 are displayed at the lower right of the image display device 5 along with the ready-to-win effect. As a result, an operation effect using the push button 31B is executed, but it is suggested that acceptance of the operation is currently restricted.

In this modified example, a plurality of types of operation effect images are prepared to indicate that an operation effect is to be executed. The reliability of the big win differs depending on which operation effect image is displayed and the operation effect is executed. In addition, the image indicating that the operation effect will be executed during the ready-to-win effect may change to a more reliable mode.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8-10(D), a praying character 31AK045 is displayed, and as shown in FIG. It changes to the large button image 31AK047.

After that, as shown in FIG. 8-11(H), a cannon 31AK048 is displayed, and as shown in FIG. Effect 31AK050 that the bullet hits is displayed. Then, the large button image 31AK047 changes to the stick image 31AK051.

As described above, in this modified example, when the operation effect image changes, an action effect indicating that the operation effect image changes is executed. It should be noted that the operation effect image may change without accompanying the effect effect. Further, there may be a case where the operation effect image does not change even though the effect effect is executed. The rate at which the operation effect image changes may differ depending on the type of action effect.

8-11(J), the restriction line 31AK044 is erased, and the stick image 31AK051 is displayed at the center portion as shown in FIG. 8-11(K). , and a display prompting an operation to pull the stick controller 31A is displayed. Further, at this time, the operation valid period during which the operation to the stick controller 31A is valid.

Here, when an operation of pulling the stick controller 31A is detected, an image 31AK052 indicating that the ally character has won is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-11(L). After that, at the timing when the fluctuation time ends, as shown in FIG. 8-11 (M), the determined decorative symbols that will be the big winning combination are derived. If no operation is detected within a predetermined operation valid period, the image shown in FIG. 8-11(L) is automatically displayed.

In this modified example, there are a small button image, a large button image, and a stick image as operation effect images, and an operation effect using these images is executed in the order of small button image<large button image<stick image. The reliability of the jackpot is high. Even when an operation performance image with low reliability is displayed, it may change to an operation performance image with high reliability during ready-to-win performance, so that the performance effect is improved and the expectation of the player is increased. can be maintained.

In addition, in the production operation examples shown in FIGS. 8-10 and 8-11, the reach title notification and the expectation level suggestion display are omitted, but the reach production shown in FIGS. 8-10 and 8-11 or in parallel with the operation effect. Decisions related to operation effects and operation effect images (whether there is an operation effect, whether to display an operation effect image, whether there is an effect effect, etc.) may be executed in step 31AKS004 in FIG. 8-8.

(Modification 2 of characteristic portion 31AK)
A suggestive display that suggests the degree of expectation of control to an advantageous state such as a jackpot game state may be performed. For example, a shutter effect in which the first suggestive display is performed and a reach title effect in which the second suggestive display is performed may be executed. In the shutter effect, the effect of covering the screen with the shutter display is executed after the start of the variable display. In addition, in the ready-to-win effect, after the ready-to-win effect, an effect to display a ready-to-win title indicating the development destination of the ready-to-win effect is executed. A specific image may be included and displayed when either the shutter display or the reach title display is displayed. The ready-to-win title effect may be the same as the title announcement in the above embodiment, or may be another effect determined by another process.

A specific image is an image with a high degree of reliability of a big hit that is displayed including a plurality of types of elements in the image. The multiple types of elements include a banana image as element E1, a melon image as element E2, an apple image as element E3, a watermelon image as element E4, and a strawberry image as element E5. A fruit pattern image composed of these elements E1 to E5 is the specific image. In both the shutter display and the reach title display, all of the elements E1 to E5 are displayed so as to be visible. Also, the display sizes of the elements E1 to E5 forming the specific image are changed and displayed according to the difference in display size between the shutter display and the reach title display. Also, all of the elements E1 to E5 are displayed so as to fit within the shutter display and the reach title display.

When the shutter performance is executed after the start of the variable display, when the fruit pattern image is displayed, the reliability of the big win is higher than when the fruit pattern image is not displayed. In addition, when the ready-to-win title is displayed during execution of the ready-to-win effect, when the fruit pattern image is displayed, the reliability of the big win is higher than when the fruit pattern image is not displayed. When the fruit pattern is not displayed, for example, a plain image that does not contain the elements E1 to E5 is displayed. It should be noted that an image pattern other than the fruit pattern image may be prepared as the image indicating the jackpot reliability when the shutter effect and the ready-to-win title effect are executed. For example, white image<blue image<red image<fruit pattern image may be prepared in order of the degree of reliability of the big hit (for example, a red shutter or a reach title with red characters). Then, one of the image patterns may be selected by a predetermined random number lottery depending on whether or not the display result of the variable display results in a big win.

When performing the shutter display and the ready-to-win title display, even when the fruit pattern is displayed, the speaker 8 outputs a common sound (melody) and the game effect lamp 9 emits light to notify. The common sound and light emission control of the game effect lamp 9 indicate to the player that the fruit pattern is a special image. When such shutter display and reach title display are performed, common notification for fruit patterns is executed. Also, in the reach title display, a specific sound (voice) is further output after the common notification. Note that the common sound and the specific sound may be partially overlapped in their output periods.

FIG. 8-12 is a display screen diagram when the shutter effect and the reach title effect are executed. As shown in FIG. 8-12(a), when the shutter effect is executed, the shutter image 31AK061 is displayed on the image display device 5 at the start of the variable display. The shutter image 31AK061 displays a fruit pattern image including all of the elements E1 to E5. Further, when the shutter effect is executed, the speaker 8 outputs a common sound (melody) and the game effect lamp 9 emits a notification. When the closed shutter is opened, the variable display of decorative patterns is started as shown in FIG. 8-12(b). Downward arrows indicate variable display of left, middle, and right symbols. When the variable display of the left pattern and the right pattern temporarily stops, as shown in FIG. 8-12(c), the reach state is entered.

Then, as shown in FIG. 8-12(d), the super ready-to-win effect is started. For example, the variable display is displayed in a small size on the upper right side of the screen, and the character is displayed on the left side of the screen. A reach title image 31AK062 is displayed at the lower right of the screen, and the content of the super reach to be executed is shown as a reach title display. The ready-to-win title image 31AK062 displays a fruit pattern image including all of the elements E1 to E5. Also, in the ready-to-win title image 31AK062, characters of "battle ready-to-win" are displayed to indicate that a ready-to-win effect accompanied by a battle effect is to be executed.

Further, when the ready-to-win title effect is executed, the speaker 8 outputs a common sound (melody) and the game effect lamp 9 emits a notification. Furthermore, after outputting the common sound, an effect is executed in which the character emits a specific sound (voice) such as "Hot", which indicates that the reliability of the big win is high. Here, in the reach title effect, the size of the suggestive display to be displayed is smaller than in the shutter effect. However, in the ready-to-win title effect, by outputting the specific sound, it is possible to make it easier for the player to recognize that the fruit pattern image has been displayed. In addition, although the common sound and the specific sound have been explained in the case where the output periods are completely separated, the output periods may partially overlap.

After that, a battle ready-to-win effect is executed as shown in FIG. 8-12(e). An enemy character is displayed on the left side of the screen, and an ally character is displayed on the right side of the screen. When the ally character wins the battle with the enemy character, the characters "Battle Victory!" are displayed on the upper left of the screen. It is reported that the jackpot has been confirmed by winning the battle. When the battle production ends, the screen returns to the variable display screen with the original number patterns. As shown in FIG. 8-12(f), all the symbols are stopped and the jackpot symbol of "777" is displayed.

As shown in FIGS. 8-12(a) and (d), both the shutter image 31AK061 and the reach title image 31AK062 are displayed including all the elements E1 to E5 forming the fruit pattern image. In this way, the fruit pattern image can be preferably displayed in both the shutter image 31AK061 and the ready-to-win title image 31AK062 having different display sizes. As a result, it is possible to accurately convey that a fruit pattern image with a high degree of reliability for big wins has been displayed.

The display size of the shutter image 31AK061 shown in FIG. 8-12(a) is displayed larger than the display size of the reach title image 31AK062 shown in FIG. 8-12(d). Therefore, attention can be paid to the difference between the display size of the shutter image 31AK061 and the display size of the reach title image 31AK062.

Also, the shutter image 31AK061 shown in FIG. 8-12(a) and the reach title image 31AK062 shown in FIG. 8-12(d) are displayed at different timings. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the fruit pattern image, which is the specific image, from becoming difficult to see due to overlapping execution timings.

The determination of the shutter effect (whether or not to use the shutter effect and the mode of effect) may be executed in step 31AKS004 in FIG. 8-8. In that case, the shutter performance may be determined based on the determination result of the title display color in step 31AKS002 of FIG. 8-8. For example, when the display color of the title is determined to be a fruit pattern, the fruit pattern shutter effect may be executed more easily. Further, the determination relating to the ready-to-win title effect may also be executed in step 31AKS004 of FIG. 8-8 together with the determination relating to the shutter effect.

[Description of Characteristic Portion 21TM]
Next, the characteristic portion 21TM will be described. Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, and a terminal board (information output board) 21TM016 are mounted on the pachinko game machine 1 as shown in FIG. 9-1, for example. The pachinko game machine 1 also includes a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the performance control board 12 . In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, a launch control board, and an interface board are arranged on the back surface of the game board 2 in the pachinko game machine 1 .

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2 described above, the main board 11 includes a first starting switch 22A and a second starting switch 22B, and a first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B. Various components are connected, and the effect control board 12 is connected to various effect devices such as speakers 8L, 8R and game effect lamps 9, but these are omitted in FIG. 9-1.

The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and as shown in FIG. Various circuits for control are installed. The main board 11 mainly has a function of setting random numbers used in the special game, a function of inputting signals from switches etc. arranged at predetermined positions, and a control board on the sub side consisting of the effect control board 12 etc. , a function of outputting and transmitting a control command, which is an example of instruction information, as a control signal, and a function of outputting various information to the management computer of the hall. In addition, the main board 11 performs lighting/extinguishing control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, thereby performing the first special symbol and the second special symbol. and control the variable display of the predetermined display pattern, such as controlling the lighting / extinguishing / coloring control of the normal design display device 20 to control the variable display of the normal design by the normal design display device 20 It also has control functions.

In addition, the main board 11, as shown in FIGS. 9-3 and 9-5 (A), is provided with a display monitor 21TM029 that can be viewed from the back side of the pachinko game machine 1, the display monitor 21TM029 , It also has a function to display various winning information related to winning. A display changeover switch 21TM030 is provided on the left side of the display monitor 21TM029, and information displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 can be changed by operating the display changeover switch 21TM030.

In the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100 and detection signals from various switches for game ball detection, as well as various signals such as a power off signal, a clear signal, a reset signal, etc. 100, and an information output circuit 112 for outputting various signals such as a security signal from the terminal board 21TM016.

The main board 11 shown in FIG. 9-1 is enclosed in a board case 21TM201 made of a transparent synthetic resin material, as shown in FIGS. 9-3 and 9-5(A). 11, a display monitor 21TM029 (for example, 7 segments) is arranged, and a display changeover switch 21TM030 is arranged on the right side of the display monitor 21TM029. The display monitor 21TM029 and the display changeover switch 21TM030 are arranged in front of the main board 11 when visually recognizing it. A lock switch 21TM051 (see FIG. 9-1) for switching to a setting change mode or a setting confirmation mode, which will be described later, is provided at the lower central portion of the back surface of the main board 11. FIG. Since the main board 11 cannot be visually recognized when the game machine frame 3 is not opened, the front when the main board 11 is visually recognized means the back side of the game board 2 when the game machine frame 3 is opened. This is the front when visually recognizing, and is different from the front of the pachinko game machine 1. - 特許庁However, the front when visually recognizing the main board 11 and the front of the pachinko game machine 1 may be common.

In addition, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), each winning opening (large winning opening, second starting winning opening, first starting winning opening, first to fourth general winning openings, hereinafter referred to as "entering area" The number of game balls entered into the game ball is counted, and various types of winning information such as consecutive ratios and role ratios are displayed on the display monitor 21TM029, and these winning information is displayed. By doing so, it is possible to check various types of winning information such as consecutive ratios and role ratios after installation in the game arcade. In other words, on the side of the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 1, it is normal to design the game board so that the game balls enter the general winning opening at a predetermined frequency (to pass the test). Also, when conducting the test, it is confirmed whether or not the game balls enter the general winning opening at a predetermined frequency. Furthermore, even after the pachinko game machine 1 is installed, it is confirmed what kind of adjustment has been made and whether the game balls enter the general prize winning opening at the frequency as designed as a result of the adjustment. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to recognize what kind of adjustment has been made in the pachinko game machine 1 after installation.

In addition, the power supply board is enclosed in a board case made of a transparent synthetic resin material, and on the lower right side of the back of the power supply board, setting values such as the probability of winning a big hit (ball output rate), which will be described later, can be changed. A clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 and a power switch 21TM055 functioning as setting switches for this purpose are provided. When the power switch 21TM055 is operated by a store clerk or the like at the pachinko game machine 1 in a state where the power supply voltage is not supplied, predetermined of operating voltage is supplied. Furthermore, at the timing when the power switch 21TM055 is operated, if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, a clear signal is input to the game control microcomputer 100, and an initialization process (RAM clear) to be described later is performed. executed. By arranging the power switch 21TM055 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 close to each other on the same power supply board, the power-on operation and the initialization operation can be easily performed.

The lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 are provided on the back side of the pachinko game machine 1, and cannot be operated unless the game machine frame 3, which can be opened by operating a predetermined key, is opened. It is possible to operate only a store clerk who possesses a predetermined key. In addition, since the lock switch 21TM051 requires a key operation, it can be operated only by a store clerk who has a key for operating the lock switch 21TM051. In addition, the lock switch 21TM051 is a switch that can be switched ON and OFF by a predetermined key. It may be a possible switch.

Note that the lock switch 21TM051 can maintain an ON state or an OFF state. In other words, the lock switch 21TM051 can be maintained in the ON state or the OFF state even if force is not applied by the staff of the game arcade or the like. The lock switch 21TM051 is configured so that the key can be inserted and removed only in the OFF state. According to such a configuration, the game arcade clerk or the like must turn off the lock switch 21TM051 in order to collect the key. You can prevent it from getting lost.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 9-3, at the lower part of the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there is a mechanism for discharging the game balls that have entered the respective winning openings and the game balls that have entered the out openings to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A nozzle (ejection port) is provided, and an ejection port switch 21TM070 for detecting a game ball ejected from the pachinko game machine 1 (detecting a fired game ball) is provided in the nozzle. ing. The outlet switch 21TM070 is connected to the switch circuit 110 described above, as shown in FIG.

A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15 . The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, a effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control commands include, for example, a display control command used to control the image display operation of the image display device 5, a voice control command used to control voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. and LED control commands used to control the lighting operation of decorative LEDs.

FIG. 9-2 is a block diagram showing components related to payout such as payout control board 21TM037 and ball payout device 21TM097. As shown in FIG. 9-2, the payout control board 21TM037 is equipped with a payout control microcomputer 21TM370 including a payout control CPU 21TM371. In this embodiment, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is a one-chip microcomputer containing at least a RAM. A payout control microcomputer 21TM370, a RAM (not shown), a ROM (not shown) storing a payout control program, and an I/O port constitute a payout control board 21TM037. That is, the payout control board 21TM037 is implemented by a payout control CPU 21TM371, a payout control microcomputer 21TM370 having a RAM and a ROM, and an I/O port. Also, the I/O port may be built in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Detection signals from the ball-out switch 21TM187, the full-tank switch 21TM048 and the payout count switch 21TM301 are input to the I/O port 21TM372f of the payout control board 21TM037 via the relay board 21TM072. In this embodiment, the detection signal from the payout count switch 21TM301 is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 and then output to the main board 11 via the I/O port 21TM372a and the output circuit 21TM373B. .

In addition, as shown in FIG. 9-2, the payout control board 21TM037 includes a game machine frame opening sensor for detecting the opening of the game machine frame 3 that supports and fixes the game board 2, and a game machine frame opening sensor that can open and close the front surface of the game board 2. A game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 including a door frame open sensor that detects the opening of the glass door frame 3a that covers the door frame 3a is connected. It also has a function to determine the occurrence of (error). The detection signal when the opening of the game machine frame 3 is detected and the detection signal when the opening of the glass door frame 3a is detected are input to different terminals, whereby the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can distinguish between the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a.

Further, the detection signal from the payout motor position sensor 21TM295 is input to the I/O port 21TM372e of the payout control board 21TM037 via the relay board 21TM072. The payout motor position sensor 21TM295 is a sensor composed of a light emitting element (LED) and a light receiving element for detecting the rotational position of the payout motor 21TM289, and is used to detect jamming of game balls, that is, so-called ball bite. . The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 mounted on the payout control board 21TM037 indicates that the detection signal from the ball burnout switch 21TM187 indicates that the ball is out, and the detection signal from the full tank switch 21TM048 indicates that the tank is full. , the ball delivery process is stopped.

Furthermore, when the detection signal from the full tank switch 21TM048 indicates the full tank state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 sends a low level signal to the ball launching board 21TM090 to stop the ball launching from the ball launching device. Output a full tank signal. A firing motor signal to the firing motor 21TM094 output by the AND circuit 21TM091 of the firing board 21TM090 is transmitted from the firing board 21TM090 to the firing motor 21TM094. A full tank signal from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is input to one of the input sides of the AND circuit 21TM091 mounted on the ejection board 21TM090, and a drive signal from the drive signal generation circuit 21TM092 (for driving the ejection motor 21TM094 A signal serving to supply power from the power supply board) is input to the other input side of the AND circuit 21TM091. Then, the firing motor signal of the AND circuit 21TM091 is input to the firing motor 21TM094. That is, while the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is outputting the full tank signal, the output of the firing motor signal to the firing motor 21TM094 is stopped.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 incorporates a serial communication circuit 21TM380 for inputting/outputting (transmitting/receiving) signals with the game control microcomputer 100 through serial communication. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 are connected via the serial communication circuits 21TM505 and 21TM380 between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. For confirmation, signals (prize request signal, reception ACK signal) are exchanged (transmitted and received) at regular intervals (for example, 1 second). That is, the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a signal (prizing ball request signal in this embodiment) for confirming the connection at regular intervals through the serial communication circuit 21TM505, and payout control microcomputer 21TM370. , when receiving a prize ball request signal from the game control microcomputer 100, transmits a signal (receiving ACK signal) to that effect to the game control microcomputer 100. FIG. In this embodiment, by placing specific data on the prize ball request signal and the reception ACK signal, at the timing of transmitting and receiving the prize ball request signal and the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 It is configured to exchange specific data between For example, when a prize is won, the game control microcomputer 100 sets the data indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out by changing the predetermined bits of the prize ball request signal, A ball request signal is sent to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 finishes the prize ball payout operation, it sets the data indicating the end of the prize ball by changing a predetermined bit of the received ACK signal, and the received ACK signal with this setting is played. It is transmitted to the control microcomputer 100 . In addition, when a predetermined error (such as a ball rental, full tank, or ball out error) occurs, the data indicating the content of the error is set by changing a predetermined bit of the received ACK signal, and the setting is The received ACK signal thus made is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 . Further, specific exchange of signals by serial communication between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 will be described in detail in FIGS. 9-22 and 9-34 to 9-36.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 transmits a prize ball information signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out and a lent ball number signal indicating the number of lent balls to the terminal boards (frame external terminal board and board external terminal board) via the output port 21TM372b. and) output to 21TM160. A driver circuit is installed outside the output port 21TM372b, but is omitted in FIG. 9B.

Also, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 outputs an error signal to the error display LED 21TM374 of the 7-segment LED via the output port 21TM372c. Furthermore, a signal for instructing to turn on/off is output to the prize ball LED 21TM053 and the out-of-ball LED 21TM054 via the output port 21TM372b. The input port 21TM372f of the payout control board 21TM037 receives a detection signal from the error release switch 21TM375 for releasing the error state. The error release switch 21TM375 is used to release the error state by software reset.

Further, the drive signal from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 to the payout motor 21TM289 is transmitted to the payout motor 21TM289 in the payout mechanism portion of the ball payout device 21TM097 via the output port 21TM372a and the relay board 21TM072. A driver circuit (motor drive circuit) is installed outside the output port 21TM372a, but is omitted in FIG. 9-3.

A card unit control microcomputer is installed in the card unit 21TM050 installed adjacent to the gaming machine. Further, the card unit 21TM050 is provided with a ready-to-use display lamp, a connecting stand direction display, a card insertion display lamp, and a card insertion slot. The interface board (relay board) 21TM066 is connected with a frequency display LED 21TM060, a ball rental LED 21TM061, a ball rental switch 21TM062, and a return switch 21TM063.

A ball lending switch signal indicating that the ball lending switch 21TM062 has been operated and a return switch signal indicating that the return switch 21TM063 has been operated are given from the interface board 21TM066 to the card unit 21TM050 according to the operation of the player. . Further, a card balance display signal indicating the balance of the prepaid card and a ball lendable display signal are supplied from the card unit 21TM050 to the interface board 21TM066. A connection signal (VL signal), a unit operation signal (BRDY signal), a ball lending request signal (BRQ signal), a ball lending completion signal (EXS signal) and a pachinko machine operation signal ( PRDY signal) is sent and received via input port 21TM372f and output port 21TM372d. An interface board 21TM066 is interposed between the card unit 21TM050 and the payout control board 21TM037. Therefore, signals such as connection signals (VL signals) are transmitted and received between the card unit 21TM050 and the payout control board 21TM037 via the interface board 21TM066, as shown in FIG. 9-2.

When the pachinko game machine 1 is powered on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 mounted on the payout control board 21TM037 outputs a PRDY signal to the card unit 21TM050. Also, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a VL signal when the power is turned on. The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 determines the connected state/unconnected state of the card unit 21TM050 according to the input state of the VL signal. When a card is received in the card unit 21TM050 and the ball lending switch is operated to input the ball lending switch signal, the card unit control microcomputer outputs the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 raises the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050, and upon detecting the trailing edge of the BRQ signal from the card unit 21TM050, drives the payout motor 21TM289 to deliver a predetermined number of rental balls to the player. Pay out. When the payout is completed, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 drops the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050. After that, on the condition that the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 is not on, when a payout command signal is received from the game control microcomputer 100, prize ball payout control is executed.

The power supply voltage AC 24V used in the card unit 21TM050 is supplied from the payout control board 21TM037. That is, the power supply from the power board to the card unit 21TM050 is performed via the payout control board 21TM037 and the interface board 21TM066. In this example, a fuse for protecting the card unit 21TM050 is provided in the AC 24V power supply line for the card unit 21TM050 arranged in the interface board 21TM066, and a voltage higher than a predetermined voltage is supplied to the card unit 21TM050. is prevented.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured such that the probability of winning a big hit (ball output rate) changes according to the set value. Specifically, in the special symbol normal processing of the special symbol process processing to be described later, by using the display result determination table (winning probability) according to the set value, the winning probability of the big hit (ball output rate) is changed. . The setting value consists of 6 stages from 1 to 6. 6 is the highest ball payout rate, and the smaller the value is in the order of 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1, the lower the ball payout rate is. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage for the player is the highest, and the lower the value is in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the lower the advantage is in stages.

FIGS. 9-4A to 9-4F are explanatory diagrams showing the display result determination table corresponding to each set value. The display result determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 101, and is a table in which hit determination values to be compared with MR1 are set. In each display result determination table, the variable special figure designation buffer is 1 (first), that is, when the first special symbol is subject to variable display, and when the variable special figure designation buffer is 2 (second) That is, for each case where the second special symbol is the target of the variable display, a determination value for a big hit is set.

As shown in FIG. 9-4 (A), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 1, if the variable special figure designation buffer is the first, that is, the first special symbol is subject to variable display , the probability of winning the jackpot is lower (1/300) than when the set values are "2", "3", "4", "5", and "6". ing. Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/300) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

Also, as shown in FIG. 9-4 (B), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 2, if the variable special figure designation buffer is the first, the setting value is "1" It is designed to win the jackpot with a higher probability (1/280) than in some cases. Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/280) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-4 (C), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 3, if the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is the first, the setting value is "1", A jackpot is won with a higher probability (1/280) than in the case of "2". Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/280) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-4 (D), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 4, if the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is the first, the setting value is "1", A jackpot is won with a higher probability (1/250) than in the case of "2" and "3". Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/250) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-4 (E), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 5, if the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is the first, the setting value is "1", A jackpot is won with a higher probability (1/235) than in the case of "2", "3", and "4". Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/235) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-4 (F), when using the display result determination table corresponding to the setting value 5, if the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is the first, the setting value is "1", A jackpot is won with a higher probability (1/220) than in the case of "2", "3", "4", and "5". Further, when the variable special figure designation buffer is the second, as the determination value corresponding to the big hit, the same determination value as in the case where the variation special figure designation buffer is the first is set, and the second special symbol. is subject to variable display, the jackpot is won with the same probability (1/220) as when the first special symbol is subject to variable display.

That is, the CPU 103 refers to the display result determination table corresponding to the set value set at that time, and determines whether the value of MR1 corresponds to the big hit shown in FIGS. If it matches with the hit determination value, it is decided to make a big win (big win A to big win F) with respect to the special symbol. That is, the winning of the jackpot is determined with a probability corresponding to the set value. "Probability" shown in FIGS. 9-4(A) to (F) indicates the probability (percentage) of winning a big hit. Determining whether or not to make a big hit means determining whether or not to control to the big win game state. It is also to decide whether or not to make it a big hit pattern.

In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 103 determines whether or not to make a big hit using the display result determination tables shown in FIGS. 9-4 (A) to (F). Provided separately, the determination of the big hit is performed using a common table for the case of the variable display of the first special symbol and the case of the variable display of the second special symbol, regardless of the variable special symbol designating buffer. good too.

In this embodiment, a total of 6 set values 1 to 6 are provided as set values that can be set in the pachinko game machine 1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko game machine 1 can be set to 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 or more.

Here, the display of the tally of game balls, the ratio of the role items, etc. on the main board 11 of the present embodiment will be described.

On the main board 11, there is information about the winning of the game, for example, the number of winning balls in the first starting winning opening (navel), the number of winning balls in the second starting winning opening (electric chew), and the big winning opening. The number of winning balls and the total number of winning balls to (attacker) are input, and the number of shot balls is totaled. Consecutive ratio (%), which is the percentage of total number of prize balls, the ratio of the number of prize balls from the second start prize gate (denchu) and the number of prize balls from the big prize gate (attacker). A certain role ratio (%) and a base (%), which is the ratio of the total number of prize balls to the number of game balls launched, are displayed. Consecutive ratio is the ratio of the number of prize balls (the number of consecutive winning balls described below) to the total number of prize balls (attacker). The role ratio is the number of prize balls won in the second start prize mouth (electric chew) and the number of prize balls won in the big prize mouth (attacker) out of the total number of prize balls (number of winning balls below) is the ratio occupied by The base is the ratio of the number of game balls launched to the total number of prize balls. The total number of prize balls (total number of balls won below) is the number of prize balls won in the big prize hole (attacker), the number of prize balls won in the second start prize hole (electric chew), and the number of prize balls won in the big prize hole. (attacker) and the number of winning balls by winning in the winning openings (first starting winning opening, general winning opening) other than the second starting winning opening (electric chew). In addition, the large winning opening (attacker) and the second starting winning opening (electric chew) are variable accessories, and the expected winning ratio of the game ball changes due to the change in the passable width of the game ball. be. In addition, the winning openings (first starting winning opening, general winning opening) other than the big winning opening (attacker) and the second starting winning opening (electric chew) are fixed accessories, and the passable width of the game ball is fixed. , and the assumed winning ratio of game balls is a fixed accessory.

As a method of counting and calculating information related to game winnings, regarding the consecutive ratio and the role ratio, the prize balls by winning the first start prize hole (navel) and the general prize hole (sode) in the number of 6000 prize balls number (general number of prize balls), the number of prize balls for the second start prize mouth (electric chew), the number of normal electric prize balls (number of electric prize balls), and the number of prizes for the big prize mouth (attacker) The number of special electric prize balls (attacker prize balls), which is the number of prize balls, is totaled. The total is regarded as one set, and the consecutive ratio (%) and role ratio (%) for 10 sets, that is, 60,000 pieces are calculated. In addition, the number of prize balls (number of general prize balls), the number of normal electric prize balls (number of electric chew prize balls), the number of special electric The number of prize balls (attacker's prize balls) is recorded in a ring buffer provided for each set value, which has a recording capacity of at least 11 sets and is updated for each set. ing. In other words, a considerable amount (for example, several bytes) of 11 sets of 6000 pieces is stored, and the cumulative consecutive ratio (%) and role ratio (%) can be calculated. As for the base, the number of game balls hit with respect to the number of 60,000 prize balls is counted. The tally is regarded as one set, and the ratio (base (%)) of 60,000 prize balls to the number of game balls hit is calculated.

The display monitor 21TM029 displays the consecutive ratio (%), the role ratio (%) for 6000 balls, the cumulative consecutive ratio (%), the role ratio (%), and the base ( The base 1 (%)) and the base (base 2 (%)) calculated based on the previous 60,000 winning balls can be switched and displayed every predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds). That is, six displays are switched and displayed by one display means. In this case, it takes 30 seconds to display everything, but as the game progresses, the number of winning balls by winning the first start winning opening (navel) and the number of winning balls to the second starting winning opening (electric chew) The number of prize balls due to the prize winning and the number of prize balls due to the prize winning to the big prize opening (attacker) are changed. Then, for example, if the number of prize balls won after 6000 consecutive ratios (%) are displayed is reflected in the 60000 consecutive ratios (%) displayed after that, 6000 consecutive ratios (%) will be displayed. There is a risk that a discrepancy will occur between the continuous ratio (%) and the role ratio (%) for 60000 pieces. Therefore, the number of prize balls for winning the first start prize opening (navel), the number of prize balls for winning the second start prize opening (electric chew), the number of prize balls for winning the big prize opening (attacker), the prize balls Such discrepancies can be prevented by inputting the total number and performing totalization at a predetermined timing in the switching display (for example, timing for displaying the continuous ratio (%) of 6000 pieces).

In this embodiment, the storage area for storing the information about the winning of the game is provided for each set value. The prize balls, the total prize balls, and the total hits are stored in a storage area (ring buffer) according to the set values. Therefore, the continuous ratio, role ratio, and base in this embodiment can be calculated individually for each set value.

As an example of the calculation method below, the total number of prize balls is 60,000, and the number of prize balls due to winning in the second start prize opening (denchu) and the number of prize balls due to winning in the big prize opening (attacker) are as follows. A method of calculating the role ratio (role ratio (%)) when the total number of obtained balls is 42000 will be described. In the following description, the total number of acquired balls refers to the total accumulated number of game media (prize balls) paid out from the pachinko gaming machine 1 . Also, the number of winning balls refers to the total number of game media paid out as a result of the winning of game media by the attacker and the electric chew. Also, the number of consecutive winning balls refers to the total number of game media paid out by winning game media to the attacker. The total hit means the total number of game media hit into the pachinko game machine 1 until the number of prize balls reaches 60,000. Therefore, the continuous ratio can be calculated by the following formula (1). Also, the role ratio can be obtained by the following formula (2). Also, the base can be obtained by the following equation (3).

Consecutive ratio = [number of balls acquired in succession / total number acquired] x 100 (1)

Role ratio = [(number of balls acquired in a row + number of balls acquired in a row) / total number acquired] x 100 (2)

Base = [60000 (total number of prize balls) / total hit] x 100 (3)

When the total number of prize balls is 60,000 and the number of winning balls is 42,000, the role ratio is obtained by dividing 42,000 by 60,000 to obtain 0.70 (rounded down to three decimal places). However, since the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1 cannot perform calculations below the decimal point, the following method of calculation is required.

First, the first calculation method will be explained. In the first calculation method, first, the number of winning balls is multiplied by 100 to be 4,200,000. Then divide this 4200000 by 60000. This gives a quotient of 70. From 70 obtained here, the character ratio is obtained as 70%. That is, by multiplying the dividend by 100, it is possible to obtain the operation result up to two digits below the decimal point. Here, to obtain the operation result up to three digits below the decimal point, it is necessary to multiply by 1000.

Next, the second calculation method will be explained. In the second calculation method, first, the total number of prize balls is divided by 100 to obtain 600. Then divide 42000 by this 600. This gives a quotient of 70. From 70 obtained here, the character ratio is obtained as 70%. That is, by dividing the divisor by 100, the calculation result can be obtained up to two digits below the decimal point. Here, division by 1000 is sufficient to obtain a calculation result up to three digits below the decimal point.

In the above example, the total number of prize balls is 60,000, but a 3-byte area is provided as an area for storing the total number of prize balls in order to calculate the role product ratio for a long period of time. That is, in this example, it is stored as 00EA60h in a 3-byte storage area. Similarly, 00A410h is stored in the 3-byte storage area for the number of winning balls.

Here, the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1 can only perform calculations between maximum 2-byte values. Therefore, the lower 1 byte may be truncated for ease of calculation.

A third calculation method, which is a simplified version of the second calculation method, will now be described. In the third calculation method, in order to facilitate calculation by the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1, 60h of the lower 1 byte is discarded from the total number of prize balls 00EA60h, and the total number of prize balls is reduced to 00EAh. Calculate 234 in decimal notation. Similarly, 10h of the lower 1 byte is truncated from 00A410h, which is the number of winning balls, and the number of winning balls is calculated as 00A4h, that is, 164 in decimal notation.

Then, similarly to the second calculation method, 2 is calculated by dividing the total number of prize balls by 100 (273/100). 156 is then divided by 2 to obtain 78 as the quotient. From the 78 obtained here, the role product ratio is obtained as 78%.

In the third calculation method, calculations by the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1 are facilitated, but an error of +12% occurs. However, the error is +1% when both the total number of prize balls and the number of winning balls are 10 times. In other words, the longer the period for calculating the character ratio, the smaller the error, and the closer to the original value.

Further, the board case 21TM201 is made of a translucent material so that the main board 11 and the display monitor 21TM029 can be visually recognized. The substrate case 21TM201 is formed with a hole (not shown) through which a wiring connector connected to the main substrate 11 is inserted, and a heat radiation hole for releasing heat from the electrical components of the main substrate 11. FIG. The display monitor 21TM029 provided on the main board 11 is arranged at a position where the heat radiation hole is not directly in front. Therefore, the visibility of the display monitor 21TM029 is not obstructed by the heat dissipation holes. It should be noted that the term “right front” here means a straight front with the main board 11 as a viewpoint, and means between the main board 11 and an employee who is trying to visually recognize the main board 11 .
Here, the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1 can only perform calculations between maximum 2-byte values. Therefore, the lower 1 byte may be truncated for ease of calculation.

A third calculation method, which is a simplified version of the second calculation method, will now be described. In the third calculation method, in order to facilitate calculation by the microcomputer used in the pachinko game machine 1, 60h of the lower 1 byte is discarded from the total number of prize balls 00EA60h, and the total number of prize balls is reduced to 00EAh. Calculate 234 in decimal notation. Similarly, 10h of the lower 1 byte is truncated from 00A410h, which is the number of winning balls, and the number of winning balls is calculated as 00A4h, that is, 164 in decimal notation.

Then, similarly to the second calculation method, 2 is calculated by dividing the total number of prize balls by 100 (273/100). 156 is then divided by 2 to obtain 78 as the quotient. From the 78 obtained here, the role product ratio is obtained as 78%.

In addition, a storage area for storing information on game wins (ring buffer, 10 sets total buffer (total of information on game wins stored in 10 ring buffers with maximum 2-byte counters), prize balls The total number buffer) may continue to be stored without being initialized when the reset button is operated. The ring buffer will be further explained later. In addition, the checksum of the stored value is calculated, and initialization is performed when an abnormality is detected. Initialization of the memory area that stores information about the winning of the game, such as when an event that cannot occur as a situation is detected, such as when the number of consecutive winning balls is greater than the number of winning balls processing may be performed. Also, an error display or a warning display may be performed without performing the initialization process, or the initialization process may be performed while performing the error display or the warning display, or after performing the initialization process. Error display and warning display will be further described later.

Assuming that the total number of winning balls is 34,321 and the number of winning balls is 19,876, the role ratio (%) is calculated by dividing 19,876 by 34,321 as a divisor. 19876/34321=0.57912 . When performing calculations in the game control microcomputer 100, calculations with decimal points must be avoided, so the following formulas are substituted. In the division of 19876/34321, the denominator 34321 is divided by 100, and the decimal point is discarded, resulting in 19876/343=57.9475. Since the decimal point is rounded down, a role ratio (%) of 57% is calculated and displayed on the display monitor 21TM029. There will be no

The minimum value in 16 bits is 32768 (0 for values other than the most significant bit), and the maximum error is when the total number of acquired balls and the number of acquired balls are 32799, respectively. When this is calculated by the above method, 32799/32799=100%, and when replaced with the calculation by the game control microcomputer 100, 32799/327=100.3%, which is an error of +0.3%. When the calculation is performed by truncating the decimal point, for example, when the correct value is 69.9% and the value calculated by the game control microcomputer is 70.1%, the display is 1 at 69% → 70%. Although it is conceivable that an error of 1% is displayed, the role ratio (%) (or the consecutive ratio (%)) can be displayed with a very small error even on the display of 1% error.

Also, when using the above calculation method, the total number of acquired balls is divided by 100, so if the total number of acquired balls is less than 100, the calculation cannot be performed. Furthermore, when it is less than 32768, the error gradually increases. If it is less than 10000, the error exceeds 1% and may become even larger. In other words, the smaller the total number of acquired balls, the larger the error. For this reason, the role ratio (%) and consecutive ratio (%) are not displayed on the display monitor until the total number of acquired balls above a certain number (for example, 32768, which is the minimum value of 16 bits) is totaled by the counter. Alternatively, the fact that the error may be large even if it is displayed may be notified by emitting a dedicated LED, outputting a notification sound, or blinking the displayed value.

The display monitor 21TM029 displays the role ratio (%), the consecutive ratio (%), and the base (%) on 7 segments, and each value is switched every predetermined period (for example, every 5 seconds). displayed. In this case, for example, while the role ratio (%) is displayed for 5 seconds, an event occurs in which a new game medium wins an electric chew or an attacker. %), there is a risk that the value of the role ratio (%) and the value of the consecutive role (%) will deviate. Therefore, it is preferable that the role ratio (%) and the consecutive ratio (%) are calculated in the same interrupt and the calculated values are displayed sequentially.

Also, if the numerical value that can be displayed in the 7 segments is set to 2 digits (for example, if two 7 segments are provided), 100% cannot be displayed as 100%. In this case, 99 may be displayed instead of 100. The display monitor 21TM029 shown in FIG. 9-5(A) is capable of displaying numeric values in the lower two digits, but even in this case, the numeric values may be displayed without using the upper two digits. Alternatively, under certain conditions, a numerical value may be displayed in part of the upper two digits.

In this embodiment, the sensor provided for each of the attacker and the electric chew detects that the game medium has won a prize, and based on the detection result, the number of prize balls for each is individually counted. However, the present invention is not limited to this, but uses a sensor provided after the ejection path for ejecting the winning game media of the attacker and the winning game media of the electric chew merges, and the detection result is used. Based on this, the number of winning balls and the number of consecutive winning balls may be totaled.

Display of the consecutive ratio, the role ratio, and the base will be described in more detail below. In this embodiment, the main board 11 is provided on the back side of the game board 2 (see FIG. 9-3). On the back side of the game board 2, in addition to the main board 11, each peripheral board such as an effect control board 12 is also provided.

The RAM 102 on the main substrate 11 stores a gate passing number counter, a first starting winning number counter, a second starting winning number counter, a first general winning number counter, a second general winning number counter, a third general winning number counter, a fourth A general winning number counter and a big winning number counter are provided. In this embodiment, the number of prizes won in the big prize gate (attacker) is counted by the big prize number counter, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the first big prizes are counted. A first big prize winning number counter for tallying the number of prizes to the mouth and a second big prize number counter to tally the number of prizes to the second big winning mouth are separately provided, and the number of prizes to the first big winning mouth is provided. , and the number of prizes won to the second big prize slot may be tallied individually, and these respective numbers of prizes won may be totaled to be the number of prizes won by the attacker.

The gate passing number counter is a counter that counts the number of game balls detected by the gate switch 21 . The first start winning number counter is a counter that counts the number of game balls detected by the first start opening switch 22A. The second start winning number counter is a counter that counts the number of game balls detected by the second start opening switch 22B. The first general winning number counter to fourth general winning number counter are counters for counting the number of game balls detected by the first general winning opening switch to fourth general winning opening switch. The big winning number counter is a counter that counts the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23 .

A clear switch (setting switch) 21TM052 is connected to the power supply substrate shown in FIG. 9-3. The clear switch 21TM052 is arranged on the back side of the game board 2 at a position where an employee or the like cannot easily operate it. By operating the clear switch 21TM052, data used for consecutive ratios and role ratios stored in the RAM 102, which will be described later, is cleared. The clear switch is 21TM052, a switch that is operated when a failure occurs in the calculation of the consecutive ratio or role ratio, or when the calculation of the consecutive ratio or role ratio must be redone. For this reason, it is a switch that does not need to be operated when data is being collected for performing normal continuous ratio and role ratio calculations. Further, when the clear switch 21TM052 is operated, a clear switch operation signal is transmitted to the main board 11 in addition to clearing the data.

As described above, the main board 11 is provided with the RTC 106, and the current time can be detected by the RTC 106. FIG. The RTC 106 can measure a predetermined time, elapsed time, etc. by performing initial settings, and in this embodiment, the RTC 106 can measure the operating hours of the game arcade.

The main board 11 is housed in a board case 21TM201 as shown in FIG. 9-5(A). A caulking pin 21TM011B is attached to the substrate case 21TM201. By providing the caulking pin 21TM011B, the main board 11 is completely enclosed in the board case 21TM201, and tampering with the main board 11 is prevented. The board case 21TM201 is a crimped board case (hereinafter also referred to as "crimped board case").

Also, the display monitor 21TM029 is provided on the main board 11 . A seal 21TM011S is attached to the board case 21TM201 to prove that the main board 11 is enclosed. The sealing seal 21TM011S is pasted over, for example, the detachable portion of the substrate case 21TM201. The sealing seal 21TM011S is arranged at a position away from the main substrate 11, such as directly in front of the display monitor 21TM029, which is different from a position where the visibility of the display monitor 21TM029 is obstructed. Thus, the display monitor 21TM029 is arranged at a position not hidden by the seal 21TM011S.

The display monitor 21TM029 includes a first display section 21TM029A, a second display section 21TM029B, a third display section 21TM029C, a fourth display section 21TM029D and a fifth display section 21TM029E. Each of the first display portion 21TM029A to the fifth display portion 21TM029E is composed of 7 segments composed of 7 segments that draw the figure "8" and dots arranged on the lower right side of the 7 segments. These first display section 21TM029A to fifth display section 21TM029E are capable of lighting and blinking in various colors such as red, blue, green, yellow, and white. In addition, it is possible to display different colors or a so-called rainbow while changing these colors in an extremely short period.

The display monitor 21TM029 displays each item of display Nos. 1 to 6 shown in FIG. 9-5(B). The first display unit 21TM029A in the first digit displays the totalized setting values (1 to 6) and a RAM clearing notification (“C”) indicating that the RAM clearing executed by the CPU 103 after the processing in the setting change mode has been completed. ) is displayed, the counting period is displayed in the second display portion 21TM029B of the second digit and the third display portion 21TM029C of the third digit, and the fourth display portion 21TM029D of the fourth digit and the fifth display portion of the fifth digit are displayed. 21TM029E shows numerical values as percentages. Display No. 1 displays a short-term continuous ratio, and display No. 2 displays a short-term role ratio. In display No. 3, the total cumulative consecutive ratio is displayed, and in display No. 4, the total cumulative role ratio is displayed. Display No. 5 displays the base (base 1) calculated based on the previous 60,000 prize balls, and display No. 6 displays the base (base 2) calculated based on the previous 60,000 prize balls. be done.

The short term here means a period during which the number of awarded balls (the number of winning balls) was 6000. The period for calculating the total sum means the total period from when the calculation of the continuous ratio and the role ratio is started, or the total period after the calculation of the continuous ratio and the role ratio is once reset.

In the above example, the continuous ratio, the role ratio, and the base are calculated regardless of the game state, but they may be calculated in consideration of the game state. For example, the consecutive ratio may be the ratio of the total number of prize balls accounted for by the number of prize balls entered into the big prize opening during the jackpot game state. In addition, the role ratio is defined as the ratio of the number of prize balls entering the second starting prize opening during the high base state and the number of prize balls entering the large prize opening during the big win game state to the total number of prize balls. good too. Also, the base may be calculated separately for the low base state and the high base state.

When the short-term consecutive ratio of display No. 1 is displayed, "y6." is displayed on the second display portion 21TM029B and the third display portion 21TM029C. "y7." is displayed on the display section 21TM029B and the third display section 21TM029C. Further, when the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 is displayed, the short-term continuous ratio is displayed in percentage (% display) on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E, and the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 2 is displayed. In this case, the short-term role ratio is displayed in percentage (%) on the fourth display section 21TM029D and the fifth display section 21TM029E.

When the total cumulative winning ratio of display No. 3 is displayed, "A6." "A7." is displayed on the second display portion 21TM029B and the third display portion 21TM029C. Further, when the total cumulative continuous ratio of display No. 3 is displayed, the total cumulative continuous ratio is displayed in percentage (% display) on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E, and the total cumulative continuous ratio of display No. 4 is displayed. When the ratio is displayed, the total cumulative winning ratio is displayed as a percentage (percentage display) on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When base 1 of display No. 5 is displayed, "bL." is displayed on the second display section 21TM029B and third display section 21TM029C. "B6." is displayed on 21TM029B and the third display portion 21TM029C. Further, when base 1 of display No. 5 is displayed, the total cumulative continuous ratio is displayed in percentage (% display) on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E, and base 2 of display No. 6 is displayed. In this case, the total cumulative winning ratio is displayed in percentage (%) on the fourth display section 21TM029D and the fifth display section 21TM029E.

The main board 11 enters the fourth general winning opening from the big winning opening (attacker), the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the first general winning opening in calculating the consecutive ratio, the role ratio and the base. The number of game balls entered and the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port are counted. In the main process, the CPU 103 operates the gate switch 21, the first starter switch 22A and the second starter switch 22B, the count switch 23, and the first to fourth general prize winning port switches and the discharge port switch 21TM070. Switch processing is performed to confirm the state of each switch (presence or absence of a detection signal).

In this switch processing, based on the detection signal output from each switch, it is specified which entry area the game ball has entered. When the detection signal is output from the gate switch 21, the value of the gate passing number counter is added, and when the detection signal is output from the first start switch 22A and the second start switch 22B, The values of the first start winning number counter and the second starting winning number counter are added, and when a detection signal is output from the count switch 23, the value of the big winning number counter is added, and the first general winning opening switch, When detection signals are output from the second general winning port switch, the third general winning port switch, and the fourth general winning port switch, the first general winning number counter, the second general winning number counter, and the third general winning number counter By adding the value of the counter and the fourth general winning number counter, and when a detection signal is output from the discharge port switch 21TM070, the value of the hitting number counter is added, thereby allowing the game ball to enter each entry area. The number (the number of winning game balls into each winning hole) is counted. Note that the values of each counter are stored in the RAM 102 .

In this way, the step for tallying the number of game balls entering each entry area is executed together with a series of processes for confirming the state of the switch corresponding to each entry area (switch state confirmation processing). By including it in the switch processing), the number of game balls entering each entry area can be tallied without executing a separate tallying program, that is, without causing the problem of insufficient capacity due to an increase in the number of programs to be executed. It has become.

The CPU 103 of the main board 11 calculates the number of winning balls into each winning hole based on the tallied number of winning balls into each winning hole, and stores the calculated number of winning balls in the RAM 102 for each winning hole. Let The number of winning game balls is calculated by multiplying the number of game balls paid out for one winning to a winning opening by the number of winning times to the winning opening. The number of winning game balls is determined in advance for each winning opening.

As shown in Figure 9-6, the number of prize balls for each prize hole classified here is as shown in Figure 9-6. ), 1st start prize mouth prize ball (prize ball for winning the 1st start prize mouth (navel)), normal electric prize ball (prize ball for winning electric chew), special electric prize ball (for attacker It is the number of prize balls for winning prizes). The RAM 102 also stores the total number of prize balls and the number of game balls hit. Although the CPU 103 individually counts the number of game balls winning the general winning opening and the number of game balls winning the first start winning opening, the number of the game balls winning the general winning opening and the first starting winning opening The number of winning game balls into the winning opening may be totaled together. In addition, although the number of general prize balls and the number of first start prize balls are calculated separately, the number of general prize balls and the number of first start prize balls are calculated separately. The number of prize balls and the number of prize balls may be calculated together.

The RAM 102 has a ring buffer and an active buffer for storing the number of prize balls and the number of hits. The ring buffer has 10 first to tenth storage areas each consisting of a maximum 2-byte counter for storing the number of winning balls in each winning hole for every 6000 winning balls. Thus, the ring buffer has a storage area of a predetermined unit (maximum 2 bytes). In addition, the active buffer has a 0th storage area consisting of a maximum 2-byte counter for storing the number of winning balls in each winning hole for every 6000 winning balls. In the 0th storage area, the number of winning balls for each winning hole, which increases as the game progresses, is added. The 11 storage areas from the 0th storage area to the 10th storage area can store 256×256=65536 data, and can store up to 6000 data with a margin.

In addition, the RAM 102 is provided with storage areas for the number of prize balls (10 sets) stored in the first storage area to the tenth storage area, the sum of the number of hits, and the total cumulative total. there is The 10 sets of total sum and total cumulative storage area consist of a maximum 3-byte counter. I can remember.

In addition, the RAM 102 has a continuous ratio/role ratio storage area for storing 10 sets and total cumulative ratios and consecutive ratios, a base (base 2) for 10 sets, and a base (base 1) for the previous 10 sets. and a base storage area for storing the The CPU 103 of the main board 11 calculates the role ratio and the consecutive ratio for the 10 sets and the total cumulative number of winning balls based on the winning number of the game balls into each winning opening for the 10 sets and the total cumulative total. and stored in a continuous ratio/role ratio storage area for storing the total cumulative ratio and continuous ratio. The continuous ratio/role ratio storage area for storing the 10 sets and the cumulative total ratio and continuous ratio is composed of a maximum 1-byte counter. If the role ratios and consecutive ratios for 10 sets and the total total are stored as integers, for example, a maximum 1-byte counter can be stored with a margin.

In addition, the CPU 103 of the main board 11 calculates the base for 10 sets based on the number of hits of the game balls to the winning numbers of the game balls into the winning openings for 10 sets, and calculates the base for the 10 sets (base 2) and the previous game. A base (base 1) calculated based on the number of hits of game balls into each winning hole for 10 sets (base 1) is stored in the base storage area. If base 1 and base 2 are stored as integers, for example, a maximum 1-byte counter can be stored with a margin.

Here, the memory space of the CPU 103 of the main substrate 11 will be explained. FIG. 9-7 is a diagram showing a memory map of the CPU on the main board. The CPU 103 has a memory space for accessing the internal registers, the ROM 101, the RAM 102, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the memory map of FIG. 9-7, the address/data signal lines of the ROM 101 correspond to the ROM area of the memory space (0000H to 2FFFH (H indicates a hexadecimal number in this embodiment). 0000H to 2FBFH and 2FC0H to 2FFFH are allocated to the program management area), and the CPU 103 designates this ROM area to read data from the ROM 101 . In addition, in this embodiment, the ROM area is divided into eight areas from the first area to the eighth area for management, and the first area starts from 0000H.

The address/data signal lines of the built-in registers are assigned to register areas (FE00H to FEBFH in this embodiment) in the memory space, and the CPU 103 reads data from the built-in registers and transfers them to the registers via this register area. data is written.

The address/data signal lines of the RAM 102 are assigned to the RWM area (F000H to F3FFH in this embodiment) of the memory space. Write data. Note that other areas of the memory space (3000H to EFFFH, F400H to FDFFH, and FEC0H to FFFFH in this embodiment) are unused areas.

In addition, the RAM area corresponding to the storage area of the RAM 102 (16 Kbyte area from 0000H to 2FFFH in this embodiment) includes a RAM control area, an unused area, a RAM data area and other areas, as shown in FIG. 9-8. consists of In a storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to this RAM control area, instruction data (opcodes) corresponding to each of a plurality of types of instructions executed by the CPU 103 and supplementary data (operands) necessary for the CPU 103 to execute each instruction are stored. Data for the configured control program (sometimes simply referred to as control program data) is temporarily stored, and reference data referred to by the control program is stored in a storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the RAM data area. (For example, various lottery data described above) are temporarily stored.

Data used to display the consecutive ratio and the role ratio are temporarily stored in the storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the unused area and the storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the other area. For example, the storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the unused area is provided with a storage area for storing the total number of winning balls for each winning hole and a storage area for the total cumulative consecutive ratio role ratio. In addition, the storage areas of the RAM 102 corresponding to the other areas include an active buffer with a 0th storage area for each winning opening, a ring buffer with a 1st to 10th storage areas, and the number of prize balls for each winning opening (10 sets). minutes) and a continuous ratio storage area for 10 sets are provided. The storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the non-use area and the storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to the other area store data with different start addresses of subroutines.

In this embodiment, 1-byte (8-bit) data can be stored in the storage area of the RAM 102 corresponding to each address in the RAM area. , management data) is data of a number of bytes exceeding 1 byte (for example, 2 bytes), it is divided into 1-byte storage areas of the RAM 102 corresponding to a plurality of consecutive addresses in the RAM control area and stored. are doing.

Further, the main board 11 controls the display monitor 21TM029 to display the continuous ratio, the role ratio, and the base. Here, the main substrate 11 performs control to sequentially display a plurality of items. FIG. 9-9(A) is a time chart showing the display time of items displayed on the character product ratio display device. As shown in FIG. 9-9(A), when the display on the display monitor 21TM029 is started, the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 is displayed first. The short-term continuous ratio display No. 1 is displayed in green. In the display of the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1, as shown in FIG. 9-9 (B-1), the set value "1" is displayed in the first display section 21TM029A, and "y" is displayed in the second display section 21TM029B. is displayed, and the character "6." is displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. Short-term continuous ratios are displayed on the fourth display section 21TM029D and the fifth display section 21TM029E. For example, when the short-term continuous ratio is 41%, the character "4." is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D, and the character "1." is displayed on the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 1 continues for 5 seconds, the short-term role ratio of display No. 2 is displayed. The display of the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 2 is displayed in red. In the display of the short-term role ratio of display No. 2, as shown in FIG. 9-9 (B-2), the set value "1" is displayed in the first display section 21TM029A, and "y" is displayed in the second display section 21TM029B. is displayed, and the character "7." is displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. Short-term role ratios are displayed on the fourth display section 21TM029D and the fifth display section 21TM029E. For example, when the short-term role ratio is 63%, the character "4." is displayed on the fourth display section 21TM029D, and the character "3." is displayed on the fifth display section 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 2 continues for 5 seconds, the total cumulative continuous ratio of display No. 3 is displayed. Display No. 3 of the total cumulative ratio is displayed in red. In the display of the total cumulative consecutive ratio of display No. 3, as shown in FIG. is displayed, and the characters "6." are displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. Further, the total cumulative continuous ratio is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E. For example, when the total cumulative consecutive ratio is 58%, the character "5." is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D, and the character "8." is displayed on the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 3 continues for 5 seconds, the total cumulative role ratio of display No. 4 is displayed. The display of the display No. 4 total cumulative winning ratio is displayed in red. In the display of the total cumulative winning ratio of display No. 4, as shown in FIG. is displayed, and the characters "7." are displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. Further, the total cumulative winning ratio is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E. For example, when the total cumulative role ratio is 68%, the character "6." is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D, and the character "8." is displayed on the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 4 continues for 5 seconds, base 1 of display No. 5 is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-9 (B-5). The display of base 1 of display No. 5 is displayed in red. In the display of base 1 of display No. 5, as shown in FIG. A character is displayed, and the character "L." is displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. Also, the base 1 calculated based on the previous 60000 prize balls is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E. For example, when the base 1 is 40%, the character "4." is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D, and the character "0." is displayed on the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 5 continues for 5 seconds, base 2 of display No. 6 is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-9 (B-6). The display of base 2 of display No. 6 is displayed in red. In the display of base 2 of display No. 6, as shown in FIG. A character is displayed, and the character "6." is displayed on the third display portion 21TM029C. In addition, in the fourth display section 21TM029D and the fifth display section 21TM029E,
Base 2 calculated based on 60,000 prize balls immediately before is displayed. For example, when the base 2 is 42%, the character "4." is displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D, and the character "2" is displayed on the fifth display portion 21TM029E.

When the display of display No. 5 continues for 5 seconds, the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-9(B-1). The short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 is displayed. After that, the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 to the display of base 2 of display No. 6 are sequentially displayed every 5 seconds. As for the color of the display, only the short-term continuous ratio of display No. 1 is green, and the short-term combination ratio of display No. 2 to the base 2 of display No. 5 are red. In this way, the display monitor 21TM029 switches and displays the short-term consecutive ratio, the short-term winning ratio, the total cumulative consecutive ratio, the total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, and base 2 every 5 seconds.

Furthermore, the display of these short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative winning ratio, base 1 and base 2 is shown in FIGS. Based on the operation of , when the set value is "1", the short-term success ratio, short-term success ratio, total cumulative success ratio, total cumulative success ratio, base 1, base 2 are displayed, and when the setting value is "2", Short-term consecutive ratio, short-term consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, base 1, base 2 display, short-term consecutive ratio when the setting value is "3", short-term consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio It is possible to sequentially change the display of the role ratio, base 1, and base 2. It should be noted that if the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, base 2 are being displayed when the set value is "1", the second The numerical value displayed in the first display portion 21TM029A is updated to "2", and the short-term consecutive ratio, the short-term winning ratio, the total cumulative consecutive ratio, and the total cumulative winnings displayed in the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "2".

Further, when the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, base 2 are displayed when the set value is "2", the second The numerical value displayed in the first display portion 21TM029A is updated to "3", and the short-term consecutive ratio, the short-term winning combination, the total cumulative continuous ratio, and the total cumulative winning combination displayed in the fourth display unit 21TM029D and the fifth display unit 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "3".

Further, when the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, and base 2 are being displayed when the set value is "3", the second The numerical value displayed in the first display section 21TM029A is updated to "4", and the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning combination, total cumulative continuous ratio, and total cumulative winning combination displayed in the fourth display unit 21TM029D and the fifth display unit 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "4".

Further, when the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, the short-term winning ratio, the total cumulative consecutive ratio, the total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, and base 2 are displayed when the set value is "4", the second The numerical value displayed in the first display portion 21TM029A is updated to "5", and the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning combination, total cumulative continuous ratio, and total cumulative winning combination displayed in the fourth display unit 21TM029D and the fifth display unit 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "5".

Further, when the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, the short-term winning ratio, the total cumulative consecutive ratio, the total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, and base 2 are being displayed when the set value is "5", the second The numerical value displayed on the first display section 21TM029A is updated to "6", and the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning combination, total cumulative continuous ratio, and total cumulative winning combination displayed on the fourth display unit 21TM029D and the fifth display unit 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "6".

Then, when the display changeover switch 21TM030 is operated while the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winning ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative winning ratio, base 1, and base 2 are being displayed when the set value is "6", the second The numerical value displayed on the 1st display portion 21TM029A is updated to "1", and the short-term consecutive ratio, short-term winnings ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, and total cumulative winnings displayed on the fourth display portion 21TM029D and the fifth display portion 21TM029E. The ratio, base 1, and base 2 values are switched to the set value "1".

Incidentally, the display monitor 21TM029 of this embodiment exemplifies a form capable of displaying the continuous ratio, the role ratio, and the base at each set value, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the display monitor 21TM029 In , it may be possible to display only one numerical value or only any two numerical values among these continuous ratio, role ratio, and base.

In addition, in this embodiment, a form in which the consecutive ratio, the role ratio, and the base, which are information based on the number of awarded balls, is calculated and displayed on the display monitor 21TM029, is illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the history of the number of awarded balls may be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 without calculating the consecutive ratio, role ratio, and base. .

In this embodiment, only the short-term consecutive ratio is displayed in red on the display monitor 21TM029, and the short-term consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, total cumulative consecutive ratio, base 1, and base 2 are displayed in green. , the present invention is not limited to this, the short-term continuous ratio, the short-term winning ratio, the total cumulative continuous ratio and the total cumulative winning ratio are displayed in the same color. It may be displayed in the same color different from the winning ratio, the total cumulative winning ratio, and the total cumulative winning ratio.

Also, in the main board 11, when the total number of prize balls in the 0th storage area in the active buffer reaches 6000, which is a predetermined capacity, the storage in the 0th storage area to the 10th storage area in the ring buffer is updated. Furthermore, the storage area for the total sum and the total cumulative total for 10 sets, and the storage area for the continuous ratio-to-roll ratio storage area for storing the role ratios and continuous ratios for the 10 sets and the total cumulative total are updated.

Updates in the active buffer and ring buffer move the number stored in the 0th storage area of the active buffer to the 1st storage area of the ring buffer. Also, the numerical values stored in the first to ninth storage areas of the ring buffer are moved to the second to tenth storage areas, respectively. For example, as shown in FIG. 9-10, the number of general prize balls in the 0th to 9th storage areas is "27", "81", "120", "36", "225", and "87". Suppose that they are "66", "117", "45", and "21". At this time, when the total number of prize balls in the 0th memory area of the active buffer reaches 6000, the number of prize balls in the 1st memory area to the 10th memory area is changed to "27", "81", and " 120", "36", "225", "87", "66", "117", "45", and "21". Also, the number of prize balls in the 0th memory area is set to "0" and the number of prize balls in the 10th memory area is erased.

When updating the number of prize balls stored in the 0th storage area to the 10th storage area, the number of prize balls stored may be erased once and then a new number of prize balls may be stored. Alternatively, a new number of prize balls may be stored by overwriting the stored number of prize balls.

Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. As shown in FIG. 9-11, when the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 executes a security check process which is a process for confirming whether or not the content of the program is valid, and then executes the game control main process after step S21TM1010. Start processing. In the game control main process, the CPU 103 first performs necessary initial settings.

In the initial setting process, the CPU 103 first disables interrupts (step S21TM1010). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S21TM1020), and the stack pointer designation address is set in the stack pointer (step S21TM1030). Then, wait until the effect control board 12 starts operating (step S21TM1040).

After CPU 103 initializes built-in devices (initialization of built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) such as CTC (counter/timer) and PIO (parallel input/output port) (step S21TM1050), CPU 103 restores RAM 102). The accessible state is set (step S21TM1060). In interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of a specific register (I register) built in the CPU 103 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-12, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (step S21TM1110). If the lock switch 21TM051 is not ON (step S21TM1110; NO), the process proceeds to step S21TM1310. When the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (step S21TM1110; YES), the CPU 103 receives the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting switch mounted on the power supply board) 21TM052 input via the input port. ) is confirmed (step S21TM1120).

When the ON state is detected in checking the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 (YES in step S21TM1120), the CPU 103 shifts to a setting change mode in which setting values can be changed. . That is, the CPU 103 satisfies the first condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON when the power is turned on, and the second condition that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON when the power is turned on. control the processing state to the configuration change mode.

As the CPU 103 shifts to the setting change mode, the information output circuit 112 outputs a setting change support signal and a security signal (step S21TM1130). As a result, in an external device such as a hall computer that manages the game information of each gaming machine, based on the input of the setting change support signal and the security signal, the gaming machine that is the output source of these signals changes the setting. It is possible to specify that it is controlled in a mode or a setting confirmation mode, which will be described later. Therefore, in the display device provided in the external device, it is possible to identifiably notify the gaming machine (for example, machine number) that is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

Moreover, CPU103 transmits the setting change mode command which designates having been controlled by setting change mode as an effect control command with respect to the effect control board 12 (step S21TM1140). The effect control CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has shifted to the setting change mode based on the reception of the setting change mode command. Therefore, the image display device 5 can notify that the game machine is being controlled in the setting change mode.

Then, the CPU 103 reads out the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 and displays them on the display monitor 21TM029 (step S21TM1150). Then, it waits for the operation of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 (step S21TM1160) and waits for the OFF operation of the lock switch 21TM051 (step S21TM1180).

In the operation standby state of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, the CPU 103 changes the set value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 each time the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated (YES in step S21TM1160). (Step S21TM1170). For example, as will be described later, every time a setting change operation is received, the displayed setting value is incremented by 1, and after reaching 6, display control is executed to return it to 1.

When the CPU 103 detects the OFF operation of the lock switch 21TM051 in the state of waiting for the OFF operation of the lock switch 21TM051 (YES in step S21TM1180), the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is The setting value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 is changed (step S21TM1190). That is, by overwriting the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 with the displayed setting value, the setting value is determined. Then, the determined setting value (the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102) is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (step S21TM1190).

In step S21TM1160, if the lock switch 21TM051 is turned OFF without operating the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 (without a YES determination in step S21TM1160), is determined), the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 and the setting value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 match. The settings stored in the area are not changed.

When the process of step S21TM1200 is executed, the setting change mode ends, and the CPU 103 shifts to the initialization process of step S21TM1410 shown in FIGS. 9-13 to be described later.

When the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is checked in step S21TM1120 described above, if the OFF state is detected (NO in step S21TM1120), the CPU 103 sets the setting value to be checkable. Go to confirmation mode. That is, the CPU 103 satisfies the first condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON when the power is turned on, but does not satisfy the second condition that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON when the power is turned on. Based on this, the processing state is controlled to the setting confirmation mode.

As the CPU 103 shifts to the setting confirmation mode, the information output circuit 112 outputs a setting change response signal and a security signal (step S21TM1210). As a result, in an external device such as a hall computer that manages the game information of each gaming machine, based on the input of the setting change support signal and the security signal, the gaming machine that is the output source of these signals changes the setting. It is possible to specify that it is controlled in mode or setting confirmation mode. Therefore, in the display device provided in the external device, it is possible to identifiably notify the gaming machine (for example, machine number) that is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

Moreover, CPU103 transmits the setting confirmation mode command which designates having been controlled by setting confirmation mode as a production control command with respect to the production|presentation control board 12 (step S21TM1220). The effect control CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has shifted to the setting confirmation mode based on the reception of the setting confirmation mode command. Therefore, the image display device 5 can notify that the gaming machine is controlled in the setting confirmation mode.

Then, the CPU 103 reads out the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 and displays them on the display monitor 21TM029 (step S21TM1230). Then, it waits for the lock switch 21TM051 to be turned OFF (step S21TM1240).

Further, when the CPU 103 detects the OFF operation of the lock switch 21TM051 in the state of waiting for the OFF operation of the lock switch 21TM051 (YES in step S21TM1240), the setting confirmation mode ends, and the CPU 103 executes the operation shown in FIG. 13 of step S21TM1320 to determine whether or not the power failure detection process has been executed.

If it is determined in step S21TM1110 that the lock switch is in the OFF state (NO in step S21TM1110), the CPU 103, as shown in FIG. The state of the output signal (clear signal) of (the setting switch mounted on the power supply board) 21TM052 is confirmed (step S21TM1310).

When confirming the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, if it is not in the ON state (NO in step S21TM1310), the CPU 103 executed the power failure detection process (see FIG. 9-14). is determined based on whether check data is stored in a predetermined backup area (step S21TM1320).

In this example, the processing of step S21TM1320 is executed in the following cases: (1) when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is OFF and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also OFF; (2) when the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is OFF when the power is turned on; There is a case where the setting confirmation mode is entered based on what happened, and the process of step S21TM1320 is executed after the setting confirmation mode ends.

If backup data is stored, the CPU 103 checks the data in the backup RAM area (step S21TM1330). In this embodiment, parity check is performed as data check. Therefore, in step S21TM1330, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated by the same process as the power failure detection process and stored. If the power supply is restored after an unexpected power outage or other power failure, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) will be normal (match). If the check result is not normal, it means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply was stopped. In such a case, the internal state cannot be returned to the state at the time when the power supply was stopped. determined and proceeds to step S21TM1410).

If the check result is normal (YES in step S21TM1330), the CPU 103 performs game state recovery processing (processing of steps S21TM1340 and S21TM1350) for returning the game control microcomputer 100 to the state when the power supply was stopped. Specifically, the head address of the setting table for backup stored in ROM 101 is set as a pointer (step S21TM1340), the contents of the setting table for backup are sequentially set in the work area (area in RAM 102), and step S21TM1360 is executed. (step S21TM1350). The working area is backed up by a backup power supply. Initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set in the backup time setting table. By the processing in steps S21TM1340 and S21TM1350, the saved contents remain as they are for the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, regulation member state designation flag, initialized flag, etc.), output of the output port They are an area (output port buffer) in which the state is saved, a part in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set, and the like. A set value storage area (an area in which fixed set values are stored) is also included in the portion that should not be initialized. Also included in the area that should not be initialized is an area in which total values (game information that can be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029) such as consecutive ratios, role ratios, and bases are stored for each set value.

Next, the CPU 103 reads out the set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (step S21TM1360). In the game control timer interrupt process described later, the big hit determination in the special symbol process process (step S21TM1690) is executed based on the set value read here. Next, the CPU 103 transmits a backup command (command at the time of restoration) as a command at the time of power supply restoration (step S21TM1370). When the performance control CPU 120 receives the backup command (restoration command), it recognizes that the power supply has been restored based on the data when the power supply is stopped. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the backup command, the effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9, for example, are restored from the power interruption based on the data when the power supply was stopped. It is possible to notify that Next, the CPU 103 executes setting command transmission processing in step S21TM1470.

If the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON at step S21TM1310 (step S21TM1310; YES) or if backup data is not stored at step S21TM1320 (step S21TM1320; NO), then at step S21TM1330 If the result of the parity check is not normal (step S21TM1330; NO), initialization processing is executed (step S21TM1410).

In this example, the initialization process of step S21TM1410 is performed as a case where (1) the lock switch 21TM051 is OFF and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON when the power is turned on. (2) when the lock switch 21TM051 is OFF when the power is turned on and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is executed; is OFF, on the condition that NO is determined in either step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330, the initialization of step S21TM1410 is performed immediately without transitioning to either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. When the process is executed, and (3) when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also ON. When the initialization process of step S21TM1410 is executed after the end of the mode, and (4) when the power is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is OFF. There is a case where the initialization process of step S21TM1410 is executed under the condition that the confirmation mode is entered and that either step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330 determines NO after the setting confirmation mode ends.

In the initialization process, the CPU 103 first performs RAM clearing (step S21TM1410). In the RAM clear process, the data indicating the game state before the power supply stop stored in the game state information storage area of the RAM 102 (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, etc.) is cleared, and the initial value is set. However, the set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 are not cleared and unchanged from before the RAM clear processing. In addition, the area in which each aggregated value (game information that can be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029) such as consecutive ratio, role ratio, and base is stored for each set value is not cleared, and each aggregated value for each of these set values is not cleared. The value is unchanged from before the RAM clear process. Then, by displaying the letter "C" on the display monitor 21TM029, etc., it is notified that the game state has been initialized (step S21TM1420). By the RAM clearing process, predetermined data (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for generating the random number for judging normal per symbol) is initialized to 0, but any value or predetermined value may be initialized to In addition, without initializing the entire area of the RAM 102, predetermined data (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for generating the random number for normal symbol per determination) may be left as it is. Also, the head address of the table set at initialization stored in ROM 101 is set in the pointer (step S21TM1430), and the contents of the table set at initialization are sequentially set in the work area (step S21TM1440).

In addition, by the processing of steps S21TM1430 and S21TM1440, for example, a random number counter for judging a normal symbol, a special symbol buffer, a buffer for storing the total number of winning balls, a special symbol process flag, etc., for selectively performing processing according to the control state. An initial value is set for the flag.

In this embodiment, the configuration is exemplified in which the transition to the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode is performed under the condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON, but the present invention is not limited to this. Furthermore, under the condition that the gaming machine frame 3 is open (that the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state is detected by the gaming machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300), the setting change mode, It may be possible to shift to the setting confirmation mode.

After executing steps S21TM1430 and S21TM1440, the CPU 103 reads the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (step S21TM1450). In the game control timer interrupt process described later, the big hit determination in the special symbol process process (step S21TM1690) is executed based on the set value read here. Next, the CPU 103 transmits an initialization command designating that initialization processing has been performed when the power is turned on (or when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends) (step S21TM1460). The effect control CPU 120 recognizes that the initialization process has been performed based on the reception of this initialization command. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the initialization command, the effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 can notify that the game state and the like have been initialized. It is possible. Next, the CPU 103 executes setting command transmission processing in step S21TM1470.

The CPU 103 transmits a setting command designating the setting value read in step S21TM1360 or step S21TM1450 to the effect control CPU 120 (step S21TM1470). The effect control CPU 120 that has received the setting command can suggest the setting value by executing the effect corresponding to the setting value specified by the setting command. For example, it is possible to suggest the set value to the player by changing the aspect of the ending effect executed when the big win game state ends according to the designated set value.

Then, the CPU 103 executes setting processing for the serial communication circuit 21TM505 (step S21TM1480). In this setting process, a connection confirmation signal is output from the output circuit 21TM067 of the main board 11 to the input circuit 21TM373A of the payout control board 21TM037 (see FIGS. 9-19 and 9-21). Further, the communication between the serial communication circuit 21TM505 of the game control microcomputer 100 and the serial communication circuit 21TM380 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is set to be executable.

Next, the CPU 103 executes random number circuit setting processing for initializing the random number circuit 104 (step S21TM1490). CPU103, for example, by executing the processing according to the random number circuit setting program, performs the setting for causing the random number circuit 104 to update the value of the random number MR1 for special figure display result determination.

Then, in step S21TM1500, the CPU 103 sets the register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 100 so that the timer interrupt is periodically applied every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). For example, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt occurs periodically every 2 ms.

Next, CPU 103 repeatedly executes display random number update processing (step S21TM1520) and initial value random number update processing (step S21TM1530). When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S21TM1510). set (step S21TM1540). In the present embodiment, the random number for display is a random number for determining the stop pattern of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, and a random number for determining whether or not it is a ready-to-win when it is not a big hit. Random number update processing is processing for updating the count value of a counter for generating display random numbers. The initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the random number for the initial value determines the initial value of the count value of the counter (random number generation counter for normal symbol hit determination) for generating random numbers for determining whether or not the normal symbol is a hit. It is a random number for A game control process for controlling the progress of a game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 100 controls game devices such as a performance display device, a variable winning ball device, and a ball payout device provided in the game machine by itself). processing, or processing to transmit a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, also referred to as gaming device control processing), the count value of the random number for normal per symbol determination is one cycle (the random number for normal per symbol determination is After stepping by the number of numerical values between the minimum and maximum possible values, an initial value is set in the counter.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, when the setting change mode is set, the CPU 103 sends the setting change mode command (step S21TM1140) and then the initialization command at power-on. (Step S21TM1460), and transmits a setting command (Step S21TM1470). Further, when the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the CPU 103 transmits the setting confirmation mode command (step S21TM1220), and then transmits the backup command at power failure restoration or the initialization command at power on (step S21TM1370 or step S21TM1370). S21TM1460), and transmits a setting command (step S21TM1470). Therefore, the effect control CPU 120 can specify the end of the setting change mode based on the reception of the initialization command after receiving the setting change mode command, and the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R, and the game effect It is possible to notify the end of the setting change mode by a performance device such as the lamp 9 or the like. In addition, the effect control CPU 120 can specify the end of the setting confirmation mode based on the reception of the backup command or the initialization command after receiving the setting confirmation mode command, and the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R , the effect device such as the game effect lamp 9 can notify the end of the setting confirmation mode.

When the CPU 103 that has executed such game control main processing receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt processing shown in the flow charts of FIGS. 9-14. When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 9-14 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a power failure detection process (step S21TM1610). Then, it is determined whether or not a game stop error has occurred (step S21TM1615), and on the condition that a game stop error has not occurred (NO in step S21TM1615), by executing a predetermined switch process, the switch The states of the detection signals input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start switch 22A, the second start switch 22B, the count switch 23, and the discharge switch 21TM070 via the circuit 110 are determined (step S21TM1620). On the other hand, if a game stop error has occurred (YES in step S21TM1615), the switch process in step S21TM1620 is not executed, and the game is stopped as a result.

For example, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected, and an abnormality is detected by a magnetic sensor (not shown). Magnetism at a level to be determined is detected, vibration at a level determined to be abnormal by a vibration sensor (not shown) is detected, and a level and frequency band determined to be abnormal by a radio wave sensor (not shown) Based on the fact that radio waves are detected, it is determined that a game stop error has occurred.

Subsequently, when the game ball wins any of the first start winning opening, second starting winning opening, large winning opening, first general winning opening to fourth general winning opening, that is, first starting opening switch 22A , 2nd start switch 22B, count switch 23, 1st general winning opening switch to 4th general winning opening switch, when there is an input of a detection signal, the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning by each detection signal A prize ball process (step S21TM1630) for setting and the like is executed.

Next, the CPU 103 performs winning information processing (step S21TM1640) for calculating winning information such as role ratio, consecutive ratio, base, etc., and displays the winning information such as role ratio, consecutive ratio, base, etc. calculated by the winning information processing. 21TM029 performs winning information display control processing (step S21TM1650). After that, by executing a predetermined main side error process (step S21TM1660), an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko game machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be executed if necessary according to the diagnosis result. It should be noted that, in step S21TM1660, an abnormality (game stop error) is detected by various sensors described in the explanation of step S1615, and when an abnormality is detected, an abnormality detection flag is set, and the step in the next timer interrupt In S21TM1615, the game may be stopped (the switch process may not be executed). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability fluctuation information, and payout information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, is output. (Step S21TM1670).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least part of the game random numbers such as the random number MR1 and the random numbers MR1 to MR4 used on the main board 11 side is executed (step S21TM1680). ). After that, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process (step S21TM1690). In the special symbol process processing, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display are displayed. Various processes are selected and executed in order to control the display operation in the device 4B, set the opening/closing operation of the big winning hole in the special variable winning ball device 7, and the like in a predetermined procedure.

Following the special symbol process, normal symbol process is executed (step S21TM1700). CPU103, by executing the normal symbol process processing, controls the display operation of the normal symbol display device 20 (for example, lighting and extinguishing of the segment LED), the variable display of the normal symbol and the movable wings in the variable winning ball device 6B Allows tilting operation setting of one piece.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, the CPU 103 executes the command control processing to transmit the control command from the main substrate 11 to the sub-side control substrate such as the effect control substrate 12 (step S21TM1710). As an example of these, in the command control process, corresponding to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit, among the output ports included in the I / O 105, the effect After setting the control data to the output port for transmitting the performance control command to the control board 12, predetermined control data is set to the output port of the performance control INT signal, and the performance control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time. Then, by turning it off, etc., it is possible to transmit the effect control command based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated after setting the interrupt permission state.

In addition, in the command control process of step S21TM1710, a command for notifying the setting value set in the pachinko game machine 1 is transmitted, or a command for notifying that the fluctuation pattern or the fluctuation display is completed. By including the information of the setting value set in the pachinko game machine 1 in the existing command such as , and transmitting it, the effect control board 12 may be periodically notified of the setting value. Furthermore, the production control board 12 (the production control CPU 120) receives these commands from the main board 11, and executes the production suggesting the set value at various timings such as during variable display and during the jackpot game. may

Next, the display mode of the display monitor 21TM029 in the processing related to the setting change mode (steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200 of the main processing) and RAM clearing (steps S21TM1410 to S21TM1420 of the main processing) will be described. First, as shown in FIG. 9-15(A), when the power is turned off (turned off) by the operation of a game hall clerk or the like, the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is stopped and the display monitor is displayed. 21TM029 ends.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9-15(B), on the condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (Y in step S21TM1110 of the main processing), the store clerk or the like of the amusement center operates the clear switch (setting changeover switch). ) When the power is turned on while operating 21TM052 (in the case of Y in step S21TM1120 of the main processing), the CPU 103 executes the processing of steps S21TM1130 and S21TM1140, and the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (this In the example, the setting value "1") is copied to the setting information temporary storage area of the RAM 102, and the setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area on the display monitor 21TM029 (more precisely, the first display unit 21TM029A). (In this example, the set value is "1") is displayed (step S21TM1150).

In this state in which the setting values are displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A, as shown in FIG. Each time an operation is detected, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area) is sequentially updated and displayed (step S21TM1170). For example, each time the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area) is changed from 1→2→3→ The display is updated in the order of 4→5→6→1→ . . . Here, even if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (in this example, the setting value "1") itself is not changed. When the lock switch 21TM051, which will be described later, is turned OFF, the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (set value "1" in this example) is displayed on the first display section 21TM029A. is changed (overwritten) to the numerical value (in this example, the setting value "2" stored in the setting information temporary storage area).

Next, as shown in FIG. 9-15(D), the CPU 103 detects that the lock switch 21TM051 has been turned OFF by a store clerk or the like (YES in step S21TM1180). The stored setting value (in this example, the setting value “1”) is changed to the numerical value displayed in the first display section 21TM029A (in this example, the setting value “2” stored in the setting information temporary storage area). ), and the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (set value “2” in this example) is determined (step S21TM1190). At this time, the CPU 103 blinks the first display section 21TM029A to inform the store clerk or the like of the amusement arcade that the new setting value is stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 and the control of the setting change mode is completed. (Setting completion notification) is performed (step S21TM1200).

After the lock switch 21TM051 is turned OFF once, even if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (in this example, the setting information temporary storage area is The stored setting value "2") and the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (the setting value "2" in this example) are not changed. If the numerical value displayed on the first display portion 21TM029A can be changed even after the set value is determined, there is a risk that the user may misunderstand that the set value can be changed even when the lock switch 21TM051 is OFF. Therefore, in this embodiment, once the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off, the numerical value displayed on the first display section 21TM029A is not changed.

Then, the setting change mode (from step S21TM1130 to step S21TM1200) is terminated, and the CPU 103 executes RAM clear processing (step S21TM1410). In the RAM clear process, the data indicating the game state at the time of power failure stored in the game state information storage area of the RAM 102 (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, etc.) is cleared, and the initial value is set. By doing so, the game state is initialized, but the set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 are not cleared and are not changed from before the RAM clear processing. Also, if the reserve memory is stored in the backup area of the RAM 102, the reserve memory is cleared. After the RAM clearing process is completed, the CPU 103 displays "C" on the first display unit 21TM029A to notify the store clerk of the game arcade that the RAM clearing process has been executed (RAM clearing notification). (Step S21TM1420). As a result, the store clerk or the like of the amusement arcade knows that the setting change mode has ended (the set values have been finalized) and the initialization process has been executed. By executing the processing from step S21TM1430 onwards, a game becomes possible, that is, a state where variation display results, jackpot types, lotteries for determination of variation patterns, payout of prize balls, etc. can be performed.

Incidentally, in the setting change mode of this embodiment, as an initial display to be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029, the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 are exemplified. The initial display to be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 in the setting change mode may be the most advantageous setting value for the player ("6" in this embodiment) or the most disadvantageous setting value for the player. A set value (“1” in this embodiment) may be displayed.

In addition, upon completion of the setting change mode, the CPU 103 displays the continuous ratio and role corresponding to the determined setting values (the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102) on the display monitor 21TM029 after informing the RAM clear. You may make it display each total value, such as a ratio and a base. Also, for each set value, the total values such as the consecutive ratio, the role ratio, and the base corresponding to each set value may be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 in order (in ascending or descending order of the set values).

When the lock switch 21TM051 is not turned OFF while the setting change mode is being controlled, if the lock switch 21TM051 is not turned OFF, the set value of the RAM 102 will be changed. The setting values stored in the storage area have not been changed since the power was turned on, and the setting values stored in the setting information temporary storage area are deleted.

Next, the display mode of the display monitor 21TM029 in the processing of the setting confirmation mode (steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240) will be described. First, as shown in FIG. 9-16(A), when the power is turned off (turned off) by the operation of a store clerk or the like, the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is stopped, and the display monitor is turned on. 21TM029 ends.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9-16B, under the condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (Y in step S21TM1110 of the main processing), the clear switch (setting switch) 21TM052 is OFF. (N in step S21TM1120 of the main processing), the CPU 103 executes the processing of steps S21TM1210 and S21TM1220, and the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (in this example, the set value "1") is copied to the setting information temporary storage area of the RAM 102, and the setting value (in this example, set value "1") is displayed (step S21TM1230).

Note that unlike when the setting change mode is controlled, when the setting confirmation mode is controlled, even if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated by a store clerk or the like in the game arcade, the first display section The numerical value displayed in 21TM029A (in this example, the setting value "1" stored in the setting information temporary storage area) is not updated and displayed. If the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated by a store clerk or the like while the control is in the setting confirmation mode, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (in this example, Then, if the setting value "1" stored in the setting information temporary storage area is updated and displayed, there is a risk of misleading the user into thinking that the setting value can be changed in the setting confirmation mode. Therefore, in the present embodiment, even if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the setting confirmation mode is set, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (in this example, the setting The setting value "1" stored in the information temporary storage area) is not updated and displayed.

When the CPU 103 detects that the lock switch 21TM051 has been turned OFF by the store clerk or the like (YES in step S21TM1240), the CPU 103 terminates the setting confirmation mode. By executing the processing from step S21TM1320 onwards, a state in which the game can be played, that is, a state in which the variation display result, the jackpot type, the lottery for determination of the variation pattern, and the payout of prize balls can be performed. That is, when executing the setting confirmation mode process, the CPU 103 does not execute the process related to RAM clearing, except when NO is determined in step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330.

After the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off, even if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, the numerical value displayed on the first display unit 21TM029A (in this example, setting information The setting value "1" stored in the temporary storage area) and the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (the setting value "1" in this example) are not changed.

As described above, when the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is started, (1) the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state, and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also in the ON state. When the condition for controlling to the setting change mode is satisfied, the gaming machine is controlled to the setting change mode, and (2) the lock switch 21TM051 is ON and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) is activated. ) 21TM052 is in the OFF state, when the condition for controlling to the setting confirmation mode is established, the gaming machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode.

In order to change or display the setting value (to shift to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode), the game arcade clerk turns the lock switch 21TM051 to the ON state when the power is turned on. In order to shift to the mode, an operation for executing the initialization process (operation of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052) is performed. In order to shift to the setting confirmation mode, the initialization process is executed. do not operate. In this manner, the game arcade clerk or the like can select whether the gaming machine should be controlled in either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (or should not be controlled in either mode) when the power is turned on. It is also possible to select whether or not to execute it.

In addition, in this embodiment, initialization processing is not required to shift the gaming machine to the setting confirmation mode (RAM clearing is not executed except when NO is determined in step S21TM1320 or step S21TM1330). For this reason, when a game arcade clerk or the like wants to check the setting values while the player is playing a game, the game state is not changed even if the power is turned off once and then the setting confirmation mode is entered when the power is turned on. It is not initialized and does not disadvantage the player. On the game arcade side, it is possible to check the setting value without any trouble by using the setting check mode.

In addition, upon completion of the setting confirmation mode, the CPU 103 displays the continuous ratio, role ratio, base, etc. corresponding to the displayed setting values (the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102) on the display monitor 21TM029. may be displayed. Also, for each set value, the total values such as the consecutive ratio, the role ratio, and the base corresponding to each set value may be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 in order (in ascending or descending order of the set values).

9-17, when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the setting change mode and This shows an example of notifying that the setting confirmation mode has been entered. FIG. 9-17(1) is an example of an image displayed on the image display device 5 when the setting change mode is controlled, and FIG. 9-17(2) is an image display when the setting confirmation mode is controlled. Examples of images displayed on the device 5 are shown respectively.

As shown in FIG. 9-17 (1) (A), when the power is turned on (especially before the wait for the effect control board operation in step S21TM1040 is completed), the activation of the effect control board 12 is not completed. Therefore, no image is displayed on the image display device 5, no sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 is not emitting light.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9-17 (1) (B), based on having received the setting change mode command transmitted to the effect control board 12 from the CPU 103 in step S21TM1140 in the main process, for effect control The CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has transitioned to the setting change mode, and notify that effect. For example, the image display device 5 displays the characters "Settings are being changed", and outputs a sound (for example, "Settings are being changed") from the speakers 8L and 8R to notify that the mode has changed to the setting change mode, and the game is played. By causing the effect lamp 9 to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode (for example, a white flashing mode), it is notified that the setting change mode has been entered. According to such a configuration, the image display device 5 or the like having the largest display area in the pachinko game machine 1 can notify that the mode is changed to the setting change mode. It becomes possible to clearly grasp that it is controlled by the mode. Here, in the state shown in (B) of FIG. 9-17 (1), other display information (for example, effect symbols, small symbols, fourth symbol, right-handed display, etc.) in the image display device 5 are not displayed.

It should be noted that when the effect control CPU 120 receives the setting change mode command, if the VDP (Video Display Processor) is not in a state where the video signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, the display control unit 123 When the image display device 5 is not controllable), until the image signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, until the display control unit 123 can control the image display device 5). , the notification by the image display device 5 is not performed, and the voice notification and the light emission notification are executed in advance. That is, the speakers 8L and 8R output a sound notifying that the setting change mode has been entered (for example, a sound "setting is being changed"), and the game effect lamp 9 is caused to emit light in a predetermined manner (for example, blinking white). By emitting light, it is notified that the mode has been changed to the setting change mode. After that, when the video signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, when the display control unit 123 can control the image display device 5), the sound notification and the light emission notification are performed. In addition, the notification by the image display device 5 is started. That is, the image display device 5 displays the characters "setting change in progress".

Then, as shown in FIG. 9-17 (1) (C), based on the reception of the setting command transmitted from the CPU 103 to the effect control board 12 at step S21TM1470 in the main process (or at step S21TM1460 the CPU 103 Based on the reception of the initialization command at the time of power-on transmitted from to the production control board 12), the production control CPU 120 specifies that the game control microcomputer 100 has finished the setting change mode, It is possible to notify that effect. For example, the image display device 5 displays the characters "setting change finished", and the voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R notifying that the mode has changed to the setting change mode (for example, the voice "setting change is in progress"). The end of the setting change mode is notified by stopping the output and stopping the game effect lamp 9 from emitting light in a predetermined light emission mode (for example, white flashing mode). According to such a configuration, the image display device 5 having the largest display area in the pachinko game machine 1 can notify that the setting change mode has ended. It becomes possible to clearly grasp the end.

Then, as shown in (D) of FIG. 9-17 (1), the CPU 103 executes the processing after step S21TM1480 of the main processing, and the game becomes ready (the timer interrupt processing for game control is executed). (executed), the image display device 5 transmits an effect control command for displaying a demonstration screen, and the effect control CPU 120 having received this displays the demonstration screen on the image display device 5.

As shown in FIG. 9-17 (2) (A), when the power is turned on (especially before the wait for the effect control board operation in step S21TM1040 is completed), the activation of the effect control board 12 is not completed. Therefore, no image is displayed on the image display device 5, no sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 is not emitting light.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9-17 (2) (B), based on having received the setting confirmation mode command transmitted to the effect control board 12 from the CPU 103 in step S21TM1220 in the main process, for effect control The CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has shifted to the setting confirmation mode, and notify that effect. For example, the image display device 5 displays the characters "setting confirmation", and outputs a sound (for example, "setting confirmation") from the speakers 8L and 8R to notify that the setting confirmation mode has been entered, and the game is played. By causing the effect lamp 9 to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode (for example, a white blinking mode), it is notified that the setting confirmation mode has been entered. According to such a configuration, the image display device 5 or the like having the largest display area in the pachinko game machine 1 can notify that the mode is shifted to the setting confirmation mode. It becomes possible to clearly grasp that it is controlled by the mode. Here, in the state shown in (B) of FIG. 9-17 (2), other display information (for example, effect symbols, small symbols, fourth symbol, right-handed display, etc.) in the image display device 5 are not displayed.

It should be noted that when the effect control CPU 120 receives the setting confirmation mode command, if the VDP (Video Display Processor) is not in a state in which the video signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, the display control unit 123 When the image display device 5 is not controllable), until the image signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, until the display control unit 123 can control the image display device 5). , the notification by the image display device 5 is not performed, and the voice notification and the light emission notification are executed in advance. That is, the speakers 8L and 8R output a sound notifying that the mode has been changed to the setting confirmation mode (for example, the sound "The setting is being changed"), and the game effect lamp 9 is caused to emit light in a predetermined manner (for example, blinking white). By emitting light, it is notified that the setting confirmation mode has been entered. After that, when the video signal can be supplied to the image display device 5 (that is, when the display control unit 123 can control the image display device 5), the sound notification and the light emission notification are performed. In addition, the notification by the image display device 5 is started. That is, the image display device 5 displays the characters "Confirming setting".

Then, as shown in FIG. 9-17 (2) (C), based on the reception of the setting command transmitted from the CPU 103 to the effect control board 12 in step S21TM1470 in the main process (or step S21TM1370 or step Based on the reception of the backup command at the time of power failure recovery or the initialization command at the time of power on transmitted from the CPU 103 to the performance control board 12 at S21TM1460), the performance control CPU 120 is set by the game control microcomputer 100 It is possible to specify that the confirmation mode has been terminated and notify the fact. For example, the image display device 5 displays the characters "setting confirmation finished", and the voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R notifying that the mode has shifted to the setting confirmation mode (for example, the voice "setting confirmation is in progress"). By stopping the output and stopping the game effect lamp 9 from emitting light in a predetermined light emission mode (for example, white flashing mode), the end of the setting confirmation mode is notified. According to such a configuration, it is possible to notify that the setting confirmation mode has ended in the image display device 5 or the like having the largest display area in the pachinko game machine 1, so that the setting confirmation mode is terminated. It becomes possible to clearly grasp the end.

Then, as shown in (D) of FIG. 9-17 (2), the CPU 103 executes the processing after step S21TM1480 of the main processing, indicating that the game is ready (the timer interrupt processing for game control is executed). Execution), the image display device 5 transmits an effect control command for displaying the demonstration screen, and the effect control CPU 120 having received this displays the demonstration screen on the image display device 5.

The effect control CPU 120 that has received the setting command can suggest the setting value by executing the effect corresponding to the setting value specified by the setting command. For example, it is possible to suggest the set value to the player by changing the aspect of the ending effect executed when the big win game state ends according to the designated set value. FIGS. 9-18 (1), (2), and (3) show examples of setting suggestion effects. Fig. 9-18 (1) is an example in which a "sunny" mode ending image is selected on the jackpot end screen, and Fig. 9-18 (2) is an example in which a "cloudy" mode ending screen is selected on the jackpot end screen. For example, FIG. 9-18(3) shows an example in which an ending image of "rain" mode is selected on the jackpot end screen. Also, FIG. 9-18(4) is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a table for determining the mode of the setting suggestion effect based on the setting values specified by the setting command.

The CPU 103 transmits a setting command specifying a setting value to the effect control CPU 120 in step S21TM1470 of the main processing. Further, the CPU 103 transmits an effect control command for executing an ending effect in the image display device 5 to the effect control CPU 120 when the jackpot game state is ended. The effect control CPU 120 can determine the mode of the ending effect based on the stored setting values by storing the setting values specified by the received setting commands in the RAM 102 . For example, based on the effect control command transmitted when the jackpot game state is over, the image display device 5 is stored together with characters (“BONUS end” characters) for notifying that the jackpot game state is over. It is possible to display the ending image in the mode (sunny mode, cloudy mode, rainy mode) determined based on the set value.

The table shown in FIG. 9-18(4) shows the cases where the setting values specified by the setting command are "1, 2", "3, 4", and "5, 6". , respectively, when determining the mode of setting suggestion effect to be the "sunny" mode shown in FIG. 9-18 (1), when determining to be the "cloudy" mode shown in FIG. 18(3) is assigned a determination value for determining the "rain" mode.

When the setting value specified by the received setting command is "1" or "2", the effect control CPU 120 suggests setting of the "sunny" mode shown in (1) at a low rate (for example, 20%). It is decided to execute the production (ending production), and at a medium rate (for example, 40%), it is decided to execute the setting suggestion production (ending production) of the "cloudy" mode shown in (2), and the medium (for example, 40%), it is decided to execute the setting suggestive effect (ending effect) of the "rain" mode shown in (3). In addition, the effect control CPU120, when the setting value specified by the received setting command is "3" or "4", at a low rate (for example, 20%) of the "sunny" mode shown in (1) Determined to execute setting suggestive effect (ending effect), decided to execute setting suggestive effect (ending effect) of “cloudy” mode shown in (2) at a high rate (for example, 50%), moderate (for example, 30%), it is decided to execute the setting suggesting effect (ending effect) of the "rain" mode shown in (3). In addition, when the setting value specified by the received setting command is "5" or "6", the effect control CPU 120 has a high percentage (for example, 50%) of the "sunny" mode shown in (1). Decided to execute setting suggestive effect (ending effect), determined to execute setting suggestive effect (ending effect) of “cloudy” mode shown in (2) at a low rate (for example, 20%), moderate (for example, 30%), it is decided to execute the setting suggesting effect (ending effect) of the "rain" mode shown in (3).

In this way, by varying the determination ratio of each aspect of the setting suggestion effect according to the set value, the player becomes interested in how the setting suggestion effect is executed. It is possible to improve the interest of the production. In this example, the player is interested in how the ending effect executed when the jackpot game state ends. I would expect it to be done.

Next, the prize ball processing (step S21TM1630) in the main processing will be described. First, the payout control signal (connection confirmation signal) and prize ball request signal (payout control command) transmitted and received between the main board 11 and the payout control board 21TM037 will be described.

9-19 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of control signals output from the game control microcomputer 100 to the payout control board 21TM037. In this embodiment, a connection confirmation signal is transmitted and received as a control signal between the main board 11 and the payout control board 21TM037 in order to perform various controls related to payout control and the like. As shown in FIGS. 9-19, the connection confirmation signal is output when the main board 11 starts up (when the game control microcomputer 100 starts the game control process), and the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037. is a signal (connection confirmation signal of the main board 11) for notifying that the has risen. Also, the connection confirmation signal indicates that prize ball payout is possible. The connection confirmation signal is output via the I/O port 21TM057 and the output circuit 21TM067 of the game control microcomputer 100, and via the input circuit 21TM373A and the I/O port 21TM372e of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 payout control. input to the microcomputer 21TM370. Each connection confirmation signal is 1-bit data and is transmitted through one signal line. The connection confirmation signal becomes ready to be output when the bit corresponding to the connection confirmation signal of output port 0 is set to an initial value by the processing of steps S21TM1350 and S21TM1440 executed when power is turned on (specifically, is output by the process of step S21TM2080, but may be output at the timing of steps S21TM1350 and S21TM1440).

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370, like the game control microcomputer 100, incorporates a serial communication circuit 21TM380. Various payout control commands are transmitted and received between the serial communication circuit 21TM505 built in the game control microcomputer 100 and the serial communication circuit 21TM380 built in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. The configuration and function of the serial communication circuit 21TM380 incorporated in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 are the same as the configuration and function of the serial communication circuit 21TM505 incorporated in the game control microcomputer 100.

FIG. 9-20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of control commands transmitted and received between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control board 21TM037. In this embodiment, various control commands (ball request signals) are transmitted and received between the microcomputers of the main board 11 and the payout control board 21TM037 in order to perform various controls related to payout control and the like.

As described above, the winning ball request signal and the received ACK signal are composed of 8-bit data (8-digit binary data), and output as a control command indicating a predetermined content according to the content of the set 8-bit data. be done.

The connection confirmation command is sent from the game control microcomputer 100 at regular intervals (1 s) to confirm whether the connection state between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is normal. Control command to be sent. The data content of the connection confirmation command is "A0(H)", that is, "1010000".

The connection OK command is a control command for notifying that the connection state between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is normal. is a control command that is transmitted as a response signal in response to the reception of The data content of the connection OK command is "8x(H)", that is, "10000xxx". Here, if a prize ball error (abnormal state in which the prize ball payout operation based on the winning or the ball lending and payout operation based on the ball lending request cannot be performed normally) occurs, the 1st bit "x" is set to "1". Also, when a full tank error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the second bit. Further, when a ball-out error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the third bit. Also, when a door open error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the 4th bit. In this way, during the confirmation of the connection between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the occurrence of a predetermined error in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is detected by the game control microcomputer. 100 can be notified.

The prize ball number command is a control command for notifying the number (0 to 14) of game balls to be paid out, and is a control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 100 based on the occurrence of winning. . The content of the data of the number-of-balls command is "5x(H)", that is, "0101xxxx". In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first starter switch 22A and the second starter switch 22B, three prize balls are dispensed, and the game ball is detected by the winner switch corresponding to the general winner 10. When detected, 10 prize balls are put out, and when game balls are detected by the count switch 23, 14 prize balls are put out. Therefore, when a game ball is detected by the first starting port switch 22A and the second starting port switch 22B, a prize ball number command "01010011" for notifying the number of prize balls of 3 is transmitted to the general prize winning port 10. When game balls are detected by the corresponding winning hole switch, a prize ball number command "01011010" for notifying the number of prize balls of 10 is transmitted, and when game balls are detected by the count switch 23, the number of prize balls is sent. A prize ball number command "01011110" for notifying 14 is transmitted. Either the connection confirmation command or the number-of-balls command is transmitted as the prize-ball request signal. The prize ball number command is transmitted instead of the connection confirmation command at the timing when the connection confirmation command is transmitted based on the fulfillment of the prize ball payout condition (occurrence of winning, etc.). In this embodiment, as described above, data corresponding to the number of prize balls is set in the upper 4 bits, but data corresponding to the number of prize balls is set in the lower 4 bits while the upper 4 bits are common. You may do so.

The prize ball end command is a control command indicating that the prize ball operation (prize ball payout operation) has ended, and is a control command transmitted by the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 based on the end of the prize ball operation. The content of the data of the prize ball end command is "50 (H)", that is, "01010000". The prize ball end command is transmitted instead of the connection OK command at the timing when the connection OK command is transmitted based on the completion of the prize ball operation. In this embodiment, data indicating error information is not set in the prize ball end command. This is because the prize ball end command is sent only once when the prize ball operation is finished, so even if the error information is not sent at that timing, data indicating the error information is set in the next connection OK command and sent. because it is possible to Data indicating error information may be set in the lower 4 bits of the prize ball end command.

The prize ball preparation command is a control command for notifying that a predetermined error has occurred and the prize ball operation has not ended. It is a control command to be sent based on the action. The data content of the connection OK command is "8x(H)", that is, "10000xxx". Here, when a prize ball error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the first bit. Also, when a full tank error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the second bit. Further, when a ball-out error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the third bit. Also, when a door open error occurs, "1" is set to "x" of the 4th bit. In this way, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 notifies the game control microcomputer 100 that a predetermined error has occurred during execution of the prize ball motion and the prize ball motion has not ended. It is also possible to notify the game control microcomputer 100 of the content of the error. Like the connection OK command, the prize ball preparation command notifies that a predetermined error has occurred by changing the contents of the lower 4 bits (predetermined bits are changed) according to the error state. Also, the connection OK command, the prize ball preparation command, and the prize ball end command are configured to transmit any one of the commands as the reception ACK signal. In addition, the prize ball preparation command is a command (signal) that is output not only in a state in which an error occurs and the prize ball operation cannot be executed, but also in a state in which the prize ball operation is being executed.

In addition, the prize ball preparation command is sent instead of the connection OK command at the timing when the connection OK command is sent based on the state where the prize ball operation cannot be performed due to an error. be.

9-21 is a block diagram showing signal lines and the like used for transmitting and receiving the control signals shown in FIG. 9-19 and the control commands shown in FIG. 9-20. As shown in FIG. 9-21, the connection confirmation signal is output by the game control microcomputer 100 via the output circuit 21TM067 and input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 via the input circuit 21TM373A. In addition, the connection confirmation command and the number-of-balls command among the control commands are output from the serial communication circuit 21TM505 built in the game control microcomputer 100 and input to the serial communication circuit 21TM380 built in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. be. Of the control commands, the connection OK command, prize ball end command, and prize ball preparation command are output from the serial communication circuit 21TM380 built in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the serial communication circuit built in the game control microcomputer 100. 21TM505. Note that FIG. 9-21 shows two signal lines (a signal line for transmitting a prize ball request signal and a signal line for transmitting a received ACK signal) as signal lines for serial communication. However, actually, the ball request signal and the received ACK signal are transmitted and received through one signal line.

Next, transmission and reception of signals (prize ball request signal, reception ACK signal; control command) between the game control microcomputer and the payout control microcomputer during normal operation will be described. The prize ball request signal consists of a connection confirmation command and a prize ball number command, and the received ACK signal consists of a connection OK command, a prize ball end command, and a prize ball preparation command.

FIG. 9-22 is a sequence diagram showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 during normal operation. As shown in FIG. 9-22, the game control microcomputer 100 is connected to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 via the serial communication circuit 21TM505 in order to confirm whether or not the signal line is disconnected. , a connection confirmation command as a prize ball request signal is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal via the serial communication circuit 21TM380, it transmits the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal to the game control microcomputer 100. When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

Next, the operation of the payout control board 21TM037 will be described. FIG. 9-23 is a flow chart showing the main process executed by the payout control board 21TM037. In the main process, the payout control CPU 21TM371 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 first performs necessary initialization. That is, the payout control CPU 21TM371 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S21TM1810). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S21TM1820), and the stack pointer designation address is set in the stack pointer (step S21TM1830). Also, the payout control CPU 21TM371 sets the built-in device register (step S21TM1840), sets the CTC and PIO (step S21TM1850), and then sets the RAM to an accessible state (step S21TM1860). Also, 0000 (H) is set as the initial value of the counter for the number of undistributed prize balls (step S21TM1870).

In this embodiment, one channel of the built-in CTC is used in timer mode. Therefore, in the internal device register setting processing in step S21TM1840 and the processing in step S21TM1850, register setting for setting the channel to be used to timer mode, register setting for enabling interrupt generation, and interrupt vector setting are performed. register setting is performed. Then, an interrupt by that channel is used as a timer interrupt. When it is desired to generate a timer interrupt every 2 ms, for example, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

The interrupt vector set in the channel set to the timer mode (channel 3 in this embodiment) corresponds to the start address of timer interrupt processing. Specifically, the start address of timer interrupt processing is specified by the value set in the I register and the interrupt vector. In the timer interrupt process, a payout control process for controlling the payout means (including at least a process of driving the payout motor 21TM289 in response to a command signal relating to payout of prize balls from the main board, and driving the payout motor 21TM289 in response to a ball lending request) may include a process to perform.) is executed.

In this embodiment, the interrupt mode 2 is also set in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. Therefore, interrupt processing based on the built-in CTC count-up can be used. Also, an interrupt processing start address can be set according to the interrupt vector sent by the CTC. The CTC channel 3 (CH3) count-up interrupt is an interrupt that occurs when the internal clock (system clock) of the CPU counts down and the register value becomes "0", and is used as a timer interrupt. .

Next, the payout control CPU 21TM371 first performs RAM clear processing (step S21TM1880). Also, initial values are set to flags and counters in the RAM area (step S21TM1890). The process of step S21TM1890 includes a process of setting the initial value of the counter for the number of unpaid prize balls to the counter for the number of unpaid prize balls.

In addition, the payout control CPU 21TM371 executes serial communication circuit setting processing for initializing the serial communication circuit 21TM380 (step S21TM1900). In this case, the payout control CPU 21TM371 causes the serial communication circuit 21TM380 to perform serial communication with the game control microcomputer 100 according to the same process as the serial communication circuit setting process (see step S21TM2560) performed by the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100. Make settings for

When the serial communication circuit 21TM380 is initialized, the payout control CPU 21TM371 initializes the priority of interrupt processing to be executed in response to the interrupt request of the serial communication circuit 21TM380 (step S21TM1910). In this case, the payout control CPU 21TM371 initializes the priority of the interrupt process according to the same process as the priority initialization process performed by the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100. FIG.

Then, the CTC register provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is set so that the timer interrupts periodically (step S21TM1920). That is, a value corresponding to the timer interrupt generation interval is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. Since interrupts are prohibited in step S21TM1810 of the initialization process, interrupts are permitted before the initialization process is finished (step S21TM1930). After that, a loop process for monitoring the occurrence of a timer interrupt is entered.

As described above, in this embodiment, the built-in CTC of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is set to repeatedly generate timer interrupts. When a timer interrupt occurs, the payout control CPU 21TM371 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 executes timer interrupt processing.

FIG. 9-24 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the payout control board 21TM037. In the timer interrupt processing, the payout control CPU 21TM371 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 executes the following processing as payout control processing. First, the payout control CPU 21TM371 performs input determination processing (step S21TM2010). The input determination process detects the states of bits 4 to 6 of input port 0 and bits 3 to 6 of input port 1, and reflects the detection results in a predetermined byte of RAM (called an input state flag). be. In the payout control process, when performing control based on the states of bits 4 to 6 of input port 0 and bits 3 to 6 of input port 1, the state of the input port is not directly checked, but the input state Check flag status.

Next, the payout control CPU 21TM371 executes payout motor control processing (step S21TM2020). In the payout motor control process, when the payout motor 21TM289 should be driven, the process for outputting the payout motor φ1 to φ4 patterns to the output port 0 is performed.

In addition, the payout control CPU 21TM371 executes prepaid card unit control processing for communicating with the card unit 21TM050 (step S21TM2030). Also, the payout control CPU 21TM371 executes a main control communication process described later (step S21TM2035). Further, a prize ball lending control process for performing control to pay out the balls in response to a ball lending request from the card unit 21TM050, and to perform control to pay out the number of prize balls indicated by the number of prize balls command from the main board. is executed (step S21TM2040).

Then, the payout control CPU 21TM371 executes error processing for detecting various errors (step S21TM2050). Also, information output processing for outputting prize ball information and ball lending information to be output to the outside of the gaming machine is executed (step S21TM2060). In addition, according to the result of the error processing, a predetermined display is performed on the error display LED 21TM374, and display control processing for lighting the prize ball LED 21TM053 and the dead ball LED 21TM054 is executed (step S21TM2070).

In this embodiment, when various errors (for example, full tank error, bulb out error, prepaid card unit unconnected error) are detected in error processing to be described later, an error bit corresponding to the detected error is set. Then, in the display control process of step S21TM2070, based on the fact that the error bit is set, the payout control CPU 21TM371 performs a predetermined display on the error display LED 21TM374. Further, the payout control CPU 21TM371 performs control for lighting the prize ball LED 21TM053 when the prize ball is being paid out in the display control process. Also, when the prize ball payout is completed, control is performed to turn off the prize ball LED 21TM053.

In addition, in this embodiment, RAM areas (output port 0 buffer, output port 1 buffer, output port 2 buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port are provided. The contents of the port 0 buffer, the output port 1 buffer and the output port 2 buffer are output to the output ports (step S760: output processing). Output port 0 buffer, output port 1 buffer, and output port 2 buffer perform payout motor control processing (step S21TM2020), prepaid card control processing (step S21TM2030), main control communication processing (step S21TM2035), and information output processing (step S21TM2060). and updated in the display control process (step S21TM2070).

Next, in the main control communication process of step S21TM2035, the operation of transmitting and receiving various commands by the payout control CPU 21TM371 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 will be described. As shown in FIG. 9-21, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 incorporates a serial communication circuit 21TM380 for serially communicating various commands with the game control microcomputer 100. FIG. The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 uses the serial communication circuit 21TM380 to receive the prize ball number command shown in FIGS. 9-20 from the game control microcomputer 100. FIG. Further, when receiving the prize ball number command, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 uses the serial communication circuit 21TM380 to transmit the prize ball ACK command "D2" as a reception confirmation signal.

In addition, the payout control CPU 21TM371, like the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100, receives an interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 21TM380 while it is in the interrupt enabled state. Execute interrupt processing according to the cause. In this embodiment, when the payout control CPU 21TM371 specifies that the cause of the interrupt is that the serial communication circuit 21TM380 has received the received data, it executes the receiving interrupt process. In this case, the payout control CPU 21TM371 sets a reception interrupt flag indicating that the serial communication circuit 21TM380 is receiving the reception data. The payout control CPU 21TM371 may read data from the reception data register of the serial communication circuit 21TM380 instead of setting the reception interruption flag in the reception interruption process. In this case, for example, the payout control CPU 21TM371 determines whether or not the read reception data is the winning ball number command in the reception interrupt process. Further, when the received data is a prize ball number command, the payout control CPU 21TM371 may add the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball number command to the prize ball unpaid number counter. By doing so, in the main control communication process to be described later, it is determined whether or not the received data is the prize ball number command based on the fact that the reception interrupt flag is set, and the number of prize balls is determined. It becomes unnecessary to execute the process of adding to the unpaid number counter.

FIG. 9-25 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370), payout motor 21TM289, and card unit 21TM050 for ball lending. 2 is a block diagram for explaining communication processing of the; FIG. Here, as will be described later, there are the following first ball lending restriction method to fourth ball lending restriction method as methods for restricting ball lending by the payout motor 21TM289.

First, (1) the first ball lending limit method, during the period when it is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) payout control board 21TM037 (payout control micro This is a method of stopping the output of the connection confirmation signal to the computer 21TM370). In addition, (2) the second ball lending restriction method, PRDY to the card unit 21TM050 from the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) during the period controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode This is a method of stopping signal output. (3) In the third ball lending restriction method, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 equipped with the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. The period is a method of stopping the output of the signal for driving the payout motor 21TM289 from the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) to the payout motor 21TM289. In addition, (4) the fourth ball lending restriction method, EXS from the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) to the card unit 21TM050 during the period controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode This is a method of stopping signal output.

The transition to the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are accompanied by power off (including turning off the power switch 21TM055) and subsequent power on, so the state of the game machine is unstable. If the payout control corresponding to the ball lending process is executed in such an unstable state, there is a possibility that the appropriate amount of game media corresponding to the lending request cannot be paid out. In order to prevent the player from being disadvantaged in such a situation, in the following embodiments, the lending of balls is restricted in the gaming machine controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. Hereinafter, these first ball lending limit method to fourth ball lending limit method will be specifically described.

FIG. 9-26 is a timing chart for explaining communication between the main board 11 of the game machine, the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. When power supply to the game machine is started and the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the payout control board 21TM037 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible. The connection confirmation signal is turned ON by the serial communication circuit setting process in step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 9-13 (see FIG. 9-19). When the power supply is started, the card unit 21TM050 turns on the VL signal as the connection signal.

When the card unit 21TM050 accepts the card and the ball rental switch is operated to input the ball rental switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 transmits the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is ON. Output. That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control board 21TM037 turns ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is ON and the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are both ON, and the card unit 21TM050 When the fall (OFF) of the BRQ signal is detected, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven to pay out a predetermined number (for example, 25) of rental balls to the player. Then, the payout control board 21TM037 causes the EXS signal for the card unit 21TM050 to fall. That is, the EXS signal is turned off.

(First ball lending limit method in setting change mode)
There are the above-described first ball lending limit method to fourth ball lending limit method as methods for restricting ball lending during the period controlled in the setting change mode. First, the first ball lending limit method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 9-27.

9-27 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout 21 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing performed between the control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. FIG. In the main board 11, when the power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is the game control main process. Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIGS. The connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF while the mode or setting confirmation mode processing is being executed.

While the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF, so the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON but turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, even if the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball rental switch signal while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, The card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is OFF, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. During execution of processing, ball lending (distribution of game media) is not performed even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated.

Thus, during the period when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 does not turn on the connection confirmation signal, so that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can control the payout of game media. You can prevent it from running. Further, in the card unit 21TM050, it is possible to inform that the ball lending is not executed (that the ball lending error has occurred) based on the fact that the PRDY signal does not turn ON.

When the CPU 103 ends the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing and executes the serial communication circuit setting processing in step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

When the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball lending switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 sends the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. to output That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns ON the EXS signal for the card unit 21TM050 based on the ON state of both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal, and executes subsequent ball lending payout control.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, the first ball lending limit method shown in FIG. 9-27 can be applied. That is, the game control microcomputer 100 stops outputting the connection confirmation signal (switches from the ON state to the OFF state) based on being controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. As a result, when the connection confirmation signal is no longer input, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns off the PRDY signal or does not turn on the EXS signal, thereby executing ball lending. prevent it from happening.

(Second ball lending limit method in setting change mode)
Next, the second ball lending limit method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 9-28. In the example shown in FIG. 9-28, the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting change mode, and the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode. shall be That is, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting change mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting change mode period. shall be Also, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting confirmation mode period. shall be

9-28 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout 10 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing performed between the control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. FIG. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. Then, after the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is turned ON, the mode shifts to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

In the example of FIG. 9-28, the connection confirmation signal is ON even while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode. Here, the game control microcomputer 100 stops transmission of the connection confirmation command based on having controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. The connection confirmation command is a command for confirming the state of communication with the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 via the serial communication circuit 21TM505, as described above.

Based on the fact that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 has not received the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100, the PRDY signal is not turned ON. Also, when the PRDY signal is already in the ON state, the PRDY signal is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050) and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, the game control microcomputer 100), the PRDY signal is turned ON while the CPU 103 is executing processing in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (while the connection confirmation command is not received). state, and set to OFF state.

As a result, even if the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball rental switch signal while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, The card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, when the connection confirmation command is not transmitted, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated, ball lending (payout of game media) is not performed.

Thus, during the period when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 does not transmit the connection confirmation command, so that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 side that has not received the connection confirmation command , the PRDY signal is not turned on. In this way, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing the game media payout control. Further, in the card unit 21TM050, it is possible to notify that the ball lending is not executed (that the ball lending error has occurred) based on the fact that the PRDY signal does not turn ON.

When the CPU 103 ends the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing, it resumes transmission of the connection confirmation command. Based on restarting reception of the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

When the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball lending switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 sends the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. to output That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns ON the EXS signal for the card unit 21TM050 based on the ON state of both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal, and executes subsequent ball lending payout control.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, the second ball lending limit method shown in FIG. 9-28 can be applied. Also, regardless of whether the connection confirmation signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (whether it is in the ON state or the OFF state), it is possible to output the PRDY signal (to be in the ON state). Even if such a configuration is adopted, the second ball lending limit method shown in FIG. 9-28 can be applied. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not receive the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100 that is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, and the PRDY signal that is in the ON state. to the OFF state. As a result, it is possible to prevent ball lending from being performed during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

(Third ball lending limit method in setting change mode)
Next, the third ball lending limit method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 9-29. In this embodiment, the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 are provided on the back side of the pachinko game machine 1, and do not open the game machine frame 3 that can be opened by a predetermined key operation. Therefore, in order to control the pachinko game machine 1 to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the game machine frame 3 must be released. That is, normally, the gaming machine frame 3 is open during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled. That is, during the period when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the opening of the game machine frame 3. Become. Thus, the period during which the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 is detected includes the period during which the setting change mode is controlled and the period during which the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

FIG. 9-29 shows the main board when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a). 11. It is a timing chart for explaining the communication processing performed between the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050.

In the example of FIG. 9-29, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a). Therefore, the PRDY signal is not turned on. Also, when the PRDY signal is already in the ON state, the PRDY signal is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050) and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, the game control microcomputer 100), while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (while the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state), The PRDY signal is turned off instead of being turned on.

As a result, even if the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball rental switch signal while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, The card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. That is, when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a), the PRDY signal, the BRDY signal, and the BRQ signal and EXS signal are both in the OFF state, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. Lending (payout of game media) is not executed.

In this way, during the period in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated by the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a). is detected, the PRDY signal is not turned on. In this way, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing the game media payout control. Further, in the card unit 21TM050, it is possible to inform that the ball lending is not executed (that the ball lending error has occurred) based on the fact that the PRDY signal does not turn ON.

The CPU 103 terminates the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode when the store clerk or the like of the game arcade turns off the lock switch 21TM051. Furthermore, when a game hall clerk or the like closes the game machine frame 3 to make the pachinko game machine 1 ready for play, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 21TM300 stops detecting the open state of the gaming machine frame 3. When the gaming machine frame 3 is closed, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

When the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball rental switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 sends a BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. to output That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns ON the EXS signal for the card unit 21TM050 based on the ON state of both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal, and executes subsequent ball lending payout control.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, the third ball lending limit method shown in FIG. 9-29 can be applied. Also, regardless of whether the connection confirmation signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (whether it is in the ON state or the OFF state), it is possible to output the PRDY signal (to be in the ON state). Even if such a configuration is adopted, the third ball lending limit method shown in FIG. 9-29 can be applied. That is, during the period when the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the game machine frame/door frame opening sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is set to the game machine frame 3 ( Alternatively, the PRDY signal is not turned ON based on the detection of the open state of the glass door frame 3a). As a result, it is possible to prevent ball lending from being performed during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 is provided on the payout control board 21TM037 (an open state detection signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370). The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 may be provided on the main substrate 11 (the detection signal of the open state is input to the game control microcomputer 100). With such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 100 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a) by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. to stop outputting the connection confirmation signal (switch from the ON state to the OFF state). As a result, when the connection confirmation signal is no longer input, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns off the PRDY signal or does not turn on the EXS signal, thereby executing ball lending. prevent it from happening.

(Fourth ball lending limit method in setting change mode)
Next, the fourth ball lending limit method will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 9-30. In the example shown in FIGS. 9-30, the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting change mode, and the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode. shall be That is, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting change mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting change mode period. shall be Also, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting confirmation mode period. shall be

9-30 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout 10 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing performed between the control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. FIG. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. Then, after the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is turned ON, the mode shifts to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

In the example of FIG. 9-30, the connection confirmation signal is ON even while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode. Here, the game control microcomputer 100 stops transmission of the connection confirmation command based on having controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. The connection confirmation command is a command for confirming the state of communication with the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 via the serial communication circuit 21TM505, as described above.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON based on the ON state of the connection confirmation signal. Further, when the PRDY signal is already in the ON state, the PRDY signal is maintained in the ON state. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050) and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, the game control microcomputer 100), the PRDY signal is turned ON regardless of whether the CPU 103 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

When a card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated and a ball rental switch signal is input while the CPU 103 is executing processing in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the card unit 21TM050 Based on the fact that the PRDY signal is ON, the BRDY signal is output to the payout control board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Here, the payout control board 21TM037 has not received the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100 although the PRDY signal is in the ON state and both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the ON state. Therefore, the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 is not turned ON. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050) and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, the game control microcomputer 100), the PRDY signal is ON (that is, the state in which the payout operation is possible by the payout control board 21TM037), and the BRDY signal is in the ON state (that is, the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated and the ball lending switch signal is input), and the BRQ signal is in the ON state (i.e., a state in which a predetermined delay time has elapsed since the BRDY signal was turned ON), the CPU 103 sets While executing the processing of the change mode or the setting confirmation mode (while the connection confirmation command is not received), the EXS signal is not turned ON, but turned OFF. Thus, even when the connection confirmation signal, the PRDY signal, the BRDY signal, and the BRQ signal are ON, when the connection confirmation command is not transmitted, the EXS signal is OFF and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. While the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is being executed, even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated, ball lending (payout of game media) is not performed.

Thus, during the period when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 does not transmit the connection confirmation command, so that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 side that has not received the connection confirmation command Therefore, the EXS signal is not turned ON. In this way, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing the game media payout control. Further, in the card unit 21TM050, it is possible to notify that the ball lending is not executed (that the ball lending error has occurred) based on the fact that the EXS signal does not turn ON.

After the BRQ signal is turned ON, the card unit 21TM050 stops outputting the BRQ signal when a predetermined time passes while the EXS signal remains OFF (when a timer set to a predetermined value times out). do. That is, the BRQ signal is turned off. Then, the card unit 21TM050 stops outputting the BRDY signal when the BRQ signal is turned OFF. That is, the BRDY signal is turned off.

When the CPU 103 ends the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing, it resumes transmission of the connection confirmation command. At this time, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 keeps the PRDY signal ON.

When the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball rental switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 sends a BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. to output That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 resumes receiving the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100, and based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the ON state, the card The EXS signal to the unit 21TM050 is turned ON, and the subsequent ball lending payout control is executed.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, the fourth ball lending limit method shown in FIGS. 9-30 can be applied. In addition, regardless of whether the connection confirmation signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (whether it is in the ON state or the OFF state), it is possible to output the PRDY signal (to be in the ON state). Even if such a configuration is adopted, the fourth ball lending limit method shown in FIGS. 9-30 can be applied. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal based on the fact that the connection confirmation command is not received from the game control microcomputer 100 controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. As a result, it is possible to prevent ball lending from being performed during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

Further, in FIG. 9-30, after the BRQ signal turns ON and the EXS signal remains OFF for a predetermined period of time (when the timer set to a predetermined value times out), the card unit 21TM050 returns the BRQ signal to the OFF state, and also returns the BRDY signal to the OFF state. The BRQ signal may be maintained in the ON state and the BRDY signal may also be maintained in the ON state even after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 resumes receiving the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100 (setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is completed), and BRDY signal and BRQ signal are both ON, the EXS signal may be turned ON. Here, when the EXS signal is turned ON, (1) the BRQ signal is turned OFF and ball lending is automatically executed without the ball lending switch 21TM062 being operated again (that is, the setting change mode or When the setting confirmation mode ends, the ball lending process corresponding to the ball lending operation accepted within the period of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode may be executed); Triggered by the switch 21TM062 being operated again, the BRQ signal may be turned off and the ball lending may be executed.

(Method not to execute ball lending restriction during setting change mode)
Next, the method of not executing the ball lending restriction during the setting change mode will be specifically described using FIG. 9-31. In the example shown in FIG. 9-31, the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting change mode, and the connection confirmation signal is ON during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode. shall be That is, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting change mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting change mode period. shall be Also, unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, the connection confirmation signal is turned ON at the timing before being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, and is maintained in the ON state even during the setting confirmation mode period. shall be

9-31 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout 10 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing performed between the control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. FIG. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. Then, after the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is turned ON, the mode shifts to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

In the example of FIG. 9-31, the connection confirmation signal is ON even while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode. Here, the game control microcomputer 100 continues transmission of the connection confirmation command even during the period when it is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. The connection confirmation command is a command for confirming the state of communication with the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 via the serial communication circuit 21TM505, as described above.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON based on the ON state of the connection confirmation signal and the reception of the connection confirmation command. Further, when the PRDY signal is already in the ON state, the PRDY signal is maintained in the ON state. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, in the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050), and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, in the state of being connected to the game control microcomputer 100). is electrically connected) and the connection confirmation command is being received, regardless of whether the CPU 103 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, is turned on.

When a card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated and a ball rental switch signal is input while the CPU 103 is executing processing in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the card unit 21TM050 Based on the fact that the PRDY signal is ON, the BRDY signal is output to the payout control board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control board 21TM037 outputs the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that the PRDY signal, the BRDY signal, and the BRQ signal are all ON and that the connection confirmation command is being received. is turned on, and when the trailing edge (OFF) of the BRQ signal from the card unit 21TM050 is detected, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven to pay out a predetermined number (for example, 25) of game media to the player.

Thus, even during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 continues to transmit the connection confirmation command, thereby continuously receiving the connection confirmation command. On the control microcomputer 21TM370 side, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned on. In this way, it is possible to cause the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 to execute the game medium payout control even during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled. It is possible to reduce the control burden for not executing the payout control during the controlled period. In addition, during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the communication function between the card unit 21TM050 and the pachinko game machine 1 can be inspected, and workability can be improved. can.

The CPU 103 continues to transmit the connection confirmation command even after finishing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. Based on the continuous reception of the connection confirmation command from the game control microcomputer 100, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 maintains the ON state of the PRDY signal when the payout operation is possible.

When the payout of a predetermined number of game media is completed and the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the payout control board 21TM037 stops outputting the EXS signal. . That is, the EXS signal is turned off. Then, the card unit 21TM050 stops outputting the BRDY signal based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal is turned off. As described above, during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the EXS signal may change from the ON state to the OFF state, and the BRDY signal may change from the ON state to the OFF state accordingly. Also, after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is ended, when the payout of a predetermined number of game media is completed and the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped, the payout control board 21TM037 stops outputting the EXS signal. That is, the EXS signal is turned off. Then, the card unit 21TM050 stops outputting the BRDY signal based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state. As described above, after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the EXS signal may change from the ON state to the OFF state, and the BRDY signal may change from the ON state to the OFF state accordingly.

(Method of resuming ball lending after exiting setting change mode)
Next, referring to Fig. 9-32, regarding the processing when the payout is interrupted due to the power failure during ball lending, and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled when the power is turned on after that. will be described in detail. In the example shown in FIG. 9-32, the payout of game media is interrupted based on the fact that the power is cut off during the payout of game media, and after the power is turned on, the mode is controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. To resume the payout that has been interrupted after the end of the change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

9-32 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout control 21 is a timing chart for explaining the communication processing performed between the microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, if power is cut off, the output of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is stopped, and the output of the PRDY signal from the payout control board 21TM037 is stopped. be. That is, the PRDY signal is turned off. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped and the payout of game media is interrupted. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

This unpaid number is updated based on the detection signal from the payout number count switch 21TM301 input to the I/O port 21TM372f of the payout control board 21TM037 via the relay board 21TM072. Specifically, the unpaid number is calculated from a predetermined number of game media to be paid out by the payout motor 21TM289 (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25), and the payout number count switch. It is calculated by subtracting the number counted by 21TM301 (that is, the number of game media actually paid out by the payout motor 21TM289).

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 9-13, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state, so the CPU 103 changes the setting. The connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF while the mode or setting confirmation mode processing is being executed.

While the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF, so the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON and turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, during the period when the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the card unit 21TM050 controls payout even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. The BRDY signal is not output to the board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and maintains the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is OFF, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. No game media are paid out while the process is being executed.

When the CPU 103 ends the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing and executes the serial communication circuit setting processing in step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

Then, when the power supply is restarted and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode controlled at the time of power-on is completed (the connection confirmation signal is turned ON and the PRDY signal is turned ON), payout control is performed. The payout microcomputer 21TM370 drives the payout motor 21TM289 based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0, one at a time. Payout operation is performed. As a result, the payout of game media that has been interrupted due to the power-off and subsequent transition to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is completed. In this way, when power is interrupted during ball lending and game media payout is interrupted, even if the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is entered when the power is subsequently restored, the setting After the change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, it is possible to resume the suspended game media payout and complete the ball lending.

Here, in the example shown in FIG. 9-32, the payout process is interrupted due to a power failure during the payout process, and when the power is restored, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is set. , the interrupted payout process is resumed after the end of , but this power cut is caused by the game arcade clerk turning off the power switch 21TM055 to change or confirm the setting value. It may be a power outage that occurred, or it may be a power outage that occurred when the power switch 21TM055 was turned off at the end of business of the game arcade. In addition, not only when power failure occurs, but during payout processing, the opening state of the game machine frame 3 is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, or the opening of the glass door frame 3a In response to the detection of the state, the payout process being executed is interrupted, and then controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, and after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the interrupted payout process is executed. It may be restarted.

(Method for forcibly terminating ball lending due to power outage)
Next, referring to Fig. 9-33, we will use Fig. 9-33 to describe the process when payout is forcibly terminated (cancelled) when a power outage occurs while ball lending is in progress, and payout is not resumed after power is restored. explain. In the example shown in FIG. 9-33, when a power failure occurs during payout of game media, the payout in progress is stopped, and after the power is restored, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, The payout is not restarted, and the payout is not restarted even after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is finished.

FIG. 9-33 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout control 21 is a timing chart for explaining the communication processing performed between the microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the payout control board 21TM037 is performing payout of game media, if the power is cut off, the output of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is stopped, and the output of the PRDY signal from the payout control board 21TM037 is stopped. be. That is, the PRDY signal is turned off. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, both the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. When the EXS signal is turned OFF, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stops driving the payout motor 21TM289 and forcibly terminates (stops) the payout of game media. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is not stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (or the unpaid number storage buffer itself is not provided). Therefore, as will be described below, game media equivalent to the unpaid number are not paid out after the power is restored.

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process. Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 9-13, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state, so the CPU 103 changes the setting. The connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF while the mode or setting confirmation mode processing is being executed.

After that, while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF. Therefore, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn on the PRDY signal. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON but turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode process, the card unit 21TM050 controls payout even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. The BRDY signal is not output to the substrate 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and maintains the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is OFF, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. No game media are paid out while the process is being executed.

When the CPU 103 ends the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing and executes the serial communication circuit setting processing in step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible. In addition, since the data of the unpaid number is not backed up, the predetermined number of balls to be paid out in the ball lending process that was executed before the power failure occurred (before being controlled to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode due to the power restoration) Of the number of game media (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25), the number of unpaid game media that has not been paid out due to the cancellation of the payout (forced termination) is not paid out. Not done. In this way, if a power outage occurs during the execution of ball lending, the payout is forcibly terminated (cancelled), and after that, when the power is restored, the setting change mode or the setting change mode or the setting By not executing the payout of the number of unpaid balls after the end of the confirmation mode, the control of backing up the data of the number of unpaid balls and resuming the payout becomes unnecessary, and the ball lending process can be simplified.

In the example shown in FIG. 9-33, when a power failure occurs during a payout, the payout in progress is forcibly terminated (cancelled) by not backing up the data of the unpaid number. Not limited to such a form, as in the example shown in FIG. 9-32, when the power is cut off, the data of the unpaid number is backed up, and after the power is restored, the setting change mode and setting confirmation mode Under the condition that no control is performed, game media equivalent to the number of unpaid game media are paid out based on the backed up data of the number of unpaid game media (payout is restarted based on the backup data), and after the power supply is restored. When the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the game media equivalent to the number of unpaid game media are not paid out (payout based on the backup data is not restarted), and even after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, It is also possible not to execute the payout of game media corresponding to the number of payouts.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, it is possible to apply the method of forcibly terminating the ball rental accompanying the transition to the setting change mode shown in FIG. 9-33. Also, regardless of whether the connection confirmation signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (whether it is in the ON state or the OFF state), it is possible to output the PRDY signal (to be in the ON state). Even if such a configuration is adopted, it is possible to apply the method of forcibly terminating the ball lending accompanying the transition to the setting change mode shown in FIG. 9-33. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON based on the fact that the connection confirmation signal is not received from the game control microcomputer 100 controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. As a result, it is possible to prevent the payout (ball lending) from being executed during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

(Prize ball payout control)
FIG. 9-34 is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 during normal operation. As shown in FIG. 9-34, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a connection confirmation command as a prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the received ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

When the connection confirmation communication process is not executed (between the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal and the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal), if there is a prize, the game The control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the number of prize balls in a prize ball request signal, and transmits a prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command, and pays out the prize balls (prize ball payout operation). When finished, a prize ball end command as a received ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 . When the game control microcomputer 100 receives the prize ball end command as the reception ACK signal, it transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception.

Although not shown, during execution of communication processing for connection confirmation (between the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal and the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal), there is a prize. In this case, the game control microcomputer 100 sets the data indicating the number of prize balls in the prize ball request signal, and transmits the prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. After receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, it transmits to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command, and pays out the prize balls (prize ball payout operation). When finished, a prize ball end command as a received ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 . During execution of the payout of prize balls (prize ball payout operation), a prize ball preparation command is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 as a received ACK signal.

(No winning during setting change mode or setting confirmation mode)
FIG. 9-35 is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 during the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process which is a game control main process.

As described above, until the CPU 103 executes the interrupt permission (step S21TM1540) shown in FIG. The switch processing (step S21TM1620 shown in FIG. 9-14) for confirming the state of each switch of the general winning opening switch and the count switch 23 (the presence or absence of the detection signal) is not executed, and the special symbol process including the big hit determination processing etc. Processing (step S21TM1690 shown in FIG. 9-14) and the like are not executed either. Therefore, while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, it does not detect the detection signal output from each switch, and does not execute the jackpot determination process or the like. That is, during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, winning is invalidated even if the game medium passes through each winning hole. Furthermore, since the switch process is not executed, the game ball is not detected by the outlet switch 21TM070, and the counting of the base is not executed. That is, until the interrupt permission is executed, it is not necessary to tally each item such as the consecutive ratio, the role ratio, and the base. , the processing load on the CPU 103 can be reduced.

During the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 does not execute the switch process and the special symbol process process, thereby invalidating the winning based on the game media passing through each winning hole. and In other words, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not transmit the prize ball number command, and does not execute the big hit determination process or the like. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289 based on the fact that the prize balls number command from the game control microcomputer 100 is not received. That is, during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, even if the game medium passes through each winning hole, the payout control of prize balls is not executed.

When the CPU 103 ends the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the first starting opening switch 22A, the second starting opening switch 22B, the first general winning opening switch to the fourth general winning opening switch, and the count switch 23 Switch processing can be executed to check the state of each switch (presence or absence of a detection signal), it is possible to detect that a game medium has passed through each winning hole, and it is possible to send a prize ball number command (and connection confirmation command). Become. Moreover, it becomes possible to execute a special symbol process including a big hit determination process.

The game control microcomputer 100 transmits a connection confirmation command as a prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 that has received the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal receives ACK. A connection OK command as a signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 . At this time, when the game medium passes through one of the winning holes (when a winning occurs), the CPU 103 detects the winning by executing a switch process, and the game control microcomputer 100 outputs a winning ball request signal. The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 transmits the prize ball number command to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal. Pay out game media. After paying out a predetermined number of game media, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 transmits a prize ball end command as a received ACK signal.

If, during the setting change mode period in which there is a possibility that the setting value is changed, the switch process is executed to extract a big hit determination random number, and the big hit determination is performed based on the big hit determination random number. If the setting value before change is a big hit, but the setting value after change (setting value after confirmation) is not a big hit. The set value does not result in a big hit, but the set value after change (the set value after determination) results in a big win. In other words, in these cases, the relationship between the execution timing of the big hit determination and the set value is complicated, and there is a possibility that the player or the gaming facility suffers a disadvantage.

In this embodiment, when the setting change mode is controlled, the payout of prize balls based on the passage of game balls through each winning hole is not executed, and the big hit determination process is not executed. This prevents the relationship between the execution timing and the set value from becoming complicated, and also prevents the disadvantage of the player or the game parlor.

In addition, in this embodiment, not only in the setting change mode in which the setting value can be changed, but also in the setting confirmation mode in which the setting value is displayed but cannot be changed, winning is similarly invalidated so that the big hit determination process is not executed. I have to. Temporarily, regarding the setting confirmation mode, unlike the setting change mode, it can be controlled when executing the game control timer interrupt process instead of when the power is turned on, and the period during which the setting confirmation mode is controlled is also switch processing And if the special symbol process processing can be executed, a completely different control from the setting change mode is required, and a problem arises that the control load of the game control microcomputer 100 increases.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the setting confirmation mode, as in the setting change mode, control is possible only when the power is turned on, and the jackpot determination is performed without executing the payout of the game balls based on the game balls passing through each winning hole. By not executing the processing, the processing is standardized and the control load of the game control microcomputer 100 is reduced.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9-12 and 9-13, timer interrupt setting is performed after the processing in the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is completed (step S21TM1500). . Therefore, by not executing the game control timer interrupt process itself, the switch process and the special symbol process process in the game control timer interrupt process are not executed, and the period during which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled. has been disabled. On the other hand, if the game is stopped due to a magnetic error, radio wave error, vibration error, etc., is the game stop error generated during the period in which the game control timer interrupt process is being executed, that is, during the game? It is determined whether or not (step S21TM1615), and when it is determined that a game stop error has occurred (step S21TM1615), subsequent switch processing (step S21TM1620) and special symbol process processing (step S21TM1690) is not executed, so winning is invalidated. Thus, the method of invalidating winning (stopping the game) differs between when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled and when the game stop error occurs.

In addition, during the period when the game control microcomputer 100 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, by stopping the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not transmit the connection OK command as the received ACK signal to the game control microcomputer 100. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 100, based on the fact that the connection OK command is not received during the period controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 as a prize ball request signal By not transmitting the number-of-balls command, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing game media payout control. Thus, based on the fact that the game control microcomputer 100 does not output the connection confirmation command and the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not execute payout control, Winning can be invalidated.

It should be noted that during the game (in a state in which game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), it may be configured to be controllable to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052. . Even if such a configuration is adopted, the method shown in FIG. 9-35 can be applied, and based on being controlled in the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, the game control microcomputer 100 , It is better not to execute the switch process and the special symbol process process.

In addition, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the game control microcomputer 100 is configured to execute switch processing (a configuration that allows detection itself that the game medium has passed through each winning hole) It is good as When such a configuration is adopted, as described above, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, by stopping the transmission of the prize ball number command and the connection confirmation command, the payout control The microcomputer 21TM370 is not caused to execute payout control, invalidating the prize winning, and not executing the special symbol process. Then, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is finished, the transmission of the number-of-balls command and the connection confirmation command is restarted in a state in which the switch process can be executed, and the special symbol process is executed.

(Method of restricting payouts during game machine frame/door frame open detection)
FIG. 9-36 is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 during detection of the opening of the game machine frame/door frame. As described above, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, during normal operation, the reception ACK transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is received. Receive the connection OK command as a signal. At this time, when a game hall clerk opens the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 opens the game machine frame 3 or the glass door. The open state of the frame 3a is detected.

When the game machine frame 3 is open (and when the glass door frame 3a and the upper tray are integrated, the glass door frame 3a is open), the prize balls to be paid out. is not physically connected to the upper tray in which the falling prize balls are stored. fall without Here, with the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a opened, the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, the first general winning opening to the fourth general winning opening, and the big winning opening , the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a prize ball number command as a prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. The payout control microcomputer 21TM370, which has detected the open state of the frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, does not execute the payout control of game media, and sends the game control microcomputer 100 a prize ball preparation command as a received ACK signal. Send to The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 stops detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, that is, until the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened. It continues to transmit to the game control microcomputer 100 until it is closed.

In this way, during the period in which the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 controls the payout motor 21TM289 even if the game medium passes through each prize winning opening and the winning is detected. Do not execute prize ball payout control without driving . Then, a prize ball preparation command as a reception ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 .

When the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 included in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 finishes detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 activates the payout motor 21TM289. Drive to execute payout control of a predetermined number of prize balls (the number specified by the prize ball number command) according to the winning within the period in which the open state of the frame 3 for the game machine or the glass door frame 3a is detected. . After paying out a predetermined number of game media, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 transmits a prize ball end command as a received ACK signal.

In addition, when the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected during the payout of prize balls, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 interrupts the payout of the prize balls and The data of the unpaid number among the number specified by the number command is stored in the backup area in the RAM. Then, a prize ball preparation command as a reception ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 . When the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 included in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 finishes detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 activates the payout motor 21TM289. It is driven, and payout control of game media corresponding to the number of unpaid game media is executed. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 that has paid out the game media transmits a winning ball end command as a received ACK signal.

In addition, during the game (in a state where game control timer interrupt processing can be executed), by operating the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, a configuration is adopted in which the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode can be controlled. Even in this case, it is possible to apply the payout restriction method during detection of opening of the game machine frame/door frame shown in FIG. 9-36. In this embodiment, the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 are provided on the back side of the pachinko game machine 1, and are operated unless the game machine frame 3 that can be opened by a predetermined key operation is opened. Impossible. Therefore, in order to control the pachinko game machine 1 in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the game machine frame 3 must be released, and the period during which the game machine is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode It is normal for the machine frame 3 to be open. During the period when the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the gaming machine frame 3 is open, the driving of the payout motor 21TM289 is restricted so that the payout of prize balls is not executed. As a result, the payout of prize balls is restricted during the period of control in the setting change mode and the period of control in the setting confirmation mode.

Next, control when a power failure occurs during the setting change mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 9-37 (1) and (2).

Figures 9-37 (1) and (2) show the patterns related to power failure in separate charts based on the differences in the situations at the time of power failure. The pattern related to power failure shown in Fig. 9-37 (1) shows the control when power failure occurs in a situation where "set value is being changed" is not performed, and power failure recovery is performed. The set value at the time is the set value at the previous power-on. In addition, the pattern related to power failure shown in Fig. 9-37 (2) shows the control when power failure occurs in the situation where "setting value confirmation" is performed while "setting value is being changed". The set value at the time of power failure recovery is the set value at the time of power failure.

That is, FIG. 9-37 (1) shows the setting when the power failure occurs in a state in which the lock switch 21TM051 is turned OFF and there is no operation for "set value confirmation" (the lock switch 21TM051 remains ON). FIG. 9-37 (2) shows the control related to the set value when the power supply is turned off after the operation of "set value confirmation" which turns off the lock switch 21TM051. showing.

In addition, Figures 9-37 (1) and (2) show various situations in the setting change work from top to bottom in the order of occurrence (see "Order" and "Status" columns). ). In addition, in FIGS. 9-37 (1) and (2), the ON/OFF state of the lock switch 21TM051 in each situation (order 1 to 8) is shown in the "lock switch" column. A column of "set value" shows set value data (set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102) in each situation. In addition, in the column of "setting value display" in the figure, the display contents (setting values stored in the setting information temporary storage area) of the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A) in each situation are shown. there is

When the setting change work is performed, as shown in the top row of the "status" column in FIG. As shown in the "lock switch" column, the state of the lock switch 21TM051 at this time is the ON state. In FIG. 9-37 (1), the "setting value" at the time of "power on" in order 1 is "1" because the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 at this time is "1". , "1".

The reason why the display contents of the display monitor 21TM029 (the first display section 21TM029A) shown in the column of "set value display" is blank is that the power supply has just been turned on at this stage, and the RAM 102 This indicates that the display of the setting values has not started since the process of reading and displaying the setting values stored in the setting value storage area (step S21TM1150) is not performed.

After the "power on" situation, the situation becomes the "setting change mode start" situation (order 2). Then, in this "setting change mode start", as shown in FIG. is "1" based on the fact that the set value stored in the set value storage area of the set value storage area has not been changed. , and stored in the setting information temporary storage area is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A), the setting value is "1".

Subsequently, when the state of "setting value being changed" (order 3) is reached, the column of "lock switch" remains "ON", and if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, , as shown in FIG. 9-37(1), since the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 are not changed, the "setting value" column remains "1", but the setting information is temporarily stored. By changing the setting value stored in the area from "1" to "2", the "setting value display" column (the setting value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A)) is It changes to "2" which is the new value selected.

Furthermore, when the state of "setting value being changed" (order 4) is reached, the column of "lock switch" remains "ON", and if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, As shown in FIG. 9-37(1), since the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 are not changed, the "setting value" column remains "1", but the setting information temporary storage area is changed from "2" to "3". changes to "3", which is the new value

Then, as shown in FIG. 9-37 (1), when a power failure occurs during "setting value changing" (order 5), the operation to fix the setting value is not performed, and the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (the process of step S21TM1190 for confirming the setting value) to overwrite the setting value stored in . That is, when the power is turned off, the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 maintains the state of "1" when the power is turned on. Here, the setting values stored in the setting information temporary storage area are erased due to the occurrence of the power failure.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-37 (1), when the power is turned on while the lock switch 21TM051 remains in the ON state and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the ON state (order 6), then In the "setting change mode start" situation (order 7), the setting value ("1" in this example) stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is read and stored in the setting information temporary storage area. , is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A), the "set value" column remains "1" and the "set value display" column is also "1". It should be noted that the same applies when the control is performed in the setting confirmation mode instead of the setting change mode in order 7.

In this way, when the power is turned on, the setting change mode is entered and the setting change operation is not completed (the lock switch 21TM051 is not switched to the OFF state). Since the setting values stored in the storage area have not been changed, the setting values displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A) when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is set after the power is restored are It becomes the set value that was stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 when the power was turned on last time (before the power was turned off). In this way, it is possible to appropriately determine the set value when power is cut off while being controlled in the setting change mode.

Next, the control when the power is turned off after the set values are determined will be described with reference to FIG. 9-37(2). A description of the processing that is common to the case where the power is turned off before the set value is fixed will be omitted. In the case where the power is turned off after the setting value is determined, the 'setting value determination' shown in the order 5 is performed after the 'setting value being changed' shown in the order 4. FIG. Here, immediately before the operation for confirming the setting value is performed, the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is "1", and the setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area ( The setting value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display section 21TM029A) is in the state of "3". The "lock switch" column is "OFF" because the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off during the setting change mode.

That is, when the lock switch 21TM051 is turned OFF during the setting change mode (YES in step S21TM1180), the setting value "1" stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is transferred to the setting information temporary storage area. The stored setting value (the setting value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A)) is overwritten with "3", and thus the setting value is determined (step S21TM1190). As a result, "3" is stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 as the setting value.

Then, when a power failure occurs in this state (order 6), the process of overwriting the set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (the process of step S21TM1190 for confirming the set values) is executed. The column of "set value" is "3". That is, when the power is turned off, the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 is changed to "3", which is different from when the power is turned on. Here, the setting values stored in the setting information temporary storage area are erased due to the occurrence of the power failure.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-37 (2), when the lock switch 21TM051 is switched from the OFF state to the ON state and the power is turned on (sequence 7), the subsequent state of "setting change mode start" ( In order 8), the setting value ("3" in this example) stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is read out and stored in the setting information temporary storage area, and is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A). ), the "set value" field is "3", and the "set value display" field is also "3". It should be noted that the same applies when the control is performed in the setting confirmation mode instead of the setting change mode in order 8.

As described above, if power is cut off without the lock switch 21TM051 being turned off while the setting change mode is being controlled, the lock switch 21TM051 is not turned off. , the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 have not been changed since the power was turned on, and the setting values stored in the setting information temporary storage area are deleted. Therefore, if a game arcade clerk or the like accidentally shifts the game machine to the setting change mode when the power is turned on, and then performs a setting change operation (operation of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052), However, by subsequently turning off the power switch 21TM055, it is possible to cancel the change of the setting value and return to the state before shifting to the setting change mode.

Transition to the setting change mode and transition to the setting confirmation mode are accompanied by power off (including turning off the power switch 21TM055) and subsequent power on, so the state of the gaming machine is unstable. However, as shown in FIG. In the event of a disconnection, the set values stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 are not changed from the time the power is turned on, so that the set values can be determined appropriately and control instability related to the set values can be prevented. It is possible to avoid scalding and perform appropriate control on set values.

FIG. 9-38 shows an effect device of the pachinko game machine 1 when the lock switch 21TM051 or the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated during the game (the game control timer interrupt process can be executed). An example is shown in which (the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9) notifies that an operation for changing the set value has been performed.

FIG. 9-38(1) shows a state in which decorative symbols are variably displayed on the image display device 5 during a game. At this time, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 is executing a game control timer interrupt process. When the main board 11 (CPU 103) detects that the lock switch 21TM051 has been operated (switched from the OFF state to the ON state) during the game (for example, during the execution of the variable display of the special symbol) (game control (step S21TM1660 of timer interrupt processing for game control), and a lock switch operation command indicating that the lock switch 21TM051 is operated is transmitted to the effect control board 12 (CPU 120 for effect control) (step S21TM1710 of timer interrupt process for game control ), when it is detected that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated (step S21TM1660 of the game control timer interrupt processing), the setting changeover switch operation indicating that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated A command is transmitted to the production control board 12 (production control CPU 120) (step S21TM1710 of game control timer interrupt processing). That is, a lock switch operation command and/or a setting changeover switch operation command are transmitted in order to notify that an operation for changing the set value has been performed.

As shown in FIG. 9-38 (2), the production control board 12 (production control CPU 120) is based on the reception of the lock switch operation command and/or the setting changeover switch operation command, the setting change mode and It is possible to specify that an operation for changing the set value has been performed even though the control is not performed in any of the setting confirmation modes, and to notify that fact. For example, based on the reception of the lock switch operation command, the image display device 5 executes the abnormal operation warning notification by displaying the characters "The operation of the lock switch has been detected." Also, based on the reception of the setting changeover switch operation command, the abnormal operation warning notification is executed by displaying the characters "The operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected."

In this example, the effect control CPU 120 receives both the lock switch operation command and the setting changeover switch operation command, and as the abnormal operation warning notification, "The operation of the lock switch and the setting changeover switch has been detected." is displayed on the image display device 5. Since the abnormal operation warning notification has a higher display priority than the background image and the decorative pattern (the displayed layer is higher than the background image and the decorative pattern), as shown in FIG. Even during the variable display of the symbols, the store clerk or the like of the amusement arcade knows that the operation for changing the set value has been performed although neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled. It is possible to clearly grasp and confirm whether or not fraudulent activities have been carried out. In addition, the speaker 8L, 8R outputs a sound notifying that an operation for changing the set value is detected (for example, a sound saying "Operation of the lock switch and setting switch is detected") is output, and the game effect lamp 9 is activated. may be emitted in a predetermined light emission manner (for example, red blinking manner) to notify that an operation for changing the set value has been detected.

In this embodiment, only when the power is turned on (before the game control timer interrupt processing is executed), it is configured to be controllable in the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and normally, the setting value is changed or confirmed The operation for doing (lock switch 21TM051, operation of clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052) is not performed within a period during which game control timer interrupt processing can be executed. Therefore, the operation of the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is performed during the period during which the variable display of the special symbols and decorative symbols is executed, or during the period during which the variable display of the normal symbols is executed. If so, there is a possibility that the setting values are being changed illegally.

In this embodiment, when the lock switch 21TM051 and/or the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated at a timing other than when the power is turned on or during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, , the image display device 5, which is the largest display device provided in the pachinko game machine 1, notifies that an operation for changing the setting value or an operation for confirming the setting value has been performed, thereby preventing fraud. I am trying to suppress it.

Further, as described above, when the lock switch 21TM051 and/or the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated, the game machine frame 3 is normally in an open state, so that the game machine frame/door frame is opened. The open state of the gaming machine frame 3 is detected by the sensor 21TM300 and notified to that effect. In addition, as described above, the ball lending is suspended or stopped, and the prize ball payout is also suspended or stopped. However, regarding the pachinko game machine 1 installed at a predetermined position on the game island, the game machine frame 3 of the pachinko game machine 1 installed at a position facing the predetermined position on the game island is opened. By doing so, it is possible to see the back side of the game board 2 of the pachinko game machine 1 installed at the predetermined position from a position facing the predetermined position, and the lock switch 21TM051 and/or the clear switch ( setting switch) 21TM052 can be operated. That is, even if the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 at the predetermined position does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3, the lock switch 21TM051 and the lock switch 21TM051 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 at the predetermined position / Or it may be possible to operate the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052.

Therefore, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, the lock switch 21TM051 and/or the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is activated. When the operation is performed, it is notified that the operation for changing the setting value and the operation for confirming the setting value have been performed, thereby strengthening fraud prevention.

(Setting change response signal)
Next, various signals output from the information output terminals of the main substrate 11 will be specifically described. As shown in FIG. 9-39, the information output circuit 112 in this embodiment is provided with 10 information output terminals from the first terminal to the tenth terminal, and a signal corresponding to each information output terminal is output. be done.

In the example of pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9-39(1), the winning ball signal is output from the first terminal. The prize ball signal is a pulse signal output every time 10 prize balls are paid out, and the pulse width is 0.1 second. A game machine frame/door frame open signal is output from the second terminal. The game machine frame/door frame open signal is turned ON when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, and the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected. It will also be in the ON state when it is on.

The third terminal outputs an all-symbols fixed count signal. The signal for the number of times of determination of all symbols is output when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed and the display result is derived and displayed (when it is determined), and the variable display of the second special symbol is executed and the display result is derived. It is a pulse-shaped signal that is output when it is displayed (when it is determined), and has a pulse width of 0.5 seconds. An all-start signal is output from the fourth terminal. The all-starting hole signal is a pulse signal that is output when a game ball enters the first starting winning hole, and is also outputted when a game ball enters the second starting winning hole. , and the pulse width is 0.1 seconds.

A jackpot 1 signal is output from the fifth terminal. The jackpot 1 signal is turned ON when the jackpot game state is controlled. A jackpot 2 signal is output from the sixth terminal. The big win 2 signal is turned ON when the game is controlled to the big win game state, and is also turned ON when the game is controlled to the high base state. That is, the period in which the jackpot 1 signal is in the OFF state and the jackpot 2 signal is in the ON state can be identified as a high base state.

A setting change corresponding signal is output from the seventh terminal. The setting change response signal is a signal that is ON during the period of control in the setting change mode, and is also in the ON state during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode. In addition, as will be described later, the setting change response signal can be output in a pulse form (special mode) after the end of the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the setting value can be specified by the external device according to the number of pulses at that time. It is possible.

An out signal is output from the eighth terminal. The out signal is a pulse signal output every time 10 out balls (game balls shot into the game area and led to the discharge port) are detected by the discharge port switch 21TM070, and the pulse width is 0. .1 second. A winning signal is output from the ninth terminal. The winning signal is generated every time a game ball wins in each winning port (1st starting winning port, 2nd starting winning port, big winning port, 1st general winning port to 4th general winning port) (corresponding to each winning port) It is a pulse-shaped signal that is output each time a winning is detected by a switch, and is output each time 10 prize balls are paid out. The pulse width of the winning signal is 0.1 seconds.

A security signal is output from the tenth terminal. The security signal is a signal that remains ON for 30 seconds when the initialization process (RAM clear in step S21TM1410) is executed when the power is turned on. Also, when a fraudulent act is detected, it is turned ON for 4 minutes. Cases where fraudulent activity is detected include, for example, the case where abnormal winning occurs, and each winning opening has an abnormal frequency (for example, a game ball enters the first starting winning opening at a frequency of 15 times or more per 30 seconds). When the game ball wins, etc.), it is determined as abnormal winning. In addition, including the case where switch abnormality detection occurs, the period in which the switch corresponding to each winning opening is in the winning detection state is abnormal (for example, 10 times or more in a row in the game control timer interrupt process) 1 starter switch is in the ON state, etc.), it is determined that the switch abnormality is detected. Also, when abnormal magnetism is detected by the magnetic sensor, the ON state continues until the power is turned off based on the occurrence of the game stop target error, and when the abnormal magnetism is no longer detected after the power is turned on again ( After the error is canceled), it is in the ON state for 4 minutes.

Furthermore, in the example of pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9-39 (1), the security signal is ON while being controlled in the setting change mode, and is also ON while being controlled in the setting confirmation mode. .

In this way, the security signal can be output from the tenth terminal, and the setting change response signal can be output from the seventh terminal. It is possible to externally notify that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode has been controlled (that processing related to the setting change has been executed). When the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the setting change corresponding signal output from the seventh terminal is temporarily turned off, and then stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 from the same seventh terminal. Since the number of pulse-shaped setting change response signals corresponding to the current set value is output, the set value can be notified to the outside.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9-40 (1), when the setting change mode is entered when the power is turned on, the setting change signal is output from the seventh terminal, and at the same time, the tenth terminal A security signal is output. Then, based on the RAM clearing, the security signal is kept ON for 30 seconds after the setting change corresponding signal is turned OFF upon termination of the setting change mode.

Also, as shown in FIG. 9-40 (2), when the mode shifts to the setting confirmation mode when the power is turned on, a signal corresponding to setting change is output from the seventh terminal, and at the same time, a security signal is output from the tenth terminal. is output. Since the RAM is not cleared, the setting change signal and the security signal are turned OFF at the same time when the setting confirmation mode ends. Here, when the RAM is cleared after being controlled to the setting confirmation mode when the power is turned on (NO in step S21TM1320 or NO in step S21TM1330), the example shown in FIG. 9-40 (1) Similarly, the security signal is kept ON for 30 seconds after the setting change response signal is turned OFF upon termination of the setting confirmation mode.

If the RAM is cleared without transitioning to either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode when the power is turned on, the security signal remains ON for 30 seconds after the power is turned on. does not turn ON.

In this way, the security signal is also in the ON state while the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is being controlled. Therefore, even if the external device does not assume input of the setting change response signal and is configured not to execute processing based on the input of the setting change response signal, at least based on the input of the security signal Therefore, it is possible to recognize that there is a possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

The setting change support signal turns off when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends, but the security signal turns off parity in the setting change mode (or setting confirmation mode) based on the execution of RAM clearing. If the result of the check is not normal) is completed, it remains ON for 30 seconds. On the other hand, when the RAM is cleared without being controlled by either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the security signal is turned ON for 30 seconds after the power is turned on. Therefore, on the side of the external device to which the security signal is input, when the security signal input period is about 30 seconds, the RAM is cleared without being controlled by either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. It is possible to recognize that there is a possibility. On the other hand, if the security signal input period exceeds 30 seconds, it can be recognized that there is a possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, and the security signal input period has reached 30 seconds. If not, it is possible to recognize that the RAM clear may not have been executed after being controlled to the setting confirmation mode. In other words, if the security signal input period is about 30 seconds, the management of the hall computer or the like may indicate that the RAM may have been cleared without being controlled by either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. If the device can recognize and the security signal input period is less than 30 seconds, the management device can recognize that it may have been temporarily controlled to the setting confirmation mode, and the security signal input If the period exceeds 30 seconds, the management device can recognize that it may have been controlled to the setting change mode. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish what kind of control the gaming machine has executed on the external side by the output period of the security signal of the gaming machine.

Therefore, even if the external device does not assume the input of the setting change response signal and is configured not to execute processing based on the input of the setting change response signal, at least based on the input of the security signal Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between the possibility of RAM clearing and the possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 9-40(3), a configuration may be adopted in which the security signal is not output while the setting confirmation mode is being controlled. This configuration includes a configuration in which the security signal is output during the period of control in the setting change mode, but no security signal is output during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode, and a configuration in which the security signal is not output during the period of control in the setting change mode. does not output a security signal, and does not output a security signal even during the period when it is controlled in the setting confirmation mode. Specifically, when the mode is shifted to the setting confirmation mode when the power is turned on, the setting correspondence change signal is output from the seventh terminal, but the security signal is not output from the tenth terminal. Then, when the setting change response signal is turned off upon termination of the setting confirmation mode, the security signal is kept off because the RAM is not cleared. That is, when the mode is shifted to the setting confirmation mode, the security signal is not output on condition that the RAM clear is not executed.

In this way, in the configuration in which the security signal is not output while the setting confirmation mode is being controlled, as shown in FIG. If so (NO in step S21TM1320 or NO in step S21TM1330), the security signal is turned ON for 30 seconds after the setting confirmation mode ends (the setting change response signal is OFF).

In addition, as shown in FIG. 9-40(4), a configuration may be adopted in which the security signal is not output during the period of control in the setting change mode. That is, when the setting change mode is entered when the power is turned on, the setting change signal is output from the seventh terminal, but the security signal is not output from the tenth terminal. The security signal is kept ON for 30 seconds after the setting change response signal is turned OFF due to the RAM being cleared upon termination of the setting change mode. In addition, in a configuration in which the security signal is not output during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, when the RAM is cleared without shifting to either the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode when the power is turned on. , the security signal is ON for 30 seconds after the power is turned on, but the setting change response signal is not ON.

Thus, during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the setting change corresponding signal is turned ON while the security signal is turned OFF. By keeping the security signal ON for 30 seconds after the setting confirmation mode ends (after the setting change corresponding signal is turned OFF), when one signal is ON, the other signal is OFF. relationship. Such a relationship simplifies the signal output control (simplifies the output control because both signals are not turned on at the same time), and the external device clearly defines the control period for the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. In addition, it is possible to clearly recognize that the initialization process has been executed with the termination of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode as a trigger.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9-40 (6), when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game is started from the second terminal. A machine frame/door frame open signal is output, and at the same time, a security signal is output from the tenth terminal. Then, when the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 finishes detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. Even after the machine frame/door frame open signal is turned off, the security signal is turned on for 30 seconds.

Here, in the example of pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9-39(1), the setting change response signal is output from the seventh terminal and the security signal is output from the tenth terminal. , it may be difficult to allocate an output terminal dedicated to a signal corresponding to a setting change. An example of pattern 2 shown in FIG. 9-39(2) shows an example in which a setting change response signal is also output from the tenth terminal to which the security signal is output.

In pattern 2, the assignment of signals to the first to sixth, eighth, and ninth terminals is the same as in pattern 1. FIG. In pattern 2, unlike pattern 1, a high base signal is output from the seventh terminal. The high base signal is ON when controlled to the high base state. A security signal is output from the tenth terminal. The security signal is a signal that remains ON for 30 seconds when the initialization process (RAM clear in step S21TM1410) is executed when the power is turned on. Also, when a fraudulent act is detected, it is turned ON for 4 minutes. Cases where fraudulent activity is detected include, for example, the case where abnormal winning occurs, and each winning opening has an abnormal frequency (for example, a game ball enters the first starting winning opening at a frequency of 15 times or more per 30 seconds). When the game ball wins, etc.), it is determined as abnormal winning. In addition, including the case where switch abnormality detection occurs, the period in which the switch corresponding to each winning opening is in the winning detection state is abnormal (for example, 10 times or more in a row in the game control timer interrupt process) 1 starter switch is in the ON state, etc.), it is determined that the switch abnormality is detected. Also, when abnormal magnetism is detected by the magnetic sensor, the ON state continues until the power is turned off based on the occurrence of the game stop target error, and when the abnormal magnetism is no longer detected after the power is turned on again ( After the error is canceled), it is in the ON state for 4 minutes.

Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 9-39(2), the setting change corresponding signal is output from the tenth terminal. The setting change response signal is a signal that is ON during the period of control in the setting change mode, and is also in the ON state during the period of control in the setting confirmation mode. In addition, as will be described later, the setting change response signal can be output in a pulse form (special mode) after the end of the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the setting value can be specified by the external device according to the number of pulses at that time. It is possible. Therefore, the security signal and the setting change response signal are output from the tenth terminal. That is, the security signal and the setting change response signal are output from the common terminal.

Since the tenth terminal can output the security signal and the setting change response signal in this way, it is possible to notify the outside of the possibility that a fraudulent act has been carried out, and an output terminal dedicated to the setting change response signal is provided. It is possible to notify the outside that there is a possibility that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode has been controlled (the possibility that a process related to the setting change has been executed). In addition, when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends, the setting change corresponding signal output from the 10th terminal is temporarily turned off (when the RAM is cleared, the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is turned off). 30 seconds after the end, the signal output from the 10th terminal turns off), and then from the same 10th terminal, the number of pulses corresponding to the current set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 Since a setting change response signal is output, the setting value can be notified to the outside. Since the game machine number (machine number) and the setting change response signal are transmitted to the management device via the relay device provided on the game machine island, the management device determines the setting value based on the machine number and the setting change response signal. , and the predetermined set value are displayed in association with each other, it is possible to perform a process of displaying them so that they can be compared with each other. As a result, the manager of the game parlor can easily manage the actual setting values of a plurality of game machines via the management device, and the setting values determined in advance by the manager and the settings changed in the setting change work can be easily managed. The administrator can grasp the inconsistency with the value. When such inconsistency occurs, the setting of the gaming machine can be checked or the setting of the gaming machine can be changed again, thereby optimizing the management of the settings of the multiple gaming machines at the gaming parlor. can.

As described above, the setting change corresponding signal is temporarily turned OFF upon completion of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode. Output in a special manner. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9-41, the number of pulses corresponding to the set value is output as the setting change response signal for the special mode. In this example, the same number of pulses as the set value are output. The width of the pulse is, for example, 0.1 seconds. For example, when the set value is 3, a pulse with a width of 0.1 seconds is output three times at predetermined intervals (for example, intervals of 0.5 seconds). This makes it possible to easily specify the set value of each gaming machine in an external device such as a hall computer.

As shown in FIG. 9-42(1), when the power is turned on, the setting change response signal is turned on as the setting change mode is set. Here, it is assumed that the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 was 1 when the power was turned on. Then, in the setting change mode, it is assumed that the setting change mode is finished without changing the setting value. With the termination of the setting change mode, the setting change corresponding signal is temporarily turned off. A pulse of 1 is output as

In this way, it is possible to externally notify whether or not the setting change mode is being controlled by the setting change corresponding signal, and also to notify the setting value at the end of the setting change mode (if the setting value is changed, A setting value after change) can be notified to the outside, and a signal notifying whether or not the setting change mode is being controlled and a signal notifying the setting value are output from a common information output terminal. becomes possible.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the number of pulses corresponding to the set value is output as the setting change corresponding signal of the special mode at a predetermined trigger, not limited to when the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode are terminated. be. Specifically, events related to the game state, such as being controlled to the big win game state, ending the big win game state, ending the high base state, and increasing the number of paid-out prize balls by 1000. Triggered by an event related to a game machine error such as detection of opening of the frame 3 for the game machine, detection of opening of the glass door frame 3a, detection of magnetic abnormality, etc. A setting change corresponding signal of a special mode corresponding to the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is output. In the example shown in FIG. 9-42 (1), a pulse of 1 is output as a signal corresponding to a setting change in a special mode, triggered by the occurrence of a big hit.

This makes it possible for the external device to secure an opportunity to grasp the setting value of each game machine. Even if the setting value cannot be specified on the side, it becomes possible to specify the setting value at a predetermined opportunity after that, and it is possible to strengthen the prevention of fraud such as changing the setting value by an inappropriate method.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 9-42(2), the signal corresponding to setting change is turned ON as the setting change mode is set when the power is turned on. Here, it is assumed that the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 was 1 when the power was turned on. Assume that the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is changed from 1 to 3 as a result of changing the setting value in the setting change mode. In this case, when the setting change mode ends, the setting change support signal is temporarily turned off, and based on the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 becoming 3, the setting change support signal is turned off. 3 pulses are output as a signal. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 9-42 (2), with the occurrence of a big hit as a trigger, a pulse of 3 is output as a setting change correspondence signal of a special mode.

Here, as shown in FIG. 9-41 (1), the operation to change the setting value (operation of the setting changeover switch 21TM052) was not performed while being controlled in the setting change mode, and the setting value was not changed. As shown in FIG. 9-41 (2), an operation to change the setting value (operation of the setting changeover switch 21TM052) is performed while being controlled in the setting change mode, and the setting value is changed. In either case, after the setting change mode ends, a number of pulse-like setting change corresponding signals corresponding to the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 are output. there is In this way, when the setting change mode is controlled, regardless of whether or not the setting change operation or the setting value is actually changed, the common signal output processing is executed upon termination of the setting change mode. , the signal output processing can be simplified.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 9-42(3), the setting change correspondence signal is turned on as the setting confirmation mode is set when the power is turned on. Here, it is assumed that the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 was 1 when the power was turned on. In the setting confirmation mode, since the setting value is not changed, the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 remains 1 and is not changed. In this case, when the setting confirmation mode ends, the setting change corresponding signal is temporarily turned off, and based on the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 being 1, the setting change corresponding signal is turned off. A pulse of 1 is output as Further, in the example shown in FIG. 9-42 (3), a pulse of 1 is output as a setting change correspondence signal of a special mode with the occurrence of a big hit as a trigger.

In this way, it is possible to externally notify whether or not the setting confirmation mode is being controlled by the setting change corresponding signal, and also to notify the setting value notified in the setting confirmation mode (the setting value stored in the RAM 102 when the power is turned on). (the set value stored in the area and displayed on the display monitor 21TM029) can be notified to the outside. can be output from a common information output terminal.

In addition, in the information terminal allocation pattern 2 shown in FIG. , 30 seconds after the end of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, it turns OFF, and then from the same 10th terminal, the number of pulses corresponding to the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 (special mode ) is output.

(Modified example of game control main processing)
Next, another form relating to the game control main processing of FIGS. 9-11 to 9-13 described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 9-43 and 9-44. 9-11 to 9-13 show an example in which the initialization process (RAM clear) is executed after the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is completed. As shown in 43 and FIGS. 9-44, after the initialization processing (RAM clearing) is executed, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode may be entered.

In the game control main process shown in FIG. 9-11, the CPU 103 sets the RAM 102 to an accessible state (step S21TM1060), and proceeds to step S21TM2110 in FIG. The state of the output signal (clear signal) of the switch (setting switch) 21TM052 is confirmed (step S21TM2110).

When the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is checked, if the ON state is detected (YES in step S21TM2110), the CPU 103 determines that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned on when the power is turned on. A RAM clear flag indicating the operation is set (step S21TM2210), and initialization processing is executed (step S21TM2220). A series of processes accompanying the initialization process (processes shown in steps S21TM2220 to S21TM2270) are the same as the processes shown in steps S21TM1410 to S21TM1460 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is checked in step S21TM2110, if the OFF state is detected (NO in step S21TM2110), the CPU 103 executes the processing from step S21TM2120. do. The processing shown in steps S21TM2120 to S2170 is the same as the processing shown in steps S21TM1320 to S21TM1370 shown in FIG. 9-13, so the description is omitted.

After transmitting the backup command for recovery from power failure in step S21TM2170, or after transmitting the initialization command for power-on in step S21TM2270, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the lock switch 21TM051 is ON. (step S21TM2310 in FIG. 9-44). If the lock switch 21TM051 is not ON (step S21TM2310; NO), the process proceeds to step S21TM2550. If the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (step S21TM2310; YES), the CPU 103 determines whether the RAM clear flag is set, that is, whether the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has been operated when the power is turned on. (Step S21TM2320).

When the RAM clear flag is set, that is, when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on (YES in step S21TM2320), the CPU 103 enters a setting change mode in which setting values can be changed. (Steps S21TM2330 to S21TM2400). That is, the CPU 103 satisfies the first condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON when the power is turned on, and the second condition that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON when the power is turned on. control the processing state to the configuration change mode. The processing shown in steps S21TM2330 to S21TM2400 related to the setting change mode is the same as the processing shown in steps S21TM1130 to S21TM1200 in FIG. 9-12, so description thereof will be omitted. After executing the processing of step S21TM2400, the set RAM clear flag is erased (step S21TM2410), and the process proceeds to step S21TM2550.

If the RAM clear flag is not set, that is, if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has not been operated when the power is turned on (NO in step S21TM2320), the CPU 103 confirms the setting value. mode (steps S21TM2510 to S21TM2540). That is, the CPU 103 satisfies the first condition that the lock switch 21TM051 is ON when the power is turned on, but does not satisfy the second condition that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON when the power is turned on. Based on this, the processing state is controlled to the setting confirmation mode. The processing shown in steps S21TM2510 to S21TM2540 related to the setting confirmation mode is the same as the processing shown in steps S21TM1210 to S21TM1240 in FIG. 9-12, and the description thereof is omitted. When it is confirmed in step S21TM2540 that the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off (YES in step S21TM2540), the process proceeds to step S21TM2550.

Here, if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 has not been operated when the power is turned on, it is assumed that step S21TM2120 or step S21TM2130 in FIG. process) is executed, the RAM clear flag is not set. As a result, NO is determined in step S21TM2320, and the setting change mode is not entered. Thus, even when the initialization process (initialization of the gaming state by clearing the RAM) is executed, if the second condition that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON is not satisfied when the power is turned on, is not controlled in configuration change mode.

After the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, or when the lock switch 21TM051 is in the OFF state when the power is turned on, the series of processes relating to steps S21TM2550 to S21TM2620 are steps S21TM1470 to S21TM1470 shown in FIG. This is the same as the series of processes shown in step S21TM1540, so the description is omitted.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 9-43 and 9-44, when the setting change mode is controlled, the CPU 103 transmits the initialization command (step S21TM2270) at power-on, and then the setting change mode command (step S21TM2340). ) and a setting command (step S21TM2550). Further, when the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the CPU 103 transmits the backup command at the time of power failure recovery or the initialization command at the time of power ON (step S21TM2170 or step S21TM2270), and then transmits the setting confirmation mode command (step S21TM2270). S21TM2520) and a setting command (step S21TM2550). Therefore, the effect control CPU 120 can specify the end of the setting change mode based on receiving the setting command after receiving the setting change mode command, and the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R, and the game effect lamp. 9 or the like can notify the end of the setting change mode. In addition, the effect control CPU 120 can specify the end of the setting confirmation mode based on the reception of the setting command after receiving the setting confirmation mode command, and the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R, and the game effect lamp. 9 or the like can notify the end of the setting confirmation mode. According to such a configuration, by receiving the setting command without providing a dedicated command (setting change mode end command or setting confirmation mode end command) for specifying that the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode has ended Since it is possible to specify that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode has ended on the effect control CPU 120 side, the number of commands can be suppressed. That is, it is possible to reduce the control load of the game control microcomputer 100 and suppress the capacity for storing the number of commands.

(Another Modification of Characteristic Portion 21TM)
In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the switch for changing the set value is common to the clear switch for initializing (clearing the RAM) the gaming machine. The switch for changing is provided on the main board 11 (the game control microcomputer 100 can detect the operation), and is different from the clear switch for initializing the game machine (RAM clear) can be With such a configuration, the position of the switch for switching the setting value and the display monitor 21TM029 (the first display unit 21TM029A) is reduced compared to the case where the switch for switching the setting value is provided on the power supply board. becomes closer, when changing the setting value, confirmation of the setting value and switching operation according to the confirmation of the setting value become easy, and workability can be improved.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which the set value is displayed in a partial display area (first display section 21TM029A) of the display monitor 21TM029 where game information such as aggregated bases is displayed. A display device different from the display monitor 21TM029 that displays the aggregated game state, for example, a dedicated display device for displaying set values, provided on the main substrate 11. The set value may be displayed on a 7-segment display or the like. According to such a configuration, since the aggregated game information and the set value can be grasped individually and more clearly, the work of changing the set value according to the aggregated game information is facilitated. and workability can be improved.

Further, a configuration may be adopted in which a clear switch for initializing the gaming machine (RAM clearing) is provided, but a switch for changing the setting value is not provided. In such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 100 automatically changes the setting values to be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A) in order when being controlled in the setting change mode (for example, 1→2→3→4→5→6 every 5 seconds), and when the lock switch 21TM051 turns from ON to OFF, the display monitor 21TM029 (first display section 21TM029A) displays (The setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area) is stored in the setting value storage area (The setting value stored in the setting information temporary storage area is stored in the setting information temporary storage area.) The setting value may be determined by overwriting the setting value with the existing setting value. At the timing when the set value to be confirmed is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (first display unit 21TM029A), the store clerk at the game hall switches the lock switch 21TM051 from the ON state to the OFF state. It is possible to fix the setting value as the setting value of the gaming machine.

In the above-described embodiment, the gaming machine is the pachinko gaming machine 1 that pays out a predetermined number of game media to the upper tray or the lower tray based on the occurrence of winning. The game machine may be an enclosed type game machine in which a game medium is enclosed in the game machine and a score is given based on the occurrence of winning. In this enclosed game machine, the information periodically transmitted from the main board 11 to the card unit 21TM050 via the payout control board 21TM037 may include information on the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. For example, being controlled in the setting change mode, being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, being within the period being controlled in the setting change mode, being within the period being controlled in the setting confirmation mode, setting value , the setting change mode has ended, the setting confirmation mode has ended, and the like. Further, the information output circuit 112 may transmit the information to a management device such as a hall computer, and the hall computer may be able to specify that each game machine is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. .

In the above-described embodiment, by the image display device 5 or the like connected to the effect control board 12, it is within the period controlled in the setting change mode, within the period controlled in the setting confirmation mode, etc. is shown, but not limited to such a form, the game control microcomputer 100, based on being controlled in the setting change mode, the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special By the symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display 20, etc., it may be notified that the setting change mode is controlled (for example, the 7-segment display may be caused to emit light in the first notification mode), and the setting confirmation mode , the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display device 20, etc. notify that the setting confirmation mode is controlled (for example, 7 The segment indicator may be caused to emit light in a second notification mode different from the first notification mode). In addition, a display (round number display) for displaying the number of rounds during the jackpot game on the pachinko gaming machine 1, and instructing the player to launch a game ball in a specific area of the game area (for example, the game area on the right side). When a display device (right-handed display device) is provided, these displays indicate that the setting change mode processing is being performed, and that the setting confirmation mode processing is being performed. You may make it light-emit in a mode.

In the above-described embodiment, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the security signal is turned ON. An example has been shown in which the security signal continues to be in the ON state for 30 seconds after the end of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode without the signal being in the OFF state. Or when the setting confirmation mode is controlled, the security signal is turned ON, and after that, when the RAM is cleared after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends. Along with this, the security signal may be temporarily turned off for a predetermined period (for example, 0.5 seconds) and then turned on for a specific period (for example, 30 seconds). By adopting such a signal output method, it is possible to clearly specify the period during which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled in an external device such as a hall computer, and to clearly indicate that the RAM has been cleared. can be specified.

With regard to the expectation degree suggesting effect shown in FIG. 8-5, each effect mode (black star number) may be changed. For example, even if the big hit expectation is low, if the set value of the pachinko game machine 1 is high (for example, 5 or 6), if the set value of the pachinko game machine 1 is low (for example, 1 or 2), the expectation level suggesting effect with the number of black stars of 3 or more may be executed at a higher rate. By adopting such a performance structure, even when the display result is lost, the set value of the pachinko game machine 1 is high because the expectation suggesting performance with the number of black stars of 3 or more is executed. can be expected by the player, and the player can be made to pay attention to the effect mode (the number of black stars) when the expectation degree suggesting effect is executed. In addition, even if the degree of expectation for a big hit is low, an expectation-suggesting performance with a large number of black stars (for example, 3 or more) is executed along with this, so that the player can enjoy the pachinko gaming machine 1. Since the set value can be expected to be high, interest can be improved even when the degree of expectation for a big win is low.

In the above embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shown as the gaming machine, but medals are inserted and a predetermined bet number is set, and a plurality of types of symbols are rotated according to the operation of the operation lever by the player, and the game is played. A slot machine capable of executing a game in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to a player when the symbols are stopped in response to the operation of a stop button by a player, and when the combination of the stopped symbols becomes a specific combination of symbols (for example, a big coin). The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine equipped with one or more of bonus, regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, and CZ (hereinafter referred to as bonus, etc.). In such a slot machine, the rate at which the bonus is established differs depending on the set value, and the set value can be changed by controlling the slot machine in the setting change mode, and the set value can be changed by controlling the slot machine in the setting confirmation mode. Confirmation is possible.

[Details and Other Forms of Characteristic Portion 21TM]
Next, details and other aspects of the characteristic portion 21TM described above will be described. The pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment includes a game machine frame. The game machine frame includes a game machine frame 3, a glass door frame 3a, and an outer frame (not shown). In addition, the game machine frame has a hinge mechanism (not shown) on one end in the left-right direction (for example, the left side as seen from the player). , the other end side in the left-right direction (for example, the right side as seen from the player) is connected so as to be rotatable in a direction away from the outer frame. The inner portion of the outer frame including the game area of the game board 2 can be opened by rotating the glass door frame 3a about the hinge mechanism like a door. A lock mechanism for fixing the other ends to the outer frame is provided on the other ends of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a (for example, the right side as seen from the player).

Also, the outer frame is made of metal and is a frame that forms the outer shell of the pachinko game machine 1 . The game machine frame 3 is a frame body made of synthetic resin to which the game board 2 is attached, and has a substantially rectangular frame shape that is penetrated at the center when viewed from the front. The game board 2 is attached to the game machine frame 3 from the front. The game board 2 attached to the game machine frame 3 is locked by a fixing device so as not to come off the game machine frame 3. - 特許庁The game machine frame 3 is a frame in which speakers 8L, 8R, game effect lamps 9, stick controllers 31A, push buttons 31B, and the like are arranged. The glass door frame 3a protects the game board surface and includes a glass plate (corresponding to a window) as a see-through window through which the game area on the front surface of the game board 2 can be visually recognized.

When a game arcade clerk performs maintenance on the game board surface (for example, measures to eliminate jammed balls, etc.), the glass door frame 3a is moved from the closed state in which the other end side is fixed (locked) to the outer frame, and then hinged. It is necessary to open the other end side away from the outer frame by rotating the mechanism portion (one end side) toward the front side like a door. In order for the game arcade clerk to operate the power switch 21TM055, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, the display changeover switch 21TM030, etc. arranged on the back side of the game board 2, and to visually recognize the display monitor 21TM029. , the game machine frame 3 is rotated from the closed state in which the other end side is fixed (locked) to the outer frame, with the hinge mechanism portion (one end side) as a fulcrum, to the front side like a door, The other end needs to be in an open state away from the outer frame.

When the gaming machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the gaming machine frame 3, it sends a detection signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 to specify that the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state. When the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected, a detection signal capable of specifying that the glass door frame 3a is in the open state is output to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. On the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 side, the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be distinguished and recognized.

(Processing at power-on)
FIGS. 10-1 and 10-2 are diagrams showing an example of processing executed in the game control microcomputer 100 when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on, and FIGS. 9-11 to 9-13 and This processing corresponds to the processing shown in FIGS. 9-11 and 9-43 to 9-44. However, some of the processes shown in FIGS. 9-11 and the like (for example, the processes shown in FIGS. 9-11) are not shown.

As shown in FIG. 10-1, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 checks the data in the backup RAM area after the power is turned on (step S21TM3010). This process is similar to the process shown in step S21TM1330 in FIG. 9-13 and step S21TM2130 in FIG. 9-43, and parity check is performed as data check.

If the check result is normal (YES in step S21TM3010), the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the setting changing flag is set (step S21TM3020). The setting changing flag is set (step S21TM3510) when shifting to setting change/confirmation processing described later, and cleared when the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off (step S21TM3710).

If the setting changing flag is not set (NO in step S21TM3020), the CPU 103 determines that the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 matches a regular value, for example, any one of 1 to 6. (Step S21TM3030). Here, when the pachinko game machine 1 is shipped from the game machine maker (before it is installed in the game hall), a value different from the normal value (for example, 0) is stored in the setting value storage area. There are cases. Also, if the data in the setting value storage area is corrupted, the value may not be normal. If the setting value is a normal value (YES in step S21TM3030), it is checked whether or not the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the ON state (step S21TM3040).

If the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON (YES in step S21TM3040), the CPU 103 clears the area excluding the set value storage area and sets the RAM clear flag to 1 (step S21TM3050). In the RAM clearing process in step S21TM3050, the data indicating the game state before the power supply stop stored in the game state information storage area of the RAM 102 (special symbol process flag, probability variable flag, time saving flag, etc.) is cleared, and the initial value is set, the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 is not cleared and is not changed from before the RAM clear processing. In addition, the area in which each aggregated value (game information that can be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029) such as consecutive ratio, role ratio, and base is stored for each set value is not cleared, and each aggregated value for each set value is not cleared. The value is unchanged from before the RAM clear process. The initialization of the game state is notified by displaying the letter "C" on the display monitor 21TM029. Note that the notification that the game state has been initialized may be performed before the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, and as described above, after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends. You can let it happen.

Next, the CPU 103 transmits an initialization command designating that initialization processing has been performed (step S21TM3055), and proceeds to step S21TM3060. The effect control CPU 120 recognizes that the initialization process has been performed based on the reception of this initialization command. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the initialization command, the effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 can notify that the game state and the like have been initialized. It is possible.

On the other hand, if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the OFF state (NO in step S21TM3040), the CPU 103 transmits a backup command (command at the time of restoration) as a command at the time of power supply restoration (step S21TM3045), The process proceeds to step S21TM3060. When the performance control CPU 120 receives the backup command (restoration command), it recognizes that the power supply has been restored based on the data when the power supply is stopped. When the effect control CPU 120 receives the backup command, the effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9, for example, are restored from the power interruption based on the data when the power supply was stopped. It is possible to notify that

Next, the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in an open state (step S21TM3060). Here, as described above, the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. The sensor 21TM300 outputs to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 a detection signal indicating that the game machine frame 3 has been detected to be open, and a detection signal that indicates that the glass door frame 3a has been detected to be open. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 recognizes that the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 has been detected, it notifies the game controlling microcomputer 100 that the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 has been detected, When recognizing that the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected, the game control microcomputer 100 is notified that the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected, so that the game control microcomputer 100 side , the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be individually recognized.

The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 sends a detection signal indicating that the game machine frame 3 has been opened to the game control microcomputer 100, and the glass door frame 3a has been detected. When the configuration is such that a detection signal indicating that the By inputting the detection signal, the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be individually recognized.

When the CPU 103 recognizes the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the open state of the glass door frame 3a (YES in step S21TM3060), it confirms whether or not the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state (step S21TM3070). . If the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state (YES in step S21TM3070), the process proceeds to steps S21TM3510 and subsequent steps related to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode shown in FIG. 10-2. When shifting to the setting change mode, it becomes possible to confirm and change the setting value, and when shifting to the setting confirmation mode, it becomes possible to confirm the setting value.

That is, when the result of the data check in the backup RAM area is normal (YES in step S21TM3010), no power interruption occurred during the setting change (NO in step S21TM3020), and the set value is a normal value (step S21TM3020). YES at S21TM3030), the gaming machine frame 3 is open (YES at step S21TM3060), and the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (YES at step S21TM3070). Confirmation becomes possible, and if the gaming machine frame 3 is in a closed state (NO in step S21TM3060) or the lock switch 21TM051 is in an OFF state (NO in step S21TM3070), the process shifts to normal game processing. .

In this embodiment, although changing the setting value is not permitted, in order to set the setting value to a state where the setting value can be confirmed (setting confirmation mode), (1) the gaming machine frame 3 is in an open state, ( 2) Two conditions are required that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state. When the CPU 103 confirms that the conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied by the determination processing in steps S21TM3060 and S21TM3070, the CPU 103 enters a state in which the setting value can be confirmed (setting confirmation mode). In addition to the conditions (1) and (2), (3) in step S21TM3040, it is determined that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON (YES). As will be described later, it is possible to shift to a state in which setting values can be changed (setting change mode).

As described above, the lock switch 21TM051, which must be operated to confirm or change the setting value, is provided on the back side of the game board 2, and must be operated unless the game machine frame 3 is opened. can't If the lock switch 21TM051 is operated even though the game machine frame 3 is not in the open state, it means that there is an abnormality in the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 or that there is some kind of illegality. There is a possibility that confirmation or change of the setting value is going to be performed by the means. In such a state, it is inappropriate to allow confirmation or change of the setting value. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming machine frame 3 is not in the open state, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is placed in the setting confirmation mode. and setting change mode.

In this embodiment, as the condition (1), when either the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is set to the setting confirmation mode or the setting change mode. Control is possible, but not limited to such a form, even if the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, if the gaming machine frame 3 is not in the open state, the setting confirmation mode and the setting change mode may be controlled by none of the above.

On the other hand, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the open state of the glass door frame 3a is not recognized in step S21TM3060 (NO in step S21TM3060), that is, both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are If it is in the closed state, it shifts to normal game processing. Further, when it is confirmed at step S21TM3070 that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the OFF state (NO at step S21TM3070), the normal game process is started. With the transition to the normal game process, the process corresponding to steps S21TM1470 to S21TM1540 shown in FIG. 9-13 or steps S21TM2550 to S21TM2620 shown in FIG. The shown game control timer interrupt processing can be executed (special symbol process processing etc. can be executed).

In the data check of the backup RAM area (step S21TM3010), if the check result is abnormal (NO in step S21TM3010), the CPU 103 determines that the setting value stored in the setting value storage area may be abnormal. The set value abnormality error command shown is transmitted to the effect control CPU 120 (step S21TM3110). Here, even if normal values (1 to 6) are stored in the setting value storage area, if part of the backup RAM area is broken, step S21TM3110 is executed to It is recognized by the CPU 103 and the effect control CPU 120 that the value stored in the set value storage area may be inappropriate.

Further, in step S21TM3020, when it is confirmed that the setting changing flag is set (YES in step S21TM3020), CPU 103 transmits a set value abnormality error command to effect control CPU 120 (step S21TM3110 ).

Further, in step S21TM3030, if the normal values (1 to 6) are not stored in the setting value storage area (NO in step S21TM3030), the CPU 103 stores 0 in the setting value storage area (step S21TM3100). ), a set value abnormality error command is transmitted to the effect control CPU 120 (step S21TM3110). Even if the check result is normal in the data check of the backup RAM area (step S21TM3010) (YES in step S21TM3010), if the normal values (1 to 6) are not stored in the set value storage area, , 0 is set as the set value, and a set value abnormality error command is transmitted.

When the effect control CPU 120 receives the set value abnormality error command, the image display device 5 notifies that the set value may be abnormal (for example, displays a message "The set value is abnormal." do). Furthermore, the effect control CPU 120 notifies that the setting value should be changed in the image display device 5 (for example, displays a message "Please change the setting value"). In addition, the speaker 8L, 8R may notify the possibility that the setting value is abnormal (for example, outputting a voice saying "the setting value is abnormal"), and the setting value may be changed. It may also be possible to notify that the state is in an appropriate state (for example, to output a voice saying "Please change the set value").

After transmitting the setting value abnormality error command, the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in an open state (step S21TM3120). When the CPU 103 recognizes the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the open state of the glass door frame 3a (YES in step S21TM3120), it confirms whether or not the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state (step S21TM3130). .

If the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (YES in step S21TM3130), the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the clear switch (setting switch) 21TM052 is ON (step S21TM3140).

If the clear switch (setting switch) 21TM052 is ON (YES in step S21TM3140), the CPU 103 clears the area including the set value storage area and sets the RAM clear flag to 1 (step S21TM3150). In the RAM clearing process in step S21TM3150, the data (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, etc.) indicating the game state before power supply stop stored in the game state information storage area of RAM 102 is cleared, and the initial value is set, the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 is also cleared, and 0 is stored in the set value storage area. On the other hand, an area storing total values (gaming information that can be displayed on the display monitor 21TM029) such as consecutive ratios, role ratios, and bases for each set value is not cleared. The aggregate value is unchanged from before the RAM clear process. The initialization of the game state is notified by displaying the letter "C" on the display monitor 21TM029.

Then, after executing RAM clear (step S21TM3150), the CPU 103 transmits an initialization command (step S21TM3160), and processes after step S21TM3510 related to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode shown in FIG. transition to It should be noted that the backup command (step S21TM3045) when power is restored and the initialization command (step S21TM3055 or step S21TM3160) when power is turned on are commands that are transmitted only once when power is turned on. Therefore, when the CPU 103 transmits these power-on commands, the CPU 103 sets a command transmission flag that can identify that the power-on command has been transmitted and does not require backup storage when the power is turned off. Alternatively, the command transmission flag may be cleared when shifting to normal game processing (step S21TM1470-). Then, only when the command transmission flag is not set, the backup command (step S21TM3045) when power is restored and the initialization command (step S21TM3055 or step S21TM3160) when power is turned on may be transmitted.

On the other hand, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the open state of the glass door frame 3a is not recognized in step S21TM3120 (NO in step S21TM3120), that is, both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are If it is in the closed state, the process is not executed until the power is turned off (step S21TM3200). If it is confirmed at step S21TM3130 that the lock switch 21TM051 is OFF (NO at step S21TM3130), the process is not executed until the power is turned off (step S21TM3200). Also, if the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the OFF state (NO in step S21TM3140), the process is not executed until the power is turned off (step S21TM3200).

That is, if the result of the data check in the backup RAM area is abnormal (NO in step S21TM3010), if the power is interrupted during the setting change (that is, if the setting change flag is set when the power is turned on), If it is determined as YES in step S21TM3020) or if the setting value is not the normal value (NO in step S21TM3030), the game should not be played in this state. Before proceeding to normal game processing, it is necessary to fix the set value in the set value storage area to a regular value. Therefore, the area including the set value storage area is cleared by RAM clear (step S21TM3150), and the setting change mode is entered.

In this embodiment, in order to change the setting value (setting change mode), (1) the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state, (2) the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state, (3) Three conditions are required that the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the ON state. When the CPU 103 confirms that the conditions (1) to (3) are all satisfied by the determination processing in steps S21TM3120, S21TM3130, and S21TM3140, the CPU 103 enters a state in which the setting value can be changed ( setting change mode).

If any one of the conditions (1) to (3) is not satisfied, the setting value in the setting value storage area cannot be fixed to the normal value because the change of the setting value is not permitted. Therefore, it is not possible to shift to normal game processing. Therefore, if NO is determined in any of the determination processes in steps S21TM3120, S21TM3130, and S21TM3140, the power is once turned off, and (1) to (3) are performed when the power is turned on next time. All the conditions of (1) are satisfied, the mode is shifted to the setting change mode, and the set value in the set value storage area is fixed to the regular value.

It should be noted that the CPU 103, if any one of the conditions (1) to (3) is not satisfied, transmits a command for notifying that the power should be turned off to the effect control CPU 120. You can make it work. Then, the effect control CPU 120 that has received this command may display a message (for example, characters "Please turn off the power") prompting the image display device 5 to turn off the power. . Further, when any one of the conditions (1) to (3) is not satisfied, the CPU 103 sets the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B to a predetermined It is also possible to prompt the user to turn off the power by emitting light in the power-off instruction mode.

Next, processing related to the setting change mode and setting confirmation mode will be described with reference to FIG. 10B. In the process of FIG. 10-2, the CPU 103 sets a setting changing flag indicating that the setting value may be changed (step S21TM3510). Since the area in which the value of the setting change flag is stored is included in the backup RAM area, the value of the setting change flag is retained even if the power is turned off.

Next, the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in an open state (step S21TM3520). When the CPU 103 recognizes the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the open state of the glass door frame 3a (YES in step S21TM3520), it confirms whether or not the lock switch 21TM051 is in the OFF state (step S21TM3530). . If the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (NO in step S21TM3530), the CPU 103 outputs a setting change response signal and a security signal (step S21TM3540), and displays the set values stored in the set value storage area. It is displayed on the monitor 21TM029 (step S21TM3550).

Furthermore, the CPU 103 confirms whether or not the RAM clear flag is 0 (step S21TM3570). If the RAM clear flag is 0 (YES in step S21TM3570), that is, if the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) has not been executed, the CPU 103 enters a setting confirmation mode designating that the setting confirmation mode is set. A command is transmitted (step S21TM3580), and the process proceeds to step S21TM3520. The effect control CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has shifted to the setting confirmation mode based on the reception of the setting confirmation mode command. Therefore, it is possible to inform that the game machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode by the image display device 5 and the speakers 8L and 8R.

On the other hand, if the RAM clear flag is 1 (NO in step S21TM3570), that is, if the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) has been executed, the CPU 103 sets the control to the setting change mode. A change mode command is transmitted (step S21TM3585), and it is confirmed whether or not the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 has been operated (step S21TM3590). The effect control CPU 120 can specify that the game control microcomputer 100 has shifted to the setting change mode based on the reception of the setting change mode command. Therefore, it is possible to inform that the game machine is being controlled in the setting change mode by the image display device 5 and the speakers 8L and 8R.

If the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 has not been operated (NO in step S21TM3590), the CPU 103 proceeds to step S21TM3520. When the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 is operated (YES in step S21TM3590), the CPU 103 updates the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 (step S21TM3600), and proceeds to step S21TM3520. Transition.

Here, it is possible to output a security signal (step S21TM3540), display the current setting value (step S3550), and transmit a setting confirmation mode command (step S21TM3580). ) and updating of the setting value (step S21TM3600) corresponds to the setting confirmation mode in which the setting value can be confirmed or the setting value cannot be changed. That is, in the setting confirmation mode, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (NO at step S21TM3530) and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is OFF (NO at step S21TM3040, RAM clear flag remains 0).

In addition, it is possible to output a security signal (step S21TM3540) and display the current setting value (step S3550), as well as to transmit a setting change mode command (step S21TM3585) and update the setting value (step S21TM3600). This state corresponds to a setting change mode in which setting values can be checked and changed. That is, in the setting change mode, the lock switch 21TM051 is ON (NO at step S21TM3530) and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is ON (YES at step S21TM3040 or step S21TM3140, RAM clear flag is set to 1).

Note that the setting confirmation mode command is a command that is transmitted only once during setting confirmation mode control. Therefore, when the setting confirmation mode command is transmitted, the CPU 103 sets a setting confirmation mode command transmission flag that can identify that the setting confirmation mode command has been transmitted and does not require backup storage when the power is turned off. The setting confirmation mode command transmission flag may be cleared when the setting changing flag is cleared (step S21TM3710). Then, the setting confirmation mode command may be transmitted only when the setting confirmation mode command transmission flag is not set. Similarly, the setting change mode command is a command that is transmitted only once during setting change mode control. Therefore, when the setting change mode command is transmitted, the CPU 103 sets a setting change mode command transmission flag that can identify that the setting change mode command has been transmitted and does not require backup storage when the power is turned off. Alternatively, the setting change mode command transmission flag may be cleared when the setting changing flag is cleared (step S21TM3710). Then, the setting change mode command may be transmitted only when the setting change mode command transmission flag is not set.

At step S21TM3530, if lock switch 21TM051 is in the OFF state (YES at step S21TM3530), CPU 103 clears the setting changing flag (step S21TM3710). Here, since the setting changing flag is cleared, it is determined that the setting changing flag is not set (NO) in the processing of step S21TM3020 executed thereafter, so that it is possible to shift to the normal game processing. Become.

Next, the CPU 103 transmits a setting command designating the setting value stored in the setting value storage area to the effect control CPU 120 (step S21TM3720). As described above, the effect control CPU 120 can specify that the setting confirmation mode or the setting change mode has ended by receiving the setting command. Also, it is possible to suggest a setting value by executing an effect according to the setting value specified by the setting command. For example, it is possible to suggest the set value to the player by changing the aspect of the ending effect executed when the big win game state ends according to the designated set value.

Next, the CPU 103 erases the set values displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 (step S21TM3730), and confirms whether or not the value of the RAM clear flag is 0 (step S21TM3740).

Here, the fact that the value of the RAM clear flag is 0 (YES in step S21TM3740) means that the result of the data check in the backup RAM area is normal (YES in step S21TM3010), and that the power has been cut off during the setting change. (NO in step S21TM3020) and the set value is a normal value (YES in step S21TM3030). NO), since RAM clearing (step S21TM3050) has not been executed, normal processing at the time of power restoration should be executed, and both the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed. When it is confirmed that this is the case (NO in step S21TM3060), the normal game process may be started.

On the other hand, if the value of the RAM clear flag is 1 (NO in step S21TM3740), it means that the RAM was cleared in step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150. If the normal setting values (1 to 6) were not stored in the setting value storage area before (before the determination of YES in step S21TM3530) If an operation to change the set value has not been performed, it is necessary to shift to the setting change mode and store the normal set values (1 to 6) in the set value storage area. Therefore, the CPU 103 shifts to the power-on process again, and executes the processes after step S21TM3010.

As described above, when the power is turned on, the game hall clerk or the like turns on the lock switch 21TM051 and turns on the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 to switch the pachinko game machine 1 to the setting change mode. In addition, it is possible to initialize the game state, etc. (execute RAM clear in step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150). In addition, by turning ON the lock switch 21TM051 and turning OFF the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 when the power is turned on, it is possible to control the pachinko game machine 1 to the setting confirmation mode, and the game state, etc. is not initialized (NO is determined in step S21TM3040 or step S21TM3140, and RAM clear in step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150 is not executed). In this manner, the game hall clerk can select whether to control the pachinko game machine 1 in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, and can also select whether to initialize the game state and the like. there is

In addition, in the control shown in FIG. 10-2, the lock switch 21TM051 is not turned OFF (NO in step S21TM3530) while the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is being controlled. When all of the glass door frames 3a are in the closed state, NO is determined in step S21TM3520 to wait for the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a to be in the open state. At this time, the game control microcomputer 100 issues a command to notify that the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a should be opened, and operates the lock switch 21TM051 to change the setting mode or confirm the setting. A command instructing to notify that the mode should be ended may be transmitted to the effect control CPU 120 . Then, the effect control CPU 120 that has received these commands notifies that the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a should be opened by the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R, etc., and turns the lock switch 21TM051. It notifies that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode should be terminated by operating. For example, the image display device 5 may display a message "Please open the game machine frame 3 and turn off the lock switch 21TM051 to end the setting change mode."

Further, after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed and the normal game process is started, when both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are in the closed state, (1) the lock switch 21TM051 is operated. is operated (turned from the OFF state to the ON state), a lock switch operation command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 to the effect control CPU 120, and (2) a setting changeover switch ( Clear switch) 21TM052 is operated (turned from OFF state to ON state), a setting changeover switch operation command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 to the effect control CPU 120. Become.

Then, as shown in FIG. 9-38 (2), the production control board 12 (production control CPU 120) receives the lock switch operation command and/or the setting changeover switch operation command. It is possible to specify that an operation for changing the set value has been performed and notify that fact, although neither the change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled. For example, based on the reception of the lock switch operation command, the image display device 5 executes the abnormal operation warning notification by displaying the characters "The operation of the lock switch has been detected." Also, based on the reception of the setting changeover switch operation command, an abnormal operation warning notification is executed by displaying the characters "The operation of the setting changeover switch has been detected." As a result, the store clerk or the like at the amusement arcade clearly grasps that the operation for changing the setting value has been performed even though neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is controlled, It is possible to check whether the

In addition, not limited to such a form, the game control microcomputer 100 determines whether the lock switch 21TM051 is operated or not, and The lock switch operation command and the setting changeover switch operation command may not be transmitted without confirming whether or not the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 has been operated. In this way, during the period in which the normal game processing (timer interrupt processing for game control) is being executed, the execution status of the operation for changing the setting value and the operation for confirming the setting value is not confirmed. This makes it possible to reduce the control load of the game control microcomputer 100 .

FIG. 10-3 is an explanatory diagram showing changes in setting values displayed on the display monitor 21TM029. When the setting change mode is entered, the setting values stored in the setting value storage area of RAM 102 are displayed in step S21TM3550. At this time, if a value different from the normal value (0 in this example) is stored in the setting value storage area, as shown in FIG. is displayed with the letter "E". Therefore, the store clerk of the amusement arcade operates the setting changeover switch (clear switch) 21TM052 (performs a setting change operation), knowing at least that the normal value is not stored in the setting value storage area.

Each time the game arcade clerk operates the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 (YES in step S21TM3590), the set value stored in the set value storage area is updated (step S21TM3600). For the sake of explanation, this example shows an example in which the normal setting value ranges from 1 to 3. In this case, the setting value stored in the setting value storage area is changed to 0 for each setting change operation. →1→2→3→1, and accordingly, the information displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 is updated in the order of E→1→2→3→1.

In this way, when the value stored in the set value storage area is not a normal value, information (alphabet E in this example) different from a number is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 as information corresponding to this. Is displayed. As a result, it is possible to clearly recognize that a value different from the normal value is stored in the setting value storage area, and prompt the setting change operation. If a value different from the normal value (0 in this example) is stored in the setting value storage area, and that value (0 in this example) is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 as well, the manager of the game hall There is a possibility that the value displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 corresponds to any of the normal values, and the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off without changing the setting. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a value different from the normal value is stored in the set value storage area, information different from the number (alphabet E in this example) is displayed on the display monitor 21TM029. , to prevent such misunderstanding and ensure that the setting change operation is performed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10-3 (1), when the setting change mode is controlled, if a value different from the normal value (0 in this example) is initially stored in the setting value storage area, , the character "E" is displayed on the 7-segment display of the display monitor 21TM029. In addition, no matter how many times the setting change operation is performed, during the period when the setting change mode is controlled (until the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off), the setting value cannot be updated within the normal setting value range. A value different from the normal value (0 in this example) is never stored in the set value storage area, and information different from the normal value (character E in this example) is also displayed on the display monitor 21TM029. ) is never displayed.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-3 (2), when the setting value stored in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102 is a normal value when the setting change mode is set, step S21TM3550 is executed. , the normal set value (2 in this example) stored in the set value storage area is displayed. In this example, for the sake of explanation, an example in which the normal setting value is in the range of 1 to 3 is shown. →3→1→2→3, and accordingly, the information displayed on the display monitor 21TM029 is updated in the order of 2→3→1→2→3.

That is, when the setting change mode is controlled, if the setting value stored in the setting value storage area is the normal value at the beginning, the setting value is changed no matter how many times the setting change operation is performed. During the period in which the setting change mode is controlled (until the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off), the set value is updated within the range of the normal set value, and the set value storage area is stored with the normal value. A different value (0 in this example) is never stored, and information different from the normal value (character E in this example) is never displayed on the display monitor 21TM029.

For example, when the game machine maker ships the pachinko game machine 1 (before it is installed in the game hall), a value different from the normal value (0 in this example) is set in the setting value storage area of the RAM 102. After that, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be played unless the setting value is changed to a regular value through the setting change mode. become unable. As a result, when the pachinko game machine 1 is installed in the game arcade, the setting change operation can be performed without fail, and the set value can be fixed to the regular value.

In addition, when the game machine maker ships the pachinko game machine 1 (before installation in the game hall), the setting change flag is set in advance, so that the game machine 1 can be set in the setting change mode after that. Unless the setting value is changed to a regular value and the setting change mode is ended, the pachinko game machine 1 cannot be played. As a result, when the pachinko game machine 1 is installed in the game arcade, the setting change operation can be performed without fail, and the set value can be fixed to the regular value.

(Ball lending restrictions based on the detection of the open state of the frame for the game machine or the glass door frame)
Next, when the game machine frame 3 is in the open state, the method of restricting the lending of balls when the glass door frame 3a is in the open state will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 10-4. FIG. 10-4 shows that when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the main board 11, It is a timing chart for explaining communication processing performed between the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050.

In the example of FIG. 10-4, based on the fact that the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, Do not turn on the PRDY signal. Also, when the PRDY signal is already in the ON state, the PRDY signal is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is in the ON state of the VL signal (that is, the state of being electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050) and the ON state of the connection confirmation signal (that is, the game control microcomputer 100), the CPU 103 does not turn the PRDY signal ON but turns it OFF while the gaming machine frame 3 is in the open state.

As a result, the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. Also, even if the ball rental switch 21TM062 is operated and the ball rental switch signal is input, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. That is, when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, , and EXS signals are both in the OFF state, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven, so even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated, ball lending (payout of game media) is not executed.

In this way, the PRDY signal is turned ON while the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. It is designed not to. In this way, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing the game media payout control.

Then, a store clerk or the like of the game hall closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a in order to put the pachinko game machine 1 into a playable state, so that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided does not detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a. When both the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

When the card is accepted by the card unit 21TM050 and the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated to input the ball lending switch signal, the card unit 21TM050 sends the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. to output That is, the BRDY signal is turned on. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the ON state of the BRDY signal. That is, the BRQ signal is turned on.

Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns ON the EXS signal for the card unit 21TM050 based on the ON state of both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal, and executes subsequent ball lending payout control.

As described above, in this embodiment, the lock switch 21TM051 and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 are provided on the back side of the pachinko game machine 1, and the game machine frame 3 that can be opened by operating a predetermined key. Therefore, in order to control the pachinko game machine 1 to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the game machine frame 3 must be opened. That is, normally, the gaming machine frame 3 is open during the period in which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled. Therefore, the period during which the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 is detected includes the period during which the setting change mode is controlled and the period during which the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

Here, since the transition to the setting change mode and the transition to the setting confirmation mode are accompanied by power off (including turning off the power switch 21TM055) and subsequent power on, the state of the gaming machine If the payout control corresponding to the ball lending process or prize ball process is executed in such an unstable state, the appropriate amount of game media corresponding to the payout request will be paid out. may not. In order to prevent the player from being disadvantaged in such a situation, it is appropriate to limit the payout control in the gaming machine that is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. However, in order for the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 side to grasp the control status of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode on the game control microcomputer 100 side, commands and judgment processing for that are required, and the control is complicated. There is a problem that it becomes

Therefore, in this embodiment, the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 during the period in which the open state of the game machine frame 3 is detected. During this period, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not execute ball rental processing and prize ball processing. As a result, payout control is not executed regardless of whether the game control microcomputer 100 is controlled in the setting change mode or whether it is controlled in the setting confirmation mode. As a result, without complicating the control on the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 side, the ball lending process and prize ball process during the period controlled in the setting change mode and the period controlled in the setting confirmation mode are restricted. be. With such a configuration, appropriate payout control is realized with respect to the ball lending process and the prize ball process.

In this way, the open state of the glass door frame 3a is detected during the period in which the open state of the game machine frame 3 is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. By restricting the payout control during the period, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of problems associated with the payout control, such as not being able to pay out an appropriate amount of game media corresponding to the payout request, and the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. is in the open state, the maintenance work of the game machine can be carried out smoothly.

(Resuming ball lending after completion of open state detection)
Next, while the ball is being rented, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened and the payout is interrupted, after which the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed. 10-5, a specific description will be given of the processing in the case of . In the example shown in FIG. 10-5, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is open during the payout of game media. , the payout of game media is interrupted, and the interrupted payout is resumed based on the fact that the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is no longer in an open state (becomes in a closed state).

FIG. 10-5 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control 21 is a timing chart for explaining the communication processing performed between the microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened while the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. switches the PRDY signal from the ON state to the OFF state based on detection of the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped and the payout of game media is interrupted. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

This unpaid number is updated based on the detection signal from the payout number count switch 21TM301 input to the I/O port 21TM372f of the payout control board 21TM037 via the relay board 21TM072. Specifically, the unpaid number is calculated from a predetermined number of game media to be paid out by the payout motor 21TM289 (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25), and the payout number count switch. It is calculated by subtracting the number counted by 21TM301 (that is, the number of game media actually paid out by the payout motor 21TM289).

While the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 outputs the PRDY signal. is not turned ON. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON and turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, while the gaming machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 is detecting the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the card unit 21TM050 detects that the PRDY signal is OFF. Therefore, even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated, the BRDY signal is not output to the payout control board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, which of the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal is detected? is in the OFF state, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven, so the payout of game media is not executed.

When the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed (the game machine frame 3 or the glass door Upon detecting that the open state of the frame 3a has ended), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns the PRDY signal ON when the payout operation is possible.

When both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed (the PRDY signal is turned ON), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 The payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes zero. As a result, the payout of game media that has been interrupted by the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is completed.

Therefore, out of the predetermined number of game media to be paid out in the ball lending process executed before the power failure occurred (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25), Since the payout is executed for the number of unpaid coins that have not been paid out, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of disadvantages for the player.

(Bullet rental processing when power failure occurs (without shifting to setting change mode))
Next, referring to FIG. 10-6, the specific processing in the case where the payout is interrupted due to the power outage while the ball rental is being executed and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is not controlled after the power is restored. explained in detail. In the example shown in FIG. 10-6, the payout of game media is interrupted based on the occurrence of a power failure during the payout of game media, and after the power is turned on, the control is performed in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. Instead, the interrupted payout is resumed after the connection confirmation signal is turned on.

FIG. 10-6 shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100), payout control board 21TM037 (payout control 21 is a timing chart for explaining the communication processing performed between the microcomputer 21TM370) and the card unit 21TM050. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the payout control board 21TM037 is performing payout of game media, if the power is cut off, the output of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is stopped, and the output of the PRDY signal from the payout control board 21TM037 is stopped. be. That is, the PRDY signal is turned off. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped and the payout of game media is interrupted. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the store clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, when the pachinko game machine 1 is to be initialized, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is further operated. After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 was in the OFF state when the power was turned on, the processing after step S21TM1470 shown in FIG. shall be Here, until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON because the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is OFF. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON but turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRDY signal to the payout control board 21TM037 even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this time point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains in the OFF state.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and maintains the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is in the OFF state, the PRDY signal, the BRDY signal, the BRQ signal, and the EXS signal are all in the OFF state, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. During the period in which the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, game media are not paid out.

When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the PRDY signal is turned on. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the PRDY signal is not in the ON state.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. In other words, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is turned ON, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By keeping the PRDY signal in the OFF state instead of turning it ON, the ball rental processing is not executed. Thus, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the PRDY signal is OFF during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is open.

Incidentally, when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are usually removed after confirming that the RAM clear has been executed. Since the closed state is established, the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a may be in the open state even during the period when the connection confirmation signal is ON (after step S21TM1480). In such a case, even if the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state, the PRDY signal will be in the OFF state based on the detection of the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. .

When the game arcade clerk closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 indicates that the connection confirmation signal is ON and the game machine frame/door frame is opened. Based on the fact that neither the game machine frame 3 nor the glass door frame 3a is detected by the sensor 21TM300, the PRDY signal is turned on. When the PRDY signal is turned ON, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the unpaid number is calculated. Payout operation is performed one by one until the data becomes 0. As a result, the payout of the game media, which has been interrupted due to the occurrence of the power failure and the subsequent opening of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, is completed. In this way, when power is cut off during execution of ball lending and game medium payout is interrupted, it is possible to detect that the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are in a closed state when the power is subsequently restored. As a condition, it is possible to resume the suspended game media payout and complete the ball lending.

(Bullet rental processing when power failure occurs (shift to setting change mode))
FIG. 10-7 (1) is a block diagram showing a connection example of RAM clear signal lines in the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052, the main board 11, and the payout control board 21TM037. In the example shown in FIG. 10-7 (1), when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on, the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is the game control micro It is input to the I/O 105 of the computer 100 and the I/O 21TM372f of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. That is, the game parlor clerk operates one clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 to clear the RAM 102 of the game control microcomputer 100 and to initialize the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. RAM clearing, which is to

Next, FIG. 10-7 (2) regarding the processing when the payout is interrupted due to the power failure during ball lending, and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the power is restored. will be described in detail. In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-7 (1), by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the RAM clear signal is sent to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. shall be sent. In the example shown in FIG. 10-7 (2), when a power failure occurs while paying out game media, the payout in progress is stopped, and after the power is restored, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled. Sometimes, the payout is not restarted, and even after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the payout is restarted based on the RAM clearing of the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. do not.

FIG. 10-7(2) shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) and payout control board 21TM037 when the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) is executing the payout of game media. (Payout control microcomputer 21TM370) and card unit 21TM050 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, if power is cut off, the output of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is stopped, and the output of the PRDY signal from the payout control board 21TM037 is stopped. be. That is, the PRDY signal is turned off. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, both the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. When the EXS signal is turned OFF, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stops driving the payout motor 21TM289 and interrupts the payout of game media. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the sales clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, as described above, in order to shift to the setting change mode (and to initialize the pachinko game machine 1), when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on, and , the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also turned on. To shift to the setting confirmation mode, when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned off.

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state when the power is turned on.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

After that, while the CPU 103 is executing the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF. Therefore, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn on the PRDY signal. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON but turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, during the period when the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the card unit 21TM050 controls payout even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. The BRDY signal is not output to the board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains in the OFF state.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and keeps it in the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is OFF, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. During the execution of the process, no game media are paid out even if the data of the unpaid number is not cleared.

After that, when the lock switch 21TM051 is switched to the OFF state, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated, and the processes after step S21TM3710 shown in FIG. 10B are executed. Note that when the RAM clear processing is executed, the fact that the RAM clear has been executed is notified. Also, in this example, when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on, since the RAM clear signal is transmitted to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, The data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is erased (cleared).

Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state. When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the PRDY signal is turned on. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the PRDY signal is not in the ON state.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the ON state, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By keeping the PRDY signal in the OFF state instead of turning it ON, the ball rental processing is not executed. Thus, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the PRDY signal is OFF during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is open.

Here, when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the store clerk of the game hall usually confirms that the RAM clear has been executed, and then the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a. is in the closed state, even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state (after step S21TM1480) after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed. It may be open. In such a case, the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed. Therefore, the PRDY signal is turned off.

When the game hall clerk closes both the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state (setting change mode or setting confirmation mode processing). is completed) and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects neither the game machine frame 3 nor the glass door frame 3a is open, so the PRDY signal is turned ON. and

In this example, when the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not executed (when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is not operated when the power is turned on), the payout control The microcomputer 21TM370 has not cleared the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 (because there are remaining game media to be paid out). When the PRDY signal is turned ON, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the data of the unpaid number is displayed. Payout operation is performed one by one until the number becomes 0. As a result, the game medium that has been interrupted due to the occurrence of power failure, subsequent control to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a payment is completed. In this way, when power is cut off during execution of ball lending and the payout of game media is interrupted, when the power is restored after that, based on the fact that the data of the unpaid number is not cleared, the set On the condition that the change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated and the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the interrupted game medium payout is resumed to complete the ball lending. is possible.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-7 (2), when RAM clear for RAM 21TM302 in payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is executed (when power is turned on, clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated case), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 determines that the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area of the RAM 21TM302 is cleared (the remaining number of coins to be paid out is (because there is no game medium), the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven and the payout operation is not performed even when the PRDY signal is turned ON.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10-7(1), the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch 21TM052 is input to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. Therefore, when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed, in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the unformed data formed in the backup area in the RAM21TM302 The data of the unpaid number stored in the payout number storage buffer is initialized. In this way, by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the data of the number of unpaid items is initialized. Before), out of the predetermined number of game media to be paid out (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25) in the ball lending process executed before No payout is performed for the payout number.

Therefore, when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) targeting the game control microcomputer 100 is executed, the data of the unpaid number stored in the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is initialized, it is possible to simplify the data management of the predetermined number of game media to be paid out in the ball lending process or prize ball process.

As described above, when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during execution of the ball lending process, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stores the number of unpaid balls formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302. The data of the unpaid number is stored in the buffer. Here, by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the data of the unpaid number is cleared, so the suspended payout is forcibly terminated (discontinued) without being restarted. That is, when the power is restored, during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, or after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the unpaid number of coins will not be paid out.

(Modified example regarding ball rental processing (shift to setting change mode) when power failure occurs)
FIG. 10-8 (1) is a block diagram showing a connection example of RAM clear signal lines in the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 and the main board 11, and the clear switch 21TM052a and the payout control board 21TM037. In the example shown in FIG. 10-8 (1), the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 described above corresponding to the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) is provided, and corresponding to the payout control board 21TM037. A clear switch 21TM052a different from the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is provided. That is, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) and the payout control board 21TM037 are provided with separate and independent clear switches.

When the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on, the RAM clear signal outputted from the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is inputted to the I/O 105 of the game control microcomputer 100. When the clear switch 21TM052a is operated when the power is turned on, the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch 21TM052a is input to the I/O 21TM372f of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

If the game control microcomputer 100 is initialized and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not initialized, the game arcade clerk turns on the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 when the power is turned on. 21TM052a is turned off. Conversely, if the game control microcomputer 100 is not initialized and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is initialized, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned OFF when the power is turned on, and clearing is performed. The switch 21TM052a is turned on. When the game control microcomputer 100 is initialized and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is initialized, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned ON and the clear switch 21TM052a is also turned ON when the power is turned on. and

Next, FIG. 10-8 (2) regarding the processing when the payout is interrupted due to the power failure during ball lending, and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the power is restored. will be described in detail. In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (1), by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the RAM102 of the game control microcomputer 100 is initialized, and the clear switch 21TM052a is turned on when the power is turned on. By being operated, the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is initialized. In the example shown in FIG. 10-8 (2), when a power failure occurs while paying out game media, the payout in progress is stopped, and after the power is restored, the mode is controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. Sometimes, after the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends without restarting the payout, the payout is restarted based on the fact that the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not cleared. .

FIG. 10-8(2) shows the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) and payout control board 21TM037 when the payout control board 21TM037 (payout control microcomputer 21TM370) is executing the payout of game media. (Payout control microcomputer 21TM370) and card unit 21TM050 is a timing chart for explaining communication processing. While the payout control board 21TM037 is executing the payout of game media, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is ON, the PRDY signal and the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037, and the card unit 21TM050. It is assumed that the BRDY signal from is in the ON state.

When the payout control board 21TM037 is performing payout of game media, if the power is cut off, the output of the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is stopped, and the output of the PRDY signal from the payout control board 21TM037 is stopped. be. That is, the PRDY signal is turned off. Then, based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state, the output of the BRDY signal from the card unit 21TM050 and the output of the EXS signal from the payout control board 21TM037 are stopped. That is, both the BRDY signal and the EXS signal are turned off. Then, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stops driving the payout motor 21TM289 and suspends the payout of the game media based on the EXS signal being turned OFF. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the store clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, as described above, in order to shift to the setting change mode (and to initialize the game control microcomputer 100), when the power switch 21TM055 is turned ON, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned ON. In addition, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also turned on. To shift to the setting confirmation mode, when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned off.

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state when the power is turned on.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

After that, while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the OFF state. Therefore, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn on the PRDY signal. That is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn the PRDY signal ON and turns it OFF even when the VL signal is ON, that is, even when it is electrically connected to the card unit 21TM050. maintain.

As a result, during the period when the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the card unit 21TM050 controls payout even if the ball lending switch 21TM062 is operated based on the fact that the PRDY signal is in the OFF state. The BRDY signal is not output to the board 21TM037. That is, the BRDY signal remains in the OFF state. Even after a predetermined delay time has elapsed from this point, the card unit 21TM050 does not output the BRQ signal to the payout control board 21TM037 based on the fact that the BRDY signal is in the OFF state. That is, the BRQ signal remains OFF.

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not turn ON the EXS signal to the card unit 21TM050 based on the fact that both the BRDY signal and the BRQ signal are in the OFF state, and maintains the OFF state. Then, based on the fact that the EXS signal is in the OFF state, the state in which the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped is maintained. That is, when the connection confirmation signal is OFF, the PRDY signal, BRDY signal, BRQ signal, and EXS signal are all OFF, and the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. During the execution of the process, the game media are not paid out even if the data of the unpaid number is not cleared.

After that, when the lock switch 21TM051 is switched to the OFF state, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated, and the processes after step S21TM3710 shown in FIG. 10B are executed. In addition, when the RAM clearing process is executed in the game control microcomputer 100, it is informed that the RAM clearing is executed. Also, in this example, when the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the payout control board 21TM037 is operated when the power is turned on, a RAM clear signal is sent to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. The data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 is erased (cleared).

Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state. When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the PRDY signal is turned on. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the PRDY signal is not in the ON state.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the ON state, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By keeping the PRDY signal in the OFF state instead of turning it ON, the ball rental processing is not executed. Thus, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the PRDY signal is OFF during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is open.

Here, when the RAM clearing (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the store clerk of the game hall usually confirms that the RAM clearing has been executed, and then clears the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a. is in the closed state, even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state (after step S21TM1480) after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed. It may be open. In such a case, the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed. Therefore, the PRDY signal is turned off.

When the game arcade clerk closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 indicates that the connection confirmation signal is ON and the game machine frame/door frame is opened. Based on the fact that neither the game machine frame 3 nor the glass door frame 3a is detected by the sensor 21TM300 as being open, the PRDY signal is turned on.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (2), when the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not executed (when the clear switch 21TM052a is not operated when the power is turned on ), when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) targeting the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is executed (when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on)). Even if there is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 determines that the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 is not cleared (remaining game to be paid out). (due to the presence of the medium), the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the content of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 based on the ON state of the PRDY signal. , payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0. As a result, the game medium that has been interrupted due to the occurrence of power failure, subsequent control to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a payment is completed. In this way, when power is cut off during execution of ball lending and the payout of game media is interrupted, when the power is restored after that, based on the fact that the data of the unpaid number is not cleared, the set On the condition that the change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated and the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the interrupted game medium payout is resumed to complete the ball lending. is possible.

On the other hand, when the RAM 21TM302 is cleared in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (when the clear switch 21TM052a is operated when the power is turned on), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 backs up the RAM 21TM302. When the PRDY signal is turned ON because the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the area has been cleared (because there are no game media remaining to be paid out). Also, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven and the payout operation is not performed.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (1), the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch 21TM052 is input to the game control microcomputer 100, but is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. not. Therefore, even if the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed by operating the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 corresponding to the main board 11, the payout If the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the control board 21TM037 is not operated, the unpaid number data stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is Not initialized. Thus, regardless of whether the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on (whether the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed ), if the clear switch 21TM052a is not operated, the data of the number of unpaid items will not be initialized, and will be executed before the power failure occurs (before being controlled to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode due to power restoration). Of the predetermined number of game media to be paid out in the ball lending process (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 25), the unpaid number that has not been paid out , the payout will be executed.

Therefore, regardless of whether or not the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) targeting the game control microcomputer 100 is executed, the data of the number of unpaid balls stored in the RAM 21TM302 is not initialized. Data of a predetermined number of game media to be paid out in processing or winning ball processing can be appropriately protected.

As described above, when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during execution of the ball lending process, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stores the number of unpaid balls formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302. The data of the unpaid number is stored in the buffer. Here, even if the clear switch 21TM052 corresponding to the main board 11 is operated when the power is turned on, if the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the payout control board 21TM037 is not operated, the data of the unpaid number is maintained without being cleared. Therefore, the interrupted payout is resumed, and the payout of the unpaid number of game media is completed. That is, after the power supply is restored, the period of control in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is passed, and after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the unpaid number of coins are paid out.

In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 is provided on the payout control board 21TM037 (an open state detection signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370). The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 may be provided on the main substrate 11 (the detection signal of the open state is input to the game control microcomputer 100). With such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 100 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a) by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. to stop outputting the connection confirmation signal (switch from the ON state to the OFF state). As a result, when the connection confirmation signal is no longer input, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 turns off the PRDY signal or does not turn on the EXS signal, thereby executing ball lending. prevent it from happening.

(Restriction on prize ball payout based on detection of open state of game machine frame or glass door frame)
Next, when the game machine frame 3 is in the open state, the method of limiting the payout of prize balls when the glass door frame 3a is in the open state will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 10-9. FIG. 10-9 shows that when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game control microcomputer 21TM370 It is a timing chart showing transmission and reception of signals between the computer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. As shown in FIG. 10-9, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a connection confirmation command as a prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the reception ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

At this time, when a game hall clerk opens the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 opens the game machine frame 3 or the glass door. The open state of the frame 3a is detected. When the game machine frame 3 is open (and when the glass door frame 3a and the upper tray are integrated, the glass door frame 3a is open), the prize balls to be paid out. is not physically connected to the upper tray in which the falling prize balls are stored. fall without

In the example of FIG. 10-9, when the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game control The microcomputer 100 for the game detects the passage of the game medium related to any one of the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, the first general winning opening to the fourth general winning opening, and the big winning opening. , the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. Then, the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a winning ball preparation command as a received ACK signal without executing game medium payout control. The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 stops detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, that is, until the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened. The transmission to the game control microcomputer 100 is continued until the closed state is reached.

In this way, during the period in which the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the game medium is supplied to each winning opening. , the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289 and does not execute prize ball payout control. In this way, it is possible to prevent the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 from executing the game media payout control. Then, a prize ball preparation command as a reception ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 .

Then, a store clerk or the like of the game hall closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a in order to put the pachinko game machine 1 into a playable state, so that the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided does not detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the open state of the glass door frame 3a. When both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 drives the payout motor 21TM289 when the payout operation is possible, and the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed. The payout control of a predetermined number of prize balls (the number specified by the prize ball number command) according to the winning within the period in which the open state of the door frame 3a is detected is executed. After paying out a predetermined number of game media, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 transmits a winning ball end command as a received ACK signal.

(Resume prize ball delivery after open state detection ends)
Next, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is put into an open state while the prize balls are being paid out, so that the payout is interrupted. Processing when the closed state is set will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. In the example shown in FIG. 10-10, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is open during the payout of game media. , the payout of game media is interrupted, and the interrupted payout is resumed based on the fact that the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is no longer in an open state (becomes in a closed state).

As shown in FIG. 10-10, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a connection confirmation command as a prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the reception ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

When the connection confirmation communication process is not executed (between the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal and the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal), if there is a prize, the game The control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the number of prize balls in a prize ball request signal, and transmits a prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command. During the period during which the number of prize balls specified by the number of prize balls command is being paid out, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened, and the game machine frame/door frame provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is opened. When the open sensor 21TM300 detects the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stops driving the payout motor 21TM289 to interrupt the payout of game media. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

This unpaid number is updated based on the detection signal from the payout number count switch 21TM301 input to the I/O port 21TM372f of the payout control board 21TM037 via the relay board 21TM072. Specifically, the unpaid number is calculated from a predetermined number of game media to be paid out by the payout motor 21TM289 (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 14), and the payout number count switch. It is calculated by subtracting the number counted by 21TM301 (that is, the number of game media actually paid out by the payout motor 21TM289).

The payout control microcomputer 21TM370, which detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, does not execute the payout control of the game medium, and outputs the prize ball preparation command as the received ACK signal for game control. Send to microcomputer 100 . The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 stops detecting the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, that is, until the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is opened. The transmission to the game control microcomputer 100 is continued until the closed state is reached.

Thus, during the period in which the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289 even during the execution of the payout of game media. Payout of game media is not executed. Then, a prize ball preparation command as a reception ACK signal is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 .

When the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 provided in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed (the game machine frame 3 or the glass door When it is detected that the open state of the frame 3a has ended), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stores the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 based on the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a being closed. The payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the stored contents of the unpaid number storage buffer, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes zero. As a result, the payout of game media that has been interrupted by the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is completed.

(Prize ball processing when power failure occurs (without shifting to setting change mode))
Next, FIG. 10-11 will be used for processing when the payout is interrupted due to a power failure during the payout of prize balls and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is not controlled after the power is restored. will be explained in detail. In the example shown in FIGS. 10-11, the payout of game media is interrupted based on the fact that the power is interrupted while the game media are being paid out, and after the power is turned on, the control is performed in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode. Instead, after the connection confirmation signal is turned on and the game machine frame 3 is closed, the interrupted payout is resumed.

As shown in FIG. 10-11, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the reception ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

When the connection confirmation communication process is not executed (between the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal and the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal), if there is a prize, the game The control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the number of prize balls in a prize ball request signal, and transmits a prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command. During the period during which the number of prize balls specified by the number of prize balls command is being paid out, if power failure occurs, power supply to the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped. Suspend media dispensing. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the store clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, when the pachinko game machine 1 is to be initialized, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is further operated. After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 was in the OFF state when the power was turned on, the processing after step S21TM1470 shown in FIG. shall be Here, until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

Since the connection confirmation signal from the main substrate 11 is OFF, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 keeps the payout motor 21TM289 in a stopped state. As a result, the period during which the CPU 103 is executing a predetermined process that is the power-on process after the power is turned on (after the power is turned on, the serial During the period until the communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) is executed, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven, so the payout of game media is kept interrupted.

As a result, when the connection confirmation signal is in the OFF state, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven. During the period until S21TM1480) is executed, game media are not paid out.

When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0. conduct. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the payout motor 21TM289 is driven, the payout operation is performed.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the ON state, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By not driving the payout motor 21TM289, the prize ball processing is not executed. As described above, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state.

When the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the game hall clerk normally removes the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a after confirming that the RAM clear has been executed. Since the closed state is established, the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a may be open even during the period when the connection confirmation signal is ON (after step S21TM1480). In such a case, even if the connection confirmation signal is ON, the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped based on the fact that the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected. state, and the payout of game media is not executed.

When the game arcade clerk closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 indicates that the connection confirmation signal is ON and the game machine frame/door frame is opened. Based on the fact that neither the gaming machine frame 3 nor the glass door frame 3a is detected by the sensor 21TM300 as being open, the content of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Based on this, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes zero. As a result, the payout of the game media, which has been interrupted due to the occurrence of the power failure and the subsequent opening of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a, is completed. In this way, when the power supply is interrupted during the payout of prize balls and the payout of game media is interrupted, the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed when the power is restored thereafter. On this condition, it is possible to restart the interrupted game medium payout and complete the payout of prize balls.

(Prize ball processing when power failure occurs (shift to setting change mode))
Next, FIG. 10-12 shows the processing when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during the payout of prize balls, and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the power is restored. will be described in detail. In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-7 (1), by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the RAM clear signal is sent to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. shall be sent. In the example shown in FIGS. 10-12, when a power failure occurs during payout of game media, the payout in progress is stopped, and after the power is restored, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, The payout is not restarted, and even after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated, the payout is not restarted based on the execution of the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

As shown in FIG. 10-12, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the reception ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

When the connection confirmation communication process is not executed (between the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal and the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal), if there is a prize, the game The control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the number of prize balls in a prize ball request signal, and transmits a prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command. During the period during which the number of prize balls specified by the number of prize balls command is being paid out, if power failure occurs, power supply to the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped. Suspend media dispensing. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the store clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, as described above, in order to shift to the setting change mode (and to initialize the pachinko game machine 1), when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on, and , the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also turned on. To shift to the setting confirmation mode, when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned off.

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state when the power is turned on.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

After that, while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the OFF state. Therefore, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 maintains the payout motor 21TM289 in a stopped state. As a result, after the power is turned on, the CPU 103 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode during the period during which the CPU 103 is executing a predetermined process that is the power-on process, and the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480 ) is executed, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven, so even if the data of the unpaid number is not cleared, the state in which the payout of the game media is interrupted is maintained. It will be.

After that, when the lock switch 21TM051 is switched to the OFF state, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated, and the processes after step S21TM3710 shown in FIG. 10B are executed. Note that when the RAM clear processing is executed, the fact that the RAM clear has been executed is notified. Also, in this example, when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on, since the RAM clear signal is transmitted to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, The data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is erased (cleared).

Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state. When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0. I do. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the payout motor 21TM289 is driven, the payout operation is performed.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the ON state, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By not driving the payout motor 21TM289, the prize ball processing is not executed. As described above, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state.

Here, when the RAM clearing (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the store clerk of the game hall usually confirms that the RAM clearing has been executed, and then clears the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a. is in the closed state, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a may be in the open state even during the period when the connection confirmation signal is ON (after step S21TM1480). In such a case, even if the connection confirmation signal is ON, the drive of the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped based on the fact that the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected. state.

When the game arcade clerk closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 detects that the connection confirmation signal is ON (processing in setting change mode or setting confirmation mode). is completed), and the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the fact that the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 does not detect the open state of either the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a. Let

In this example, when the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not executed (when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is not operated when the power is turned on), the payout control The microcomputer 21TM370 has not cleared the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 (because there are remaining game media to be paid out). The payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes zero. As a result, the game medium that has been interrupted due to the occurrence of power failure, subsequent control to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a payment is completed. In this way, when the power is interrupted during the payout of prize balls and the payout of game media is interrupted, when the power is restored after that, based on the fact that the data of the number of unpaid balls is not cleared, , on the condition that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated and the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the interrupted game medium payout is resumed, and prize ball payout is resumed. can be completed.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-12, when the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is executed (when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on) Because the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 has cleared the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area of the RAM 21TM302 (the remaining game media to be paid out is does not exist), the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven and the payout operation is not performed.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10-7(1), the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch 21TM052 is input to both the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. Therefore, when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed, in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the unformed data formed in the backup area in the RAM21TM302 The data of the unpaid number stored in the payout number storage buffer is initialized. In this way, by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the data of the number of unpaid items is initialized. Before), the predetermined number of game media to be paid out (that is, the number of payouts specified from the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 14) to be paid out in the prize ball processing that was executed before). No payout is performed for the payout number.

As described above, when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during execution of the prize ball processing, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stores the unpaid number formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302. The data of the unpaid number is stored in the buffer. Here, by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the data of the unpaid number is cleared, so the suspended payout is forcibly terminated (discontinued) without being restarted. That is, when the power is restored, during the period when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, or after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the unpaid number of coins will not be paid out.

(Modified example regarding prize ball processing (shift to setting change mode) when power failure occurs)
Next, FIG. 10-13 will be described with respect to the processing when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during the payout of prize balls, and the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled after the power is restored. will be described in detail. In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (1), by operating the clear switch 21TM052 when the power is turned on, the RAM102 of the game control microcomputer 100 is initialized, and the clear switch 21TM052a is turned on when the power is turned on. By being operated, the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is initialized. In the example shown in FIGS. 10-13, when a power failure occurs during payout of game media, the payout in progress is stopped, and after the power is restored, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, After the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed without restarting the payout, the payout is restarted based on the fact that the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not cleared.

As shown in FIG. 10-13, when the game control microcomputer 100 transmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, the received ACK signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 Receives a connection OK command as When receiving the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal, the game control microcomputer 100 retransmits the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal after 1 s (1 second) has elapsed from the time of reception. The game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 repeatedly execute the connection confirmation communication process as described above as long as the connection state is normal.

When the connection confirmation communication process is not executed (between the reception of the connection OK command as the reception ACK signal and the transmission of the connection confirmation command as the prize ball request signal), if there is a prize, the game The control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the number of prize balls in a prize ball request signal, and transmits a prize ball number command as the set prize ball request signal to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. When the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 receives the prize ball number command as the prize ball request signal, it pays out the number of prize balls specified by the prize ball number command. During the period during which the number of prize balls specified by the number of prize balls command is being paid out, if power failure occurs, power supply to the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped. Suspend media dispensing. At this time, the data of the unpaid number is stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370.

Here, in order to turn on the power, the store clerk of the game hall opens the game machine frame 3 and then turns on the power switch 21TM055. At this time, as described above, in order to shift to the setting change mode (and to initialize the game control microcomputer 100), when the power switch 21TM055 is turned ON, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned ON. In addition, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is also turned on. To shift to the setting confirmation mode, when the power switch 21TM055 is turned on, the lock switch 21TM051 is turned on and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is turned off.

After that, in the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes power-on processing. In this example, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 is in the ON state when the power is turned on.

In the payout control board 21TM037, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is activated, and the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3, When the open state of the glass door frame 3a can be detected, it is detected that the game machine frame 3 is in the open state.

After that, while the CPU 103 is executing the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the OFF state. Therefore, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 maintains the payout motor 21TM289 in a stopped state. As a result, after the power is turned on, the CPU 103 is controlled in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode during the period during which the CPU 103 is executing a predetermined process that is the power-on process, and the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480 ) is executed, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven, so even if the data of the unpaid number is not cleared, the state in which the payout of the game media is interrupted is maintained. It will be.

After that, when the lock switch 21TM051 is switched to the OFF state, the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated, and the processes after step S21TM3710 shown in FIG. 10B are executed. In addition, when the RAM clearing process is executed in the game control microcomputer 100, it is informed that the RAM clearing is executed. Also, in this example, when the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the payout control board 21TM037 is operated when the power is turned on, a RAM clear signal is sent to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. The data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 is erased (cleared).

Until the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process (step S21TM1480) shown in FIG. 10-1, the connection confirmation signal output from the main board 11 to the payout control board 21TM037 is in the OFF state. When the CPU 103 executes the serial communication circuit setting process of step S21TM1480 shown in FIG. 10-1, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 starts the payout operation based on the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 turning ON. When possible, the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370, and the payout operation is performed one by one until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0. I do. Here, when the connection confirmation signal is turned ON, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not detect the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 and also detects the open state of the glass door frame 3a. On the condition that the payout motor 21TM289 is driven, the payout operation is performed.

As described above, after the power is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 can detect the open state of the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. , The period during which the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected depends on whether or not the setting change mode is controlled, and whether or not the setting confirmation mode is controlled. No game media are paid out. That is, even when the connection confirmation signal from the main board 11 is in the ON state, if the open state of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300, By not driving the payout motor 21TM289, the prize ball processing is not executed. As described above, even when the connection confirmation signal is ON, the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven during the period when the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is in the open state.

Here, when the RAM clearing (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed, the store clerk of the game hall usually confirms that the RAM clearing has been executed, and then clears the gaming machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a. is in the closed state, even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state (after step S21TM1480) after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed, the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is closed. It may be open. In such a case, the open state of the gaming machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a is detected even during the period in which the connection confirmation signal is in the ON state after the processing of the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed. As a result, the payout motor 21TM289 is stopped.

When the game arcade clerk closes both the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 indicates that the connection confirmation signal is ON and the game machine frame/door frame is opened. When the sensor 21TM300 detects neither the game machine frame 3 nor the glass door frame 3a in the open state, the payout motor 21TM289 is started to be driven.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (2), when the RAM clear for the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is not executed (when the clear switch 21TM052a is not operated when the power is turned on ), when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) targeting the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is executed (when the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on)). Even if there is, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 determines that the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 is not cleared (remaining game to be paid out). (due to the existence of the medium), the payout motor 21TM289 is driven based on the contents of the unpaid number storage buffer stored in the RAM 21TM302 of the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 until the data of the unpaid number becomes 0. Payout operation is performed one by one. As a result, the game medium that has been interrupted due to the occurrence of power failure, subsequent control to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode, and the opening of the game machine frame 3 or the glass door frame 3a payment is completed. In this way, when the power is interrupted during the payout of prize balls and the payout of game media is interrupted, when the power is restored after that, based on the fact that the data of the number of unpaid balls is not cleared, , on the condition that the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is terminated and the game machine frame 3 and the glass door frame 3a are closed, the interrupted game medium payout is resumed, and prize ball payout is resumed. can be completed.

On the other hand, when the RAM 21TM302 is cleared in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 (when the clear switch 21TM052a is operated when the power is turned on), the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 backs up the RAM 21TM302. Since the data of the unpaid number stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the area is cleared (because there is no game media remaining to be paid out), the payout motor 21TM289 is not driven and the payout is made. take no action.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10-8 (1), the RAM clear signal output from the clear switch 21TM052 is input to the game control microcomputer 100, but is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370. not. Therefore, even if the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed by operating the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 corresponding to the main board 11, the payout If the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the control board 21TM037 is not operated, the unpaid number data stored in the unpaid number storage buffer formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302 in the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 is Not initialized. Thus, regardless of whether the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is operated when the power is turned on (whether the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) for the game control microcomputer 100 is executed ), if the clear switch 21TM052a is not operated, the data of the number of unpaid items will not be initialized, and will be executed before the power failure occurs (before being controlled to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode due to power restoration). Of the predetermined number of game media to be paid out (that is, the number of payouts specified by the game control microcomputer 100, for example, 14) in the prize ball processing that has been performed, the unpaid number that has not been paid out , the payout will be executed.

As described above, when the payout is interrupted due to power failure during execution of the prize ball processing, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 stores the unpaid number formed in the backup area in the RAM 21TM302. The data of the unpaid number is stored in the buffer. Here, even if the clear switch 21TM052 corresponding to the main board 11 is operated when the power is turned on, if the clear switch 21TM052a corresponding to the payout control board 21TM037 is not operated, the data of the unpaid number is maintained without being cleared. Therefore, the interrupted payout is resumed, and the payout of the unpaid number of game media is completed. That is, after the power supply is restored, the period of control in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is passed, and after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends, the unpaid number of coins are paid out.

In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 is provided on the payout control board 21TM037 (an open state detection signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 21TM370). The game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300 may be provided on the main substrate 11 (the detection signal of the open state is input to the game control microcomputer 100). With such a configuration, the game control microcomputer 100 detects the open state of the game machine frame 3 (or the glass door frame 3a) by the game machine frame/door frame open sensor 21TM300. Therefore, even if winning is detected, the command for the number of prize balls is not transmitted. As a result, the payout control microcomputer 21TM370 does not drive the payout motor 21TM289 based on the fact that the prize ball number command is no longer received, thereby preventing the payout of prize balls.

(Output period of security signal and setting change response signal)
As described above, in the example of pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9-39(1), the security signal can be output from the tenth terminal. With this security signal, as described above, it is possible to notify the outside of the possibility that initialization processing (RAM clearing), detection of fraudulent activity, detection of game stop target error, and the like have been performed. In addition, the security signal is transmitted from the start of the processing related to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode to the end of the processing related to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode and transition to normal game processing (for example, FIG. 10-1 and FIG. 10-2, from step S21TM3510 until NO is determined in step S21TM3060 or step S21TM3070 and normal game processing is executed).

In addition, in the example of pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9-39(1), the setting change corresponding signal can be output from the seventh terminal. The setting change corresponding signal is transmitted from the start of the process related to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode until the process related to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends and the normal game process is started (for example, FIG. 10-1 and FIG. 10-2, from step S21TM3510 until NO is determined in step S21TM3060 or step S21TM3070 and normal game processing is executed). With this setting change response signal, it is possible to externally notify that the process related to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode has been executed (that the process related to the change or confirmation of the setting value has been executed). Also, when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed (when the normal game process is started), the setting change correspondence signal output from the seventh terminal is temporarily turned off, and then the same seventh terminal outputs to the RAM 102. Since the number of pulse-like setting change response signals corresponding to the current setting value stored in the setting value storage area is output, the setting value can be notified to the outside.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10-14 (1), when the power is turned on, when the setting change mode is entered with RAM clearing (for example, step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150 shown in FIG. 10-1), A setting change response signal is output from the seventh terminal, and at the same time, a security signal is output from the tenth terminal. Then, based on the execution of RAM clearing (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150), the security signal is kept ON for 30 seconds even after the setting change mode is terminated and the normal game process is started. In addition, when the setting change mode ends (exactly at the timing when 50 ms have passed since the setting change mode ended and the normal game processing is started), the setting change corresponding signal is temporarily turned OFF. Based on the fact that the set value stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 102 is 2, a pulse of 2 is output as the signal corresponding to the setting change in the special mode.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-14 (2), although the RAM was cleared when the power was turned on (for example, step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150 shown in FIG. 10-1), the setting change mode was not entered. In this case, the security signal is ON for 30 seconds after the power is turned on (when the RAM is cleared), but the setting change response signal is not ON.

In this way, the security signal is also in the ON state while the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is being controlled. Therefore, even if the external device does not assume input of the setting change response signal and is configured not to execute processing based on the input of the setting change response signal, at least based on the input of the security signal Therefore, it is possible to recognize that there is a possibility of being controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

As shown in FIGS. 10-15 (3) and (4), the setting change support signal turns ON when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is started, and turns ON when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends. (Precisely, 50 ms after the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends and the normal game processing is started), the OFF state is set. The security signal also turns ON when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode is started, but as shown in FIG. Therefore, the ON state is continued for 30 seconds even after the setting change mode is ended, instead of turning OFF immediately after the setting change mode is ended. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-15 (4), if the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is not executed, when the setting confirmation mode ends (more precisely, the setting confirmation mode ends After 50 ms have elapsed since the normal game processing was started, the state is turned OFF.

In addition, in both cases of FIGS. 10-15 (3) and (4), when the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode ends, the setting change corresponding signal is temporarily turned OFF (more precisely, the setting change Mode or setting confirmation mode is completed, and the setting value is stored in the RAM 102 after 50 ms have elapsed since the normal game processing has elapsed). Based on the fact that the set value stored in the area is 2, a pulse of 2 is output as the signal corresponding to the setting change of the special mode. This makes it possible to easily specify the setting values of each gaming machine in an external device such as a hall computer.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10-14 (2), when the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) is executed and the setting change mode is not entered, the security signal is issued when the power is turned on (RAM It will be in the ON state for 30 seconds after the execution of clearing.

Therefore, on the side of the external device to which the security signal is input, if the input period of the security signal is about 30 seconds, the RAM is cleared (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150), but the setting change mode is not entered. It is possible to recognize that there is a possibility that On the other hand, if the security signal input period exceeds 30 seconds, there is a possibility that the mode has shifted to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (especially, it is highly likely that the mode has shifted to the setting change mode that involves RAM clearing). ), and if the security signal input period did not reach 30 seconds, there is a possibility that the setting confirmation mode was entered without executing the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150). It is possible to recognize that (it is possible that only confirmation was performed without being able to change the setting value).

In other words, if the security signal input period is about 30 seconds, the hall computer or the like may not have entered the setting change mode although the RAM was cleared (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150). management device, and if the security signal input period is less than 30 seconds, there is a possibility that the setting confirmation mode was entered without the RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) being executed. If the management device can recognize that (it is possible that only confirmation was performed without being able to change the setting value), and the security signal input period exceeds 30 seconds , the possibility of shifting to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode (in particular, the possibility of shifting to the setting change mode accompanied by RAM clearing is high) can be recognized by the management device. In this way, it is possible to distinguish what kind of control the gaming machine has executed on the external side by the output period of the security signal of the gaming machine.

Therefore, even if the external device does not assume input of the setting change response signal and is configured not to execute processing based on the input of the setting change response signal, at least based on the input of the security signal Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between the possibility that RAM clearing (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) has been executed and the possibility that control has been performed in the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the game machine is controlled to the setting change mode, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the ON state when the power is turned on, so the RAM is always cleared (step S21TM3050). or step S21TM3150). As a result, the output period of the security signal is about 30 seconds plus the period of control in the setting change mode. On the other hand, when the gaming machine is controlled to the setting confirmation mode, the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 is in the OFF state when the power is turned on, and the RAM clear flag is in the state of 0 (YES in step S21TM3570). RAM clear (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150) has not been executed. As a result, the output period of the security signal becomes the period during which the setting confirmation mode is controlled (more precisely, the period during which the setting confirmation mode is controlled +50 ms).

In this way, when the game machine is controlled in the setting change mode and when the game machine is controlled in the setting confirmation mode, the output period of the security signal is different. It is possible to distinguish and specify whether the mode is controlled or the setting confirmation mode is controlled.

Further, in the present embodiment, the setting change support signal turns ON when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is started, and when the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode ends (more precisely, the setting change mode Or at the timing when 50ms have passed since the setting confirmation mode is terminated and the normal game processing is started, the state is turned OFF. Therefore, on the external device side, it is possible to specify the control period to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode by the input period of the setting change corresponding signal. Also, when the input period of the security signal is longer than the input period of the signal corresponding to setting change by about 30 seconds, it recognizes that it has been controlled to the setting change mode and that the RAM has been cleared accordingly. It is possible, and if the input period of the setting change support signal and the input period of the security signal are the same period, it is possible to recognize that the setting confirmation mode is controlled without clearing the RAM.

In this way, the security signal and the setting change response signal are output from different output terminals, so that the external device receiving these signals receives a predetermined event (RAM clear in this example) in the game machine. occurrence of the gaming machine and that the game machine is controlled to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode can be distinguished and specified. Then, it becomes possible to clearly specify the control period to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode, and it becomes possible to specify which of the setting change mode and the setting confirmation mode was controlled based on the input period of the security signal.

Next, based on the fact that the lock switch 21TM051 was in the ON state and the clear switch (setting changeover switch) 21TM052 was in the OFF state when the power was turned on, the setting is confirmed without clearing the RAM (step S21TM3050 or step S21TM3150). mode, and the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off within 50 ms after the setting confirmation mode starts (for example, after the setting change flag is set in step S21TM3510), and the setting confirmation mode ends. Then, it is assumed that the normal game processing has started.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 10-15 (5), starting from the timing when the setting confirmation mode is started, the setting change corresponding signal is output from the seventh terminal, and at the same time, the security signal is output from the tenth terminal. is output. Then, even if the setting confirmation mode is terminated (the lock switch 21TM051 is turned off) and the normal game process is started within 50 ms after the setting confirmation mode is started, the period of at least 50 ms or more, The setting change response signal and the security signal are continuously output. That is, once the setting change response signal and the security signal are turned ON, they are kept ON for at least 50 ms.

Assuming that the period during which the setting change response signal and the security signal are in the ON state is less than a predetermined period (50 ms in this example), the pachinko gaming machine 1 enters the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode on the side of an external device such as a hall computer. It becomes difficult to recognize that it has shifted to the mode. As in the present embodiment, regardless of the period during which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, at least for a predetermined period (50 ms in this example), the setting change response signal and the security signal are turned on. The external device side can recognize that each pachinko game machine 1 has shifted to the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode.

In addition, regarding the setting change corresponding signal, after the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is completed, the setting change corresponding signal is output in a special mode with a pulse width of 100 ms, so that each pachinko machine can be operated on the side of an external device such as a hall computer. The setting values of the gaming machine 1 can be specified and managed. If the period during which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled is less than 50 ms, the setting change corresponding signal is switched to the OFF state in less than 50 ms after turning ON, and then the setting value When the number of 100 ms width pulses corresponding to the set value stored in the storage area is configured to be output, the period (less than 50 ms) during which the external device is controlled to the setting change mode or setting confirmation mode can not recognize the setting change corresponding signal corresponding to , and only recognizes the setting change corresponding signal of the special mode (pulse width is 100 ms) that is output after that, the setting value of the pachinko game machine 1 is incorrect. There is a risk that you will recognize it. As in the present embodiment, regardless of the period during which the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode is controlled, at least for a predetermined period (50 ms in this example), by turning the setting change response signal ON, the external device side , the setting value of each pachinko game machine 1 can be specified accurately.

1 Pachinko game machine 2 Game board 3 Game machine frames 4A, 4B Special symbol display device 5 Image display device 6A Winning ball device 6B Variable winning ball device 7 Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R Speaker 9... Game effect lamp 10... General prize winning port 11... Main board 12... Effect control board 13... Audio control board 14... Lamp control board 15... Relay board 20... Normal symbol display 21... Gate switches 22A, 22B... Starting port Switch 23 ... Count switch 30 ... Ball operating handle 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 32 ... Movable body 100 ... Game control microcomputer 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124... random number circuit 105, 125... I/O
120 ... CPU for production control
123: display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of executing specific control based on the passage of a game medium through a specific area,
A game control means capable of controlling a setting permission state for permitting setting of a set value and a setting confirmation state for confirming the set value;
specific information storage means for storing specific information that can specify that the setting permission state has been set;
It is possible to communicate with the game control means after the communication start processing by the game control means, and by enabling communication with the game control means, it becomes possible to give a game value, and based on a signal output from the game device an imparting means for imparting game value;
a display means;
When the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled, the communication start processing by the game control means is executed in common,
It is possible to impart a game value based on a signal output from the gaming device in common when the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled,
When an open state in which the door frame corresponding to the gaming machine is opened is detected in both when the setting permission state is controlled and when the setting permission state is not controlled, the The provision of game value based on the signal output from the gaming device is restricted,
limiting the specific control based on the passage of the game medium through the specific area when being controlled to the setting permission state;
limiting the specific control based on the passage of the game medium through the specific area when being controlled to the setting confirmation state;
The display means is capable of displaying a demo display that is common both after the setting permission state is terminated and after the setting confirmation state is terminated;
starting to output a specific signal in response to the start of control to the setting permission state;
stopping the output of the specific signal in response to the termination of the control to the setting permission state;
an output period of the specific signal corresponding to the control to the setting permission state is longer than a predetermined period;
The specific information storage means can store the specific information even after power supply to the gaming machine is stopped,
When the power supply to the game machine is resumed and the specific information is stored in the specific information storage means, the game is stopped ,
When the setting permission state is controlled, the game state is initialized,
Based on the end of the setting permission state, after the notification corresponding to the end of the setting permission state is executed, it is notified that the game state has been initialized.
A gaming machine characterized by:

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