JP7340870B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, for example, in a pachinko game machine, which is one of the gaming machines, when a pachinko ball enters the starting prize opening, the symbols displayed on the image display device start to fluctuate, and after a certain period of time, the symbols are stopped and the stopped symbols are When the players line up in a specific combination, the grand prize opening is opened and the player can win a large number of pachinko balls. In addition, pachinko gaming machines have a high probability gaming state where the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than normal after a jackpot, and a time saving gaming state where the winning probability of normal symbols is higher than normal and the fluctuation time is shortened. There may be a transition. In such high-probability gaming states and time-saving gaming states, with some exceptions, it is easier to enter the starting winning slot than in the normal gaming state (hereinafter referred to as the "easy ball entry state"), and the player is unable to hold the ball. It is possible to continue playing the game without significantly decreasing the amount, and the expectation for the next jackpot is increased.

In addition, conventionally, the condition for the gaming state of a pachinko gaming machine to shift to the above-mentioned easy ball entry state is the condition of winning a jackpot with an easy ball entry state as in the gaming machine described in JP 2015-24324A. It was. However, in recent years, instead of being conditioned on winning the jackpot as described above, the transition to the above-mentioned easy ball entry state has been made on the condition that the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit without winning the jackpot. (play time, b-time reduction) is also being implemented. Furthermore, based on the lottery result of the special symbol, the ball is suddenly shifted to the above-mentioned easy ball hitting state (sudden time saving, c time saving) without going through the jackpot game.

JP2015-24324A

In gaming machines equipped with the above-mentioned time saver, guidance is also provided on the number of times the special symbol will change until the upper limit number of times is reached. However, there are cases where the player wins c time reduction and shifts to the easy entry state before reaching the upper limit number of times. In such a case, there is a problem in that the state suddenly shifts to the easy-to-enter state at a timing different from the timing that was previously announced and that the player did not intend, which confuses the player.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems in the conventional art, and even if the model has multiple transition routes to the easy ball entry state, it can accurately and effectively guide the transition to the easy ball entry state. The purpose is to provide a gaming machine that makes it possible to

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention is provided with a downstream area where game balls flow down, a special symbol winning opening corresponding to a special symbol, and a special symbol winning opening corresponding to a special symbol, which is provided in the downstream area. A game information acquisition means that acquires game information triggered by a game ball winning a prize; a bonus grant determination means that determines whether or not to grant a bonus based on the game information; A notifying means for notifying the determination result of the bonus award determining means and the gaming information acquired through the gaming information acquiring means are stored for a period of time up to a predetermined maximum number of stored items until the notifying means provides the notification. A gaming machine is provided with a reservation storage means for storing reservations in series order and for newly extinguishing the oldest stored reservation at the stage when the notification by the notification means has finished, and one of the benefits includes the above-mentioned reservations. It includes a transition to an easy ball entry state in which it is easier to enter the special symbol winning hole than the normal gaming state, and if the transition to the easy ball entry state is won, the state shifts to the easy ball entry state. and a ceiling transition means that shifts to the easy ball entry state when the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit without winning a jackpot or the transition to the easy ball entry state. , a first fluctuation number guide means for guiding the number of fluctuations reaching the ceiling, which is the number of fluctuations of the special symbol remaining until reaching the upper limit number of times; and a game in which the transition to the easy ball entry state is won within the pending state. If there is information, a second variation number guide means for guiding the winning achievement variation number, which is the number of variations of the remaining special symbol until the reservation is exhausted , and the first variation number guide means , displaying the fluctuating number of times the ceiling is reached on the display device, and the second fluctuating number guide means, when it is determined that there is game information in the hold that will win the transition to the easy ball entry state; The number of variations in reaching the ceiling displayed on the display device is hidden, and the number of variations in reaching winnings is displayed .

According to the gaming machine according to the present invention having the above-mentioned configuration, while guiding the remaining number of fluctuations until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches the upper limit number of times to shift to the easy ball entry state, it is possible to enter the ball into the hold state. If there is game information that will win the transition to the easy state, it will also inform you of the remaining number of fluctuations until the corresponding hold is exhausted, so even if the model has multiple routes to transition to the easy state, it will be easier to enter the game. It becomes possible to accurately and effectively guide the transition to the easy ball state. Further, when a plurality of conditions for transition to the easy ball entry state are satisfied at the same time, it becomes possible for the player to accurately guide the number of changes in the special symbol until the transition to the easy ball entry state occurs.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an enlarged view of displays provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing in blocks the electrical configuration of a main control board and peripheral devices provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing in blocks the electrical configuration of a sub-control board and peripheral devices provided in the pachinko game machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. It is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot determination table. It is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot type determination table. It is an explanatory diagram of a reach determination table. It is an explanatory diagram of a special figure fluctuation pattern selection table. It is an explanatory view showing the storage contents of the first special figure reservation storage part. It is an explanatory diagram showing the memory contents of the 2nd special figure reservation storage part. It is an explanatory diagram of the first special figure reservation performance storage section. It is an explanatory diagram of the second special figure reservation effect storage part. It is a flowchart of main side main control processing executed by the game control microcomputer. 14 is a flowchart of main side timer interrupt processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side main control processing shown in FIG. 13. It is a flowchart of the starting opening sensor detection process which the microcomputer for game control performs in the main side timer interruption process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of special symbol standby processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 14. It is a flowchart of the second special symbol jackpot determination process executed by the game control microcomputer in the special symbol standby process shown in FIG. 16. It is a flowchart of the second special symbol variation pattern selection process executed by the game control microcomputer in the special symbol standby process shown in FIG. 16. 19 is a flowchart that is a continuation of the flowchart in FIG. 18. It is a flowchart of special symbol variation processing executed by the game control microcomputer in the main side timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 14. It is a flowchart of the sub side main control process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart of the 1ms timer interruption process which the production control microcomputer executes in the sub-side main control process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the 10ms timer interruption process which the production control microcomputer executes in the sub-side main control process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the received command analysis process which the microcomputer for production control performs in the 10ms timer interruption process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the variable production start process which the microcomputer for production control performs in the received command analysis process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the number of fluctuation guidance processing which the production control microcomputer executes in the received command analysis processing shown in FIG. 24. It is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the effect display device during a game.

A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, when describing the direction of each part of a pachinko game machine, the direction as seen from a player who plays a game while facing the pachinko game machine is used as a reference. Specifically, the horizontal and vertical directions of each part of the pachinko game machine are the horizontal and vertical directions as seen from the player. Further, the direction in which the player approaches the player is defined as the front, and the direction in which the player moves away from the player is defined as the back.

[Main components of pachinko machines]
As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a gaming machine frame 16. The gaming machine frame 16 is composed of, in order from the front side, a front frame 18, an inner frame (not shown), and an outer frame (not shown). The front frame 18 includes a handle 4, a batted ball supply tray (also referred to as an upper tray) 24, an excess ball tray (also referred to as a lower tray) 25, a production button 9, a production lever 6, a speaker 8, and a left side lamp. 23a, and a right side lamp 23b.

The handle 4 is provided at the lower right of the front frame 18, that is, at a position where a player playing a game facing the pachinko game machine 1 can grip it with his right hand. The handle 4 includes a touch switch 92 (FIG. 3), a firing lever 4a, and a firing stop button 4b. The touch switch 92 outputs a signal indicating that the player has touched the handle 4, and is disposed at a portion touched by the player's right hand holding the handle 4. The firing lever 4a is for adjusting the firing strength of the game ball, and is rotatably provided on the handle 4. The firing stop button 4b is for stopping the firing of game balls when the game balls are being fired, and is provided at a position where it can be operated by the thumb of the right hand gripping the handle 4. A ball supply tray (also referred to as an upper tray) 24 is provided at the lower center of the front frame 18. The ball supply tray 24 is for storing game balls to be supplied to the firing device 90 (FIG. 3). The batted ball supply tray 24 stores game balls put out from the rental ball payout device 80 (FIG. 3) and the prize ball payout device 400 (FIG. 3). A surplus ball tray (also referred to as a lower tray) 25 is provided below the batted ball supply tray 24 in the front frame 18 . The surplus ball tray 25 stores game balls exceeding the number of balls that can be stored in the batted ball supply tray 24.

The production button 9 is provided in a portion of the front frame 18 that covers the upper part of the batted ball supply tray 24. In other words, the production button 9 is provided in the front frame 18 at a position where the player facing the pachinko game machine 1 can press it with his right or left hand. In this embodiment, the effect button 9 is a push-on type button switch. The performance button 9 has a built-in performance button lamp 9c (FIG. 4) and a performance button vibration motor 9b (FIG. 4). The production button lamp 9c lights up or flashes when the production button 9 is pressed during a period in which the production button 9 is pressed. The surface of the effect button 9 is made of a translucent material, and is designed so that the player can visually recognize the light emitted by the effect button lamp 9c. The performance button vibration motor 9b vibrates the performance button 9, and vibrates at a predetermined timing during a period in which the pressing operation of the performance button 9 is valid. In this embodiment, the production button lamp 9c is an LED.
The production button 9 has a built-in elastic member (not shown) such as a spring for returning the pressed production button 9 to the position before the pressing operation, and the production button 9 is released from the pressed state. When this happens, the restoring force of the elastic member restores the state before the pressing operation. When the player presses the performance button 9 while the pressing operation of the performance button 9 is valid, a specific performance is performed. Hereinafter, a specific performance that is performed in response to the operation of the performance button 9 will be referred to as a button performance.

A production lever 6 is provided on the left side of the surplus ball tray 25 in the front frame 18, that is, near the lower left end of the front frame 18. In other words, the production lever 6 is provided in the front frame 18 at a position where the player facing the pachinko game machine 1 can operate it with his left hand. That is, the production lever 6 is provided in the front frame 18 at a position where the player facing the pachinko game machine 1 can operate it with his left hand, and the production button 9 is provided in the front frame 18 at a position where the player facing the pachinko game machine 1 can operate it with his left hand. It is provided in a position where it can be pressed and operated with the right hand when the production lever 6 is being operated.
The production lever 6 is formed into a rod shape that can be grasped with the left hand, and can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise as well as pushed backward. Further, the production lever 6 is provided with a production lever vibration motor 6d (FIG. 4). The production lever vibration motor 6d vibrates the production lever 6, and vibrates at a predetermined timing during a period when the production lever 6 is valid for operation. When a player operates the performance lever 6 while the operation of the performance lever 6 is valid, a specific performance is performed. Hereinafter, a specific performance that is performed in response to the operation of the performance lever 6 will be referred to as a lever performance.

A left side lamp 23a is provided on the left side of the front frame 18, and a right side lamp 23b is provided on the right side. A portion of the front frame 18 in which the left side lamp 23a and the right side lamp 23b are provided has translucency, and a plurality of LEDs are arranged inside the translucent portion. Each LED can emit light in a plurality of colors, and lights up or blinks depending on the content of the performance, and further changes the color of the emitted light. The speakers 8 are provided at the left and right corners of the upper part of the front frame 18, and output sounds such as music, sound effects, and notification sounds according to the contents of the performance.

Further, the pachinko game machine 1 includes a game board 2, a glass plate 5, and an effect display device 7. The game board 2 is placed approximately at the center of the game board 2, that is, at a position approximately directly facing the player's face. The effect display device 7 is arranged on the rear side of the game board 2, and its screen is exposed from approximately the center of the game board 2. The game board 2 includes a fixed winning device 10, a big winning device 30, a gate 12, a normal variable winning device (also referred to as a normal electric accessory or an electric chew) 20, a general winning opening 13, and displays 50. , a center decoration body 14 and a rail member 17.

A game area 3 is formed on the surface of the game board 2, in which game balls flow down (roll). The game area 3 has a left game area 3a formed on the left side of the screen of the effect display device 7, and a right game area 3b formed on the right side of the screen of the effect display device 7. A plurality of game nails (not shown) are driven into the surface of the game board 2 to change the direction in which the game ball flows down. The front of the board surface of the game board 2 is covered with a transparent glass plate 5. Although not shown in FIG. 1, LEDs are provided at multiple locations on the game board 2. These LEDs are collectively referred to as panel lamps (indicated by reference numeral 2a in FIG. 4). Each LED constituting the panel lamp 2a is capable of emitting light in a plurality of colors, lights up or blinks depending on the content of the performance, and further changes the emitted color. That is, the pachinko game machine 1 lights or blinks the left side lamp 23a, right side lamp 23b, and board lamp 2a according to the performance content during game control, and outputs sound from each speaker 8.

The fixed prize winning device 10 is arranged at the lower center of the game board 2. The fixed prize winning device 10 has a first starting opening 11 through which game balls can be won one by one. The first starting port 11 is always open, and the probability that a game ball enters the first starting port 11 does not substantially change. The gate 12 is disposed in the right gaming area 3b, and is configured to allow game balls flowing down the right gaming area 3b to pass through. The normal variable winning device 20 is arranged below the gate 12 in the right gaming area 3b. The normal variable winning device 20 includes a movable member 21. The movable member 21 is configured to be rotatable with its base end as a rotation axis, and when the movable member 21 opens and closes, the second starting port 22 opens and closes. When the movable member 21 is opened, the second starting port 22 is opened, and the game balls are easily placed into the second starting port 22 one by one. Further, when the movable member 21 is operated to close, the second starting port 22 is closed, and the game ball is in a state where it is not possible to win a prize in the second starting port 22.
In the example shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning device 20 is normally placed on the right side of the gaming area 3, but it may be placed on the lower side of the gaming area 3.

The big winning device 30 is arranged on the right side of the fixed winning device 10 on the game board 2. The grand prize winning device 30 includes an opening/closing member 31 that opens and closes the grand prize opening 32. The grand prize opening 32 is formed in a size that allows a plurality of game balls to win prizes (enter balls). In this embodiment, the opening/closing member 31 is formed in a plate shape long in the left-right direction, and is configured to be rotatable using the left and right lower ends as rotation axes.

The display devices 50 are provided outside the game area 3 on the game board 2 and below the big winning device 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the display devices 50 include a first special symbol display 51 that variably displays a first special symbol (also referred to as a first special symbol), and a second special symbol (also referred to as a second special symbol). It is provided with a second special symbol display 52 that variably displays a normal symbol, and a normal symbol display 53 that variably displays an ordinary symbol (also referred to as a general symbol). Further, the display devices 50 include a first special symbol display device 51a that displays the number of memory pending operations on the first special symbol display 51, and a second special symbol display device 52 that displays the number of memory memory on pending operations. It is provided with a second special symbol reservation display 52a and a regular symbol reservation display 53a that displays the number of stored operation reservations of the regular symbol display 53. Hereinafter, when explaining matters common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, they will simply be referred to as special symbols. Moreover, when explaining matters common to the first special symbol display 51 and the second special symbol display 52, they are simply referred to as special symbol displays.

In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 51 and the second special symbol display 52 each include four LEDs. A lit LED (□) and an extinguished LED (■) each represent a special symbol, and a state where the LED lighting points flow in a predetermined direction (for example, from left to right) represents a variable display of the special symbol. Hereinafter, the variation pattern of the special symbol from when the special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner until the special symbol is finally displayed will be referred to as a special symbol variation pattern.
Further, in this embodiment, the normal symbol display 53 is composed of two LEDs. A lit LED (□) and an unlit LED (■) represent a normal symbol, and a state in which each LED is alternately lit represents a fluctuating display of the regular symbol. Further, when the game ball passes through the gate 12, a normal symbol lottery is executed to determine whether or not it is a hit, and the normal symbol display 53 variably displays the normal symbols. Then, the normal symbol display 53 definitively displays the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the variable display of the normal symbol. When the normal symbol confirmed and displayed by the normal symbol display 53 is a normal symbol indicating a win, the normal variable winning device 20 is activated, the movable member 21 is opened and closed, and the second starting port 22 is opened and closed.

When the game ball enters the first starting hole 11, a jackpot determination (also referred to as a jackpot lottery) is executed to determine whether or not it is a jackpot, and the first special symbol display 51 variably displays the first special symbol. Then, the first special symbol display 51 definitively displays the first special symbol corresponding to the result of the jackpot determination after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since starting the variable display of the first special symbol. Here, if the confirmed and displayed first special symbol is a special symbol indicating a jackpot, a jackpot will occur, the grand prize device 30 will operate, the opening/closing member 31 will open/close, and the grand prize opening 32 will open/close. do. When a game ball enters the first starting hole 11 while the first special symbol display 51 is variably displaying the first special symbol, the operation of the first special symbol display 51 is triggered by the winning. The stored number indicating the number of operation reservations is displayed by the first special figure reservation display 51a. Hereinafter, the number of stored operation pendings on the first special symbol display 51 will be referred to as the first special symbol pending number.

Furthermore, when the game ball enters the second starting slot 22, a jackpot determination (also referred to as a jackpot lottery) is executed, and the second special symbol display 52 variably displays the second special symbol. Then, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the variable display of the second special symbol, the second special symbol display 52 definitively displays the second special symbol corresponding to the result of the jackpot determination. Here, if the confirmed and displayed second special symbol is a special symbol indicating a jackpot, a jackpot will occur, the grand prize device 30 will operate, the opening/closing member 31 will open/close, and the grand prize opening 32 will open/close. do. If a game ball enters the second starting slot 22 while the second special symbol display 52 is variably displaying the second special symbol, the operation of the second special symbol display 52 is triggered by the winning. The stored number indicating the number of operation reservations is displayed by the second special figure reservation display 52a. Hereinafter, the number of stored operation pending operations on the second special symbol display 52 will be referred to as the second special symbol pending number. In addition, when explaining matters common to the first special figure reservation number and the second special figure reservation number, they are simply referred to as the special figure reservation number.

Hereinafter, the period from when the special symbol display device starts to display a variable display of the special symbol until it finally displays the special symbol will be referred to as one variation of the special symbol. Also, the fact that the number of reserved special symbols decreases by one each time the special symbol is changed is called the consumption of the number of reserved special symbols. In addition, the period required from when the big winning hole opens until it closes is called the opening period of the big winning hole, and the period from when the big winning hole opens until it opens next time is called a round. Furthermore, the game from the start of the first round until the end of the final round is called a jackpot game. Furthermore, if the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination, the type of jackpot is determined by lottery. Depending on the type of jackpot, the opening period of the jackpot and the maximum number of rounds that can be executed vary.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 has a normal probability (hereinafter referred to as normal probability) and a probability higher than the normal probability (hereinafter referred to as high probability) as the probability of being judged as a jackpot in jackpot determination (hereinafter referred to as jackpot probability). is set. Hereinafter, a gaming state in which the jackpot probability is set to a normal probability will be referred to as a normal probability state, and a gaming state in which the jackpot probability is set to a high probability will be referred to as a high probability state. Incidentally, which of the above-mentioned high probability state and normal probability state to shift to is basically determined by a lottery at the time of a jackpot. The pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment is a model called a so-called fixed-rate machine.

The general winning hole 13 is arranged on the left side of the fixed winning device 10 on the game board 2. The rail member 17 is arranged along the periphery of the game board 2. The rail member 17 guides the game ball fired by the firing device 90 (FIG. 3) to the game area 3. An out port 19 is opened in the center of the lower part of the game board 2 for discharging game balls that have not won anywhere. The center decoration body 14 is arranged at the upper part of the game board 2. The center decoration body 14 has a translucent property, and a plurality of LEDs that light up or blink depending on the content of the performance are provided inside the center decoration body 14.
Further, the pachinko game machine 1 includes a movable body 15. The movable body 15 is arranged behind the center decorative body 14. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the movable body 15 is substantially hidden behind the center decorative body 14. The movable body 15 descends downward at a predetermined timing depending on the content of the performance, and is displaced to a state where it can be visually recognized by the player.

The effect display device 7 displays moving images and still images such as effect images, message images, and demonstration images. The player plays the game while viewing these images from the front of the pachinko game machine 1. The performance display device 7 variably displays a performance (decoration) pattern as a performance image in synchronization with the variable display of the special pattern. In this embodiment, the performance symbols are symbols representing arithmetic numbers 1 to 9. Note that the production symbols may include symbols representing things other than numbers, such as alphabets and special characters, or may be combined with symbols representing things other than numbers. In this embodiment, as areas where the performance display device 7 variably displays performance symbols, a left performance symbol display area, a middle performance symbol display area, and a right performance symbol display area are set in order from the left. A left performance symbol 9L is variably displayed in the left performance symbol display area, a middle performance symbol 9C is variably displayed in the middle performance symbol display area, and a right performance symbol 9R is displayed in the right performance symbol display area. Hereinafter, when explaining matters common to the left performance symbol display area, the middle performance symbol display area, and the right performance symbol display area, they will simply be referred to as the performance symbol display area.

In this embodiment, the main variation pattern (variation mode) of each production symbol is a variation pattern in which the numbers represented by the production symbols move from the top to the bottom of the screen in ascending order, that is, a variation pattern in which they scroll vertically. It is. As the variation pattern, it is also possible to use a horizontal scrolling method in which the effect symbols move from one side of the screen to the other, a method in which the effect symbols are sequentially displayed in ascending numerical order at the same display position, and the like. Further, the effect display device 7 displays a background image as a effect image in the background of each effect pattern. For example, the background image may be a moving image of a TV drama or a movie, an animated moving image of the moving image, an animation, a moving image original to a pachinko game machine manufacturer, or the like. In this embodiment, the effect display device 7 is a liquid crystal display device. Note that as the effect display device 7, an organic EL display device, a display device using dot matrix LEDs, etc. can also be used.
The performance display device 7 displays each performance symbol in a variable manner in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol, and at the same time as the special symbol is confirmed and displayed, each performance symbol is confirmed and displayed, and the jackpot determination result is displayed. Here, the fixed display is a stopped display state in which the performance symbols are completely stopped without shaking up and down or changing again.

Hereinafter, a performance pattern representing that the result of the jackpot determination was a jackpot will be referred to as a jackpot performance pattern, and a performance pattern representing that the result of the jackpot determination was a loss will be referred to as a loss performance pattern. In this embodiment, the jackpot effect design is a state in which each effect pattern represents the same number, that is, a so-called aligned state. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the left effect pattern 9L, middle effect pattern 9C, and right effect pattern 9R, which have been confirmed and displayed, are in a state where they are all "7", respectively. In addition, the losing effect design is a state in which each of the effect patterns represents the same number and is not aligned, that is, a pattern in which the numbers are not aligned. For example, the confirmed left effect pattern 9L is "7", the middle effect pattern 9C is "6", and the right effect pattern 9R is "7".
Hereinafter, the performance symbols displayed in a variable manner by the performance display device 7 in synchronization with the special symbols will be referred to as a performance symbol variation pattern, and the image displayed in the background of the performance symbol variation pattern will be referred to as a background image. The background image is a still image or a moving image.

The production symbol variation pattern is displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol variation pattern, and when the operation of the special symbol display device is suspended, the operation of the production display device 7 is also suspended. In other words, the number of pending operations on the special symbol display and the number of pending operations on the performance display device 7 match. In addition, the number of pending operations on the production display device 7 corresponding to the number of reserved special symbols and the number of pending operations on the production display device 7 corresponding to the second number of special symbols pending are displayed on the production display device 7 by a pending image. Ru. Therefore, by counting the number of pending images displayed on the effect display device 7, the player can know the number of reserved first special symbols and the number of reserved second special symbols, as well as the number of reserved first special symbols and the number of reserved special symbols. It is possible to know the number of pending operations of the effect display device 7 due to the number of second special symbols pending. Incidentally, the number of pending operations on the performance display device 7 may be notified to the player using a lamp or the like around the performance display device 7 without being displayed on the performance display device 7.

In addition to notifying the results of the jackpot determination based on the above-mentioned performance symbols, the pachinko gaming machine 1 also notifies the background image displayed on the performance display device 7, the sound output from the speaker 8, the lighting of the board lamp 2a, and the The results of the jackpot determination are announced using a combination of actions and the like. Specifically, various performances such as preview performances and reach performances fall under this category.

[Main electrical configuration of pachinko gaming machines]
Next, the main electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.
The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a main control board 60 (FIG. 3), a payout control board 73 (FIG. 3), a sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4), an image control board 200 (FIG. 4), and a lamp control board 79. (FIG. 4) and a voice control board 78 (FIG. 4).

As shown in FIG. 3, a one-chip microcomputer for game control (hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer for game control) 61 is mounted on the main control board 60. The game control microcomputer 61 includes a CPU 62, a ROM 63, a RAM 64, and an input/output circuit 65. The CPU 62 executes winning detection, jackpot determination, updating various random numbers, and the like. The ROM 63 contains computer programs executed by the CPU 62, a jackpot determination table Ta1 (FIG. 5), a jackpot type determination table Ta2 (FIG. 6), a reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 7), and a special pattern fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8). Various tables are stored, such as. The game control microcomputer 61 generates random numbers used in various determinations (lotteries), such as jackpot random numbers, jackpot type random numbers, reach random numbers, and variable pattern random numbers.

The RAM 64 is used as a work memory when the CPU 62 executes a computer program. Further, the RAM 64 is provided with a first special symbol reservation storage section 64a, a second special symbol reservation storage section 64b, and a regular symbol reservation storage section 64c. As shown in FIG. 9, the first special figure reservation storage section 64a includes first to fourth storage areas. In other words, the maximum number of reserved first special symbols that can be stored is four. Each storage area stores a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball entering the first starting slot 11 (FIG. 1). Ru. If the game ball enters the first starting slot 11 (Fig. 1) while the first special symbol display 51 (Fig. 2) is variably displaying the first special symbol, the first special The fluctuating display of symbols is temporarily suspended (operation suspended), and the jackpot random numbers etc. acquired due to the winning are stored in the first special symbol suspension storage section 64a.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10, the second special figure reservation storage section 64b includes first to fourth storage areas. In other words, the maximum number of second special symbols that can be stored is four. Each storage area stores a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball entering the second starting slot 22 (FIG. 1). Ru. If the game ball enters the second starting slot 22 (Fig. 1) while the second special symbol display 52 (Fig. 2) is variably displaying the second special symbol, the second special The fluctuating display of symbols is temporarily suspended (operation suspended), and the jackpot random number etc. acquired due to the winning are stored in the second special symbol suspension storage section 64b.

The jackpot random numbers and the like are stored in order from the first storage areas of the first special figure reservation storage section 64a and the second special figure reservation storage section 64b in the order of occurrence of operation reservation, that is, the order of acquisition by the game control microcomputer 61. Therefore, if jackpot random numbers etc. are stored in the first to fourth storage areas, the jackpot random numbers etc. stored in the fourth storage area are the latest information in terms of time, and are stored in the first storage area. The oldest information in terms of time is the jackpot random numbers. The jackpot random numbers and the like stored in each storage area are shifted one by one to the storage area with the older storage order each time the variable display of the special symbol is completed. For example, the jackpot random numbers stored in the second storage area are shifted to the first storage area. Further, the determination (lottery) based on the jackpot random numbers etc. stored in the first storage area is executed after the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display ends and before the next variable display begins.

The normal pattern holding storage unit 64c (FIG. 3) stores a normal winning random number (determines whether or not the normal pattern is a winning pattern) acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 due to the game ball passing through the gate 12 (FIG. 1). (Random numbers for drawing lots) are stored. When a game ball passes through the gate 12 while the normal symbol display 53 is variably displaying a normal symbol, the operation of the normal symbol display 53 due to its passage is temporarily suspended (operation pending), The normal winning random number obtained due to this is stored in the normal pattern reservation storage section 64c. The suspended fluctuating display of the normal symbols is performed after the currently being fluctuating display of the regular symbols ends. In this embodiment, the normal symbol reservation storage section 64c has a storage area for holding a total of 4 pieces, and the maximum number of stored operation pending pieces of the normal symbol display 53 is 4 pieces. Hereinafter, the number of stored normal symbol display units 53 for pending operation will be referred to as the number of pending symbols for normal symbols.

Further, a RAM clear switch 66 is mounted on the main control board 60. When the pachinko game machine 1 is started with the RAM clear switch 66 pressed, it initializes the RAM 64 and the RAM 120 (FIG. 4) of the sub-control board 100. In addition, displays 50 are electrically connected to the main control board 60 . Furthermore, the main control board 60 includes a first starting port sensor 11a, a second starting port sensor 22a, a gate sensor 12a, a big winning port sensor 32a, and a general winning port sensor 13a via a relay board 74. The electric chew solenoid 20a and the big prize opening solenoid 30a are electrically connected.

The first starting port sensor 11a is provided directly below the first starting port 11 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal indicating that the game ball has entered the first starting port 11 to the main control board 60. The second starting port sensor 22a is provided directly below the second starting port 22 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal indicating that the game ball has entered the second starting port 22 to the main control board 60. The gate sensor 12a is provided in the passage area of the game ball in the gate 12 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 12 to the main control board 60. The big winning hole sensor 32a is provided directly below the big winning hole 32 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal indicating that the game ball has entered the big winning hole 32 to the main control board 60. The general winning hole sensor 13a is provided directly below the general winning hole 13 (FIG. 1), and outputs a signal indicating that a game ball has entered the general winning hole 13 to the main control board 60.

The electric chew solenoid 20a drives the movable member 21 (FIG. 1) of the normal variable winning device 20 to open and close. The big prize opening solenoid 30a opens and closes the opening/closing member 31 (FIG. 1) of the big winning device 30.
Further, a rental ball payout device 80, a card unit 76, and a prize ball payout device 400 are electrically connected to the main control board 60 via a payout control board 73. The card unit 76 is provided adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1, and performs reading and writing of the balance on the prepaid card. The ball lending device 80 includes a ball lending motor 81 and a ball lending sensor 82. The ball lending motor 81 drives a member that puts out game balls as rental balls, and the ball lending sensor 82 sends a signal indicating that a game ball has been put out by the member to the main control board via the putting out control board 73. Output to 60. The game control microcomputer 61 counts the number of rental balls put out by the rental ball payout device 80 based on the signal output from the payout control board 73. When the ball lending button (not shown) is operated when the prepaid card inserted in the card unit 76 has a balance greater than the minimum payout balance recorded, the ball lending device 80 is activated. A minimum unit number of rental balls is delivered to the batted ball supply tray 24.

The prize ball payout device 400 includes a prize ball motor 401 and a prize ball sensor 402. The prize ball motor 401 drives a member that puts out a game ball as a prize ball, and the prize ball sensor 402 sends a signal indicating that a game ball has been put out by the member to the main control board via a payout control board 73. Output to 60. The game control microcomputer 61 counts the number of prize balls put out by the prize ball payout device 400 based on the signal output from the payout control board 73.
Further, a firing device 90 is electrically connected to the main control board 60 via a firing control circuit 75. The firing device 90 includes a firing motor 91, a touch switch 92, and a firing volume 93. The firing motor 91 drives a hitting mallet (not shown) that hits and fires a game ball. The touch switch 92 outputs a signal indicating that the player has touched the handle 4. The firing volume 93 adjusts the strength with which the hammer hits the game ball according to the amount of rotation of the firing lever 4a (FIG. 1).

The pachinko game machine 1 also includes a power supply board 70. The power supply board 70 supplies power to the main control board 60 and the payout control board 73. Further, the power supply board 70 supplies power via the payout control board 73 to each device electrically connected to the payout control board 73. Further, the power supply board 70 supplies power from the main control board 60 via the relay board 74 to each sensor and solenoid electrically connected to the relay board 74 . Further, the power supply board 70 supplies power to the display devices 50 electrically connected to the main control board 60 via the main control board 60 .
A backup power supply circuit 71 is provided on the power supply board 70 . The backup power supply circuit 71 supplies power necessary for holding information to the RAM 64 of the main control board 60 and the like when power is not supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the outside. A power switch 72 for turning on and off a main power supply that supplies power to the power supply board 70 is electrically connected to the power supply board 70 .

The main control board 60 transmits various commands to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4). Although the main control board 60 can send commands to the sub control board 100, the sub control board 100 cannot send commands to the main control board 60. In other words, communication between the main control board 60 and the sub-control board 100 is unidirectional communication in which only transmission from the main control board 60 to the sub-control board 100 is possible.

As shown in FIG. 4, a one-chip microcomputer for performance control (hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer for performance control) 101 is mounted on the sub-control board 100. The production control microcomputer 101 includes a CPU 102, a ROM 110, a RAM 120, and an input/output circuit 103. The CPU 102 controls the performance along with the game. The ROM 110 stores various tables such as an effect selection table Ta5 in addition to a computer program for the CPU 102 to control effects. RAM 120 is used as a work memory when CPU 102 executes a computer program. Further, the RAM 120 is provided with a first special symbol pending performance storage section 121, a second special symbol pending performance storage section 122, and a variation performance storage section 123. Note that the production control microcomputer 101 is an example of a control means of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 11, the first special symbol reservation performance storage section 121 has four storage areas consisting of first to fourth storage areas, and each storage area is configured to hold the first special symbol outputted from the main control board 60. Memorizes startup winning commands, etc. The first starting winning command is a command that includes a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a variable pattern random number, and a reach random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 when the game ball enters the first starting slot 11.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12, the second special figure reservation performance storage section 122 has four storage areas consisting of first to fourth storage areas, and each storage area is output from the main control board 60. Stores the second start winning command, etc. The second starting winning command is a command that includes a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a fluctuation pattern random number, and a reach random number acquired by the game control microcomputer 61 when the game ball enters the second starting slot 22.
The variation performance storage unit 123 stores a first start winning command or a second start winning command used for the variation of the variation performance pattern.
The input/output circuit 103 transmits or receives data with each board connected to the sub-control board 100.

An image control board 200 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 100. The image control board 200 includes an image control CPU 202, a VDP 201 (Video Display Processor), a control ROM 203, a control RAM 204, a CGROM (Character Generator Read Only Memory) 205, and a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) 206. has been implemented. The image control CPU 202 controls the effect display device 7 to display effect images such as a variable effect pattern, a button effect image, a lever effect image, and a preview image. The control ROM 203 stores a computer program for the image control CPU 202 to control the effect display device 7. The control RAM 204 is used as a work memory when the image control CPU 202 executes a computer program. The CGROM 205 stores image data for the effect display device 7 to display effect images. The VDP 201 reads image data from the CGROM 205 in accordance with a display list created by the image control CPU 202, and develops the read image data in a development area in the VRAM 206. Then, the VDP 201 combines the image data developed in the VRAM 206 and stores the combined image data in a frame buffer in the VRAM 206. Then, the VDP 201 converts the image data stored in the frame buffer in the VRAM 206 into RGB signals and outputs them to the effect display device 7. Thereby, the effect display device 7 displays the effect image. The CGROM 205 is an example of the effect storage means of the present invention.

A left side lamp 23a, a right side lamp 23b, and a panel lamp 2a are electrically connected to the sub-control board 100 via a lamp control board 79. The performance control microcomputer 101 uses data stored in the ROM 110 to create light emission pattern data that determines the light emission mode of each lamp, and transmits the light emission pattern data to the lamp control board 79. Then, the lamp control board 79 controls the light emission of each lamp according to the received light emission pattern data. Note that the left side lamp 23a, right side lamp 23b, board lamp 2a, presentation button lamp, and lamp control board 79 are examples of presentation means of the present invention.
The movable body 15 is electrically connected to the lamp control board 79 via the relay board 77 . A device (not shown) for operating the movable body 15 is connected to the movable body 15, and a movable body motor (not shown) for driving the device is connected to the device. . The production control microcomputer 101 creates motion pattern data for determining the motion pattern of the movable body 15 using data stored in the ROM 110, and transmits the motion pattern data to the lamp control board 79. Then, the lamp control board 79 that has received the operation pattern data drives the movable body motor via the relay board 77 according to the operation pattern, thereby controlling the operation of the movable body 15.

Each speaker 8 is electrically connected to the sub-control board 100 via an audio control board 78. The voice control board 78 is equipped with a voice control CPU (not shown), a voice data ROM (not shown), a voice synthesis circuit (not shown), and an amplifier (not shown). . The audio data ROM stores audio data for each speaker 8 to output sounds such as music and sound effects. The audio control CPU reads audio data from the audio data ROM based on commands received from the sub-control board 100, and outputs the read audio data to the audio synthesis circuit. The voice synthesis circuit synthesizes input voice data, converts the synthesized voice data into an analog voice signal, and outputs the analog voice signal to the amplifier. The amplifier amplifies the input audio signal and outputs it to each speaker 8. Then, each speaker 8 outputs the sound indicated by the input audio signal.

Further, to the sub-control board 100, a production button detection switch 9a, a production lever push detection switch 6g, a production lever rotation detection switch 6h, a production button vibration motor 9b, and a production lever vibration motor 6d are electrically connected. has been done. The performance button detection switch 9a outputs a signal indicating that the performance button 9 has been pressed to the sub-control board 100, and the performance control microcomputer 101 detects the button performance based on the signal input from the performance button detection switch 9a. Execute. The production lever push detection switch 6g outputs a signal indicating that the production lever 6 has been pressed to the sub-control board 100, and the production control microcomputer 101, based on the signal input from the production lever push detection switch 6g, A lever performance to be performed when a performance lever 6 is pushed is executed. The production lever rotation detection switch 6h outputs a signal indicating that the production lever 6 has been rotated to the sub-control board 100, and the production control microcomputer 101, based on the signal input from the production lever rotation detection switch 6h, A lever performance performed when a performance lever 6 is rotated is executed.

The performance button vibration motor 9b is a member that vibrates the performance button 9, and is housed inside the performance button 9. The production lever vibration motor 6d is a member that vibrates the production lever 6, and is provided at a portion in contact with the production lever 6 or inside the production lever 6. The ROM 110 stores operation pattern data that determines the operation pattern of the production button vibration motor 9b and operation pattern data that determines the operation pattern of the production lever vibration motor 6d. The performance control microcomputer 101 reads operation pattern data from the ROM 110 when the performance timing for vibrating the performance button 9 comes, and drives and controls the performance button vibration motor 9b based on the read operation pattern data. Further, the performance control microcomputer 101 reads operation pattern data from the ROM 110 when the performance timing for vibrating the performance lever 6 comes, and drives and controls the performance lever vibration motor 6d based on the read operation pattern data.

[Explanation of gaming status]
Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be explained. The special symbol display device and the normal symbol display device 53 of the pachinko game machine 1 are each provided with a probability variation function and a variation time shortening function. A state in which the probability variation function of the special symbol display is activated is referred to as a "high probability state," and a state in which it is not activated is referred to as a "normal probability state (non-high probability state)." In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the normal probability state.
In addition, a state in which the variable time reduction function of the special symbol display is activated is referred to as a "time reduction state", and a state in which it is not activated is referred to as a "non-time reduction state". In the time saving state, the variation time of the special symbol (the time required from the start of the variable display to the final display) is shorter than in the non-time saving state.

The probability variation function and variation time reduction function of the special symbol display may operate at the same time, or only one may operate. The probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 53 operate in synchronization with the variation time shortening function of the special symbol display. That is, the probability variation function and variation time reduction function of the normal symbol display 53 operate in the time saving state and do not operate in the non-time saving state. Therefore, in the time-saving state, the probability of being determined to be a hit in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, when the probability variation function of the normal symbol display 53 is activated, compared to when it is not activated, the normal symbol displayed by the normal symbol display 53 is a normal winning symbol (determined as a win in the normal symbol lottery). The probability of becoming a normal symbol indicating that it has been done is high.

In addition, in the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter than in the non-time saving state. For example, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 10 seconds in the non-time saving state, but it is 1 second in the time saving state. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, the open time of the normal variable prize winning device 20 is longer than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, the open time extension function of the normal variable winning device 20 is operating. For example, the opening time of the normal variable winning device 20 in the non-time saving state is 0.5 seconds, and the opening time of the normal variable winning device 20 in the time saving state is 3 seconds. In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the normal variable winning device 20 is opened in the auxiliary game is greater than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, the function of increasing the number of openings of the normal variable winning device 20 is operating. The auxiliary game is a game in which the second starting port 22 is opened and closed in an opening pattern according to the current game state when the confirmed and displayed normal symbol is a predetermined specific normal symbol.

In a situation where the probability variation function and variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 53 and the opening time extension function and opening number increase function of the normal variable winning device 20 are operating, if these functions are not operating. Compared to this, the variable winning device 20 is normally opened frequently, and game balls enter the second starting port 22 frequently. As a result, the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of shot balls increases, so the player can aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls he has. In addition, in this way, under the situation where the probability variation function and the variation time shortening function of the normal symbol display 53 and the opening time extension function and opening number increase function of the normal variable winning device 20 are operating, the normal variable winning prize is activated. The control that supports winning to the second starting port 22 by the device 20 is called electric support control.
In the pachinko game machine 1 of the present embodiment, the gaming state after the jackpot game after winning in a variable probability jackpot described later is a high-probability state and a time-saving state in which electric support control is performed. This gaming state ends once a jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed, and if the jackpot won is again a probability variable jackpot, the high probability state is restarted.

In addition, when a normal jackpot is won, the gaming state after the jackpot game ends is an electric support control and a normal probability state and a time saving state. This gaming state ends when the variable display of special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 50 times), or when a jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed.
When playing the pachinko game machine 1 for the first time, the gaming state after the power is turned on is a normal probability state and a non-time-saving state, with no electric support control being performed.
In addition, in this embodiment, a lottery for c time saving (sudden time saving) is also carried out by drawing a special symbol, and when the gaming machine is in a normal probability state and a non-time saving state (however, the final change in time saving may be included), c time saving is also performed. If the player wins, the game shifts to the normal probability state and time saving state when the next special symbol starts changing without going through the jackpot game. In this c-time saving game state, the variable display of special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 1000 times) which is sufficiently larger than the jackpot denominator in the normal probability, or the jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed. The process ends when the process is completed.
Furthermore, if the gaming machine is in a normal probability state and a non-time saving state, and the number of changes of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 900 times) without winning a jackpot or winning the above c time saving state (however, if the gaming machine is in a high probability state (The number of fluctuations is not counted), the state shifts to the normal probability state and the time saving state (b time saving, play time) with the start of the next special symbol fluctuation without going through the jackpot game. In this b-time saving game state, the variable display of special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 1000 times) which is sufficiently larger than the jackpot denominator in the normal probability, or the jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed. The process ends when the process is completed.

[Jackpot determination table]
The jackpot determination table Ta1 shown in FIG. 5 is a table that the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 3) refers to when executing a jackpot determination as to whether or not it is a jackpot. The jackpot determination table Ta1 is configured by associating the type of lottery (special drawing 1 drawing or special drawing drawing 2), gaming state, and jackpot random number. The jackpot random number is a predetermined random number selected from the jackpot random numbers generated by the jackpot random number counter. A computer program for operating the jackpot random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the jackpot random number counter operates and a jackpot random number is generated. The jackpot random number counter may utilize a random number generation circuit such as a counter IC. In this embodiment, the jackpot random number counter counts a total of 65,536 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 65,535. In other words, a total of 65,536 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 65,535 are generated. In this embodiment, a total of 205 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 204 are set in the jackpot determination table Ta1 as jackpot random numbers when the gaming state is the normal probability state. If the jackpot random number obtained from the jackpot random number counter is one of 0 to 204 when the gaming state is in the normal probability state, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in the jackpot determination, and selects a jackpot from 0 to 65535. If the number is outside of 0 to 204, it is determined that it is not a jackpot, that is, a loss. In addition, if it is determined that the lottery for special drawing 1 is a loss, and especially if the jackpot random number obtained from the jackpot random number counter is one of 205 to 249, the winning to c time saving (to the time saving gaming state) transition).

However, even if it is determined that you have won c-time saving, the transition to c-time saving will only occur if you are in a non-work-saving state, and if you are in a working-time saving state, even if you win c-time saving. Even if there is, it is controlled so as not to shift to c time reduction (that is, it is substantially equivalent to losing). Incidentally, in the case of a time saving state, a special table may be used in which winnings for c time saving are excluded so as not to win c time saving in the first place. However, in the exceptional case where c-time saving is won in the final variation of time-saving, the shift may be made to shift to c-time saving from the next variation.

Further, in this embodiment, a total of 2031 jackpot random numbers from 0 to 2030 are set in the jackpot determination table Ta1 as jackpot random numbers when the gaming state is a high probability state. That is, more jackpot random numbers are set than in the normal probability state, and the probability of a jackpot being determined in the jackpot determination is higher than in the normal probability state. If the jackpot random number obtained from the jackpot random number counter when the gaming state is in a high probability state is one of 0 to 2030, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in the jackpot determination, and selects a jackpot from 0 to 65535. If the value is outside of 0 to 2030, it is determined that it is not a jackpot, that is, a loss.

[Jackpot type determination table]
The jackpot type determination table Ta2 shown in FIG. 6 is a table that the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 3) refers to when determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot. The jackpot type determination table Ta2 is configured by associating the lottery type (special drawing 1 lottery or special drawing 2 lottery) with the jackpot type random number. The jackpot type random number is a predetermined random number selected from the jackpot type random numbers generated by the jackpot type random number counter. A computer program for operating the jackpot type random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the jackpot type random number counter operates and a jackpot type random number is generated. The jackpot type random number counter may utilize a random number generation circuit such as a counter IC. In this embodiment, the jackpot type random number counter counts a total of 10 jackpot type random numbers from 0 to 9. That is, a total of 10 jackpot type random numbers from 0 to 9 are generated. In the pachinko game machine 1 of this embodiment, the types of jackpots include "5R normal jackpot", "10R normal jackpot", "5R probability variable jackpot", and "10R probability variable jackpot". In the pachinko gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 6, in the lottery of the first special symbol (the lottery of special symbol 1), if the jackpot type random number is a value within the range of 0 to 2, it is a "5R normal jackpot". If it is 3, it is determined that you have won the "10R regular jackpot", if the value is within the range of 4 to 8, it is determined that you have won the "5R certain strange jackpot", and if it is 9, it is determined that you have won the "5R probability strange jackpot". If so, it is determined that the "10R surefire jackpot" has been won. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery (special symbol 2 lottery), if the jackpot type random number is a value within the range of 0 to 1, it is determined that the "5R normal jackpot" has been won, and the value is within the range of 2 to 3. If the value is within the range, it is determined that you have won the "10R regular jackpot", if the value is within the range of 4 to 6, it is determined that you have won the "5R probability variable jackpot", and if the value is within the range of 7 to 9. If it is the value, it is determined that the "10R surefire jackpot" has been won.

[Reach judgment table]
The reach determination table Ta3 shown in FIG. 7 is used when the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 3) determines whether to select a special pattern variation pattern in which a reach appears when the result of jackpot determination is a loss. This is the table to be referenced. Here, reach is a state in which there is only one special symbol remaining that is being displayed in a variable manner out of multiple special symbols, and it depends on which special symbol that is being displayed in a variable manner is confirmed to be displayed. This is a situation in which a combination of special symbols indicates a jackpot. In addition, reach is a state in which there is only one remaining performance symbol among the performance symbols that are variably displayed in the plurality of display areas of the performance display device 7, and the variably displayed This is a state in which a jackpot effect pattern combination is created depending on which effect pattern is decidedly displayed.
For example, when one of the combinations of jackpot effect symbols is "777", "7" is definitely displayed as the left effect symbol 9L in the left effect symbol display area, and as the right effect symbol 9R in the right effect symbol display area. This is a state in which "7" is displayed as a fixed number, and the medium effect symbol 9C is displayed in a variable manner in the medium effect symbol display area. In addition, the concept of reach includes a state in which the middle effect pattern 9C is scrolling, a state in which it is swaying, a state in which it repeats enlargement and reduction, and the like.

The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not to select a special symbol fluctuation pattern in which a reach appears when the result of jackpot determination is a loss. The reach determination table Ta3 is configured by correlating gaming states and reach random numbers. The reach random number is a predetermined random number selected from among the reach random numbers generated by the reach random number counter. In this embodiment, the reach random number counter counts a total of 256 reach random numbers from 0 to 255. In other words, a total of 256 reach random numbers from 0 to 256 are generated. A computer program for operating the reach random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the reach random number counter operates and a reach random number is generated. In this embodiment, a total of 28 reach random numbers from 0 to 27 are set as the reach random numbers when the gaming state is the non-time saving state. If the reach random number obtained from the reach random number counter is one of 0 to 27 when the gaming state is in the non-time saving state, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that there is a reach in the reach determination, and selects a reach from 0 to 255. If it is other than 0 to 27, it is determined that there is no reach.

Further, in this embodiment, a total of 12 reach random numbers from 0 to 11 are set as the reach random numbers when the gaming state is the time saving state. If the reach random number obtained from the reach random number counter is one of 0 to 11 when the game state is in the time saving state, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that there is a reach in the reach judgment, and selects a reach from 0 to 255. If the value is other than 0 to 11, it is determined that there is no reach.
The reach random number that is determined to be reachable is set smaller in the time-saving state than in the non-time-saving state. As a result, in the time-saving state, the probability that it is determined that there is a reach is lower than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, since the probability of determining that there is no reach increases, the probability of selecting a special symbol variation pattern without reach increases accordingly when selecting a special symbol variation pattern. Therefore, in the time saving state, the pace at which the reserved number of special drawings is consumed becomes faster.

Incidentally, FIG. 7 basically shows a reach determination table corresponding to the first special symbol. The reach determination table corresponding to the second special symbol may have the same contents as the first special symbol, or may be a different table.

[Special figure fluctuation pattern selection table]
The special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 shown in FIG. 8 is a table that the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 3) refers to when determining the special figure variation pattern by lottery. The special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 corresponds to the gaming state, the judgment (jackpot judgment and reach judgment) result, the number of special figures on hold, the random number of fluctuation patterns, the special figure fluctuation pattern, the fluctuation time, and the stop time. It is configured with Note that the jackpot type may be associated with the jackpot type. The variable effect pattern in the special figure variable pattern selection table Ta4 is a variable effect pattern that is variably displayed by the effect display device 7 in response to the selected special figure variable pattern, and is described for reference. The fluctuation pattern random number is a predetermined random number selected from among the fluctuation pattern random numbers generated by the fluctuation pattern random number counter. In this embodiment, the variable pattern random number counter counts a total of 100 variable pattern random numbers from 0 to 99. That is, a total of 100 fluctuation pattern random numbers from 0 to 99 are generated. A computer program for operating the variable pattern random number counter is stored in the ROM 63, and when the CPU 62 executes the computer program, the variable pattern random number counter operates and generates variable pattern random numbers.

If the gaming state is in a non-time-saving state and the jackpot judgment is determined to be a jackpot, and the fluctuation pattern random number obtained from the fluctuation pattern random number counter is one of 0 to 94, the special drawing will be played regardless of the number of reserved special drawings. Fluctuation pattern P1 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P1 will be selected is 95%. Further, when the random number of the fluctuation pattern is one of 95 to 99, the special figure fluctuation pattern P2 is selected regardless of the number of reserved balls. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P2 will be selected is 5%. The variation time of the special symbol variation pattern P1 is 400,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol, that is, the time during which the special symbol is permanently displayed is 500 ms. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P2 is 150,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P1 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays SP (super) reach, which has evolved from the reach state, as the change effect pattern. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P2 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the normal reach as the variable effect pattern.

In addition, if it is determined that the gaming state is a non-time saving state and it is determined that there is a reach, and it is determined that there is a reach in the reach judgment, in other words, it is a case that there is a reach and a loss, the fluctuation pattern random number obtained from the fluctuation pattern random number counter is any one of 0 to 9, the special figure fluctuation pattern P3 is selected regardless of the number of reserved special figures. That is, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P3 is selected is 10%. Further, if the random number of the fluctuation pattern is any one of 10 to 99, the special figure fluctuation pattern P4 is selected regardless of the number of reserved balls. In other words, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P4 is selected is 90%. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P3 is 400,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P4 is 150,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. Moreover, when the special figure variation pattern P3 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the SP ready-to-win state developed from the ready-to-reach state as a variable effect pattern. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P4 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the normal reach as the variable effect pattern.

In addition, if the game state is determined to be a loss when the game is in a non-time saving state, and it is determined that there is no reach in the reach judgment, in other words, it is a case of a loss with no reach, and the number of reserved special drawings is 0 to 2. If there is, and the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is one of 0 to 99, special figure variation pattern P5 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P5 is selected is 100%. Further, when the number of reserved special figures is 3 to 4 and the variable pattern random number obtained from the variable pattern random number counter is any one of 0 to 99, the special figure variable pattern P6 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P6 is selected is 100%. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P5 is 10,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P6 is 5,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P5 or the special figure variation pattern P6 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the normal variation as the variable effect pattern.

If a jackpot is determined when the gaming state is in the time saving state, and the fluctuation pattern random number obtained from the fluctuation pattern random number counter is one of 0 to 99, the special pattern fluctuation pattern P11 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P11 is selected is 100%. In addition, if it is determined that the gaming state is a time-saving state, and it is determined that there is a reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of a loss with a reach, the fluctuating pattern random number obtained from the fluctuating pattern random number counter is If it is any one of 0 to 99, the special figure fluctuation pattern P12 is selected regardless of the number of reserved special figures. In other words, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P12 is selected is 100%. The fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation pattern P11 and the special symbol fluctuation pattern P12 is each 400,000 ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500 ms each. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P11 or the special figure variation pattern P12 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the SP ready-to-win that has evolved from the ready-to-win state as a variable effect pattern.

Also, if it is determined that you have lost when the gaming state is in the time saving state, and it is determined that there is no reach in the reach determination, that is, in the case of a no reach loss, the number of reserved special drawings is 0 to 1. , when the variation pattern random number obtained from the variation pattern random number counter is one of 0 to 99, the special figure variation pattern P13 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure fluctuation pattern P13 will be selected is 100%. Further, when the number of reserved special figures is 2 to 4 and the variable pattern random number obtained from the variable pattern random number counter is one of 0 to 99, the special figure variable pattern P14 is selected. In other words, the probability that the special figure variation pattern P14 is selected is 100%. The variation time of the special symbol variation pattern P13 is 10,000ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. The variation time of the special symbol variation pattern P14 is 2,500ms, and the stop time of the special symbol is 500ms. Further, when the special figure variation pattern P13 or the special figure variation pattern P14 is selected, the effect display device 7 displays the normal variation as the variable effect pattern.

As mentioned above, in a non-time-saving state, the probability that the development to SP reach is selected is 95% if it is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination, but if it is determined to be a loss in the jackpot determination and there is a reach. If it is determined that the percentage is 10%. In addition, the probability that normal reach is selected in the non-time saving state is 5% if it is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot judgment, but if it is judged to be a loss in the jackpot judgment and it is judged to be reachable. is 90%.
In other words, when the performance display device 7 develops to SP reach as a variable performance pattern, there is a high possibility that a jackpot will occur. In other words, SP reach is a fluctuating performance pattern in which the degree of expectation for the occurrence of a jackpot is higher than in the case of normal reach.

Incidentally, FIG. 8 basically shows a special symbol variation pattern selection table corresponding to the first special symbol. The special symbol variation pattern selection table corresponding to the second special symbol may have the same contents as the first special symbol, or may be a different table.

[Main processing of the game control microcomputer 61]
Next, the main processes executed by the game control microcomputer 61 (FIG. 3) will be explained with reference to the drawings.
(Main side main control processing)
First, the contents of the main-side main control process executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 13 showing it.
When the power of the pachinko game machine 1 is turned on, the game control microcomputer 61 reads out and executes a computer program for the main control process shown in FIG. 13 from the ROM 63 (FIG. 3). The game control microcomputer 61 first performs initial settings (step (hereinafter abbreviated as S) 1). This initial setting includes, for example, stack settings, constant settings, interrupt time settings, CPU 62 settings, SIO (System Input/Output), PIO (Parallel Input/Output), CTC (Counter/Timer Circuit: Interrupt Performs settings such as time management circuits) and resets various flags, counters, timers, etc. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes interrupt prohibition (S2) and executes normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing (S3). In this normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the initial values of the random number counters that generate the aforementioned jackpot random number, jackpot type random number, reach random number, and variable pattern random number are each updated by adding "1". When the count value of each random number counter reaches the upper limit, it returns to "0" and is incremented by "1" again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0" or may be changed randomly. Alternatively, the count value of each random number counter may be updated by adding a value of "2" or more. Further, each random number may be a so-called hardware random number generated using a known random number generation circuit including a counter IC or the like. If this hardware random number is used, there is no need for software to update the random number (S3).

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes interrupt permission (S4). While interrupts are enabled, main side timer interrupt processing (S5) can be executed. The main-side timer interrupt process (S5) is executed, for example, based on an interrupt pulse input to the CPU 62 at a cycle of 4 msec. In other words, it is executed at a cycle of 4 msec. Then, after the main side timer interrupt process (S5) ends and before the next main side timer interrupt process (S5) starts, the normal symbol / special symbol main random number update process (S3) Initial value update processing for various counters is executed. Note that if an interrupt pulse is input to the CPU 62 in the interrupt disabled state, the main side timer interrupt processing (S5) will not start immediately, but will start after interrupt permission (S4) is executed. Ru.

(Main side timer interrupt processing)
Next, the contents of the main side timer interrupt process (S5 in FIG. 13) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 14 showing it.
The game control microcomputer 61 executes output processing (S10). In this output process, commands set in the output buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) of the main control board 60 are transferred to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4) and the payout control board 73 (FIG. 3) in each process described below. 3) Output to etc. In particular, in this embodiment, a normal pattern fluctuation start command is used to indicate that the normal pattern has started to change when the normal pattern has started to change, and a normal pattern fluctuation start command to indicate that the special pattern has started to change when the special pattern has started to change. It also outputs the special figure fluctuation start command. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes input processing (S11). In this input processing, various sensors installed in the pachinko game machine 1 (first starting port sensor 11a, second starting port sensor 22a, big prize opening sensor 32a, gate sensor 12a, etc. (FIG. 3)) detect the Read each detected signal. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a timer update process (S12). In this timer update process, a subtraction counter operating as a timer is updated (subtracted). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes prize ball control processing (S13). In this prize ball control process, a payout command for paying out a prize ball according to the type of winning hole is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 based on the detection signals of various sensors read in the input process (S11). The payout command is a command output to the payout control board 73. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing (S14). This normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process is the same as the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S3) executed in the main side main control process of FIG. In other words, the process of updating the initial value of each random number counter is performed during the execution period of the main side timer interrupt process (S5) and during the other period (after the end of the main side timer interrupt process (S5), the next main side timer interrupt process is performed). This is done both during the period until the start of the processing (S5).

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 performs a starting port sensor detection process (S15), a normal operation process (S16), a special symbol standby process (S17), a special symbol variation process (S18), and other processes (S19), which will be described later. is executed, and the main side timer interrupt processing (S5) is ended. Other processes (S19) include security control processing to detect and notify fraudulent winnings, magnetic detection processing to detect and notify fraudulent activities using magnetism, and detection of opening of the front frame 18 (Fig. 1) and inner frame. These include a door opening process that uses radio waves to detect and notify a fraudulent act, a fraudulent radio wave detection process that uses radio waves to detect and notify a fraudulent act, and a shock detection process that detects and notifies a fraudulent act that causes the pachinko game machine 1 to vibrate. Then, until the next interrupt pulse is input to the CPU 62, the processes of S2 to S4 of the main side main control process are repeatedly executed (FIG. 13), and when the interrupt pulse is input (after about 4 msec), the process is repeated again. Main side timer interrupt processing (S5) is executed. In the output process (S10) of the main side timer interrupt process (S5) executed again, the commands etc. set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) in the previous main side timer interrupt process (S5) are Output to the board.

(Starting port sensor detection processing)
Next, the contents of the starting port sensor detection process (S15 in FIG. 14) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 15 showing it.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether the game ball has passed through the gate 12 (FIG. 1) (S20), and if it is determined that it has passed (S20: Yes), executes gate passage processing (S21). ). In this gate passage process, it is determined whether the number of reserved symbols is 4 or more, and if the number of reserved symbols is not 4 or more, "1" is added to the number of reserved symbols, and a lottery of normal symbols is performed. Performs processing to obtain and store winning random numbers.

Further, in S20, if it is determined that the game ball has not passed through the gate 12 (S20: No), it is determined whether the game ball has entered the second starting port 22 (FIG. 1) (S22). . Here, if it is determined that the game ball has entered the second starting slot 22 (S22: Yes), it is determined whether or not the second special drawing reservation number U2 has reached the upper limit "4" (S23) . Here, if it is determined that the second special figure reservation number U2 has reached "4" (S23: Yes), the process proceeds to S28, but if the second special figure reservation number U2 has not reached "4" If it is determined (S23: No), 1 is added to the second special figure reservation number U2 (S24). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second special figure related random number acquisition process (S25). In this second special figure related random number acquisition process, the jackpot random number counted by the jackpot random number counter, the jackpot type random number counted by the jackpot type random number counter, the reach random number counted by the reach random number counter, and the fluctuation pattern random number counter counted A fluctuation pattern random number is acquired, and each of the acquired random numbers is stored in a storage area corresponding to the current second special symbol reservation number in the second special symbol reservation storage section 64b (FIG. 10). For example, when the current number of second special symbols on hold is "3", each random number is stored in the fourth storage area.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second start winning command creation process (S26). In this second starting winning command creation process, a second starting winning command is created based on each random number group stored in the second special figure pending storage section 64b in S25. This second starting prize winning command is composed of data indicating that the game ball has entered the second starting hole, data indicating each random number stored in the second special figure reservation storage section 64b in S25, and the like. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the second start winning command created in S26 to the output buffer of the RAM 64 (S27). This set second start winning command is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4) in the output process (S10 in FIG. 14), and the performance control microcomputer 101 is based on each random number included in the second starting winning command. and execute the performance.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether the game ball has entered the first starting hole 11 (FIG. 1) (S28). Here, if it is determined that the game ball has entered the first starting slot 11 (S28: Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reservation number U1 has reached the upper limit "4" (S29) . Here, if it is determined that the first special figure reservation number U1 has reached "4" (S29: Yes), this starting port sensor detection process is terminated, but the first special figure reservation number U1 is "4". If it is determined that the number has not been reached (S29: No), 1 is added to the first special symbol reservation number U1 (S30). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special figure related random number acquisition process (S31). In this first special figure related random number acquisition process, a jackpot random number, a jackpot type random number, a reach random number, and a fluctuation pattern random number are acquired, and each of the acquired random numbers is stored in the first special figure reservation storage section 64a (FIG. 9). Among them, it is stored in a storage area according to the current number of first reserved special symbols. For example, if the current number of reserved first special symbols is "3", each random number is stored in the fourth storage area.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first start winning command creation process (S32). In this first starting winning command specifying process, a first starting winning command is created based on each random number group stored in the first special figure pending storage section 64a in S31. This first starting prize winning command is composed of data indicating that the game ball has won in the first starting hole 11, data indicating each random number stored in the first special figure reservation storage section 64a in S31, etc. Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the first start winning command created in S32 to the output buffer of the RAM 64 (S33). This set first start winning command is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4) in the output process (S10 in FIG. 14), and the performance control microcomputer 101 is based on each random number included in the first starting winning command. and execute the performance.

(Normal operation processing)
Next, the contents of the normal operation process (S16 in FIG. 14) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained.
The game control microcomputer 61 adds the number of reserved ordinary symbols, displays the fluctuation of the ordinary symbols on the ordinary symbol display 53, determines whether the ordinary symbol is a hit or not, and performs normal variable control when the result of the hit determination is a hit. Processes such as opening and closing operations of the winning device 20 are performed.

(Special design standby processing)
Next, the contents of the special symbol standby process (S17 in FIG. 14) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 16 showing it.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the second special figure reservation number U2 is "0" (S40), and if it is determined that it is not "0" (S40: No), the second The special figure jackpot determination process (FIG. 17) is executed (S41). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second special symbol variation pattern selection process (FIGS. 18 and 19), which will be described later (S42). Next, the game control microcomputer 61 subtracts "1" from the second special figure reservation number U2 (S43), and each number stored in each storage area of the second special figure reservation storage section 64b (FIG. 10) is The data is shifted one by one to the storage area with the oldest storage order, that is, the side to be read (S44). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a second special symbol fluctuation start process (S45). In other words, the second special symbol display 52 displays the second special symbol in the order in which the game control microcomputer 61 executes the jackpot judgment based on the jackpot random number stored in the second special symbol reservation storage section 64b (FIG. 10). Performs variable display. Moreover, each time the second special symbol display device 52 performs a variable display of the second special symbol, each data stored in each storage area of the second special symbol reservation storage section 64b is stored in the oldest memory order. Shifted to storage area.
In this second special symbol variation start process, a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64, and variable display of the second special symbol is started. The fluctuation start command set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 includes the data of the special pattern stop symbol set in the second special pattern jackpot determination process (FIG. 17), which will be described later, and the second special pattern fluctuation pattern selection process (FIGS. 18 and 17). Contains the data of the special figure fluctuation pattern set in 19).

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the second special figure reservation number U2 is "0" in S40 (S40: Yes), the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether the first special figure reservation number U1 is "0". It is determined whether or not (S46), and if it is determined that it is not "0" (S46: No), a first special drawing jackpot determination process (FIG. 17) to be described later is executed (S47). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special symbol variation pattern selection process (FIGS. 18 and 19), which will be described later (S48). Next, the game control microcomputer 61 subtracts "1" from the first special figure reservation number U1 (S49), and each number stored in each storage area of the first special figure reservation storage section 64a (FIG. 9) is The data is shifted one by one to the storage area with the older storage order, that is, the side to be read (S50). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a first special symbol fluctuation start process (S51). In other words, the first special symbol display 51 displays the first special symbols in the order in which the game control microcomputer 61 executes the jackpot judgment based on the jackpot random number stored in the first special symbol reservation storage section 64a (FIG. 9). Performs variable display. Moreover, each time the first special symbol display 51 performs a variable display of the first special symbol, each data stored in each storage area of the first special symbol reservation storage section 64a is stored in the older one. Shifted to storage area.
In this first special symbol variation start process, a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 to start variable display of the first special symbol. The fluctuation start command set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 includes the data of the special pattern stop symbol set in the first special pattern jackpot determination process (FIG. 17), which will be described later, and the first special pattern fluctuation pattern selection process (FIGS. 18 and 17). Contains data of the fluctuation pattern set in step 19).

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the first special symbol pending number U1 is "0" in S46 (S46: Yes), the effect display device 7 displays the standby screen (demonstration screen for waiting for customers). ) is displayed (S52). Here, if it is determined that the standby screen is being displayed (S52: Yes), this special symbol standby process is ended, and if it is determined that the standby screen is not being displayed (S52: No), the standby screen Setting processing is executed (S53). In this standby screen setting process, a customer waiting standby command for displaying a standby screen is set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 after a predetermined standby time has elapsed.
Further, in this embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol based on the first special symbol reservation is performed only when the second special symbol reservation number U2 is "0" (S40: Yes). That is, the extinguishment of the second special figure reservation is executed in priority to the extinguishment of the first special figure reservation.
However, if any of the special symbols is changing, the special symbol standby process is ended without performing the processing after S40.

(Second special figure jackpot determination process (first special figure jackpot determination process))
Next, the contents of the second special figure jackpot determination process (first special figure jackpot determination process): S41 in FIG. 16) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 17 showing it. In addition, since the second special figure jackpot determination process (S41 in FIG. 16) and the first special figure jackpot determination process (S47 in FIG. 16) have the same processing flow, they will be explained together. In addition, when explaining matters common to the first special figure reservation storage section 64a and the second special figure reservation storage section 64b, they will simply be referred to as the special figure reservation storage section.

The game control microcomputer 61 reads the jackpot random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 9 and 10) of the special figure reservation storage section of the RAM 64 (S60), and refers to the jackpot determination table Ta1 (FIG. 5). (S61). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the probability change flag is ON, that is, whether or not the current gaming state is a high probability state (S62). The variable probability flag is turned ON when any probability variable jackpot is won, and is turned OFF when any normal jackpot is won. Here, if it is determined that the probability change flag is not ON, that is, it is in the normal probability state (S62: No), the jackpot random number in the normal probability state is referred to in the jackpot determination table Ta1, and read out in S60. A determination is made as to whether or not the same random number as the jackpot random number exists, that is, whether or not it is a jackpot (S63). For example, if the jackpot random number read in S60 is "7", "7" exists among the jackpot random numbers 0 to 204 in the normal probability state in the jackpot determination table Ta1, so it is determined that it is a jackpot ( S63: Yes).

When the game control microcomputer 61 determines that it is a jackpot in S63 (S63: Yes), it reads out the jackpot type random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 9 and 10) of the special figure reservation storage section, and The type of jackpot is determined by referring to the jackpot type determination table Ta2 (FIG. 6) in which the types of jackpots are set (S65). Depending on the type of jackpot, the jackpot symbol of the special symbol, the stop symbol of the special symbol, the distribution rate, the maximum number of rounds, the jackpot effect design, etc. differ. Here, the distribution rate is the probability that a predetermined jackpot will be selected from among the plurality of jackpots set in the jackpot type determination table. Further, the maximum number of rounds is the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the jackpot game.

Next, in the jackpot determination, the game control microcomputer 61 turns on the jackpot flag indicating that it has been determined to be a jackpot (S66), and displays the jackpot symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the type of jackpot determined in S65. The special figure stop symbol data of is set in the special figure buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S69), and this second special figure jackpot determination process is completed. In addition, in S63, if it is determined that it is not a jackpot, that is, it is a loss (S63: No), the range of random numbers corresponding to c time reduction (sudden time reduction) of the jackpot determination table Ta1 is further referred to and read out in S60. It is determined whether or not the same random number as the jackpot random number exists, that is, whether or not c time saving has been won (S67). However, only the first special symbol is determined to be the winner of c time saver, and as described later, even if it is determined that c time saver has been won, the transition to c time saver is not a non-time saver. In the case of a time saving state or a variable probability state, control is performed so as not to shift to c time saving even if c time saving is won (S95 to S101).

When the game control microcomputer 61 determines that c time saving has been won in S67 (S67: Yes), a c time saving winning flag indicating that c time saving has been won with this special symbol change is turned ON (S68). Incidentally, the c time saving winning flag is ON only during the fluctuation of the special symbol determined to have won the c time saving.

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no winning for c time saving (S67: No), special pattern stop symbol data for definitively displaying the losing symbol of the special symbol is set in the special symbol buffer (S69), and this second The special map jackpot determination process ends.
In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the probability change flag is ON in S62, that is, the current gaming state is a high probability state (S62: Yes), the Referring to the jackpot random number in the probability state, it is determined whether there is a random number that is the same as the jackpot random number read in S60, that is, whether or not it is a jackpot (S64). For example, if the jackpot random number read in S60 is "600", "600" exists among the jackpot random numbers 0 to 2030 in the high probability state in the jackpot determination table Ta1, so it is determined that it is a jackpot ( S64: Yes). Next, the game control microcomputer 61 determines the type of jackpot (S65), turns on the jackpot flag (S66), sets the special pattern stop symbol data in the special pattern buffer (S67), and sets this second special pattern. The jackpot determination process ends.

(Second special figure variation pattern selection process (first special figure variation pattern selection process))
Next, please refer to FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 which show the contents of the second special pattern variation pattern selection process (first special pattern variation pattern selection process): S42, S48 in FIG. 16 executed by the game control microcomputer 61. I will explain as I go along. Note that the second special pattern variation pattern selection process (S42 in FIG. 16) and the first special pattern variation pattern selection process (S48 in FIG. 16) have the same processing flow, so they will be explained together. In addition, when explaining matters common to the first special figure reservation storage section 64a and the second special figure reservation storage section 64b, they will simply be referred to as the special figure reservation storage section.

The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the gaming state is in a time saving state (S70), and if it is determined that it is not in a time saving state (S70: No), whether or not the jackpot flag is ON. is determined (S71). Here, if it is determined that the jackpot flag is ON (S71: Yes), a special symbol variation pattern is selected with reference to the special symbol variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8) (S72). For details, refer to the variation pattern random number in the case of a jackpot in a non-time saving state in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4. Then, the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 9 and 10) of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure that is associated with the same fluctuation pattern random number as the acquired fluctuation pattern random number is obtained. Select a variation pattern. For example, if the fluctuation pattern random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is "50", the fluctuation pattern random number 0 to 94 for a jackpot in a non-time saving state in the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4. The special figure fluctuation pattern P1 associated with is selected.
Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76), and executes this second special pattern fluctuation pattern selection process. Finish.

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the jackpot flag is not ON in S71, that is, it is a loss (S71: No), the first storage area of the special drawing reservation storage unit (FIGS. 9 and 10) A reach random number stored in is acquired, and it is determined whether the acquired reach random number is a reach establishment random number (S73). That is, it is determined whether the reach random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is the reach random number set in the non-time saving state in the reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 7). For example, if the reach random number obtained from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is "20", the reach random number "20" exists among the reach random numbers 0 to 27 set in the non-time saving state. Therefore, it is determined that the random number is a reach establishment random number (S73: Yes). Here, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the reach random number is a reach-achieving random number (S73: Yes), the game control microcomputer 61 selects the special pattern fluctuation pattern with reference to the special pattern fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8). (S74). For details, refer to the fluctuation pattern random number in the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 in the case of a hit with reach in a non-time saving state. Then, the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is acquired, and the special figure fluctuation pattern associated with the same fluctuation pattern random number as the acquired fluctuation pattern random number is selected. For example, if the variation pattern random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is "30", the special figure corresponding to the variation pattern random number 10 to 99 in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 Select variation pattern P4. Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76), and executes this second special pattern fluctuation pattern selection process. Finish.

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines in S73 that the reach random number is not a reach random number (S73: No), the game control microcomputer 61 selects the special pattern fluctuation pattern with reference to the special pattern fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8). Select (S75). In this embodiment, in the case of a no-reach loss, there is no selection of the special pattern variation pattern based on the obtained variation pattern random number, and if the number of reserved special patterns is 0 to 2, the special pattern variation pattern P5 is selected, and the special pattern variation pattern P5 is selected. If the number of reservations is 3 to 4, select special figure fluctuation pattern P6. The fluctuation time of the special figure fluctuation pattern P6 is shorter than that of the special figure fluctuation pattern P5, and when the number of reserved special figures is 3 to 4, the fluctuation of the special figure ends quickly, and the consumption pace of the reserved special figure is reduced. It's supposed to be faster.
Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76), and executes this second special pattern fluctuation pattern selection process. Finish.

Further, when the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the game is in the time saving state in S70 (S70: Yes), the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the jackpot flag is ON (S77 in FIG. 19). Here, if it is determined that the jackpot flag is ON (S77: Yes), a special symbol variation pattern is selected with reference to the special symbol variation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8) (S78). For details, refer to the variation pattern random number in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 in the case of a jackpot in the time saving state. Then, the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is acquired, and the special figure fluctuation pattern associated with the same fluctuation pattern random number as the acquired fluctuation pattern random number is selected. In this embodiment, since the fluctuation pattern random number in the same range as the fluctuation pattern random number 0 to 99 counted by the fluctuation pattern random number counter is set for the jackpot in the time saving state of the special figure fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4, the obtained fluctuation The special figure variation pattern P11 is selected regardless of the pattern random number. Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76 in FIG. 18), and sets this second special pattern fluctuation pattern. Finish the selection process.

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the jackpot flag is not ON in S77, that is, it is a loss (S77: No), the first storage area of the special drawing reservation storage unit (FIGS. 9 and 10) A reach random number stored in is acquired, and it is determined whether the acquired reach random number is a reach establishment random number (S79). That is, it is determined whether the reach random number acquired from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is the reach random number set in the time saving state in the reach determination table Ta3 (FIG. 7). For example, if the reach random number obtained from the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage unit is "8", the reach random number "8" exists among the reach random numbers 0 to 11 set in the time saving state. , it is determined that the random number is a reach establishment random number (S79: Yes). Here, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the reach random number is a reach-achieving random number (S79: Yes), the game control microcomputer 61 selects a special pattern fluctuation pattern with reference to the special pattern fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8). (S80). For details, refer to the variation pattern random number in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 in the case of a reach and loss in the short time state. Then, the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the first storage area of the special figure reservation storage section is acquired, and the special figure fluctuation pattern associated with the same fluctuation pattern random number as the acquired fluctuation pattern random number is selected. In this embodiment, since the variation pattern random number in the same range as the variation pattern random number 0 to 99 counted by the variation pattern random number counter is set for the reach/loss in the time saving state of the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4, the acquisition The special figure variation pattern P12 is selected regardless of the variation pattern random number. Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76 in FIG. 18), and sets this second special pattern fluctuation pattern. Finish the selection process.

In addition, if the game control microcomputer 61 determines in S79 that the reach random number is not a reach random number (S79: No), the game control microcomputer 61 selects the special pattern fluctuation pattern with reference to the special pattern fluctuation pattern selection table Ta4 (FIG. 8). Select (S81). For details, refer to the variation pattern random number in the special figure variation pattern selection table Ta4 when there is no reach in the short time state. Then, the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the first storage area (FIGS. 9 and 10) of the special figure reservation storage unit is acquired, and the special figure that is associated with the same fluctuation pattern random number as the acquired fluctuation pattern random number is obtained. Select a variation pattern. In this embodiment, in the case of a no-reach loss, there is no selection of the special pattern variation pattern based on the obtained variation pattern random number, and if the number of reserved special patterns is 0 to 1, the special pattern variation pattern P13 is selected, and the special pattern variation pattern P13 is selected. If the number of reservations is 2 to 4, select the special figure fluctuation pattern P14. The fluctuation time of the special figure fluctuation pattern P14 is shorter than that of the special figure fluctuation pattern P13, and when the number of reserved special figures is 2 to 4, the fluctuation of the special figure ends quickly, and the consumption pace of the reserved special figure is reduced. It's supposed to be faster. Next, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the fluctuation pattern data indicating the selected fluctuation pattern in the special pattern fluctuation pattern buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S76 in FIG. 19), and sets this second special pattern fluctuation pattern. Finish the selection process.

The variation pattern data set in the special symbol variation pattern buffer in S76 is included in the variation start command set in S45 (FIG. 16) of the special symbol standby process described above, and is included in the variation start command set in S45 (FIG. 16) of the special symbol standby process described above, and is included in the variation start command set in S45 (FIG. 16) of the special symbol standby process described above, and is executed in the output process of the main side timer interrupt process (FIG. S10), the data is output to the sub-control board 100 (FIG. 4). In addition, the first special symbol variation pattern selection process is also executed in the same flow as the second special symbol variation pattern selection process, and the variation pattern data set in the special symbol variation pattern buffer in S76 is stored in S51 (of the special symbol standby process described above). It is included in the fluctuation start command set in FIG. 16), and is output to the sub control board 100 (FIG. 4) by the output process (S10 in FIG. 14) of the main side timer interrupt process.

(Special symbol variation processing)
Next, the contents of the special symbol variation process (S18 in FIG. 14) executed by the game control microcomputer 61 will be explained with reference to FIG. 20 showing it.
The game control microcomputer 61 determines whether the special symbol variation time (variation time determined according to the special symbol variation pattern selected in S42 or S48 of FIG. 16, see FIG. 8) has ended (S90). . Here, if it is determined that the process has not ended (S90: No), this special symbol variation process ends. As a result, the variable display of the special symbols is continued. On the other hand, if it is determined that the process has ended (S90: Yes), a variation stop command for stopping the variation display of the special symbol is set in the command buffer provided in the RAM 64 (FIG. 3) (S91). Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 changes the display of the special symbol to a symbol corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol data set in S69 (FIG. 17) of the second special symbol jackpot determination process (first special symbol jackpot determination process). A special symbol stopping process is executed to stop the game at (a jackpot symbol of a special symbol or a losing symbol of a special symbol) (S92). Thereby, the special design is determined. In addition, the special symbol will continue to be stopped for the stop time (for example, 500ms) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation pattern selection table Ta4 (continue the special symbol fixed state), and then the next special symbol will be The pattern begins to change.

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 executes a game state management process. In this gaming state management process, it is determined whether or not the time saving flag is ON (S93), and it is determined that the time saving flag is ON, that is, the electricity support control is performed and the game state is in a time saving state (time saving gaming state). If it is determined (S93: YES), the value of the time saving counter that counts the number of changes of the special symbol during the time saving gaming state in a subtractive manner is subtracted by 1 (S94). Incidentally, the time saving counter is set to a predetermined value at the end of a specific jackpot game, at the time of winning c time saving, and at the time of transition to b time saving. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time saving flag is not turned on (S93: No), the process moves to S95.

In S95, it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON and the value of the time saving counter is "0". Here, when the time saving flag is ON and the value of the time saving counter is "0", it means the number of time saving determined by the type of jackpot after the end of the jackpot game, or the final rotation of the number of time saving of b time saving and c time saving. This indicates that the special symbol variation (that is, the final variation of the time-saving gaming state) has ended.

If it is determined that the time saving flag is ON and the value of the time saving counter is "0" (S95: YES), the time saving flag is turned OFF (S96). The game control microcomputer 61 sets a game state designation command including information on each flag in the output buffer of the RAM 64, and ends the game state management process. The gaming state designation command set in the output buffer of the RAM 64 is output to the sub control board 100 in the output process (S10 in FIG. 14) of the main side timer interrupt process. As a result, the time-saving gaming state of the pachinko game machine 1 ends with the end of the variation of the special symbols. In this embodiment, the specific timing for ending the time-saving gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is the timing at which the special symbols finish changing and start stopping (the beginning of the special symbol confirmation). It may be the timing when the stop time of the symbol ends (the end point of the determination of the special symbol).

Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the special symbols have been stopped for a stop time (for example, 500 ms) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation pattern selection table Ta4 (S97). Then, when the special symbols are stopped for the stop time (S97: YES), the process moves to S98. In S98, it is determined whether the c time saving winning flag is turned on. Incidentally, the c time saving winning flag is ON only during the fluctuation of the special symbol determined to have won the c time saving (including the stop time) (S68). If it is determined that the c time saving winning flag is ON (S98: Yes), it is further determined whether the time saving flag is OFF, that is, whether or not the time saving flag is currently in a non-time saving state ( S99). If the c time saving winning flag is ON and it is determined that the time saving state is not in effect (S99: YES), the time saving flag indicating that the time saving gaming state is in effect is turned ON, and the value of the time saving counter is changed to c is set to "1000" corresponding to the number of time reductions (S101). Note that the time saving counter is set to a value based on the type of jackpot even at the end of the jackpot game. For example, if a "5R normal jackpot" is won and a jackpot game is played, the time saving counter is set to "50" at the end of the jackpot game. Then, when the time saving flag is turned ON in S101, the time saving game state (c time saving) is started, and the time saving counter performs a process of subtracting 1 every time the special symbol changes, and the time saving counter becomes "0" (time saving). When the variation of the special symbol ends with the counter being 1), the time-saving game state ends (S96). On the other hand, if it is determined that the c time saving winning flag is OFF (S98: No), or if it is determined that the c working time saving winning flag is ON but it is in a time saving state (S99: No), The process moves to S100.

In S100, the game control microcomputer 61 determines that the current game state is a normal probability state and a non-time saving state, and the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, 900 times) without winning the jackpot or the above-mentioned time saving. A determination is made as to whether or not it has been reached. The fact that the number of fluctuations reaches the upper limit is a condition for transition to the time saving state (b time saving, play time). Note that the number of fluctuations in a high probability state is not counted for the number of fluctuations up to the upper limit number of times. Then, if the current gaming state is a normal probability state and a non-time saving state, and it is determined that the upper limit number of times has been reached and the b time saving transition condition is satisfied (S100: Yes), it is determined that the current gaming state is in a time saving gaming state. The time saving flag shown is turned ON, and the value of the time saving counter is set to "1000" corresponding to the number of time saving operations b (S101). Then, when the time-saving flag is turned on, the time-saving game state (b time-saving) is started, and the time-saving counter performs a process of subtracting 1 every time the special symbol changes, and the time-saving counter becomes "0" (the time-saving counter is 1 The variation of the special symbols ends in this state), and the time-saving game state ends (S96).

Next, the game control microcomputer 61 determines whether or not the jackpot flag is turned on (S102), and if it is determined that it is turned on (S102: Yes), executes a game state reset process. (S103). In this game state reset process, it is determined whether the probability change flag is ON or not, and when it is determined that it is ON, the probability change flag is turned OFF. Further, it is determined whether or not the time saving flag is ON, and if it is determined that the time saving flag is ON, the time saving flag is turned OFF. In other words, during the execution of the jackpot game, the game is controlled to be in a normal probability state and a non-time saving state.
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 performs a jackpot opening setting in order to start a jackpot game (S104), and sets an opening command to execute the jackpot opening (S105). The jackpot opening is an effect in which an effect image celebrating the occurrence of a jackpot is displayed on the effect display device 7, and a song celebrating the occurrence of a jackpot is played from each speaker 8. In the opening setting, the execution time of the opening of the jackpot game is set in a predetermined timer.
Subsequently, the game control microcomputer 61 sets the value of the special power activation effective counter (S106), and ends this special symbol variation process. The special power activation effective counter is a counter that counts the remaining number of rounds in the jackpot game. Further, if it is determined in S102 that the jackpot flag is not turned on (S102: No), this special symbol variation process is ended.

(Sub-side main control processing)
Next, the sub-side main control process executed by the production control microcomputer 101 (FIG. 4) will be described with reference to FIG. 21 showing it.
First, the production control microcomputer 101 executes initial settings (S110). This initial setting includes, for example, stack settings, constant settings, interrupt time settings, CPU 102 (Figure 4) settings, SIO (System Input/Output), PIO (Parallel Input/Output), CTC (Counter/Timer), etc. Circuit: Sets the circuit (circuit for managing interrupt time) and resets various flags, counters, timers, etc. Next, the performance control microcomputer 101 determines whether the power-off signal is ON and the contents of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4) are normal (S111), and if the negative determination is made here ( S111: No), the RAM 120 is initialized (S112), and the process proceeds to S113. Moreover, when an affirmative determination is made in S111 (S111: Yes), the process proceeds to S113 without initializing the RAM 120. In other words, if the power-off signal is not ON, or if the contents of the RAM 120 are not normal even if the power-off signal is ON (S111: No), the RAM 120 is initialized, but due to a power outage etc. When the power-off signal is turned ON but the contents of the RAM 120 are maintained normally (S111: Yes), the RAM 120 is not initialized. Note that when the RAM 120 is initialized, the values of various flags, counters, timers, etc. are reset. Further, S110 to S112 are executed only once after the power is turned on, and are not executed thereafter.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 disables interruptions (S113) and executes random number update processing (S114). In this random number updating process, the initial values of various performance determining random number counters are updated. Note that the random numbers for performance determination include a variable performance pattern random number for determining a variable performance pattern, a preview performance random number for determining various preview performances, and the like. The random number updating method can be the same as the random number updating process performed by the game control microcomputer 61 described above. Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes a command transmission process (S115). In this command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the RAM 120 of the production control microcomputer 101 are transmitted to the image control board 200, the audio control board 78, the lamp control board 79, etc. Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes interrupt permission (S116). Thereafter, S113 to S116 are repeatedly executed. Furthermore, while interrupts are enabled, reception interrupt processing (S117), 1ms timer interrupt processing (S118), and 10ms timer interrupt processing (S119) can be executed.

(Reception interrupt processing)
Next, the reception interrupt process (S117 in FIG. 21) executed by the production control microcomputer 101 will be explained.
The production control microcomputer 101 determines whether the signal level of the strobe signal (STB signal) applied from the main control board 60 (FIG. 3) to the external INT (interrupt) input section of the production control microcomputer 101 has changed. In other words, it is determined whether it is the timing to receive the command. Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the signal level of the strobe signal has changed from high level to low level. If it is determined that it is not the timing to receive, the reception interrupt process is finished, and if it is determined that it is the timing to receive, it receives various commands transmitted from the main control board 60, The received various commands are stored in the reception buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4). This reception interrupt process is a process that is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S118, S119).

(1ms timer interrupt processing)
Next, the 1ms timer interrupt process (S118 in FIG. 21) executed by the production control microcomputer 101 will be explained with reference to FIG. 22 showing it.
The performance control microcomputer 101 executes this 1ms timer interrupt process every time an interrupt pulse of 1ms period is input to the sub-control board 100. The performance control microcomputer 101 executes input processing (S120). In this input process, switch data (edge data and level data). Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes output processing (S121). In this output process, a variation start command that is set in the command buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4) in S165 (FIG. 25) of the variation effect start process described later is output to the image control board 200.

In addition, in order to cause the board lamp 2a, left side lamp 23a, and right side lamp 23b (FIG. 4) to emit light in accordance with the display on the effect display device 7, lamp processing in the 10ms timer interrupt processing (S133 in FIG. 23) to be described later is performed. The lamp data created in the above steps is output to the lamp control board 79 (FIG. 4). That is, the panel lamp 2a, left side lamp 23a, and right side lamp 23b are caused to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode according to the lamp data. Further, in order to drive the movable body 15 (FIG. 4) in accordance with the display on the effect display device 7, drive data (data for driving the movable body 15) is created, and the created drive data is output. That is, the movable body 15 is driven in a predetermined operation pattern according to the drive data.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a variation start command has been output (S122). The fluctuation start command is set in the command buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4) in S165 (FIG. 25) of a fluctuation effect start process to be described later, and is output to the image control board 200 in S121. Here, if the production control microcomputer 101 determines that the variation start command has been output (S122: Yes), it starts measuring the variation time of the variation production pattern (S123). Subsequently, watchdog timer processing is performed to reset the watchdog timer (S124), and this 1ms timer interrupt processing is ended.

(10ms timer interrupt processing)
Next, the 10ms timer interrupt process (S119 in FIG. 21) executed by the production control microcomputer 101 will be explained with reference to FIG. 23 showing it.
The performance control microcomputer 101 executes this 10ms timer interrupt process every time an interrupt pulse of 10msec period is input to the sub-control board 100. The production control microcomputer 101 executes a received command analysis process (FIG. 24), which will be described later (S130), and executes a switch state acquisition process (S131). In this switch state acquisition process, the switch data created in the input process for the 1ms timer interrupt process (S120 in FIG. 22) is stored in the RAM 120 as switch data for the 10ms timer interrupt process. Next, based on the switch data stored in the switch state acquisition process, a switch process is executed to set display contents such as button effects and lever effects displayed by the effect display device 7 (S132). Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes lamp processing (S133). This lamp processing includes the creation of lamp data for controlling the light emission of each lamp (board lamp 2a, left side lamp 23a, right side lamp 23b, etc.) according to the display on the effect display device 7, time management of light emission effects, etc. I do. Thereby, each lamp performs a light emitting effect that matches the display on the effect display device 7.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes audio control processing (S134). In this audio control process, audio control data (data for controlling audio output from each speaker 8) is created, the created audio control data is output to the audio control board 78 (FIG. 4), and audio production is performed. Perform time management, etc. Thereby, audio is output from each speaker 8 in accordance with the display on the effect display device 7. Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S135) and ends this 10ms timer interrupt processing. In other processing (S135), processing such as updating a variable performance pattern random number, a preview performance random number for determining a preview performance, etc. is executed.

(Received command analysis processing)
Next, the received command analysis process (S130 in FIG. 23) executed by the production control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 25 showing it.
The production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a gaming state designation command has been received from the main control board 60 (FIG. 3) (S140), and if it is determined that it has been received (S140: Yes), the sub-side gaming state Setting processing is executed (S141). The gaming state designation command includes information indicating the gaming state (normal probability state, high probability state, time saving state or non-time saving state), and the like. In this sub-side gaming state setting process, the received gaming state designation command is analyzed and a gaming state flag is set based on the information included in the gaming state designation command. The gaming state flag is a flag indicating the currently set gaming state. If the information included in the gaming state designation command indicates a normal probability state and a non-time saving state, a gaming state flag "1" is set. Further, if the normal probability state and the time saving state are indicated, the game state flag "2" is set. Further, if the high probability state and time saving state are indicated, the gaming state flag "3" is set.

Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not an opening command has been received from the main control board 60 (S142), and if it is determined that it has been received (S142: Yes), executes an opening performance selection process. (S143). In this opening performance selection process, the opening command is analyzed, and based on the analysis result, a pattern (content) of the opening performance to be executed during the opening of the jackpot game is selected. Specifically, an opening performance pattern selection table (not shown) in which opening performance patterns are set in association with each opening command is referred to, and an opening performance pattern associated with the received opening command is selected. Then, an opening performance start command for starting an opening performance using the selected opening performance pattern is set in the output buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4).
Next, the performance control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a round designation command has been received from the main control board 60 (S144), and if it is determined that it has been received (S144: Yes), executes a round performance selection process. (S145). In this round performance selection process, the type of performance to be performed in each round of the jackpot game is selected. This performance is a performance using images displayed by the performance display device 7 and sounds output from each speaker 8, and differs depending on the type of jackpot. Specifically, a round effect table (not shown) in which round effects are associated with each round designation command is referred to, and a round effect associated with the received round designation command is selected.

Next, the effect control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not an ending command has been received from the main control board 60 (S146), and if it is determined that it has been received (S146: Yes), executes an ending effect selection process. (S147). In this ending performance selection process, the type of ending performance to be executed by the performance display device 7 and each speaker 8 at the end of the jackpot is selected according to the type of jackpot that triggered the jackpot game being executed. . Next, the production control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a variation start command has been received from the main control board 60 (S148), and if it is determined that it has been received (S148: Yes), a variation production start process to be described later is performed. (FIG. 25) is executed (S149).

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes a variation number guidance process (FIG. 26), which will be described later, to guide the number of variations of the special symbol until shifting to b time saving or c time saving (S150).

Furthermore, the performance control microcomputer 101 determines whether or not a fluctuation stop command has been received from the main control board 60 (S151), and if it is determined that it has been received (S151: Yes), the fluctuation stop command is triggered by the stop display of the symbol. Fluctuation effect end processing is executed (S153). In this fluctuating performance end process, the performance control microcomputer 101 sets a fluctuating performance end command for ending the fluctuating performance in the output buffer of the RAM 120 (FIG. 4). When the set variable effect end command is sent to the image control board 200 (FIG. 4) by the command transmission process (S115 in FIG. 21), the image control board 200 sends the left effect pattern 9L, middle effect pattern 9C and the right effect pattern 9R (FIG. 1) are definitively displayed through a predetermined stop pattern.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes other processes (S153) and ends this received command analysis process. In other processing (S153), processing based on commands other than the above-mentioned commands (for example, a normal symbol fluctuation start command and a normal symbol fluctuation stop command) is performed.

(Fluctuating performance start processing)
Next, the variable performance start process (S149 in FIG. 24) executed by the performance control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 25 showing it.
The production control microcomputer 101 analyzes the received variation start command (S160). The variation start command includes the second special symbol set in the second special symbol variation pattern selection process (first special symbol variation pattern selection process) (S72, S74, S75, S78, S80, S81 in FIGS. 18 and 19). Information on the figure variation pattern, information on the first special figure variation pattern, special figure stop symbols (jackpot type determination result), etc. are included. Subsequently, if the variation start command analyzed in S160 is the first special figure variation start command, the production control microcomputer 101 subtracts "1" from the value of the first special figure pending production counter, and executes the second special figure. If it is a fluctuation start command, "1" is subtracted from the value of the second special symbol holding effect counter (S161). Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 101 executes the starting winnings stored in the special figure pending performance storage unit (first special figure pending performance storage unit 121 or second special figure pending performance storage unit 122: FIGS. 9 and 10). Each data such as a command and a pre-read jackpot flag is shifted to an old storage area (S162). Next, the performance control microcomputer 101 selects the combination of the left performance pattern 9L, middle performance pattern 9C, and right performance pattern 9R (FIG. 1) that will be finally displayed as determined when the performance display device 7 displays the variable performance pattern. , the selection is made with reference to the effect symbol selection table (not shown) (S163).

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 101 executes production content selection processing (S164). In the performance content selection process, the content of the performance to be performed in the pachinko game machine 1 in accordance with the variation of the performance symbols is selected using the performance selection table Ta5. The performance selection table Ta5 is configured by associating special figure variation patterns, determination results, performance selection random numbers, and performance contents. The special figure variation pattern corresponds to the special figure variation pattern obtained by the analysis in S160. The performance selection random number is a random number selected within the range of random numbers counted by the performance selection random number counter. The performance control microcomputer 101 acquires the performance selection random number counted by the performance selection random number counter. Then, with reference to the effect selection table Ta5, based on the information on the special figure variation pattern obtained through the analysis in S160, among the effect contents associated with the special figure variation pattern, the obtained effect selection random number and Select the associated performance content.

Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 101 sets a performance symbol variation display start command in the output buffer of the RAM 120 for causing the performance display device 7 to start displaying the performance content selected in S164 (S165).

(Variation number guidance process)
Next, the variation number guidance process (S150 in FIG. 24) executed by the production control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 26 showing it.
The performance control microcomputer 101 determines whether the current gaming state of the gaming machine is a normal probability state and a non-time saving state. Note that the current gaming state of the gaming machine is determined based on the flag set in S141.

If it is determined that the current gaming state of the gaming machine is the normal probability state and the non-time saving state (S170: YES), the process moves to S171. On the other hand, if it is determined that the current gaming state of the gaming machine is not the normal probability state and the non-time saving state (S170: NO), the process ends without providing guidance on the number of changes.

In S171, it is determined whether or not the current hold includes a hold that will win c time saving. In addition, the first special symbol holding effect storage unit 121 (FIG. 11) and the second special drawing holding effect storage unit 122 (FIG. 12) provided in the RAM 120 correspond to each hold that currently exists in the pachinko gaming machine 1. A jackpot random number is stored as game information to be played, and it is possible to determine whether or not a hold to win c time saving is included.

Then, if it is determined that the current reservation includes a reservation that wins c time saving (S171: YES), the process moves to S174. On the other hand, if it is determined that the current reservation does not include a reservation that wins c time saving (S171: NO), the process moves to S172.

Subsequently, in S172, the remaining number of variations of the special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the number of variations reaching the ceiling) until reaching the upper limit number, which is a condition for shifting to b time saving (play time), is acquired. For example, if the upper limit is 900 times and the current number of fluctuations since the end of the previous jackpot game (excluding the number of fluctuations in a high probability state) is 600, the number of fluctuations reaching the ceiling will be 300.

Thereafter, in S173, the performance control microcomputer 101 displays on the performance display device 7 the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling acquired in S172. For example, the words "XX times until play time" are displayed in the upper right corner or lower left corner of the screen, at a location that does not interfere with the display of symbols or effects. The above-mentioned display of the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling may be always performed while the current gaming state of the gaming machine is the normal probability state and the non-time saving state, or the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling is within a predetermined range (for example, 300 times or less). It may be done only in this condition. Moreover, it may be hidden while special effects such as super reach are being performed on the effect display device 7.

On the other hand, in S174, the number of fluctuations of the remaining special symbols (hereinafter referred to as the number of fluctuations to reach winning) until the hold that won c time saving (sudden time saving) is exhausted is acquired. For example, in a state where only the first special symbol is reserved, if the fourth reserved symbol is won in c time saving, the number of winning fluctuations will be 3 times. It should be noted that the number of fluctuations in winning attainment may include fluctuations that are currently being completed, and in that case, the number of fluctuations in winning attainment will be four.

Thereafter, in S175, the performance control microcomputer 101 displays the number of fluctuations in winning attainment acquired in S174 on the performance display device 7. For example, the words "X times until play time?" are displayed in a location that does not interfere with the display of symbols or effects, such as the upper right corner or the lower left corner of the screen. Note that the position where the winning variation number is displayed is the same as the ceiling reaching variation number, and the ceiling reaching variation number is temporarily hidden and then displayed instead of the ceiling reaching variation number. In addition, in order to notify the player that the display has changed from the number of variations in reaching the ceiling to the number of variations in winnings, special effects images and sounds are used when switching the display from the number of variations in reaching the ceiling to the number of variations in winnings. It is desirable to output it. By displaying the number of fluctuations in reaching the winning position in S175, only the number of fluctuations in reaching the winning position is displayed without displaying the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling while there is a hold that won c time saving. However, as an exception, even if there is a hold that won c time saving, if the number of fluctuations reaching the ceiling is less than the number of winning fluctuations, then it will not shift to c working time saving but will shift to b working time saving. Therefore, it is desirable to continue displaying the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling without switching to displaying the number of fluctuations in reaching the winnings.

By executing the above-mentioned variation number guidance process, for example, when the current gaming state of the gaming machine is the normal probability state and the non-time saving state as shown in FIG. In addition to this, a guide image 212 indicating the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling is displayed. The number of ceiling reaching fluctuations included in the guide image 212 is subtracted by 1 each time a special symbol is changed once in the pachinko gaming machine 1. As a result, the player can grasp the number of fluctuations required before shifting to b time saving. On the other hand, if a game ball enters the first starting port 11 after that and there is a hold that won c time saving (sudden time saving), a guide image 213 indicating the number of winning fluctuations is displayed instead of the number of fluctuations reaching the ceiling. Ru. The number of winning fluctuations included in the guide image 213 is also subtracted by 1 each time a special symbol is changed once in the pachinko gaming machine 1. As a result, the player can know that there is a hold that has won c time saving among the holds and the number of changes required before shifting to c time save.

[Effects of embodiment]
(1) If the pachinko game machine 1 of the embodiment described above is implemented, there will be a downstream area where the game ball flows down, a special symbol winning opening corresponding to the special symbol, and a special symbol winning opening provided in the downstream area. A game information acquisition means that acquires game information when a game ball lands in the mouth; a bonus award determination unit that determines whether or not to award a bonus based on the game information; A notifying means for notifying the determination result of the provision determining means and gaming information acquired through the gaming information acquiring means being put on hold in chronological order up to a predetermined maximum number of held storage pieces until the notifying means provides notification. It also has a reservation storage means that stores the oldest reservation stored at the stage when the notification by the notification means is finished, and as one of the benefits, winning in the special symbol winning hole is a normal game. A lottery transition means that includes a transition to an easy-to-enter state that is an easier state than the above-mentioned state, and shifts to the easy-to-enter state if the transition to the easy-to-enter state is won, and a jackpot or an easy to enter state. A ceiling transition means that transitions to an easy entry state when the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit without winning the transition, and the remaining number of variations of the special symbol until the upper limit is reached. A first variation number guide means for guiding the number of variations to reach a certain ceiling, and when there is game information in the hold that will win the transition to the easy-to-enter state, the remaining number of changes in the special symbol until the hold is exhausted. and a second variation number guide means for guiding the number of variations in winning attainment. As a result, even if the model has a plurality of transition routes to the easy ball entry state, it is possible to accurately and effectively guide the transition to the easy ball entry state.
(2) Also, the first variation number guide means displays the number of variations reaching the ceiling on the display device, and the second variation number guide means displays the game information for winning the transition to the easy entry state in the hold state. If it is determined that there is, the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling displayed on the display device is hidden, and the number of fluctuations in reaching winning is displayed. As a result, if the model has multiple transition routes to the easy ball entry state, and multiple transition conditions to the easy ball entry state are satisfied at the same time, the player will have a special It becomes possible to accurately guide the number of changes in the symbol.
(3) In addition, when it is determined that there is game information in the hold that will win the transition to the easy entry state, the second fluctuation number guide means displays the number of ceiling reaching fluctuations at the same display position as the number of ceiling reaching fluctuations. Instead, display the number of fluctuations in winnings. As a result, even if the displayed number of variations changes, it is possible to guide the number of variations of the special symbol until the transition to the easy entry state occurs without confusing the player.
(4) Furthermore, the lottery transition means shifts to the easy ball entry state without going through the jackpot game if the player wins the transition to the easy ball entry state. As a result, when the game suddenly shifts to the easy-to-enter state without going through a jackpot game, it becomes possible to guide the player in advance about the transition to the easy-to-enter state.

<Other embodiments>
(1) In the above-described embodiment, when a hold that won c time saving (sudden time saving) that does not result in a jackpot occurs, the number of changes in the special symbol until the hold is exhausted is displayed instead of the number of changes that reach the ceiling. However, in the case where a hold is generated that results in a jackpot that saves time, the number of changes in the special symbol until the hold is exhausted may be similarly displayed instead of the number of changes to reach the ceiling. For example, for a jackpot such as a 2R normal jackpot where the subsequent time-saving gaming state is the main focus rather than the ball being put out in a jackpot, the same effect as this embodiment is produced.
(2) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, when a hold that wins c time saver (sudden time saver) occurs, the number of changes in the special symbol until the hold is exhausted is displayed instead of the number of changes to reach the ceiling. , c Even if there is a hold that wins the time saving, the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling may be continuously displayed without being hidden. However, it is desirable to display more prominently the number of changes in the special symbol until the hold is exhausted than the number of changes in reaching the ceiling.
(3) In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, a lottery for c-time saving (suddenly shortening of working hours) is also conducted at the same time as a lottery for jackpot or small win using jackpot random numbers, but the lottery for c-time saving is not the same as a lottery for jackpot or small win. You can go separately. That is, when a jackpot or small win is not won, a special table and random numbers for c time saving may be used to perform a c time saving lottery.
(4) In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling and the number of fluctuations in winning are guided using the screen displayed on the effect display device 7, but the number of fluctuations in reaching the ceiling and the number of fluctuations in winning are guided. The means for providing guidance may be other than the effect display device 7, for example, guidance may be provided by voice.

1 Pachinko gaming machine 2a Board lamp 7 Performance display device 8 Speaker 23a Left side lamp 23b Right side lamp 78 Audio control board 79 Lamp control board 101 Performance control microcomputer 202 Image control CPU
212 Guidance image of the number of changes in reaching the ceiling 213 Guidance image of the number of changes in reaching the winnings

Claims (1)

A downstream area where the game ball flows down,
a special symbol winning hole provided in the downstream area and corresponding to the special symbol;
A game information acquisition means that acquires game information triggered by a game ball winning in the special symbol winning hole;
a privilege granting determination means for determining whether or not to grant a privilege based on the gaming information;
Notification means for notifying the judgment result of the bonus award judgment means using variations in symbols;
The game information acquired through the game information acquisition means is stored in a chronological order on hold with a predetermined maximum number of pieces stored as an upper limit until the game information is notified by the notification means, and the game information is stored in a chronological order until the game information is notified by the notification means. A gaming machine comprising a reservation storage means for newly extinguishing the oldest stored reservation at the end of the game,
One of the benefits includes a transition to an easy entry state where it is easier to enter the special symbol winning hole than the normal gaming state,
a lottery transition means for transitioning to the easy ball hitting state if the transition to the easy ball hitting state is won;
Ceiling transition means that transitions to the easy ball hitting state when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit without winning a jackpot or transitioning to the easy ball hitting state;
a first fluctuation number guide means for guiding the number of fluctuations reaching the ceiling, which is the remaining number of fluctuations of the special symbol until reaching the upper limit number of times;
If there is game information in the hold that will win the transition to the easy ball entry state, a second number of fluctuations that guides the number of fluctuations to reach winning, which is the number of fluctuations of the remaining special symbols until the hold is exhausted. having a guiding means;
The first variation number guide means displays the variation number of times reaching the ceiling on a display device,
The second fluctuation number guide means is configured to suppress the fluctuation number of times of reaching the ceiling that was displayed on the display device when it is determined that there is game information in the hold that will win the transition to the easy ball entry state. A gaming machine characterized in that the number of fluctuations in winnings is displayed as well as the number of fluctuations in winnings .

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