JP7390342B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine for playing games.

Conventionally, there is a gaming machine in which a jackpot lottery is executed on the condition that a game ball enters a starting slot, and special symbols are displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the jackpot lottery. In such a gaming machine, when a jackpot lottery is executed, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the special symbol display device, and when the variable time ends, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device. Then, when the symbol corresponding to the jackpot is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device, the jackpot game is executed. After the jackpot game ends, the game may be shifted to one of a plurality of gaming states.

As a technology related to such a game, Patent Document 1 discloses that it is possible to display a suggestion image that suggests firing a game ball in a specific direction, and the suggestion image is a part that becomes visible through an accessory. A technique for changing the area of is described.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-099614

In recent years, gaming machines with similar gameplay have been proposed, and innovative gaming machines are desired. This point is the same for pachinko machines and slot machines.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a novel gaming machine.

The present invention employs the following solution to solve the above problems. Note that the following solutions and the words in parentheses are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Moreover, the present invention can be an invention that includes at least one of each invention specific matter shown in the following solution means. Furthermore, each invention specifying matter shown in the solution below can be made into a lower concept by adding elements that limit the invention specifying matter, or it can be made into a higher concept by deleting the elements that limit the invention specifying matter. .

Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present solving means is a gaming machine that can play games in a specific state, and includes a performance means that can execute a performance and an operation means that can be operated by a player. The first suggestion effect that suggests a specific operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, the second suggestion effect that suggests a special operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, and the first suggestion effect that suggests a special operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, The first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time, and if the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance do not operate as suggested, the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is not followed. is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion production, and between the first suggestion production and the second suggestion production, the suggestion pattern of the first suggestion production is different from the suggestion pattern of the second suggestion production. This is a gaming machine characterized by less than

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(A1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a specific state (right-handed state). For example, if the player is in a low-probability non-time saving state, the player will be in a left-handed player state, and in any other state, the player will be in a right-handed player state. A gaming machine has production means (liquid crystal display, control device) that can perform productions, and operation means that can be operated by the player (handle unit, push button, handle lever, upper plate ball removal button, lower plate ball removal lever). ).
(A2) In the specific state, the following aspects occur.
(A3) A first suggestion effect (a right-hand play suggestion effect) that suggests a specific operation (right-hand play using the handle unit) to the player can be executed by the effect means.
(A4) A second suggestion performance (operation suggestion performance) that suggests a special operation (operation using a push button or handle lever) to the player can be executed by the performance means.
(A5) The first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time (simultaneously).
(A6) Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the player does not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(A7) In the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, the suggestion pattern of the first suggestion performance (the image pattern used for the first suggestion performance) is the suggestion pattern of the second suggestion performance (the image pattern used for the second suggestion performance). ) less than.

According to this solution, since the number of suggestion patterns of the first suggestion production is small, the more opportunities to see the first suggestion production, the easier it is to recognize what kind of suggestion the production is suggesting, and multiple Even if the first suggestion presentations are executed at the same time, it becomes easier to understand the purpose of the first suggestion presentation (the one with fewer suggestion patterns), which is more important, and as a result, it is possible to provide an innovative gaming machine. can.

Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present solving means is a gaming machine that can play games in a specific state, and includes a performance means that can execute a performance and an operation means that can be operated by a player. The first suggestion effect that suggests a specific operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, the second suggestion effect that suggests a special operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, and the first suggestion effect that suggests a special operation to the player can be executed by the effect means, The first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time, and if the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance do not operate as suggested, the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is not followed. is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion production, and apart from the first suggestion production and the second suggestion production, the production means includes a third suggestion production that suggests a special operation to the player. The third suggestion performance can be executed during the execution of the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, and the third suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed as suggested. If you do not operate, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the third suggestion performance than to not follow the suggestion of the second suggestion performance, and the first suggestion performance, the second suggestion performance, and the third suggestion performance This is a gaming machine characterized in that the number of suggestion patterns of the third suggestion performance is the least.

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(B1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a specific state (right-handed state). For example, if the player is in a low-probability non-time saving state, the player will be in a left-handed player state, and in any other state, the player will be in a right-handed player state. A gaming machine has production means (liquid crystal display, control device) that can perform productions, and operation means that can be operated by the player (handle unit, push button, handle lever, upper plate ball removal button, lower plate ball removal lever). ).
(B2) In the specific state, the following aspects occur.
(B3) A first suggestion effect (a right-hand play suggestion effect) that suggests a specific operation (right-hand play using the handle unit) to the player can be executed by the effect means.
(B4) A second suggestion performance (operation suggestion performance) that suggests a special operation (operation using a push button or handle lever) to the player can be executed by the performance means.
(B5) The first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time (simultaneously).
(B6) Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the player does not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(B7) Separately from the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, a third suggestion performance (ball removal suggestion performance) that suggests a special operation to the player (operation using the upper plate ball removal button and lower plate ball removal lever) can be executed by means of presentation.
(B8) The third suggestion effect can be executed while the first suggestion effect and the second suggestion effect are being executed.
(B9) Between the third suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the user does not operate as suggested, not following the suggestion of the third suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(B10) Among the first suggestion performance, second suggestion performance, and third suggestion performance, the third suggestion performance has the least number of suggestion patterns (image patterns used for the third suggestion performance).

According to the present solution, since the number of suggestion patterns of the third suggestion effect is the least, it is possible to immediately recognize when the third suggestion effect is executed, and to be able to respond immediately.As a result, it is possible to provide an innovative gaming machine. can.

Solution 3: The gaming machine of the present solving means is a gaming machine that can play games in a specific state, and includes a production means capable of executing a production and an operation means that can be operated by a player. A first suggestion performance that suggests a specific operation to the player can be executed by the performance means, a second suggestion performance that suggests a special operation to the player can be executed by the performance means, and the player A third suggestion performance that suggests a special operation can be executed by the production means, the first suggestion production, the second suggestion production, and the third suggestion production can be executed at the same time, and the third suggestion production can be performed at the same time, and Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the operation is not performed as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance, and the third Between the suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if you do not operate as suggested, not following the suggestion of the third suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance, and the first suggestion This gaming machine is characterized in that the performance, the second suggestion performance, and the third suggestion performance have different image update cycles of images used for the performance.

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(C1) This is a gaming machine that allows gaming in a specific state (right-handed state). For example, if the player is in a low-probability non-time saving state, the player will be in a left-handed player state, and in any other state, the player will be in a right-handed player state. A gaming machine has production means (liquid crystal display, control device) that can perform productions, and operation means that can be operated by the player (handle unit, push button, handle lever, upper plate ball removal button, lower plate ball removal lever). ).
(C2) In the specific state, the following aspects occur.
(C3) A first suggestion effect (a right-hand play suggestion effect) that suggests a specific operation (right-hand play using the handle unit) to the player can be executed by the effect means.
(C4) A second suggestion performance (operation suggestion performance) that suggests a special operation (operation using a push button or handle lever) to the player can be executed by the performance means.
(C5) A third suggestion performance (ball removal suggestion performance) that suggests a special operation (operation using the upper plate ball removal button or lower plate ball removal lever) to the player can be executed by the effect means.
(C6) The first suggestion performance, the second suggestion performance, and the third suggestion performance can be executed at the same time (simultaneously).
(C7) Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the player does not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(C8) Regarding the third suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the user does not operate as suggested, not following the suggestion of the third suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(C9) The first suggestion effect, the second suggestion effect, and the third suggestion effect have different image update cycles for images used in the effects.

According to this solution, the image update cycle is different for the first suggestion effect, the second suggestion effect, and the third suggestion effect, so even if the suggestion effects are the same, the way they look will differ depending on each suggestion effect. As a result, the difference in roles can be intuitively and easily understood by the player, and as a result, a novel gaming machine can be provided.

Solution 4: The gaming machine of this solution is a gaming machine that can play games in a specific state, and includes a display device that can display an image, a firing device that can shoot a game ball, and an operation that can be operated by a player. means, a nearby light-emitting means disposed near the firing means, and a built-in light-emitting means built into the firing means, and in the particular state, a first suggestion effect that suggests a particular hit to the player. The first suggestion effect is capable of displaying a first suggestion image suggesting the specific hit on the display means, and the first suggestion effect is capable of displaying the specific hit by displaying the first suggestion image. However, it is possible to perform a second suggestion effect that does not suggest the specific hit by the nearby light emitting means and suggests the player to operate the operation means in the specific state, and in the second suggestion effect, , a second suggestion image that suggests to the player how to operate the operating means can be displayed on the display means, and the second suggestion effect includes a display of the second suggestion image and a display of the operation means by the built-in light emitting means. In the specific state, the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time, and the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance do not play the game as suggested. In this case, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion effect is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion effect, and the first suggestion image and the second suggestion image are different from each other than the first suggestion image. The gaming machine is characterized in that the number of image patterns is smaller than that of the second suggestion image.

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(D1) This is a gaming machine that allows gaming in a specific state (right-handed playing state). For example, if the player is in a low-probability non-time saving state, the player will be in a left-handed player state, and in any other state, the player will be in a right-handed player state. A gaming machine includes a display means (liquid crystal display) that can display an image, a firing means (handle unit) that can fire a game ball, an operating means (push button, handle lever) that can be operated by a player, and a firing means that can be operated by a player (push button, handle lever). It includes a nearby light emitting means (proximity LED) disposed near the emitting means and a built-in light emitting means (built-in LED) built into the emitting means.
(D2) In the specific state, it is possible to execute a first suggestion performance (right-handed hitting suggestion performance) that suggests a specific hitting (right-handed hitting) to the player.
(D3) In the first suggestion effect, a first suggestion image (right-handed suggestion image) suggesting a specific hit can be displayed on the display means (liquid crystal display).
(D4) The first suggestion effect suggests a specific hit by displaying the first suggestion image, but does not suggest a specific hit by the nearby light emitting means.
(D5) In the specific state, it is possible to execute a second suggestion performance (operation suggestion performance) that suggests the player to operate the operation means (push button, handle lever).
(D6) In the second suggestion performance, a second suggestion image (operation suggestion image) that suggests to the player how to operate the operation means can be displayed on the display means (liquid crystal display).
(D7) The second suggestion effect suggests the operation of the operating means by displaying the second suggestion image and using the built-in light emitting means.
(D8) In the specific state, the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time.
(D9) Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the player does not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(D10) Between the first suggestion image and the second suggestion image, the first suggestion image has fewer image patterns than the second suggestion image.

According to this solution, since the number of image patterns of the first suggestion image is small, the more opportunities to see the first suggestion image, the easier it is to recognize what kind of suggestion the display is. Even if the first suggestion images are displayed at the same time, the purpose of the first suggestion image (the one with fewer types), which is more important, can be easily understood, and as a result, an innovative gaming machine can be provided. .

Solution 5: The gaming machine of this solution is a gaming machine that can play games in a specific state, and includes a display unit that can display an image, a firing unit that can shoot a game ball, and an operation that can be operated by a player. means, in the specific state, a first suggestion effect that suggests a specific hit to the player can be executed, and in the first suggestion effect, a first suggestion image suggesting the specific beat is displayed by the display means. and in the specific state, it is possible to execute a second suggestion effect that suggests the player to operate the operation means, and in the second suggestion effect, the second suggestion effect suggests the player to operate the operation means. A second suggestion image can be displayed on the display means, and in the specific state, the first suggestion effect and the second suggestion effect can be executed at the same time, and the first suggestion effect and the second suggestion effect can be performed at the same time. In terms of presentation, if you do not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion presentation is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion presentation, and in the specific state, the first suggestion presentation and Separately from the second suggestion performance, it is possible to execute a third suggestion performance that suggests to the player to remove the game ball, and the third suggestion performance is a combination of the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance. A third suggestion image that is executable during execution and that suggests to the player to remove the game ball can be displayed on the display means, the first suggestion image, the second suggestion image, and the third suggestion image. This gaming machine is characterized in that the third suggestion image has the least number of image patterns.

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(E1) This is a gaming machine that allows gaming in a specific state (right-handed state). For example, if the player is in a low-probability non-time saving state, the player will be in a left-handed player state, and in any other state, the player will be in a right-handed player state. The gaming machine includes a display means (liquid crystal display) capable of displaying an image, a firing means (handle unit) capable of firing game balls, and an operation means (push button, handle lever) that can be operated by the player. We are prepared.
(E2) In the specific state, it is possible to execute a first suggestion performance (right-handed hitting suggestion performance) that suggests a specific hitting (right-handed hitting) to the player.
(E3) In the first suggestion effect, a first suggestion image (right-handed suggestion image) suggesting a specific hit can be displayed on the display means (liquid crystal display).
(E4) In the specific state, it is possible to execute a second suggestion performance (operation suggestion performance) that suggests the player to operate the operation means (push button, handle lever).
(E5) In the second suggestion performance, a second suggestion image (operation suggestion image) that suggests to the player how to operate the operation means can be displayed on the display means (liquid crystal display).
(E6) In the specific state, the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time.
(E7) Between the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the player does not play the game as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance.
(E8) In the specific state, apart from the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, it is possible to execute a third suggestion performance (ball removal suggestion performance) that suggests to the player that he or she should pull out a game ball.
(E9) The third suggestion effect can be executed during the execution of the first suggestion effect and the second suggestion effect, and displays a third suggestion image (ball removal suggestion image) that suggests to the player to remove the game ball. It can be displayed on a display means (liquid crystal display).
(E10) Among the first suggestion image, second suggestion image, and third suggestion image, the third suggestion image has the least number of image patterns. Regarding the first suggestion image and the second suggestion image, the image pattern of the first suggestion image may be more than the image pattern of the second suggestion image, and the image pattern of the first suggestion image may be more than the image pattern of the second suggestion image. The number of image patterns may be smaller than the number of patterns, and the number of image patterns of the first suggestion image and the number of image patterns of the second suggestion image may be the same.

According to the present solution, since the third suggestion image has the smallest number of image patterns, it can be recognized immediately when displayed and can be dealt with immediately, and as a result, a novel gaming machine can be provided.

According to the present invention, a novel gaming machine can be provided.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of the pachinko machine. It is a front view showing the game board unit alone. It is a front view showing a part of the game board unit in an enlarged manner. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration within the production control device. 12 is a flowchart (1/2) illustrating a procedure example of CPU initialization processing. 12 is a flowchart (2/2) illustrating a procedure example of CPU initialization processing. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for timer interrupt processing. It is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect image made to correspond to a variable display and a stop display of special symbols. It is a continuous diagram showing the flow of a super reach effect executed during variable display of special symbols. It is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big win performance executed during a jackpot game. It is a diagram (1/2) showing an example of a button effect. It is a diagram showing an example of button performance (2/2). FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a performance when the player does not perform the operation suggested by the operation suggestion performance. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a performance when a player performs an operation as suggested by an operation suggestion performance. It is a figure showing an example of performance when the player does not perform a ball extraction operation in a state where game balls are stored in the ball tray unit. It is a figure which shows the display aspect of the 2nd right-handed hitting suggestion image R2. It is a figure which shows the display aspect of 1st operation suggestion image B1 and ball extraction suggestion image C. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of working memory performance management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production design variation pre-processing. It is a flowchart showing a configuration example of a process when the variable prize winning device is activated. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for advance notice selection processing.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as "pachinko machine") 1. As shown in FIG. Further, FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1.

The pachinko machine 1 uses game balls as a game medium, and players borrow game balls from a game hall operator and play games on the pachinko machine 1. In addition, in the game on the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium that has a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game ball that the player has acquired. It can be converted into gaming value based on the number of . The overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

Here, in this specification, the left side when viewed from a player seated facing the pachinko machine 1 is referred to as the left, the right side when viewed from the player is referred to as the right, and the upper side when viewed from the player is referred to as the top. The lower side as seen from the player is the bottom, the front side as seen from the player is the front, and the back side as seen from the player is the rear.

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integral door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, gaming machine frame) as its main body. When viewed from the front facing the player, the integral door unit 4 is located at the frontmost side. An inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (inner side) of the integral door unit 4, and an outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outside of the inner frame assembly 7.

The outer frame unit 2 is a structure made by combining wood and metal materials into a vertically elongated rectangular shape. It is fixed using In addition, in the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for parts corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and metal materials are used for parts corresponding to the left and right long sides.

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

A unified locking unit 9 is provided inside the right edge (left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, locking tools (not shown) are also provided on the right edges (back sides) of the integral door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2, respectively. As shown in FIG. 1, when the integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side is attached to the integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the locking tool. 7 cannot be opened.

Furthermore, a cylinder lock 6a with a keyhole is provided on the right side edge of the saucer unit 6. For example, when a manager of a game center inserts a special key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 is activated and the integrated door unit 4 together with the inner frame assembly 7 can be opened. . When the whole is opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed at the front side.

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the integral door unit 4 is unlocked while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integral door unit 4 can be opened. When the integral door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as balls jammed in the board. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the saucer unit 6 is also opened to the front side.

The pachinko machine 1 also includes a game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integral door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7, for example, with the integral door unit 4 opened to the front side. A vertically oblong window 4a is formed in the center of the integral door unit 4, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is installed within this window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut to match the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integral door unit 4 via a mounting tool (not shown). A game area 8a (a game area where game balls flow down, the board surface) is formed in the front of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integral door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface into which game balls can flow.

[Spherical plate configuration]
The saucer unit 6 has a shape that projects from the integral door unit 4 toward the front side as a whole, and has an upper tray 6b formed on its upper surface. This upper tray 6b can store game balls lent to players (rental balls) and game balls won by winning (prize balls). Further, in the saucer unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at a position below the upper tray 6b. This lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a model connected to a card unit, and the game balls borrowed by the player are transferred from the payout device unit 172 on the back side to the tray unit 6 (upper tray 6b or lower tray) separately from the prize balls. 6c).

A lending operation section 14 is provided on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on this lending operation section 14. When a player operates the ball rental button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted into a card unit (not shown), the number of balls corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees) is (For example, 125 game balls) are lent. For this reason, a frequency display section (not shown) is arranged on the top surface of the lending operation section 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted into the card unit is displayed on this frequency display section. Note that by operating the return button 12, the player can receive the return of valuable media with remaining credits. Although the present embodiment is described using an example of a machine connected to a card unit, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a machine not connected to a card unit).

Further, on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6, an upper plate ball removal button 6d is installed in front of the upper plate 6b in the upper position, and a lower plate ball removal lever 6e is installed in the center in front of the lower plate 6c. is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper tray 6b to flow down to the lower tray 6c by pressing the upper tray ball removal button 6d, for example. In addition, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower tray 6c downward and discharge them by pushing the lower tray ball removal lever 6e backward. The ejected game balls are received, for example, in a ball receiving box (not shown).

A handle unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the saucer unit 6. By operating the handle unit 16, the player can operate the launch control board set 174 and launch (drive) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launch device). The fired game ball rises from the lower edge of the game board unit 8 along the left side edge, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (no reference numerals in the figure), etc. are arranged within the game area 8a, and the thrown game ball flows down within the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and windmills. Note that the configuration within the gaming area 8a will be further described later with reference to other drawings.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
A left top lens unit 47 and a right top illumination unit 49 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 as components for presentation. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and the left glass frame decorative lamp 48, and the right upper illumination unit 49 incorporates the right glass frame decorative lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be continuous below the left top lens unit 47 and the right top illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integral door unit 4 to the upper position of the saucer unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, a glass frame top lamp 46, left and right glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, etc. are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

The above-mentioned various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 perform effects by emitting light (lighting, blinking, change in brightness gradation, change in color tone, etc.) of built-in LEDs, for example. In addition, in the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49 are each equipped with a glass frame speaker 54, and the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 are each equipped with a glass frame speaker 55. is included. On the other hand, an inner frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower right position of the inner frame assembly 7 (upper left position of the handle unit 16 when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1), and an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. 58 is included. These speakers 54, 55, 56, and 58 output sound effects, BGM, voices, and the like (general sound) to execute the performance.

Furthermore, an operating unit 60 is installed at the center of the saucer unit 6 so as to protrude upward from the front side from the upper tray 6b. The operating unit 60 has a large push button 64 in its center, and a handle lever 62 on the left side of the push button 64. The operation unit 60 can accept operations in various scenes shown on the performance. In one scene of performance, the handle lever 62 is pulled toward the player by the player, and in another scene, the push button 64 is pushed. By operating the operation unit 60 in various ways, the player can change the content of the performance (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42), for example, while the symbols are changing, while the jackpot is confirmed, or when the jackpot is confirmed. It is possible to generate some kind of performance (a preview performance, a definite promotion performance, a promotion performance during a major role, etc.) during the game.

Further, a ring-shaped portion 65 is installed around the push button 64 so as to surround the push button 64. The ring-shaped portion 65 is a member provided for decoration, unlike the handle lever 62 and the push button 64, and rotates counterclockwise in conjunction with the pulling operation of the handle lever 62. Further, the ring-shaped portion 65 has a plurality of cells separated at regular intervals in the circumferential direction. Although these cells cannot accept operations by the player, they are effectively used in situations where the player is informed of the operation method.

When requesting the player to perform some operation, a reduced version image representing how to operate the operation unit 60 is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. At this time, in order to notify the player of the time during which the specified operation can be performed (operation valid time), the ring-shaped portion 65 in the reduced version image is expressed as if each cell were a lamp. Ru. More specifically, when the ring-shaped portion 65 in the reduced image becomes operable, all the cells appear to be lit, and as the remaining time decreases, the cells turn off one by one. When the remaining time runs out, all cells are displayed as if they were turned off. The actual ring-shaped part 65 does not have a light source and does not turn on or off like the ring-shaped part 65 shown in the reduced version image displayed on the screen, but the ring-shaped part 65 in the reduced version image does not have a light source. By switching the lighting/extinguishing of the section 65 in this manner, the player can intuitively grasp the remaining operation time.

Furthermore, the push button 64 is structured to protrude significantly upward when a predetermined opportunity occurs during the progress of the game. When the push button 64 protrudes, it protrudes to about three times the normal height. The push button 64 has a light source inside. The push button 64 normally emits light in one color (for example, blue) or in multiple colors, but when it is protruded, it emits light in an even more colorful manner, giving it a strong presence. This operation of the push button 64 allows the player to recognize that the button push operation required in this scene is particularly important.

In this embodiment, the handle lever 62 and the push button 64 are mounted on the same operation unit 60, but the handle lever 62 and the push button 64 may be provided as independent members.

In addition, a direction key 66 is installed on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6 adjacent to the lending operation section 14. The direction key 66 has four key switches indicating up, down, left, and right directions arranged in a cross shape, and the key switches for each direction can be pressed independently. The player can arbitrarily move the cursor etc. displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display by pressing and operating the direction key 66 at various scenes in the performance. Although not particularly shown, near the rental operation unit 14 there is a volume adjustment switch having an upper button to increase the volume and a lower button to decrease the volume, and an upper button to increase the brightness and a lower button to decrease the brightness. A brightness adjustment switch is provided.

[Decoration unit]
A decoration unit 400 is attached to the front upper part of the pachinko machine 1. The decoration unit 400 can be attached to and detached from the Pachinko machine 1 using a predetermined attachment member (mechanical mechanism such as a screw or hook). Note that the decoration unit 400 may be non-removable from the pachinko machine 1.
The decoration unit 400 (decoration object) is a box-shaped member, and is made of a transparent or translucent member that transmits light.

The decoration unit 400 includes a main body unit 410 disposed at the top and a front lamp unit 420 disposed at the bottom of the main body unit 410.

The main body unit 410 is a cubic member on which predetermined character information is displayed, and emits light when an LED (glass frame top lamp 46) disposed on the rear integrated door unit 4 emits light.

Further, the front lamp unit 420 is a member in which a hemispherical member is combined with a cylindrical member, and emits light when an LED (board surface lamp 53) disposed on the rear game board unit 8 emits light.

The cylindrical member is preferably colorless and transparent in order to improve the visibility of the upper spherical passage 500, and the hemispherical member is preferably colored and transparent in order to improve the presentation effect.

[Backside configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, the back side of the pachinko machine 1 includes a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a payout device unit 172, a channel unit 173, a firing control board set 174, a payout control board unit 176, and a back cover. Unit 178 etc. are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) that make up the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), etc. are installed. Note that the electronic devices will be further described later with reference to other block diagrams (FIGS. 5 and 6).

The main control board unit 170 has a built-in main control device, and a performance display monitor 200 is connected to the main control device. The performance display monitor 200 is disposed on the main control device in a visible manner in the upper left area of the main control board unit 170 when looking at the pachinko machine 1 from the back side, and includes four 7-segment LEDs. Four 7-segment LEDs are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, and each 7-segment LED consists of 7 segments that can display decimal Arabic numerals and a dot segment located at the bottom right of the 7 segments. has been done. The performance display monitor 200 is visible through the transparent case covering the main control board unit 170.

The main control device is also provided with a RAM clear switch 304 and a keyhole 306 for setting keys. The RAM clear switch 304 is a switch used to clear the RAM, that is, initialize the RAM (RWM) installed in the main controller, and in this embodiment, it also serves as a switch for changing settings. be done. The setting key keyhole 306 is a keyhole into which a setting key required to change or refer to the settings related to the game of the pachinko machine 1 is inserted.

The RAM clear switch 304 is provided so as to be depressable through a through hole formed in a transparent case covering the main control board unit 170. Note that the RAM clear switch 304 may be placed outside the transparent case. Further, the setting key keyhole 306 is provided with the key cylinder passing through the transparent case (the transparent case surrounding the key cylinder). Therefore, it is possible to insert and rotate the setting key while the transparent case remains sealed.

Note that the placement positions of the performance display monitor 200, the RAM clear switch 304, and the setting key hole 306 are merely examples, and they can be placed at arbitrary positions. Furthermore, the performance display monitor 200, RAM clear switch 304, and setting key keyhole 306 may be provided outside the main control device and connected to the main control device.

The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference numerals), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. , game balls supplied from a supply route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are led to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The channel unit 173 guides the game balls sent out from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

Further, the external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to external electronic equipment (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.), and from this external terminal board 160, the game progress status of the pachinko machine 1 can be Various external information signals (e.g. prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmed number information, jackpot information, starting opening information, etc.) representing the maintenance status, etc. are output to external electronic equipment. .

The power cord 164 secures the power (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to a power supply device (for example, AC 24V) installed in, for example, an island facility in a game parlor. Further, the ground wire 166 is connected to a ground terminal similarly installed on the island equipment, thereby ensuring the grounding of the pachinko machine 1.

FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate, and when the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, a game area 8a is formed inside a firing rail (no reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape. Note that the firing rail extends clockwise from the lower left corner position of the game board 8b to the upper right corner position of the game board 8b.

A relatively large performance unit 40 is arranged in the center of the game area 8a, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left side, a right side, and a lower part with this performance unit 40 as the center. The left side of the game area 8a is the first game area (left-hand hitting area) used in the normal game state (low probability non-time saving state), and the right side of the game area 8a is the special game state (jackpot game state). , small winning game state, low probability time reduction state, high probability time reduction state, etc.). Note that the left side portion of the gaming area 8a is also used in the high probability non-time reduction state (advantageous gaming state). In addition, in the gaming area 8a, around the production unit 40, there is a medium start winning opening 26, a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, 24, a variable starting winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device. 31 mag. are installed in a distributed manner.

Among these, the medium start prize opening 26 is arranged at the center of the lower part of the gaming area 8a. The starting gate 20, the variable starting winning device 28, the second variable winning device 31, and the first variable winning device 30 are arranged in this order from above on the right side of the gaming area 8a. Here, the first variable winning device 30 is placed on the right side of the medium start winning opening 26, and the second variable winning device 31 is placed on the upper right of the first variable winning device 30. Furthermore, the three normal winning holes 22 on the left side are arranged on the left side of the gaming area 8a, and the one normal winning hole 24 (predetermined winning hole) on the right side is arranged at the lower left of the first variable winning device 30. There is.

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a, in the process of flowing down, may enter the medium start winning hole 26, the normal winning hole 22, 24, pass through the starting gate 20, or enter the variable start winning device when activated. 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. Here, the game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a may mainly enter the medium start winning slot 26 or the normal winning slot 22. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a mainly passes through the starting gate 20, enters the variable starting winning device 28 during operation, or enters the first variable winning device 30 during opening operation. There is a possibility that the ball enters, the ball enters the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation, or the ball enters the normal winning hole 24. The game ball that has passed through the starting gate 20 continues to flow down within the gaming area 8a, but there are medium starting winning ports 26, normal winning ports 22, 24, variable starting winning device 28, first variable winning device 30, and second variable winning device. The game balls that have entered the device 31 are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent plate, etc. that constitute the game board unit 8).

Here, in this embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when a game ball is entered into the medium start winning hole 26 or the normal winning hole 22, the area on the left side of the game area 8a (left hit It is necessary to hit the game ball (to execute the so-called "left-handed hit") into the area).

On the other hand, when entering the game ball into the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the normal winning opening 24, the right side area within the gaming area 8a (right-handed hitting area ) (to execute the so-called "right-handed hit").

In this embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is met (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner for a predetermined stop display time), and accordingly the right start winning device 28 Enables the ball to enter the prize opening 28a (predetermined ball entrance) (normal electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 is provided with a tongue-type opening/closing member 28b. In the illustrated state, the opening/closing member 28b is in a position retracted deeper than the board surface (retreat position), making it impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the right starting prize opening 28a. On the other hand, when the opening/closing member 28b moves to a position protruding toward the front side from the board surface (driving position), the opening/closing member 28b receives the game ball flowing down from above and guides the game ball to the right start prize opening 28a (right It becomes possible or easy for the ball to enter the starting winning hole 28a). In addition, the variable starting winning device 28 may be a device that opens the right starting winning opening by displacing the opening/closing member so as to fall forward using its lower edge portion as a hinge.

The first variable winning device 30 is activated when a predetermined condition is met (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot or small win mode) and when a predetermined first condition (for example, from the first round of a jackpot game) It is activated when the conditions (the condition that it is the 5th round, or the 7th round to the 10th round, or the condition that the small winning game is open) are satisfied, and the ball can enter the first big prize opening 30b. (Special electric accessory, first special ball entry event generating means).

The first variable winning device 30 is a device placed on the right side of the medium start winning opening 26 (so-called lower attacker), and has, for example, one opening/closing member 30a. The first variable prize winning device 30 is a type of device in which an opening/closing member 30a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). The opening/closing member 30a reciprocates back and forth with respect to the board surface by the function of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). The opening/closing member 30a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 30a, so it enters the first grand prize opening 30b. It is impossible or difficult to enter the ball (the first big prize opening 30b is closed). When the first variable winning device 30 operates, the opening/closing member 30a is drawn into the board surface and opens the first big winning opening 30b (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state where it is not impossible (possible or easy) for the game balls to flow in, and it is possible to cause the event of the ball entering the first big winning hole 30b.

Similarly to the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31 operates under a predetermined second condition (for example, when a specified condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode) It operates when the condition (that it is the 6th round of the jackpot game) is met, and allows the ball to enter the second big winning hole 31b (specific winning hole) (special electric accessories, second special winning hole). spherical event generating means).

The second variable winning device 31 is a device placed on the upper right side of the first variable winning device 30 (so-called upper attacker), and includes, for example, one opening/closing member 31a. The second variable prize winning device 31 is a type of device in which an opening/closing member 31a slides inside the board surface (sliding type attacker). The opening/closing member 31a reciprocates back and forth with respect to the board surface by the function of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). The opening/closing member 31a is in a closed position (closed state) in a state where it protrudes from the board surface toward the player, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening/closing member 31a, so it enters the second grand prize opening 31b. It is impossible or difficult to enter the ball (the second grand prize opening 31b is closed). When the second variable winning device 31 operates, the opening/closing member 31a is drawn into the board surface and opens the second big winning opening 31b (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where it is not impossible (possible or easy) for the game ball to flow in, and the event of the ball entering the second big winning hole 31b can occur.

Further, inside the second variable winning device 31, a guiding passage 31c for guiding the game ball that has entered the second variable winning device 31 is arranged. The guide passage 31c extends downward from the second big prize opening 31b, bends to the left from there, extends downward to the left, and then extends downward again.

A second count switch 85 is arranged upstream of the guide passage 31c, and a blade member 31d for a definite variable region and a hole 31e for a definite variable region are arranged in the middle of the guide passage 31c. A discharge port 31f (discharge area) is arranged downstream of the discharge port 31f (discharge area).

When a game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, the second count switch 85 first detects that the ball has entered the ball. Here, when the variable variable area solenoid that operates the blade member 31d for variable variable area is ON, the blade member 31d for variable variable area rises and guides the game ball to the hole 31e for variable variable area. On the other hand, when the variable variable area solenoid that operates the blade member 31d for variable variable area is OFF, since the blade member 31d for variable variable area does not rise, the game ball passes through the upper part of the blade member 31d for variable variable area, It is guided to the discharge port 31f.

[Definitely variable area (specific area)]
Further, a probability variable region (no reference numeral) is provided inside the probability variable region hole 31e. The probability variable area is an area through which the game ball cannot pass when the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, and when the second variable winning device 31 is in the open state, the variable probability region feather member 31d is activated. If it is, it is an area through which the game ball can pass.

The variable probability area blade member 31d may operate during a jackpot game. The operation pattern of the variable variable area blade member 31d is to open the variable variable area for a short period of time (for example, 0.1 seconds) at the start of a round, then close it for several seconds (about 2 to 3 seconds), and then open the variable variable area for a long period of time. Apply either a long opening pattern in which a long opening is made over a period of about 20 seconds (for example, about 20 seconds) or a short opening pattern in which a short opening is made in which only the probability variable area is opened for a short period of time (for example, 0.1 seconds) at the start of the round. . Which operation pattern should be used to operate the probability variable area feather member 31d can be selected depending on the winning symbol. Specifically, when winning with a variable probability symbol, a long opening pattern is selected in which the variable probability area is opened long, and when winning with a normal symbol, a short opening pattern is selected in which the variable probability region is opened short.

In addition, as for the operation pattern of the blade member 31d for the definite variable area, only the pattern in which the blade member 31d for the definite variable area opens long is applied, and when the first variable winning device 30 opens short and the round ends, the blade member 31d for the definite variable area The opportunity for the blade member 31d to open long may be eliminated. In addition, in the short-term release that is executed at the same time as the start of the round, the game ball does not reach the variable probability area feather member 31d, so it is difficult to guide the game ball to the variable probability area by this operation.

If the game ball passes through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, the low probability state is shifted to the high probability state after the jackpot game ends. Note that at this time, the transition may be made from the non-time saving state to the time saving state (high probability time saving state). On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, the state shifts to a low probability state after the jackpot game ends. Note that at this time, the transition may be made from the non-time saving state to the time saving state (low probability time saving state).

A production unit 40 is installed in the game board unit 8 from the center position to the right side. The production unit 40 has an upper edge 40a which functions as a guide member for changing the direction of flow of the game ball, and has various decorative parts 40b and 40c inside thereof. The decorative parts 40b and 40c enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 due to their three-dimensional shape, and can perform dramatic movements by, for example, emitting transmitted light from a built-in light emitting device (such as an LED). . Furthermore, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the production unit 40, and various production images are displayed on this liquid crystal display 42, including production patterns that correspond to special symbols. . In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 on the player based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the presentation unit 40. In addition, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin board (for example, an acrylic board) as in this embodiment, various decorative bodies (including movable bodies and light-emitting bodies) are arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. ) can add decoration.

In addition, inside the presentation unit 40, a movable body 40f for presentation (for example, a decoration imitating a butterfly) and a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) are attached. The movable body 40f for performance can perform a performance involving the movement of a tangible object in addition to a performance using an image on the liquid crystal display 42 or a performance using a light emitting device. The effects using these movable bodies 40f can have a different appeal than effects using two-dimensional images.

Further, a ball guide passage 40d is formed on the left side edge of the production unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed on the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d opens diagonally upward to the left within the game area 8a, and when a game ball flowing down within the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide passage 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. It is released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface, and the game ball can freely roll in the left and right direction here. The game ball rolling on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down into the lower gaming area 8a. A ball release path 40k is formed in the center position of the rolling stage 40e, and the game balls guided from the rolling stage 40e to the ball release path 40k easily flow into the medium start prize opening 26 located directly below it. .

In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and game balls that do not enter the various winning ports (win) are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board unit 8. In addition, game balls that have entered the normal winning openings 22 and 24, the middle starting winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 28a, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31 are also included in the game balls that are driven into the gaming area 8a. All the game balls thrown are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 to the outside of the frame through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join the supply route of the island equipment (not shown).

A rear lamp unit 430 is arranged above the game board unit 8. The rear lamp unit 430 is arranged at a position overlapping the front lamp unit 420.
An LED (not shown) as a panel lamp is arranged in the rear lamp unit 430, and when this LED is lit, the front lamp unit 420 emits light.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view of a part of the game board unit 8 (the lower right position within the window 4a). The game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position within the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, and a second special symbol display device 35. A gaming status display device 38 is provided.

Among these, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner by, for example, alternately lighting two lamps (LEDs), and then displays the normal symbols in a static manner by lighting or extinguishing the lamps. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays the memorized number of 0 to 4 by, for example, a combination of two lamps (LEDs) turning off, turning on, and blinking. For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, the number of memories is 0, and in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the number of memories is 1, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinking, the number of memories is 1. In a display mode where the number of memories is 2, and one lamp is blinking and the other lamp is lit, the number of memories is 3, and in a display mode where both lamps are blinking, the number of memories is 4. For example, display the number of items. Although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lit lamps.

Each time a game ball passes through the starting gate 20, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after increasing by one in order to remember that the passage that triggers the operation lottery has occurred. (up to 4 pieces), and each time the passage of the symbol starts to change, the display mode changes one by one to the display mode after the number of symbols decreases. In addition, in this embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (memory number is 0), the game ball passes through the starting gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start changing (when the stop display is displayed). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passes in which the variation of the normal symbol has not yet started at that time.

In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 each display a fluctuating state and a stopped state of the corresponding first special symbol or second special symbol, for example, using a 7-segment LED (with dots). (design display means). Note that the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a each have 0 to 4 lights, depending on the display mode consisting of, for example, a combination of two lamps (LEDs) turning off, turning on, and blinking. Displays the number of memories (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, the number of memories is 0, and in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the number of memories is 1, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinking, the number of memories is 1. In a display mode where the number of memories is 2, and one lamp is blinking and the other lamp is lit, the number of memories is 3, and in a display mode where both lamps are blinking, the number of memories is displayed. For example, four items are displayed.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is displayed after increasing by one each time a game ball enters the medium start winning hole 26 in order to remember that a game ball has entered the medium start winning hole 26. (up to 4 symbols), and each time the special symbols start changing with the entry of the ball, the display mode changes one by one to a display mode after the number of special symbols decreases. In addition, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a increases by one each time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 in order to remember that a game ball entered the right start winning opening 28a. (up to a maximum of 4 symbols), and each time the special symbols start to fluctuate with the entry of the ball, the display mode changes to a display mode in which the number of special symbols decreases by one. In addition, in this embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first special symbol is already in a state where it can start changing (when the stop display is displayed) and the medium start winning hole 26 Even if a game ball enters the ball, the display mode does not change. In addition, if the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 while the second special symbol is already ready to start changing (when the stop display is displayed). The display mode does not change even if the ball is played. In other words, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of incoming balls for which fluctuation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started at that time. It represents the number of times.

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

These LED lamps mounted on the integrated display board 89 are divided into four different control areas (hereinafter referred to as "common") for the purpose of controlling switching on or off. Looking at it from a different perspective, there are four commons on the integrated display board 89, and each lamp belongs to one of the commons. In this embodiment, a dynamic lighting method is adopted, and the lamps are sequentially driven in common units at intervals of an interrupt period (for example, 4 ms). Therefore, all the lamps mounted on the integrated display board 89 are not driven at the same time.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be explained. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of control operations, and this main control device 70 mainly has the function of controlling the progress of games in the pachinko machine 1. There is. Note that the main control device 70 is built into the main control board unit 170.

The main control device 70 is also equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72, which is a central processing unit, is mounted, and the main control CPU 72 has a ROM 74, a RAM ( It is configured as an LSI that integrates semiconductor memories such as RWM) 76 and the like. The main controller 70 is also equipped with a random number circuit 75, an interrupt controller (interrupt CTR) 192, a parallel I/O port 79, a timer circuit (PTC) 194, and a serial communication circuit (SCU) 196. Among these, the random number circuit 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for determining the jackpot in the special symbol lottery and the hit determination in the regular symbol lottery. It is input to the main control CPU 72. The interrupt controller 192 also receives interrupt requests (XINT interrupt, PTC interrupt, SCU interrupt) from the parallel I/O port 79, timer circuit 194, and serial communication circuit 196, and processes these interrupt requests. Control based on priority. In addition, the main control device 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as a clock generation circuit (not shown) and a reset controller that monitors various states and generates a reset as necessary, and these are mounted on a circuit board together with the main control CPU 72. implemented on top. Note that a signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion). Note that the I/O port of the main controller 70 may be in a serial format.

Furthermore, the main control device 70 is provided with a setting change device 300, a setting key switch 302, and a RAM clear switch 304. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) changes settings by operating the setting change device 300. The setting change device 300 is a device (setting change means) that changes settings (at least multiple levels of setting values regarding the probability of winning the special symbol lottery), and is activated by operating the RAM clear switch 304 or the like. Moreover, setting refers to a combination of operation probabilities. Furthermore, the activation probability refers to the probability that a combination of special symbols will be displayed that will cause the condition device to operate (that will cause a jackpot game to be executed). The setting key switch 302 is an input device that inputs a signal (ON/OFF) indicating the rotation state of the setting key as the setting key is rotated, which is essential for switching settings. Various methods can be used to change the settings, and for example, the settings can be changed using the following steps.

(1) First, turn off the power of the pachinko machine 1.
(2) Next, open the door of the pachinko machine 1 with the special key (door key). Specifically, the dedicated key is inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 6a and rotated to the right to open the integral door unit 4 together with the inner frame assembly 7.
(3) On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a setting key keyhole 306 for inserting the setting key and a RAM clear switch 304 are provided, so insert the setting key into the setting key keyhole 306 and set the setting key. Rotate the key to the right.
(4) Then, turn on the power of the pachinko machine 1.

(5) As a result, a signal (ON) indicating that the setting key has been rotated to the change position is input by the setting key switch 302, and the setting can be changed based on this input signal. At this time, a safety lock is applied by a locking mechanism (not shown). Therefore, the setting key cannot be removed unless it is returned to its original position.

Here, when the setting key is rotated to the right and the power is turned on while turning on the RAM clear switch 304, the settings can be changed. On the other hand, if the power is turned on without turning on the RAM clear switch 304 while the setting key is rotated to the right, the settings can be referenced.

(6) In a state where the settings can be changed, by pressing the RAM clear switch 304 an arbitrary number of times, the settings can be changed to any one of a plurality of predetermined stages.
The set value can be displayed on, for example, a dedicated 7-segment LED, the gaming status display device 38 (special symbol display device, etc.), and the performance display monitor 200.

(7) In the case of a slot machine, when the desired setting is reached, a lever ON process is required, but since Pachinko machine 1 does not have a lever, an alternative process (for example, pressing the setting key to the left) (a process of rotating in a direction, a process of turning on a setting change confirmation button (not shown), etc.), or a process of turning on the lever may be omitted. In this embodiment, when the desired setting is reached, the setting key is rotated counterclockwise to return it to its original position. By this operation, a signal (OFF) indicating that the setting key has been returned to its original position is inputted by the setting key switch 302, and the setting change is confirmed based on this input signal.

(8) When the setting change is confirmed, the setting key can be removed from the setting key keyhole 306. Further, when the setting change is confirmed, if the setting value is displayed on the dedicated 7-segment LED, the gaming status display device 38, or the performance display monitor 200, the display disappears.
(9) Finally, close the door of Pachinko machine 1. This completes changing the settings. Once the settings have been changed, normal gaming begins.

When the setting is changed, the main control CPU 72 stores the changed setting value in the setting value buffer of the RAM 76. The settings buffer can be a memory area that is backed up.

[Setting change status]
When the power is turned on with the "setting key ON", "inner frame open state", and "RAM clear switch pressed", after RAM is cleared, the state changes to the state where settings are being changed (setting change state, setting change mode) do.

While the settings are being changed, no display is made on the main display (various lamps included in the game status display device 38), and it is impossible to fire game balls or win game balls at all. In addition, on the performance display monitor 200, "rn." is displayed on the two 7-segment LEDs (identification segment) on the left side, and a setting value such as "-1" is displayed on the two 7-segment LEDs (ratio segment) on the right side. Is displayed. Further, when the RAM clear switch 304 is pressed, the set value changes within the range of 1 to 6. Then, when the setting key is turned OFF, the setting is finalized and the "-" segment is turned off (hidden) as shown in "blank (non-display) 1" in the ratio segment display.

In this state, if the "inner frame is closed" (actually, the closed state continues for 100ms), the state in which the settings are being changed will end, and the state will return to the state before the power was turned off. , transition to a playable state.

In this embodiment, the RAM clear switch 304 also serves as a setting change switch, but a setting change switch may be provided separately without also serving as the RAM clear switch 304.

[Setting confirmation status]
On the other hand, when the power is turned on with the "setting key ON", "inner frame open state", and "RAM clear switch not pressed", the state shifts to the state where settings are being checked (settings checking state, settings checking mode). .

Similar to the state in which the settings are being changed, in the state in which the settings are being confirmed, no display is made on the main display, and it is impossible to fire game balls or win game balls at all. In addition, on the performance display monitor, "rn." is displayed on the two 7-segment LEDs (identification segment) on the left, and "blank (non-display) 1" is displayed on the two 7-segment LEDs (ratio segment) on the right. The setting value is displayed. Note that while the settings are being confirmed, the set values do not change even if the RAM clear switch 304 is pressed.

In this state, if the "setting key is OFF" and the "inner frame is closed" (actually, the closed state continues for 100ms), the setting confirmation state will end and the power will be turned off once. After shifting to the previous state, the state shifts to the game ready state.

In addition, in this embodiment, although it is not possible to confirm the settings in the gaming enabled state, the setting confirmation may be made executable in the gaming enabled state.

The starting gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting passage of a game ball. The game board unit 8 also includes a middle start winning port switch 80 and a right start winning port corresponding to the middle start winning port 26, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. A switch 82, a first count switch 84 and a second count switch 85 are provided. Each starting winning hole switch 80, 82 is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the middle starting winning hole 26 and the variable starting winning device 28 (right starting winning hole 28a). Further, the first count switch 84 is for detecting the entry of game balls into the first variable winning device 30 (first big winning hole) and counting the number thereof. Furthermore, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the entry of game balls into the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning opening 31b) and counting the number thereof. Further, the variable probability area switch 95 is a switch (detection means) for detecting that the game ball has passed through the variable probability area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

Similarly, the game board unit 8 includes a first winning hole switch 86 that detects when a game ball enters the normal winning hole 22, and a second winning hole switch 86 that detects when a game ball enters the normal winning hole 24. 81 is equipped. Regarding the three normal winning holes 22 on the left side, a configuration in which a common winning hole switch 86 is used is taken as an example, but for example, if three winning hole switches are installed, the game ball for each normal winning hole 22 can be changed. Incoming balls may be detected individually.

In any case, winning detection signals from these switches are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input/output driver (not shown). In addition, due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in this embodiment, the gate switch 78, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, the first winning opening switch 86, the second winning opening switch 81, and the probability variable area switch 95 The winning detection signal is transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87, and the panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying each winning detection signal.

The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol working memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, second special symbol working memory lamp 35a and game The display operation of the status display device 38 is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals to these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. Furthermore, these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a are mounted on one integrated display board 89 and installed in the game board unit 8, as described above. Control signals are transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display board 89 via the panel relay terminal board 87 .

Further, a performance display monitor 200 is connected to the main controller 70 via a panel relay terminal board 87. The performance display monitor 200 displays the number of prize balls paid out when game balls enter each winning hole (starting winning hole, normal winning hole), and the number of outs (out switch) indicating the number of game balls fired into the gaming area. This is a monitor for displaying the base calculated by dividing by the number of game balls detected. The base is calculated for each preset section using an area (unused area) that is different from the used area used to control the progress of the game, and the base of the current section and the base of the previous section are , are switched and displayed at preset intervals. The display operation of the performance display monitor 200 is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs a control signal to the performance display monitor 200 according to the base calculation situation, and controls the lighting state of each of the seven segments.

A merging passage is formed in the game board unit 8 to merge the game balls that have passed through all the winning holes and the out opening, and an out switch can be provided in this merging passage. The out switch detects a game ball passing through the merging path, and a detection signal is input to the main controller 70 every time a game ball is detected. The main controller 70 can count the number of out balls based on the detection signal input from the out switch. Since the game balls fired into the game area 8a always pass through the merging path and are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 1, the out switch determines the number of fired balls fired into the game area 8a, that is, the game area. The number of balls ejected from 8a (number of out balls) can be counted.

Although the performance display monitor 200 is described as being connected to the main controller 70 via the panel relay terminal board 87, it may also be connected to the main controller 70 without using the panel relay terminal board 87. , a performance display monitor 200 may be arranged as an internal configuration of the main control device 70.

In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a normal electric accessory solenoid 88, a first big prize opening corresponding to the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the upstream of the probability variable area, respectively. A solenoid 90, a second big prize opening solenoid 97, and a probability variable area solenoid 99 are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 operate (energize) based on control signals from the main control CPU 72, and open and close the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively. actuate) or move the variable probability region blade member 31d. Note that control signals are also transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to these solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

In addition, a glass frame release switch 91 is installed on the integrated door unit 4, and a plastic frame release switch 93 is installed on the inner frame assembly 7. When the integral door unit 4 is opened independently, a contact signal from the glass frame release switch 91 is input to the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72), and the inner frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame unit 2. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame release switch 93 is input to the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. Note that when the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the integrated door unit 4 or the inner frame assembly 7, it generates a door open information signal as an external information signal.

A payout control device 92 is installed on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. This payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted, and the payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI integrated with a CPU core (not shown) and semiconductor memories such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98. It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as an external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

A payout device board 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor) in a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, and a drive circuit for the payout motor 102 is provided on this payout device board 100. There is. The payout device board 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94), and pays out the specified number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout channel in the channel unit 173.

Further, for example, a payout road ball cut-off switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout count switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout counting switch 106 is input to the payout device board 100 each time. Further, when a ball is out at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout road ball out switch 104 is input to the payout device board 100. The payout device board 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual number of payouts and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device board 100. A payout detection switch can be placed near the payout counting switch 106.

Further, in the pachinko machine 1, a full tank switch 161 is installed, for example, inside the lower tray 6c (in a position at the back when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The actually paid out prize balls (game balls) are discharged into the upper tray 6b through the channel unit 173, but when the upper tray 6b is full of game balls, the game balls that are paid out more than that are discharged into the upper tray 6b as described above. It flows into the lower plate 6c like this. Further, when the lower tray 6c becomes full of game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned on and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends any further prize ball operations and stores the remaining number of unpaid prize balls in the RAM 98. Furthermore, the memory in the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so even if a power outage (including momentary power outage) occurs during a game, the information on the number of remaining prize balls that have not been paid out will not be lost. . Note that when the full tank switch 161 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 generates a full tank error command. The generated full tank error command is transmitted to the production control device 124. Note that the full tank error command can continue to be sent until the full tank switch 161 is turned off.

Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with a firing control board 108 (ball firing means). Further, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided within the saucer unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with a drive circuit for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Of these, the ball feeding solenoid 111 performs an operation to feed the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined shooting position within the shooting machine case. Further, the firing solenoid 110 performs an operation of hitting the game balls sent out to the firing position and continuously (intermittently) firing the game balls one by one toward the game area 8a as described above. Note that the game balls are fired at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 balls per minute).

On the other hand, the handle unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Of these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the amount of operation (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. Furthermore, the touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (firing handle) from a change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in response to the player's operation.

A firing relay terminal board 118 is installed in the saucer unit 6, and each signal from the firing lever volume 112, touch sensor 114, and firing stop switch 116 is transmitted to the firing control board 108 via the firing relay terminal board 118. be done. Further, a drive signal from the firing control board 108 is applied to the ball feeding solenoid 111 via the firing relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (an encoded digital signal may be used) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the amount of operation, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength with which the game ball is launched is adjusted according to the amount of operation by the player. Note that the drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. do. In addition, a game ball rental device connection terminal board 120 is connected to the firing relay terminal board 118, and when a card unit is not connected to the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120, the firing control board The drive circuit 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

Further, the saucer unit 6 has a built-in frequency display board 122 and a loan/return switch board 123. Among these, the power display board 122 is provided with a power display section display (7 segment LED for 3 digits). Further, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12, respectively, are mounted on the lending and return switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is sent to the lending/returning button 12. and is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the card unit via the game ball etc. rental device connection terminal board 120. Further, from the card unit, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the frequency display board 122 via the gaming ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives a display based on the frequency signal, and numerically displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. In addition, if no valuable medium is inserted into the card unit, or if the remaining count of the loaded valuable medium becomes 0, the display circuit of the count display board 122 drives the display to display a demonstration (valuable medium It is also possible to display a display prompting the user to input

Moreover, the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a production control device 124 (computer for production control) as a control configuration. This performance control device 124 controls the performance accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The production control device 124 is also equipped with a production control CPU 126, which is a central processing unit, on a circuit board (composite sub-control board, production control board, sub-control board). The production control CPU 126 is configured as an LSI that includes a CPU core (not shown) and semiconductor memories such as a RAM (RWM) 130 and an eDRAM 131. Note that the performance control device 124 is provided at a position covered by a back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

In addition, the production control device 124 is equipped with various functional components necessary for realizing production, such as a VDP 152, a driver IC 132, and an audio IC 134. Among these, the VDP 152 is a processor for drawing an effect screen to be played on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The driver IC 132 is equipped with an IC that controls devices such as the lamps 46 to 52, the panel lamp 53, the button lamp 71, and the movable motor 57. Furthermore, the audio IC 134 controls driving of the speakers 54, 55, 56, and 58. The internal functional configuration of the production control device 124 will be described in detail later with reference to the following diagram.

The production control device 124 and the main control device 70 are interconnected, for example, via a communication harness (not shown). However, communication between them is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the production control device 124, and communication in the opposite direction is not performed. The communication harness adopts a parallel format depending on the bus width of various production commands (hereinafter referred to as "production commands") sent from the main control device 70 to the production control device 124. Alternatively, a serial format may be adopted depending on the hardware configuration of each driver (I/O).

In this embodiment, a sub-connection board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the driver IC 132 and audio IC 134 are transmitted to various lamps 46 to 52, speakers 54, 55, 56 and 58. Furthermore, in addition to the handle lever 62, button motor 63, push button 64, direction key 66, and button lamp 71, a volume adjustment switch 67 and a brightness adjustment switch 68 are connected to the sub-connection board 136, so that the player can control the volume. When the adjustment switch 67 and the brightness adjustment switch 68 are operated, the operation information is notified to the production control device 124 through the sub-connection board 136.

The button motor 63 is a stepping motor corresponding to the push button 64, and is driven by an operation unit control device (not shown) that controls the operation unit 60 (switching means). The operation unit control device drives the button motor 63 based on the drive signal transmitted from the production control device 124 to place the push button 64 in either the normal state (initial position) or the protruded state (maximum movable position). switch (displace).

In addition, a driver board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body motor 57 is connected to this driver board 138 in addition to the board lamp 53. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f via, for example, a link mechanism (not shown). A drive signal from the driver IC 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57 via the driver board 138, respectively.

The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and its display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and this inverter board 158 generates AC power that is applied to the backlight (for example, cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42.

Additionally, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is installed on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. This power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit, and when it takes in external power (for example, AC 24V, etc.) from the island equipment through the power cord 164, it can generate necessary power (for example, DC +34V, +12V, etc.) from there. The power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, payout control device 92, production control device 124, and inverter board 158. Further, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is also supplied to the card unit via the game ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 120. Note that low voltage power (for example, DC +5V) for logic is generated by a power supply IC (such as a three-terminal regulator) built into each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded to the island equipment through the ground wire 166.

The external terminal board 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) are sent from the external terminal board 160 to the outside via the payout control device 92. This is what will be output. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output external information signals to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are compiled by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Although a configuration in which the external information signal is routed through the payout control device 92 is exemplified here, a configuration in which the external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may also be used.

[Internal configuration of production control device]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the internal functional configuration of the production control device 124.
As described above, the performance control device 124 has the role of a performance control processor that controls the performance as the game progresses. Therefore, the production control device 124 is equipped with a control ROM 180 and a watchdog timer IC (WDTIC) 188, which are necessary for the production control device 124 to function as a production control processor, in addition to the production control CPU 126. The control ROM 180 stores basic programs related to control of effects. The performance control CPU 126 accesses the control ROM 180 via a CPU bus (not shown) and controls the performance by executing a program stored in the control ROM 180. The watchdog timer IC 188 is a timer that monitors whether the control executed by the production control device 124 is being performed normally (whether the processing is completed within the expected time), and is connected to the reset terminal of the production control CPU 126. There is. If the signal (clear pulse) for clearing the monitoring timer of the watchdog timer IC 188 is not input within a predetermined time, the watchdog timer IC 188 outputs a signal (reset pulse) for starting the reset to the production control CPU 126. do. As a result, the production control device 124 is forcibly reset and activated.

In addition to these functions, the production control device 124 also has functions related to production, such as an SRAM 182 that is a storage area for backup data, a crystal oscillator 181 that generates a clock signal of a predetermined frequency, and a real-time clock (RTC) 184 that performs time management. , a lithium battery 186 that supplies backup power to the SRAM 182 and real-time clock 184, and peripheral ICs such as input/output drivers and counter/timer circuits (not shown). The lithium battery 186 stores this power and charges itself while driving power is being supplied from the power supply control unit 162 to the production control device 124. The SRAM 182 and the real-time clock 184 are connected to a lithium battery 186, and can be driven by the lithium battery 186 when the supply of drive power from the power supply control unit 162 to the performance control device 124 is cut off. Therefore, even if the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 is cut off, the SRAM 182 and the real-time clock 184 continue to operate until the lithium battery 186 runs out of charge (for example, about one and a half months). The SRAM 182 can retain stored information for a while even in a power-off situation.

The production control program is configured to store information regarding security, monitoring, malfunctions, etc. that should not be easily erased in the SRAM 182. As a result, for example, if some kind of malfunction occurs in the performance control device 124, the pachinko machine 1 can be recovered (or inspected in the installed state), and the cause of the malfunction can be investigated by analyzing the information held in the SRAM 182. becomes possible.

Normally, the performance control executed by the performance control CPU 126 according to the program stored in the control ROM 180 includes the liquid crystal display 42, various lamps 46 to 52, panel lamp 53, button lamp 71, speaker 54, This includes control of effects using devices such as 55, 56, and 58. Broadly speaking, the flow of this production control can be divided into two stages: "overall control (playback instructions)" and "individual control (playback control)." The production control CPU 126 first receives a production command transmitted from the main control device 70, and indirectly instructs each device to reproduce a production according to the contents of the production command (overall control). Next, the production control CPU 126 generates instruction data that converts the instruction content into more specific expressions suitable for each device, and each control device 134, 152, 198, 199 relays between the production control CPU 126 and each device. (individual control). As a result, each control device 134, 152, 198, 199 controls each device based on the instruction data, and the performance playback (screen display, audio output, lamp emission, movable body displacement) using each device in the pachinko machine 1 is performed. etc.) are realized.

In this way, the performance control CPU 126 has different functions depending on the stage of performance control, and these functions are realized by properly using the resources of the performance control CPU 126. In FIG. 5, the internal resources of the production control CPU 126 are divided into several functional blocks, which include a production control section 210, a display control section 220, an audio control section 222, a lamp control section 224, a motor control section 226, and an input control section 228. etc. In the following description, each functional block will be treated as an operating entity of control processing.

First, at the stage of overall control, the production control section 210 in the production control CPU 126 becomes the main operating body. In addition, at the stage of individual control, the display control section 220, audio control section 222, lamp control section 224, motor control section 226, or input control section 228 in the production control CPU 126 is the main operating body depending on the device to be controlled. becomes. In addition, it is good also as a structure in which the production control part 210 directly controls each control device 134, 152, 198, 199, etc.

The production control device 124 functions as a production control processor at the stage of overall control, whereas it functions as a production reproduction processor at the stage of individual control. Therefore, the production control device 124 further includes a circuit board (production display control board) on which the VDP 152 is mounted, a CGROM (image/audio ROM) 190, and an audio IC 134 for controlling various devices used for reproduction of production. It is equipped with an LED driver 198, an SMC (serial control controller) 199, and a driver IC 132.

The CGROM 190 stores drawing materials (moving image data) constituting the performance screen and audio materials (sound data) that are output as the performance progresses, compressed using a predetermined compression algorithm. The CGROM 190 is connected to the VDP 152 and audio IC 134 via a CG bus (not shown).

The VDP 152 is a processor dedicated to drawing performance images, and is integrated into a single chip together with the performance control CPU 126. Further, the VDP 152 includes a VRAM 156 and a drawing material decoder 157. Of these, the VRAM 156 is mainly used when expanding drawing materials, and the drawing material decoder 157 is used when decompressing (decoding) compressed drawing materials. The VDP 152 first analyzes the instruction content sent from the display control unit 220, reads out necessary drawing materials from the CGROM 190 via the CG bus, and transfers them to the VRAM 156. Then, the drawn drawing material that has been read out is decoded by a drawing material decoder 157 to draw an effect image on the VRAM 156, and the effect image is developed into a frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time). By individually driving each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data, reproduction of the effect screen is realized.

The audio IC 134 is a sound generator that generates sounds such as sound effects and BGM to be played during execution of the performance, and is integrated into a single chip with the performance control CPU 126 like the VDP 152. The audio IC 134 is connected to an amplifier (not shown), an external DRAM, and a CG bus. Furthermore, the audio IC 134 has a built-in audio material decoder 135 that decompresses (decodes) compressed audio materials. The audio IC 134 first analyzes the contents of the instruction transmitted from the audio control unit 222, and reads necessary audio materials from the CGROM 190 via the CG bus. Then, the read audio material is decoded using the audio material decoder 135 on the external DRAM. By outputting the decoded audio to the glass frame top speaker 54, glass frame speaker 55, inner frame speaker 56, and outer frame speaker 58 via an amplifier, stereo 2ch or monaural 2ch audio playback (as a larger number of channels) (also good). Furthermore, the audio IC 134 adjusts the output volume of each speaker 54, 55, 56, and 58 based on a contact signal input when the volume adjustment switch 67 is operated.

The LED driver 198 controls the lighting patterns and brightness patterns of the various lamps 46 to 52 provided on the front side of the pachinko machine 1, the board lamp 53, and the button lamp 71. The LED driver 198 employs an addressing synchronous serial method. The LED driver 198 first controls the lighting pattern and brightness pattern based on the instruction content sent from the lamp control unit 224, and transfers the corresponding drive data to the driver IC 132. Further, the LED driver 198 adjusts the brightness of various lamps (LEDs) based on operation information input when the brightness adjustment switch 68 is operated.

The SMC 199 controls the drive pattern of the movable body motor 57 that serves as a drive source for the performance movable body 40f provided inside the performance unit 40. The SMC 199 is also integrated into one chip with the production control CPU 126. The SMC199 uses a clock synchronous serial method. The SMC 199 first generates a drive pattern based on the instruction content sent from the motor control unit 226, and transfers this to the driver IC 132. Note that here, the SMC199 is used only to generate drive patterns for the motor, but since the SMC199 can also generate lighting patterns and brightness patterns for not only motors but also lamps, the SMC199 is applied in place of the LED driver 198 described above. However, it is also possible to configure the SMC 199 to generate data patterns for both lamps and motors.

The driver IC 132 controls the drive voltage applied to the lamp and motor based on drive data transferred from the LED driver 198 and SMC 199. The driver IC 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown), and switches (or changes the duty) the drive voltage applied to various lamps and the movable motor 57 to control their operation. By managing this, it is possible to realize performance playback using lamps and movable objects. In addition to the glass frame top lamp 46 and the glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, the various lamps include light sources built into each part of the operation unit 60 and decorative/presentation lamps installed in the game board unit 8. The board lamp 53, button lamp 71, etc. are included. The board lamp 53 is an LED built in the production unit 40, an LED built in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, etc. The button lamp 71 is an LED built into the push button 64. In addition, although an example is given here in which the glass frame decorative lamp 52 is connected to the sub-connection board 136, a saucer illumination board is installed in the saucer unit 6, and a saucer illumination board is installed for the glass frame decorative lamp 52. The configuration may be such that it is connected to the driver IC 132 via the driver IC 132 .

In addition, the driver IC 132 stores operation information that is input when the player operates operation members (operation means) such as the handle lever 62, push button 64, direction key 66, volume adjustment switch 67, and brightness adjustment switch 68. is notified to the production control section 210 via the input control section 228. The production control unit 210 constructs a production based on the contents of the operation information notified.
The above is an example of the configuration regarding control of the pachinko machine 1.

Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be explained.

[CPU initialization (main) processing in the main controller]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts CPU initialization processing. The CPU initialization process restores the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 by restoring the gaming state (so-called power restoration) based on the backup information saved at the time of the previous power cut, or conversely clearing the backup information. This is a process to adjust the situation. Further, the CPU initialization process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for ensuring stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a procedure for CPU initialization processing. Hereinafter, the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be explained step by step.

Step S100: The main control CPU 72 first sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

Step S102: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector table. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the interrupt vector table in the I register (interrupt vector register) used for interrupt control. The interrupt vector table defines the priorities necessary for controlling interrupt requests that occur during the execution of CPU initialization processing, and the main control CPU 72 follows the priorities defined in the interrupt vector table. Based on this, multiple interrupt requests are executed in sequence. Control of interrupt processing will be described in detail later.

Step S104: The main control CPU 72 saves the RAM clear signal (input signal from the RAM clear switch 304). More specifically, the value of the input port to which the RAM clear signal is input is acquired twice in succession, and the logical sum of these values is saved as the input port value.

Step S106: The main control CPU 72 executes standby processing here. This process secures a certain amount of waiting time (for example, several thousand milliseconds) after the power is turned on, and checks for a power-off warning signal (a signal indicating that a power-off is about to occur) during that time. It is something. Specifically, after setting a loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 performs a bit check on the input port of the power-off notice signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The power-off warning signal is input by an IC that monitors the voltage level of the drive voltage. If the input of the power-off notice signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. This makes it possible to protect the system, for example, when the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly turned on and off within a short period of time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

Step S108: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted from now on.

Step S110: The main control CPU 72 refers to the RAM clear signal by checking the specific bit of the input port value saved in the previous step S104, and confirms whether the RAM clear switch 304 has been operated (switch ON). do. If the RAM clear switch 304 is not operated (No), then step S112 is executed.

Step S112: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether the backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup was successfully completed in the process executed at the previous power-off and the backup validity determination flag (for example, "A5H") is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S114. Note that the process executed when the power is shut off will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S114: The main control CPU 72 performs a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 performs a sum check on all areas in the work area of the RAM 76 (user work area including a prohibited area and a stack area) except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S116.

Step S116: The main control CPU 72 clears the storage contents of a partial area of the RAM 76. The partial area of the RAM 76 is a work area within a continuous predetermined range based on the address of the backup validity determination flag to be cleared when the power is restored. By clearing the memory contents of this area for each address (byte by byte) while retaining the saved valid backup information, the main control CPU 72 can restore the state at the time of power cut. (memory recovery means).

Step S118: The main control CPU 72 sends an effect command (a command to be sent to the effect control device 124) specifying a power return indicating that the main control CPU 72 has started after recovering from a power cutoff, and a payout command (a command to be sent to the payout control device 92). command).

On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch 304 was operated when the power was turned on (step S110: Yes), if the backup validity determination flag was not set (step S112: No), or if the backup information was not normal. If so (step S114: No), the main control CPU 72 moves to step S120.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 clears the storage contents of the RAM 76 other than the prohibited area. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, its contents are erased.
Step S122: The main control CPU 72 also initializes the RAM 76.

Step S124: The main control CPU sets an effect command (command for effect control device 124) and a payout command (command for payout control device 92) specifying RAM clear indicating that RAM clear has been activated.

Step S126: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the payout command (power return designation) set in step S118 or the payout command (RAM clear designation) set in step S124 to the payout command buffer.

Step S128: The main control CPU72 executes production control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 first outputs the effect command set in step S118 (power return designation) or the effect command set in step S124 (RAM clear designation) to the effect command buffer. The main control CPU 72 further sets various other performance commands necessary for performance control and outputs these to the performance command buffer. At this time, the main control CPU 72 sets different values for these performance commands when the power is restored and when the RAM is cleared.

For example, when the power is restored, the values of each production command are set based on the backup information. By transmitting these production commands to the production control device 124 in the subsequent production command transmission process (step S142), the production control device 124 can change the production state (for example, internal (probability state, display mode of performance symbols, display mode of performance memory number, sound output content, light emitting state of various lamps, etc.) can be restored.

Step S130: The main control CPU 72 executes input port processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 acquires the contents of each input port, performs a predetermined operation on the value, and stores the result in the status flag of each input port. After completing this process, the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S131 (connection symbol A→A).

Step S131: The main control CPU 72 sets a main command permission signal to a specific bit of the output port. The main command permission signal is a signal that indicates to the payout control device 92 that the main control device 70 allows command transmission to itself. When the main command permission signal is input to the payout control device 92, in response to this, the payout control device 92 inputs a payout command permission signal to the main control device 70 indicating that transmission of the payout command is permitted. becomes.

Step S132: The main control CPU 72 resets (turns off) the specific bit of the output port and clears the firing permission signal (specific output information clearing means). The launch permission signal is included in the backup target when the power is cut off. Therefore, when the main control device 70 (pachinko machine 1) is powered back on, the main control CPU 72 executes the power recovery flow in the CPU initialization process, and returns the main control device 70 to the state at the time of power shutoff based on the backup information. (step S116), and as part of this, the launch permission signal is also returned to the state at power-off.

The launch permission signal is set in a specific bit (eg, bit 0) of a specific output port buffer (eg, the buffer for output port 3) stored in the RAM 76. However, the address of the output port buffer targeted here is located in the address space of the RAM 76 outside of the continuous area targeted for clearing in step S116. Therefore, if, as part of the processing in step S116, you try to clear the value of a specific bit of a specific address where the firing permission signal is set in addition to the area to be cleared, the specific address will be specified and then cleared. , it is necessary to perform exceptional processing to clear only a specific bit of data out of the 8-bit data stored at that address while maintaining the remaining 7-bit data. The efficiency of processing to clear the area becomes extremely low. Under these circumstances, the main control CPU 72 does not clear the firing permission signal in the previous step S116, handles it in the same way as other data to be backed up, and temporarily returns it to the state at power-off.

However, at the stage when the backup information is returned in the main control device 70 (step S116), communication with the payout control device 92 has not yet been established, and whether the payout control device 92 is normally activated (main control device It has not been confirmed whether instructions by commands from 70 can be accepted. If the power is cut off while the launch permission signal is ON, the launch permission signal is returned to ON, and as a result, game balls can be fired even though the normality of the payout control device 92 is unknown. A situation will occur. Here, suppose that the payout control device 92 is replaced with a modified product that does not meet the original inspection requirements (for example, the number of prize balls has been altered) while the power is turned off, and then when the power is restored, the main control device 70 is replaced. When activated, the firing permission signal is turned back on, making it possible to fire the game ball. Such a state is undesirable from a security perspective.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the firing permission signal is explicitly cleared once before the main control CPU 72 transitions to the main loop, regardless of whether the activation is due to power restoration or RAM clear specification. (reset to OFF). Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 confirms that the payout command permission signal has been input from the payout control device 92 to the main control device 70, and then sends the payout command to the payout control device 92. It employs control that sets the launch permission signal to ON. By performing such control, even if the game is started (resumed) by the processing of the main loop, the firing of game balls will not be permitted unless communication is established between the main control device 70 and the payout control device 92. , it is possible to avoid illegal firing of game balls in the case where the above-mentioned fraud is committed.

Step S133: The main control CPU 72 sets a timer interrupt cycle. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a value corresponding to the timer interrupt period (for example, 4 ms) in the counter setting register of the timer circuit 194.
Step S134: The main control CPU 72 resets the interrupt daisy chain. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the RETI instruction after backing up the start address of the main loop, which will be described later, as a preliminary preparation for interrupt processing. By performing this processing, it is possible to normally start the interrupt processing that occurs thereafter, and furthermore, it is possible to continue the processing from the main loop after executing the interrupt processing.

When the above procedure is executed in the CPU initialization process, the main control CPU 72 transitions to the main loop (steps S136 to S146 described below). As long as the power supply from the power supply control unit 162 is maintained, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the main loop from beginning to end.

Steps S136 and S138: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interrupts and then executes the initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) other than the jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) and the hit determination random number (hardware random number) corresponding to normal symbols are used. is generated programmatically. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another timer interrupt process (step S212 in FIG. 9). (the random number may not be the target) is changed. The random number for updating the initial value is used to randomly change this initial value, and in step S138, the random number for updating the initial value is updated. Note that step S138 is executed after interrupts are prohibited in step S136 because a similar process is executed in another timer interrupt process (step S210 in FIG. ). In addition, in this embodiment, the jackpot determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number circuit 75, and the update period thereof is faster (for example, several μs) than the timer interrupt period (for example, several ms). Therefore, there is no need to update the initial values of the jackpot determining random number and the winning determining random number. Note that timer interrupt processing will be described later using another drawing.

Step S140: The main control CPU 72 executes received command management processing. In this process, data received from the payout control device 92 is analyzed, and processing is performed according to the result. If the received command is a payout start designation command, the main control CPU 72 outputs a payout start confirmation designation command to the payout command buffer. If the value is outside the range, a payout error designation command is output to the production command buffer, and a payout radio wave error flag is set depending on the situation.

Step S142: The main control CPU 72 executes production command transmission processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 transmits each production command output to the production command buffer to the production control device 124.

Steps S144 and S146: The main control CPU 72 allows interrupts and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated in this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to determination of winning type (hit type) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when an interrupt request is generated during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes various interrupt processes.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be explained. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for timer interrupt processing. The main control CPU 72 executes timer interrupt processing (PTC interrupt processing) at predetermined time intervals (for example, several milliseconds) based on the interrupt request (PTC interrupt) output by the timer circuit 194. Each step of the timer interrupt processing will be explained below.

Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the AF register (pair of accumulator and flag register) and BC, DE, and HL registers (pair of general-purpose registers) used during the execution of the main loop to the save area of the RAM 76. Evacuate. After the value is saved, another value can be written to each register in the process of timer interrupt processing.

Step S202: Next, the main control CPU 72 allows an interrupt. By allowing interrupts here, it becomes possible for other interrupts to occur while the next step and subsequent steps of the timer interrupt process are being executed. In this way, multiple interrupts are permitted in the timer interrupt process. Note that reception of interrupt request signals, priority control of multiple interrupts, etc. are executed by the interrupt controller 192. Interrupt management by the interrupt controller 192 will be described later.

Step S204: The main control CPU 72 executes dynamic port output processing. In this process, in order to control the lighting of each lamp mounted on the integrated display board 89 using a dynamic lighting method, port output is performed in units of commons. More specifically, after clearing the output port, the main control CPU 72 stores the content output to the common output request buffer corresponding to the selected common in the output port.

Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes port input processing. In this process, in order to accurately obtain the latest switch status based on the input port information, the main control CPU 72 performs a logical product of the input values of various switch signals from the parallel I/O port 79 and the inverted result value of the previous input value. is stored in the input port on detection flag. As a result, the value (ON/OFF) of the input port on detection flag makes it possible to grasp the accurate input state based on changes in various switch signals from the previous time. Specifically, the various switch signals include passage detection signals from the gate switch 78 and the probability variable area switch 95, the middle start winning opening switch 80, the right starting winning opening switch 82, the first count switch 84, and the second count switch. 85, a winning detection signal from the first winning opening switch 86, the second winning opening switch 81, etc. are included.

Step S208: The main control CPU 72 executes timer update processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 decrements by 1 and updates counters such as timers for managing gaming time and closing time of ordinary electric accessories, various timers for external information, and a timer for security signals.

Step S210: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process here as well. The contents of the process are the same as those described in the CPU initialization process (step S138 in FIG. 8).

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning symbol random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of a counter for generating various random numbers for lottery of special symbols and normal symbols. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76, and the value is looped within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

Step S214: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous port input process (step S206), the gate switch 78, the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85 Based on the detection signals from the first winning port switch 86, the second winning port switch 81, and the probability variable area switch 95, events that occur during the game are determined, and normal symbol memory update processing is performed according to each event that occurs. , 1st special symbol memory update process, 2nd special symbol memory update process, 1st big winning opening counting process, 2nd big winning opening counting process, 1st winning opening counting process, 2nd winning opening counting process, Passing through probability variable area Executes time processing, etc.

In the normal symbol memory update process, when the number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), a random number per normal symbol is acquired and stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, and the number of normal symbol working memories is increased to 1. This is the process of increasing the number.

The first special symbol memory update process includes a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol, a jackpot symbol corresponding to the first special symbol, when the number of first special symbols operating memory is less than the upper limit number (for example, four). A process of acquiring a random number, a reach judgment random number corresponding to the first special symbol, and a fluctuation pattern determining random number corresponding to the first special symbol, storing them in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, and increasing the first special symbol working memory number by one. It is. In addition, in the first special symbol memory update process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the fluctuation starts) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol, and the performance content is determined based on the result ( It is possible to execute a performance determination process at the time of acquisition (generating a variation pattern destination determination command by so-called "pre-reading"). When the first special symbol working memory number is increased by one, a performance command when the working memory number increasing corresponding to the first special symbol is generated and transmitted to the performance control device 124.

The second special symbol memory update process includes a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the second special symbol, a jackpot symbol corresponding to the second special symbol, when the number of second special symbols operating memory is less than the upper limit number (for example, four). A process of acquiring a random number, a reach judgment random number corresponding to the second special symbol, and a fluctuation pattern determining random number corresponding to the second special symbol, storing them in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, and increasing the second special symbol working memory number by one. It is. In addition, in the second special symbol memory update process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the fluctuation starts) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the second special symbol, and the performance content is determined based on the result ( It is possible to execute a performance determination process at the time of acquisition (generating a variation pattern destination determination command by so-called "pre-reading"). When the second special symbol working memory number is increased by one, a production command when the working memory number increasing corresponding to the second special symbol is generated and transmitted to the production control device 124.

The first big winning hole counting process, the second big winning hole counting process, the first winning hole counting process, and the second winning hole counting process are counting processes for each winning hole.

The process when passing through the probability variable area is a process in which the value (01H) of the probability variable function activation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 as the gaming state flag. This probability fluctuation function activation flag is reset when the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times without a winning result after the end of the jackpot game. Further, in the variable probability region passing process, a variable probability region passage command can be generated.

In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the middle start winning port switch 80 or the right start winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs an internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers (lottery trigger) has occurred. Further, when a passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers a lottery corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. When determining that any of the events has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes processing corresponding to each event.

Step S215: The main control CPU 72 executes a setting change process (setting related process). In this process, processes associated with changing and confirming setting values are executed. Note that if the settings are not changed or confirmed, that is, if the game is possible, the main control CPU 72 skips this step (without executing the settings change process) and instead calculates the base. It is possible to perform a process of displaying the information on the performance display monitor 200. The main control CPU 72 calculates the number of prize balls paid out when game balls enter each winning hole (starting prize hole, normal winning hole, big winning hole), and the number of outs indicating the number of game balls fired into the gaming area. The base can be calculated by dividing by (the number of game balls detected by the out switch).

Furthermore, when the setting change process (setting-related process) is executed in this step, the main control CPU 72 generates a setting-related end designation command. Here, the "settings-related end designation command" is a production command that conveys that the process related to changing or confirming settings has ended, and the settings-related end designation command also includes information on setting values. can be included. The generated setting-related end designation command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 8) executed in the main loop.

Step S216, Step S218: The main control CPU72 executes special symbol game processing and normal symbol game processing. These processes are for concretely advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Among these, in the special symbol game processing (step S216), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and controls the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display. It determines the variable display or stop display by the device 35, and controls the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 according to the display results.

The special symbol game processing includes subroutines (program modules) for execution selection processing, special symbol variation pre-processing, special symbol variation processing, special symbol stop display processing, jackpot variable winning device management processing, and small winning variable winning device management processing. ) group.

In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and also sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started variable display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol fluctuation pre-processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol fluctuation processing as the next jump destination, and if the special symbol fluctuation processing has been completed (special symbol game management status :02H), the special symbol stop display process is selected as the next jump destination.

In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs work to prepare conditions for starting variable display of special symbols. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 decreases by 1 the working memory number of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is subject to variation, and changes the number of the first special symbol or the second special symbol stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. The random numbers for lottery of special symbols (jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot pattern random numbers) are read out, and based on the internal state, jackpot determination processing (internal lottery) and small hit determination processing are executed, and the stop symbol when a jackpot occurs and the stop symbol when a small hit occurs. Determine the symbol, the stop symbol at the time of a miss, etc., and based on the reach judgment random number and the fluctuation pattern determination random number, the fluctuation pattern at the time of a jackpot (fluctuation time at the time of a jackpot), the fluctuation pattern at the time of a small hit (the fluctuation time at the time of a small hit) ), the process of determining the fluctuation pattern at the time of failure (the fluctuation time at the time of failure), etc. is executed. The main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command, a fluctuation pattern command, a fluctuation start command, a stop symbol command, a confirmation command, a state designation command, a performance command when the number of working memories decreases, etc. based on the determined contents, and the performance control device 124 Send to. As the production command when the number of working memories decreases, when the number of working memories of the first special symbol is decreased by one, the production command when the number of working memories decreases corresponding to the first special symbol is generated, and the production command when the number of working memories decreases corresponding to the first special symbol is generated. When the number of working memories is decreased by one, a production command for increasing the number of working memories corresponding to the second special symbol is generated. Note that the variation pattern may be a variation pattern for executing a pseudo continuous effect (for example, pseudo 1 variation to pseudo 4 variation).

In the special symbol variation process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (numbers 0 to 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, and thereby the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is outputted to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, and thereby the special symbol is displayed in a stopped state.

The variable winning device management process at the time of jackpot is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode in the previous special symbol stop display process. When the special symbols are stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state to a jackpot gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player). In the jackpot variable winning device management process, the first big winning hole solenoid 90 or the second big winning hole solenoid 97 operates for a certain period of time (for example, 29 seconds, 0.1 seconds, or until 10 game balls are counted). ), is excited for a preset number of consecutive operations (for example, 10 times, etc.), and thereby the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 open and close in a predetermined pattern. During this time, by intensively winning game balls to the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to win many prize balls at once (special game means of execution). In addition, the opening and closing operations of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 at the time of winning a jackpot are called a "round", and if the number of consecutive operations is 10 times in total, these are called "10 rounds". Sometimes referred to collectively.

Then, when the jackpot game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the jackpot game ends (high probability state, time shortening state) based on the gaming state flag (probability variation function activation flag, time shortening function activation flag) ( high probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means, special state transition means). In the "high probability state", a probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery is, for example, about 10 times higher than normal (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). In addition, in the "time reduction state", the time reduction function is activated, the probability of the normal symbol activation lottery is high, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended. The number of openings increases (so-called electric chew support is performed). Note that regarding the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state", the control may shift to only one of them, or may shift to both of them.

The small win variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small win mode in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small winning mode, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state to the small winning gaming state. In small winning games, although the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) within a predetermined opening time (for example, 0.1 seconds), winnings to the first big winning opening almost never occur. do not.

In addition, in the normal symbol game processing (step S218), the main control CPU 72 determines variable display or stop display by the normal symbol display device 33, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. . For example, the main control CPU 72 stores the random number (random number determined per normal symbol) acquired upon passage of the starting gate 20 in the previous switch input event process (step S204), and during this normal symbol game process. A random number is read out from memory, and it is determined whether it falls within a predetermined winning range (operational lottery execution means). If the random number falls within the winning range, the normal symbol display device 33 causes the normal symbol to be variably displayed and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning mode, and then the main control CPU 72 activates the normal electric accessory solenoid 88. It excites and activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is outside the winning range, the main control CPU 72 stops displaying the normal symbols in a winning manner after the variable display.

Step S220: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes state management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 detects an abnormality in winning frequency (an abnormally large number of balls entering the medium-start winning hole 26 and normal winning holes 22, 24), an abnormality in the base (a state in which balls are collected on the back side of the game board unit 8), (the total number of winning balls into each winning hole 22, 24, 26, 28a, 30b, 31b is greater than the number of playing balls hit into the gaming area 8a), etc.) Check to see if a high condition has occurred. When an abnormal state is detected, the main control CPU 72 outputs a security signal to the hall computer of the gaming hall, and sends a predetermined performance control command to the performance control device 124 to indicate that an abnormality has occurred. inform about something.

Step S222: The main control CPU72 executes the winning opening switch process. In this process, if each input port on detection flag stored based on the winning detection signal input from various switches 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, and 86 in the previous port input process (step S206) is ON, Each target prize ball control counter is incremented by 1 and updated.

Step S224: The main control CPU 72 executes a prize ball payout process. Although the detailed flow is not shown, in this process, the main control CPU 72 first checks whether the payout command buffer is not empty (a payout command to be sent has been set), If set), the various payout commands output to the payout command buffer are transmitted to the payout control device 92. For example, a payout command indicating the startup mode when the power is turned on is set during the CPU initialization process (steps S118 and S124 in FIG. 7), and output to the payout command buffer (step S126 in FIG. 7). However, a payout command indicating this activation mode is transmitted here. On the other hand, if the payout command buffer is empty, the process proceeds to instructing the payout of prize balls. The main control CPU 72 checks whether the prize ball control counter is not 0 or not. If the prize ball control counter is not 0, the main control CPU 72 sends a prize ball specified payout command to the payout control device 92 to instruct the number of prize balls corresponding to this counter. Send to. More specifically, a payout command specifying a prize ball corresponding to each prize ball control counter updated in the previous step S222 is transmitted here. Note that the transmission of the payout command is performed when the payout command permission signal is input from the payout control device 92 to the main control device 70, and the number of payout commands set in the transmission data register (transmission FIFO) is a predetermined number. (More specifically, if the payout command set in the sending FIFO in step S224 executed before the previous time has been sent, or is currently being sent and there is space in the sending FIFO) ) will only be executed.

Further, particularly in step S224 when the power is turned on, if the payout command set in the process of CPU initialization processing is transmitted normally, the main control CPU 72 takes this as an opportunity to turn on the firing permission signal. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 clears the payout command buffer output when the power is turned on, and turns on the firing permission signal by setting a specific bit of the output port (specific output information setting means). As a result, firing of game balls is permitted after confirming normal operation after the power is turned on, and this firing permission signal is sent to the firing control board 108 via the payout control device 92, allowing the firing of game balls. state.

In addition, the main control CPU 72 outputs a prize ball content command that transmits the content of the number of prize balls to the production control device 124 in the prize ball payout process. When a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (15 game balls). Generate prize ball content command. Further, when a winning detection signal is input from the second winning hole switch 81 corresponding to the normal winning hole 24, a prize ball content command corresponding to the second profit (10 game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process.

[About the number of prize balls and the number of game balls acquired]
The number of prize balls in the starting hole of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls in the starting hole of the second special symbol are each set to a prescribed number of one or more. Further, the number of prize balls may be made different between the starting hole of the first special symbol and the starting hole of the second special symbol. Furthermore, the minimum number of prize balls is set based on the winning probability of the special symbol and the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired (the average number of balls that come out during the series from the first hit until the end of the time reduction state). You may. Furthermore, the winning probability of the special symbol, the expected value of the total number of game balls won, the number of openings of the grand prize opening, the opening time of the grand prize opening, the maximum number of prizes of the grand prize opening, and the number of prize balls of the grand prize opening are predetermined. If the conditions are met, a jackpot may be set in which the number of game balls acquired in one jackpot is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of game balls acquired.

Step S226: The main control CPU 72 executes firing position designation processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the firing position designation flag to the previous firing position designation flag, and then clears the firing position designation flag. Then, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing position designation flag if the variable prize winning device is in operation or the time reduction function is in operation, and further, if the firing position designation flag and the previous firing position designation flag match, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing position designation flag. If not, generate a firing position designation command. The generated firing position designation command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing (step S142 in FIG. 8) executed in the main loop.

Step S227: The main control CPU 72 executes security management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not an illegal winning has occurred, and whether or not an excessive winning has occurred, based on the input status (ON/OFF) of various winning detection signals. Make a judgment. The main control CPU 72 also monitors fraudulent activities based on input signals from a magnetic detection sensor, a vibration detection sensor, a radio wave detection sensor, etc. (not shown). When the main control CPU 72 determines that such an error has occurred, it generates an error command. Note that the main control CPU 72 can execute processing corresponding to the error. The corresponding processing includes, for example, processing to rewrite the bit of the winning detection signal due to fraudulent winning from ON to OFF, processing to generate a warning sound, processing to stop the game, and the like. When the main control CPU 72 detects an error, it transmits error commands corresponding to various errors to the production control device. Errors may include not only errors such as fraud, but also the state of the gaming machine (the state of settings changes, etc.).

Step S228: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation number information, jackpot information, starting opening information, etc.) to the hall computer of the gaming hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in request buffer.

In addition, in this embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, "Jackpot 1" to "Jackpot 5" are outputted as jackpot information to the outside, so that an external electronic device (data display (external information signal output means) can provide a variety of jackpot information to players (external information signal output means). In other words, by dividing and outputting jackpot information into multiple jackpots 1 to 5, jackpot types (winning types) can be aggregated and managed from these combinations on a hall computer (not shown), and internally Recognizing changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortening state of symbol fluctuation time, or occurrence of a small hit (a hit where the conditional device does not operate) that is not classified as a "jackpot" even if it is other than non-winning. It becomes possible to aggregate and manage information. In addition, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpots that have occurred within the past few business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each machine is currently hitting a jackpot. Or, it is possible to recognize whether or not the symbol fluctuation time is currently being shortened for each machine. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls in detail the output status (ON or OFF set) of each of "Jackpot 1" to "Jackpot 5".

Step S230: The main control CPU 72 also executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various information indicating its own internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, firing position designation, jackpot in progress, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). Generate test signals and store them in the port output request buffer. Using this test signal, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested, for example, outside the main control device 70.

Step S232: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol memory lamp 33a. It performs processing necessary to manage the lighting states of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, and the like. Specifically, in a mode corresponding to the variable display or stop display of the symbols determined in the previous special symbol game process (step S216) or normal symbol game process (step S218), the working memory number display, the game state display, etc. A drive signal for lighting each lamp is stored as byte data in a port output request buffer for each common.

Note that the byte data stored in the port output request buffer for each common is sequentially stored in the output port for each common in dynamic port output processing (step S204) every time a timer interrupt processing occurs. Output. For example, in the next timer interrupt processing to be executed, the byte data stored for common 1 will be output to the port, and in the timer interrupt processing to be executed one after another, the byte data stored for common 2 will be output to the port. , and so on, the byte data stored in the port output request buffer for each common is processed one by one. As a result, each lamp constituting a predetermined display mode (a mode of displaying fluctuating symbols, displaying stoppages, displaying the number of working memories, displaying gaming status, etc.) is driven in turn in common units, and the lighting is controlled by the dynamic lighting method. That will happen.

Step S234: The main control CPU 72 also executes solenoid output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates drive signals for the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big winning hole solenoid 90, the second big winning hole solenoid 97, and the probability variable area solenoid 99, which are stored in the port output request buffer. , test signals, etc. are stored together in the port output request buffer.

Step S236: The main control CPU 72 executes port output processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether a value is stored in each output buffer (port output request buffer), and if a value is stored, outputs the value to the port. For example, each drive signal of each solenoid 88, 90, 97, 99 stored in the port output request buffer in the previous step S234 is outputted to the port. In this case, each drive signal is transmitted to each corresponding solenoid 88, 90, 97, 99, and it becomes possible to cause each solenoid to operate according to the drive signal.

Step S238: The control CPU 72 restores the values of the HL, DE, BC, and AF registers saved in step S200 to each register, ends the timer interrupt processing, and returns to the main loop of the CPU initialization processing (FIG. 8). Return.

[Example of produced image]
Next, the effect images actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be explained using several examples. As described above, when an internal lottery for a jackpot is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the fluctuation display using the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (design display means). However, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol themselves are lit and flashed by 7-segment LEDs, they lack visual appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display performance using performance symbols is performed.

The effect patterns include, for example, three effects: a left effect pattern, a middle effect pattern, and a right effect pattern, and these are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each production pattern is, for example, a design of a picture card with characters attached to it along with the numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left performance symbols, the middle performance symbols, and the right performance symbols all form a symbol row in which the numbers are arranged in descending order from "9" to "1". Such symbol rows are displayed variably in a vertically flowing (scrolling) manner in the left area, middle area, and right area of the screen, respectively.

FIG. 10 is a continuous diagram showing examples of effect images corresponding to variable display and static display of special symbols. In addition, here, regarding the fluctuation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (losing), an example of a variable display performance and a stop display performance (result display performance) performed using performance symbols is shown. This fluctuating display performance corresponds to a series of performances performed from when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol is used, but it may be the second special symbol) starts to fluctuate until it stops being displayed. do. Further, the stop display performance is a performance that represents the stop display of the special symbol and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of performance symbols. Here, first, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the variable display effect and stop display effect for each variation employed in this embodiment will be explained.

[Before fluctuation display]
(A) in FIG. 10: For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts changing (a state in which a demonstration is not being performed), a row of three performance symbols is displayed in a large size on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect design is also in a state of being stopped and displayed.

[Memory display performance]
Further, in the pre-change display area X1 at the bottom of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, markers (indicated by reference symbols M1 and M2 in the figure) representing the number of working memories for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed. ing. The display numbers of these markers M1 and M2 each represent the number of first special symbols and second special symbols in memory (the number of displays in the first special symbol memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol memory lamp 35a). The number of displayed items also increases or decreases in conjunction with changes in the number of working memories during the game.

Furthermore, in order to facilitate visual discrimination of the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed in the shape of a circle (○), for example, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is displayed in the shape of a heart, for example. It is displayed in the shape of In the illustrated example, all four markers M1 are lit to indicate that the number of working memories for the first special symbol is four, and all markers M2 are hidden (indicated by broken lines). This indicates that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0 (memory display effect).

Further, while the performance symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, a fourth symbol (indicated by reference numerals Z1 and Z2 in the figure) is displayed, for example, at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are "fourth performance symbols" following the left, middle, and right performance symbols, and are variably displayed in synchronization with the variably displayed performance symbols. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simply colored marks (for example, a "□" figure), and a variable display can be expressed by changing the display color, for example. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

Further, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the miss (eg, white display color). This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is being performed correctly and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually a "6-round jackpot," "8-round jackpot," or "10-round jackpot," rather than a "miss," the corresponding appearance (for example, blue display color or red display color) etc.), the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Fluctuating display effect starts]
(B) in FIG. 10: For example, in synchronization with the start of variation of the first special symbol, a variable display performance is started by scrolling and varying three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (symbol production means of execution). That is, in synchronization with the start of variation of the first special symbol, the columns of the left effect symbol, middle effect symbol, and right effect symbol are vertically scrolled (flowing) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and are displayed in a variable manner. The performance begins. Furthermore, before the start of the change, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed in the pre-change display area X1 of the band-shaped part in the lower part of the liquid crystal display 42, but after the start of the change, they are displayed in the lower left part of the liquid crystal display 42. The special symbol (performance symbol) is moved to the display area X2 during variation based on the pedestal image, and continues to be displayed until the variation of the special symbol (performance symbol) is stopped and displayed (memorized image display maintenance performance). In addition, in the figure, the fluctuating display of the performance symbols is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during variable display, individual performance symbols are displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the image that is the background of the performance design (background image) is displayed on the display screen in a state that is easy to see. has been done.

The background image in this case represents, for example, a scene in which a female character wearing a yukata is sitting on a chaise longue and relaxing as if enjoying the cool evening breeze. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the presentation is, for example, "normal mode." In this embodiment, the "normal mode" corresponds to a normal state in which the time reduction function is not activated and the probability variation function is also not activated. In addition, various modes are provided for presentation, and background images of different scenery and scenes are prepared for each mode (status display presentation execution means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal "time reduction state" or a "high probability state". Although not particularly shown here, a preview effect may be performed by, for example, displaying images of characters, items, etc. on the display screen.

Further, during the variable display of the performance symbols, the fourth symbol Z1 is displayed in a variable manner at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variable display by changing its display color.

[Left pattern stop]
(C) in FIG. 10: For example, after a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect symbol first stops fluctuating. This example shows that the effect pattern representing the number "8" has stopped on the left side of the screen. Note that illustration of the background image is omitted here (the same applies hereafter).

[Example of performance when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 10 (B), the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, so the number of displayed markers M1 decreases accordingly. It has been decreased by one. For example, if there were 4 working memory numbers up to that point, the earliest (oldest) memory number display in marker M1 is moved by one to the changing display area X2, and the effects consumed by the internal lottery are combined. It will be done. As a result, it is possible to inform the player that the number of working memories for the first special symbol has been consumed.

In the example of (C) in FIG. 10, the marker M1, which was at the beginning in the storage order, moves to the changing display area X2, leaving only 3 markers to be displayed in the pre-changing display area X1. An effect is performed in which the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are each shifted one direction (to the left in this case) by one marker. As a result, the context of changes in the number of working memories is accurately expressed in the performance, and the player is informed that ``the number of working memories has been consumed and the number has decreased by 1'' and that ``the number of working memories has been consumed and the special symbol It is possible to teach in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner that "the current situation is changing."

[Right production pattern stop]
(D) in FIG. 10: Following the left presentation symbol, the right presentation symbol stops changing. This example shows that the effect pattern representing the number "3" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. At this point, it has already been determined that the reach state will not occur, so it is almost obvious visually that the current fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Note that reach fluctuations due to slip patterns, etc. are excluded here. A "sliding pattern" is, for example, once the production symbol representing the number "7" stops, then the symbol row slides by one symbol and the production symbol representing the number "8" stops, which develops into a reach. The idea is to do so. Alternatively, there is also a pattern where the performance symbol representing the number "9" stops, and then the symbol row slides in the opposite direction by one symbol, and the performance symbol representing the number "8" stops, which develops into a reach. be. In addition, for example, after a production pattern that represents a completely different number such as "5" stops, a character appears on the screen and the right production pattern row changes again, and the number "8" is displayed. There is also a pattern where the production pattern stops and develops into a reach.

[Stop display effect]
(E) in FIG. 10: In synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol, the last medium effect symbol stops. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) manner, the performance symbol will also be stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) manner. be exposed. In other words, in the illustrated example, the effect symbol representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen, and in this case, the effect symbol combination is "8" - "1" - "3". Because it is a deviation, the production is expressing that this change corresponds to a normal ``deviation.'' At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the miss (eg, white display color).

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

The above is an example of a variable display performance and a stop display performance (when not winning) that are performed using a performance symbol for each fluctuation. Through such a performance, it is possible to make the player have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally, the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the performance.

Further, the above-mentioned example is for a non-winning time, but when a jackpot (win) is won, after the reach performance is executed during the variable display performance, the performance symbols are stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode in the stop display performance. At this time, the stop display mode of the performance symbols basically corresponds to the winning symbol internally selected by the main control CPU 72 (the stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35). selected.

[Example of performance when winning the jackpot]
Next, an example of performance when winning a jackpot (winning) will be explained.
FIG. 11 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of the super reach effect executed during the variable display of special symbols. The super reach effect is a reach effect executed in conjunction with a variable display in which a medium variable time (for example, 50 to 100 seconds) is selected.

In addition, although the flow of the super reach effect executed at the time of a jackpot will be explained here, the super reach effect is executed not only at the time of the jackpot but also at the time of a miss, although at a low rate. Further, here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a preview effect are included. In addition, an example of a preview performance (pre-ready notice performance before reach occurrence, notice performance after reach occurrence) executed during the variable display performance will be described.

In the following reach effect, for example, after a variable display is performed in the first special symbol display device 34 according to a variable pattern at the time of a jackpot, the first special symbol is displayed in a jackpot mode (for example, 7 segment LED "self", "yo"). , "guchi", "snake", "F", "E", "L", "Γ", etc.) are executed until the display is stopped (ready-to-reach effect execution means). In addition, in FIG. 11, each effect pattern is simplified and shown using only numbers. Further, the markers M1, M2, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, the pre-fluctuation display area X1, and the fluctuating display area X2 are omitted from illustration (the same applies to the following drawings). The following will explain the flow of the performance.

[Fluctuating display performance]
(A) in FIG. 11: For example, approximately in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the rows of left performance symbols, middle performance symbols, and right performance symbols are displayed vertically (for example, from top to bottom) on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display performance starts by scrolling down).

[Pre-release preview performance (1st stage)]
(B) in FIG. 11: Next, at a relatively early stage of the variable display performance, a first-stage pre-ready-to-ready-to-reach performance using character images (picture cards) is performed. This pre-ready-to-reach preview performance is a preview performance in which the appearance changes step by step from the first stage to a plurality of stages (for example, stages 2 to 5) according to a predetermined order. The symbol image used in this pre-reach warning performance is located in front of the performance symbol that is being displayed in a variable manner on the screen, and is displayed, for example, by appearing suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other modes of appearance) ). It should be noted that the "notice before the occurrence of a reach" here means that the possibility of a reach or the possibility of a jackpot is foretold before any of the performance symbols are stopped and displayed. By executing such a "pre-reach event preview performance", it is possible to create a feeling of expectation in the player that "it may develop into a reach event = the possibility of winning the jackpot will increase."

[Pre-release preview performance (2nd stage)]
(C) in FIG. 11: After the first stage of the ready-to-reach pre-warning performance is executed, the change in the state of the ready-to-reach pre-warning performance proceeds to the second stage. Here, as a preview performance before the occurrence of the second stage of reaching, a performance using a different character image from the previous stage is performed. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen and is displayed overlappingly in front of the previously displayed pattern image. Further, the pattern image displayed at this time is larger in size than the previously displayed pattern image. In addition, a sound output effect is also performed in which the character represented by the picture image utters a line (for example, ``I'll become a reach'', etc.).

The pre-reach warning performance (second stage) using such a second pattern image is a step further than the pre-reach warning performance (first stage) shown in (B) in Figure 11. It is a developed type. The aspect of the "pre-reach advance notice performance" that develops in this way is generally referred to as "step-up notice" or the like. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach warning effect, but the third, fourth, and fifth-level pattern images may appear one after another and be displayed. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the pattern images of the third, fourth, and fifth stages appear and are displayed one after another. Incidentally, even at this stage, the fluctuating display of the performance symbols continues. In any case, by advancing the change in the form of the pre-reach warning performance to more stages, it is possible to suggest to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation level) of hitting the jackpot with this change. (For example, progression to stage 5 indicates the highest level of expectation.)

[Stopping of the left production pattern]
(D) in FIG. 11: The middle stage of the variable display effect is reached, and the variable display of the left effect symbol is eventually stopped. Incidentally, at this point, the effect pattern representing the number "5" has stopped on the left side of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
(E) in FIG. 11: Following the left presentation pattern, for example, the variable display of the right presentation pattern is stopped. At this point, since the performance symbol representing the number "5" has stopped on the right side of the screen, a reach state of "5" - "Fluctuating" - "5" has occurred. An image highlighting one line that is in a reach state is also displayed on the screen. In addition, a performance that outputs sounds such as "Reach!" will be performed.

After the reach state occurs, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed (however, at this point, the winning result has not yet been displayed). In the reach effect, only the effect pattern corresponding to the highest number (here, "5") is displayed on the screen, and the rest are not displayed. Note that, at this time, the performance symbols may be displayed in a reduced form at each of the four corners of the screen.

[Preview performance after reach occurrence (1st time)]
(F) in FIG. 11: Shortly after the ready-to-reach state occurs, a post-ready-to-reach preview effect (first time) is performed in which a group of images representing, for example, a heart shape pass diagonally across the screen. In this case, images of hearts are suddenly displayed in a flowing manner on the screen, thereby increasing the visual appeal to the player. By executing such a visually lively notice performance after the occurrence of a reach notice, it is possible to obtain an effect of creating even greater expectations in the player.

[Progress of reach performance]
Figure 11 (G): After the first reach occurrence, following the preview effect, images representing the numbers “2” to “6” are displayed on the screen in a three-dimensional row, and the row An effect is performed in which number images are erased from the screen in the order of ``2'', ``3'', ``4'', etc. starting from the beginning (front). Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting or reminding the player that if the number "5" remains without being erased until the end, it will be a "jackpot". Also, if the number "4" is erased and "5" remains in front of the screen, it means a "jackpot", and if the number "5" is also erased, it means a "miss". In addition, in the case of a miss, the number "6", for example, is displayed on the screen after the number "5" is erased. Therefore, during this time, as the images of numbers "2", "3", and "4" are erased in order, the player's sense of tension and anticipation increases. When the number ``4'' is actually erased on the screen and the production progresses with the number ``5'' remaining on the screen, the possibility of a ``jackpot'' increases, which increases the tension of the player. also increases rapidly.

[Preview performance after reach occurs (2nd time)]
(H) in Figure 11: As the reach performance nears its end, a character image suddenly appears on the screen, cutting into a close-up shot, and the character is uttering some kind of dialogue (or silently). A preview performance (second time) will be performed after reaching the target (which may include smiling). At this point, for example, the content of the reach effect is, ``If the number ``5'' remains without being erased, the possibility of a jackpot of ``5'' - ``5'' - ``5''increases.'' Therefore, by making a large character image appear at this timing, it is possible to have the effect of making the player feel hopeful that he or she might hit the jackpot.

Another reach effect other than the above is, for example, ``If the numbers ``2'' to ``4'' are erased, and the number ``5'' remains at the end without being erased, it will be a jackpot.'' Appearing the character image at such timing has the effect of making the player feel hopeful that he or she may finally hit the jackpot soon.

[Stop display effect]
(I) in FIG. 11: Then, the last medium effect symbol stops. In this example, it is possible to notify the player that he has won the jackpot by stopping and displaying the performance symbol representing "5" in the center of the screen.

(J) in FIG. 11: Then, for example, in approximately synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol, a stop display performance as a performance symbol is performed. The stop display performance of the performance symbols is performed, for example, with the left, middle, and right performance symbols restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a stop display performance, it is possible to inform the player that the final winning type has been determined in the performance. In other words, by performing an unclear stop display performance in the performance, it is possible to keep it hidden from the player which winning symbol won the prize.

Note that if the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol which is the subject of variation this time is stopped and displayed as a losing symbol, and therefore the performance symbol is similarly stopped and displayed in a losing manner. In this case, numbers other than ``5'' such as ``4'' and ``6'' are displayed in the center of the screen to indicate that unfortunately, this fluctuation did not result in a jackpot. Note that such a performance is executed as a "missing reach performance."

[Big role production (special bonus production)]
FIG. 12 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big win effect executed during a jackpot game. Here, it is assumed that a 10-round jackpot has been reached.

[1 round]
(A) in FIG. 12: When the first round of the jackpot game is started, a big win effect with contents corresponding to the progress of the game "during jackpot" is executed. In the big role performance, for example, text information corresponding to the number of rounds "ROUND 1" is displayed on the screen. Further, at the lower right corner position of the screen, a performance pattern (here, a performance pattern of 7) corresponding to the current winning pattern is displayed. In addition, in the lower left area of the screen, the words "Special Bonus" indicating the name of the special performance are displayed.

[Right-handed hitting suggestion]
Also, here, a right-handed hitting suggestion effect is being executed. In the right-handed hitting suggestion effect, right-handed hitting suggestion images (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1, second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2) are displayed. The first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 is displayed at the center of the display screen. The first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 is an image of a female character who mounts a horse and utters the line "Please hit right-handed." The first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 is an image displayed when entering the right-handed hitting state.
On the other hand, the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is displayed in the upper right area of the display screen. The second right-handed player suggestion image R2 is an image composed of right-handed character information and an arrow indicating the right direction. The second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is an image that is always displayed in the right-handed hitting state.
Note that the first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 may be displayed at the opening time of the jackpot game (before the start of the first round) instead of being displayed in the first round.

[6 rounds]
(B) in FIG. 12: If a winning symbol that transitions to a high probability time reduction state is won, a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the 6th round. If you succeed in this challenge production, you will enter a fireworks rush, which is a high probability time reduction state. Specifically, a scene is performed in which the hermit character utters lines such as ``Aim for the V-attacker!''. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player the gameplay of aiming at the second variable winning device 31. In addition, in the sixth round when the "10 round variable probability symbol" is won, the variable probability area solenoid 99 operates to open the variable probability area for a long time, so when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, the game The ball passes through the variable probability region guided by the variable probability region vane member 31d. Note that the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is continuously displayed.

(C) in Figure 12: When the game ball enters the second variable prize winning device 31 and passes through the variable probability area as the player continues to hit the ball to the right, a V mark appears next to the female character who has jumped up. The displayed blessing performance is executed. Note that the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is continuously displayed.

[10 rounds]
(D) in FIG. 12: After this, the jackpot game progresses smoothly and when it moves to the final 10 rounds, text information corresponding to the number of rounds "ROUND 10" is displayed on the screen.

[Character selection performance (operation suggestion performance)]
Furthermore, in the final 10 rounds, a character selection effect is performed. In the character selection performance, a first operation suggestion image B1 is displayed in the center of the screen using a button image imitating a push button. In this case, the LED (button lamp 71) built into the push button 64 is also lit, thereby indicating the operation of the push button 64 by a plurality of devices including a liquid crystal display and an LED. In this state, when the player presses the push button 64, the female character displayed on the left side of the screen changes to another female character. The player can select his/her favorite female character by pressing the push button 64 several times. Depending on the female character that is finally selected, the background and content of the fireworks rush that follows will change.

Furthermore, even in the final 10 rounds, the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 continues to be displayed. In this case, the LEDs (various lamps, panel lamps, lamps provided inside the handle unit, etc.) arranged near the handle unit 16 are not lit in a manner that suggests right-handed operation.

[At the end of the big role]
(E) in FIG. 12: At the timing at which the jackpot game ends (ending time), a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to which the player will transition thereafter. In the illustrated example, text information such as "Fireworks rush is in!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to a fireworks rush in a "high probability time shortening state" will occur as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

[Example of button production]
FIGS. 13 and 14 are diagrams showing examples of button effects. The button effects shown below are mainly executed during fireworks rush. Fireworks rush is a mode that is transferred after the jackpot game when the game ball passes through the probability variable area during the jackpot game (high probability time shortening state). The flow of fireworks rush and button effects will be explained below.

(A) in FIG. 13: A variable display of performance symbols is being performed in the "fireworks rush" state. The background image for Fireworks Rush is a background image that displays a scene of fireworks being launched into the night sky, as well as a female character selected in the character selection effect, in order to deeply impress the fireworks motif on the player. There is. Further, a fourth symbol Z2 is displayed in a variable manner in the upper right area of the display screen. Even in the fireworks rush, the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is continuously displayed to suggest (instruct) that the player is right-handed (hereinafter, the same applies).

Below, some button effects performed during the fireworks rush will be explained.
(B) in FIG. 13: In the illustrated example, a continuous hit performance (operation suggestion performance) is being executed. In the continuous hit production, a production in which a female character fights an enemy character performs attack and defense movements is executed. Then, when the female character successfully attacks or defends, a performance that results in a jackpot or a performance that switches to another performance (development performance, etc.) is executed. In addition, in the continuous hit effect, a second operation suggestion image B2 composed of the text information of the continuous hit and a button image is displayed in the center of the screen.

(C) in FIG. 13: In the illustrated example, enemy character selection performance (operation suggestion performance) is being executed. In the enemy character selection performance, a performance is performed in which an enemy character with which the female character fights is selected. The degree of expectation of winning can be changed depending on the selected enemy character. When the player presses the push button 64 in this state, one of the enemy characters is selected. In the enemy character selection effect, a third operation suggestion image B3 composed of a dividing line dividing the display screen into three and a button image is displayed in the center of the screen.

(D) in FIG. 14: In the illustrated example, a one-hit effect (operation suggestion effect) is being executed. In the one-shot performance, a performance is performed to determine whether or not the female character will succeed in performing a special move. When a female character successfully performs a special move, she wins against the enemy character and a jackpot is executed. Furthermore, in the one-hit effect, a fourth operation suggestion image B4 composed of one-shot text information and button images is displayed in the center of the screen.

(E) in FIG. 14: In the illustrated example, a long press effect (operation suggestion effect) is being executed. In the long-press performance, similarly to the one-shot performance, a performance is performed to determine whether or not the female character will succeed in the special move. When a female character successfully performs a special move, she wins against the enemy character and a jackpot is created. Further, in the long press effect, a fifth operation suggestion image B5 composed of long press character information and button images is displayed in the center of the screen.

(F) in FIG. 14: In the illustrated example, an effect button presentation (operation suggestion presentation) is being executed. In the effect button performance, a performance indicating whether or not a cut-in performance is to be executed is performed. In addition, in the effect button presentation, a sixth operation suggestion image B6 is displayed in the center of the screen, which is composed of an effect image imitating a flame or an aura, and a button image. In addition to being executed alone, the effect button presentation may be combined with other suggestion images to represent differences in expectations regarding the button presentation.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a presentation when the player does not perform the operation suggested by the operation suggestion presentation.
(A) in FIG. 15: In the illustrated example, a character selection effect is being executed. The content of the character selection effect is as explained in FIG. 12 (D).
(B) in Figure 15: Here, it is detected that the player has not operated the handle unit to fire the handle unit to the right side of the board, or that the fired game ball is flowing down the left side of the board for some reason. It is assumed that the person did not press the push button 64. For example, even if a player thinks he or she is hitting the ball right-handed, the firing force may be weak and the player may end up hitting the ball left-handed. Then, the left-handed hitting state is detected by the ball entering the winning hole in the left-handed hitting area.
(C) in FIG. 15: In this case, when the left-handed state is detected, the voice notification "Please play right-handed" is executed, but even if the press of the push button 64 is not detected, the message "Please press the button" is issued. This voice notification will not be performed.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a performance when the player performs an operation as suggested by the operation suggestion performance.
(A) in FIG. 16: In the illustrated example, a one-hit effect is being executed. The content of the character selection effect is as explained in FIG. 14 (D).
(B) in FIG. 16: Here, it is assumed that the player presses the push button 64 while firing the handle unit toward the right side of the board to perform a right-handed hit. For example, assume that the player presses the push button 64 with his left hand while holding the handle unit with his right hand and hitting the ball to the right.
(C) in FIG. 16: In this case, the fourth operation suggestion image B4 disappears (erases, becomes invisible to the player, etc.) upon pressing the push button 64, but the second right-hand hitting suggestion image R2 will continue to be displayed. It should be noted that this change corresponds to a jackpot, so in the illustrated example, the female character successfully performs a special move and the female character wins over the enemy character.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a performance when the player does not perform a ball extraction operation while game balls are stored in the ball tray unit.
(A) in FIG. 17: In the illustrated example, an effect button presentation is being executed. The contents of the effect button presentation are as described in FIG. 14 (F).
(B) in FIG. 17: Here, it is assumed that the full tank switch 161 is turned on due to the game balls continuing to be stored in the ball tray. In this case, a ball removal suggestion performance is executed. In the ball-pulling suggestion performance, a ball-pulling suggestion image C is displayed in the center of the screen, saying "Please pull out the ball." Note that the position where the ball-picking suggestion image C is displayed is not limited to the center of the screen, and may be at the top, bottom, left, or right of the screen as long as it can attract the player's attention.
(C) in FIG. 17: It is assumed that the player then transfers his balls to the dollar box and the full tank switch 161 is turned off. In this case, the ball removal suggestion image C disappears (erases, becomes invisible to the player, etc.) when the full tank switch 161 is turned off, but the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 continues to be displayed. . Note that the effect button can also be continuously displayed. Note that it is preferable that the ball removal suggestion image C be displayed in front of the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 and the effect button. Further, the ball removal suggestion image C may be displayed at a position that does not overlap with the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 or the effect button.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a display mode of the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2.
The second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is displayed by repeating three image patterns.
(A) in FIG. 18: The first image pattern is an image pattern in which the characters "right" and "left side of the arrow" are emphasized.
(B) in FIG. 18: The second image pattern is an image pattern in which the character "Uchi" and the "center of the arrow" are emphasized.
(C) in FIG. 18: The third image pattern is an image pattern in which the character "chi" and the "right side of the arrow" are emphasized.
By repeatedly displaying these three image patterns at a first cycle (for example, 1.0 seconds), it is possible to express a state in which light flows to the right.
Note that the first right-handed player suggestion image R1 may be displayed as a moving image using a plurality of image patterns, similarly to the second right-handed player suggestion image R2, or may be displayed as a moving image using one image pattern. It may also be displayed as an image.
The second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is not limited to three image patterns, and may be more or less than three image patterns. Further, the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is not limited to a state (image) in which the image flows in the right direction, but may be in a state in which it flows in any one of the up, down, left, and right directions.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the display mode of the first operation suggestion image B1 and the ball removal suggestion image C.
The first operation suggestion image B1 is displayed by repeating two image patterns.
(A) in FIG. 19: The first image pattern is an image pattern in which no button is pressed.
(B) in FIG. 19: The second image pattern is an image pattern in which a button is pressed and an effect caused by the button press is displayed.
By repeatedly displaying these two image patterns at a second period (for example, 0.5 seconds), it is possible to express a situation where the user is repeatedly pressing a button.
Note that the second operation suggestion image B2 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6 may be displayed as a moving image using a plurality of image patterns, similarly to the first operation suggestion image B1, or may be displayed as a moving image using a plurality of image patterns. A still image may be displayed using a pattern.

The ball removal suggestion image C is displayed by repeating one image pattern.
(C) in FIG. 19: The image pattern of the ball removal suggestion image C is an image pattern in which text information "Please remove the ball" is displayed.
By repeatedly displaying such an image pattern at a third period (for example, 0.3 seconds), it is possible to continue displaying the text information "Please remove the ball."
In addition, regarding the ball removal suggestion image C, an update cycle such as the third cycle may not be set, and control may be adopted such that the ball removal suggestion image C continues to be displayed until the full tank switch 161 is turned off. .

Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be explained. Each of the effects described above is controlled through the following control processing.

[Production control processing]
As mentioned above, the production control device 124 has the functions of a production control processor and a production reproduction processor, and achieves these two functions by allocating different resources of the production control CPU 126 to each. . The performance control CPU 126 as a performance control processor receives the performance command transmitted from the main control device 70, and sets various control tables for instructing reproduction of the performance according to the content. In addition, the performance control CPU 126 as a performance playback processor analyzes the control table set by the performance control processor, and based on the content gives more specific instructions to each device to operate each device (liquid crystal display screen display by the device 42, audio output by the speakers 54, 55, 56, 58, light emission by the various lamps 46 to 52, panel lamp 53, button lamp 71, etc., displacement of various movable bodies by the movable body motor 57, etc.). , to realize performance playback on a pachinko machine 1.

Therefore, for convenience of explanation, in the following explanation, when the production control CPU 126 functions as a production control processor, the main operating entity will be expressed as the "production control unit 210", and the production control CPU 126 will function as a production display processor. The operating entity in this case will be expressed as "display control section 220," "audio control section 222," "lamp control section 224," or "motor control section 226," as appropriate depending on the content.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the production control process executed by the production control CPU 126. This production control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The performance control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (eg, several tens of μs to several ms cycle) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

The production control processing includes command reception processing (step S400), error production management processing (step S400a), working memory production management processing (step S401), production symbol management processing (step S402), display output processing (step S404), and input processing. The configuration includes subroutines of control processing (step S405), lamp drive processing (step S406), sound drive processing (step S408), performance random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). The basic flow of the production control process will be explained below along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the production control section 210 receives the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control unit 210 analyzes the received effect commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 by type. Note that the production commands sent from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a lottery result command, a fluctuation pattern command, a fluctuation start command, a stop symbol command, a confirmation command, a state specification command, various error commands, a fluctuation pattern destination determination command, There are commands to pass through variable areas, prize ball content commands, setting-related end designation commands, production commands when the number of working memories increases, production commands when the number of working memories decreases, full tank error commands, etc.

Step S400a: In the error performance management process, the performance control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a performance pattern for executing an error performance based on various error commands (error performance execution means). For example, when a full tank error command is received, the production control unit 210 executes a process of displaying a ball removal suggestion image C. In addition, it is preferable that the ball removal suggestion image C be displayed on a layer higher than the layer displaying the effect design and the preview effect.

Step S401: In the working memory effect management process, the effect control unit 210 performs memory display effect and display control of markers M1 and M2. In this process, execution of a pre-read preview effect using markers M1, M2, etc. may be controlled. The contents of the working memory performance management process will be further described later with reference to other drawings.

Step S402: In the performance symbol management process, the performance control unit 210 controls the contents of the variable display performance and the stop display performance using the performance symbols, and when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes. (direction execution means). In addition, in this process, the performance control unit 210 selects performance patterns for various preview performances (pre-ready notice performance before reach occurrence, notice performance after reach occurrence, etc.). The contents of the performance symbol management process will be further described later with reference to other drawings.

Step S404: In the display output process, first, the performance control unit 210 sends the display control unit 220 to the display control unit 220 to display the performance contents (for example, the working memory number of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the working memory performance pattern number, the pre-read notice Messages and control tables are set for instructing (effect pattern number, variable effect pattern number, change notice effect number, background pattern number, corresponding pending deletion, etc.). In response to this, the display control unit 220 issues a specific drawing instruction to the VDP 152 based on the set message and the contents of the control table, and controls the display operation of the liquid crystal display 42.

Step S405: In the input control process, first, the performance control unit 210 instructs the input control unit 228 to indicate whether or not any of the operating members is activated by the player in synchronization with a scene that requests an operation by the player as the performance progresses. Instructs to detect whether or not it is operated in a specified manner. More specifically, the production control unit 210 sets any input control table defined in advance in the control ROM 180. In response to this, the input control unit 228 analyzes the contents of the input control table that has been set, and, based on this, sets a period during which it is possible to accept operations on any of the operation members. It also detects whether or not an operation (operation requested of the player) that matches the mode specified by the performance control unit 210 is performed, and outputs the detection result and returns it to the performance control unit 210.

Step S406: In the lamp drive process, first, the effect control section 210 sets a control table that instructs the lamp control section 224 about the effect contents. In response to this, the lamp control unit 224 relays the LED driver 198 and outputs a specific drive signal to the driver IC 132 based on the contents of the set control table, and outputs a specific drive signal to the various lamps 46 to 52, the panel lamp 53, The button lamp 71 and the light sources built into each part of the operation unit 60 are driven (turning on or off, blinking, changing the brightness gradation, etc.).

Step S408: In the sound driving process, first, the production control section 210 sets a control table that instructs the audio control section 222 about the content of production. In response to this, the audio control unit 222 instructs the audio IC 134 on specific output content based on the contents of the set control table, and the speakers 54, 55, 56, and 58 output sounds ( output sound effects, BGM, etc.).

Step S410: In the performance random number update process, the performance control unit 210 updates various performance random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random numbers include, for example, random numbers used for preview selection, random numbers used for normal background change lottery (effect lottery), and the like.

Step S412: In other processing, for example, first, the effect control section 210 sets a control table that instructs the motor control section 226 about the effect contents. In response to this, the motor control unit 226 instructs the SMC 199 on specific control contents based on the contents of the set control table. Furthermore, the SMC 199 creates an operation pattern for the movable body 40f based on instructions from the motor control unit 226, outputs a control signal corresponding to this to the driver IC, and drives the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body motor 57 as a driving source, and performs effects in synchronization with the image display on the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

Through the above performance control processing, the performance control section 210 can control the performance content in the pachinko machine 1 in an integrated manner.

[Working memory performance management processing]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of working memory performance management processing.
The working memory performance management process is a first special symbol and a second special symbol that are displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 in conjunction with an increase or decrease in the number of lottery elements (working memory number) stored in the main control device 70. This is a process of updating the display of markers M1 and M2 corresponding to . The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

Step S700: First, the production control unit 210 confirms whether or not a production command for increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the production control unit 210 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether the production command for increasing the number of working memories is stored. If it is confirmed that the performance command when increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: Yes), the performance control unit 210 executes step S702. Note that if it cannot be confirmed that the performance command when increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: No), the performance control unit 210 does not execute step S702.

Step S702: The production control unit 210 executes production selection processing when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the performance control unit 210 selects a performance that displays markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

Step S704: The production control unit 210 checks whether the production command when the number of working memories decreases has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control unit 210 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether the effect command when the number of working memories decreases is stored. If it is confirmed that the performance command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (step S704: Yes), the performance control unit 210 executes step S706. Note that if it cannot be confirmed that the performance command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (step S704: No), the performance control unit 210 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The production control unit 210 executes production selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the production control unit 210 changes the marker corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery from the pre-change display area Select the effect to be moved to the middle display area X2. Note that the memory marker moved to the display area X2 during fluctuation selects an effect to be erased when the fluctuation ends.
After completing the above procedure, the effect control section 210 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 20).

[Production design management processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the production symbol management process. The production symbol management process includes execution selection processing (step S500), production symbol variation pre-processing (step S502), production symbol variation processing (step S504), production symbol stop display processing (step S506), and variable winning device operation time. The configuration includes a subroutine group of processing (step S508). The basic flow of the production symbol management process will be explained below along with each process.

Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control unit 210 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S502 to S508). For example, the performance control unit 210 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the performance symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable display effect has not yet started, the effect control unit 210 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the production symbol fluctuation pre-processing has already been completed, the production control unit 210 selects the production symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the production symbol variation processing has been completed, The effect pattern stop display processing (step S506) is selected as the next jump destination. Further, the process when the variable prize winning device is activated (step S508) is selected as a jump destination when a jackpot game or a small win game is being executed. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the performance symbol variation pre-processing, the performance control unit 210 performs work to prepare conditions for starting a variable display performance using performance symbols (including the fourth symbol). In addition, in this process, the performance control unit 210 selects the content of the reach performance according to various conditions (lottery results, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), and the performance pattern for the preview performance (other than the advance preview performance pattern). (pre-reach notification pattern, post-reach notification pattern, etc.). In addition, the production control unit 210 also controls demonstration production when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. Note that the specific contents of the process will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S504: In the performance symbol variation process, the performance control unit 210 generates control information to instruct the display control unit 220 as necessary. For example, when performing a performance using the operation unit 60 during execution of a variable display performance using performance symbols, the input control unit 228 monitors whether or not the player operates the operation unit 60, and depending on the result, Control information regarding the content of the performance (such as continuous hit performance) is instructed to the display control unit 220. For example, when executing a button effect (repeated press effect, enemy character selection effect, one blow effect, long press effect, effect button effect, etc.), an operation suggestion image is displayed, and the push button 64 is pressed while the button effect is being executed. In this case, depending on the content of the effect, you can select a production pattern that erases the operation suggestion image, select a production pattern that continues displaying the operation suggestion image until the button valid time ends, or press the push button 64. A production pattern (such as FIG. 19) that changes the operation suggestion image depending on the pressing mode is selected.

Step S506: In the performance symbol stop display process, the performance control unit 210 controls the content of the stop display performance using performance symbols (including the fourth symbol) and moving images in a manner according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the performance control unit 210 instructs the display control unit 220 to end the variable display performance and execute the stop display performance. In response to this, the display control unit 220 actually terminates the variable display effect that has been executed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 via the VDP 152, and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display effect is executed approximately in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and it is possible to visually teach (disclose, announce, notify, etc.) the result of the internal lottery to the player (execution of the symbol effect). means). In addition, at the time of a small hit, a stop display effect can be executed in a manner similar to or similar to that of a win.

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is activated, the performance control unit 210 controls the performance content during the small hit or the jackpot (special game performance execution means). In this process, the performance control unit 210 selects the content of the performance during the big win according to various conditions (for example, winning type).

[Pre-processing for production pattern variation]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the production symbol variation pre-processing. The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

Step S600: The production control unit 210 checks whether a demonstration production command has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control unit 210 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, if it is confirmed that the demonstration performance command is saved (Yes), the performance control unit 210 executes step S602.

Step S602: The production control unit 210 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the production control section 210 selects a demonstration production pattern. The demonstration performance pattern defines the content of the performance indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

When the above procedure is completed, the production control section 210 returns to the address at the end of the production symbol management process. The production control unit 210 then returns to the production control process, and in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 20) and lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 20), the content of the demonstration production is determined based on the demo production pattern. Control.

On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration production command is not saved (No), production control section 210 next executes step S604.

Step S604: The performance control unit 210 checks whether the current change is a loss (non-winning). Specifically, the performance control unit 210 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether the lottery result command for the non-winning time is stored. As a result, if it is confirmed that the non-winning lottery result command is saved (Yes), the effect control unit 210 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command for non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control unit 210 executes step S606. In addition, it is also possible to confirm whether or not the current variation is a loss based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to a missed normal variation or a missed reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a missed variation. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a loss.

Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (loss) (Step S604: No), then the performance control unit 210 confirms whether or not the current variation is a jackpot. Specifically, the performance control unit 210 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and checks whether the lottery result command for the jackpot is stored. As a result, if it is confirmed that the lottery result command for the jackpot is saved (Yes), the performance control unit 210 executes step S610. Conversely, if it is confirmed that the lottery result command for the jackpot is not saved (No), only the lottery result command for the small win remains, so in this case, the production control unit 210 executes step S608. . In addition, it is also possible to confirm whether or not the current fluctuation is a jackpot based on the fluctuation pattern command or the stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to a jackpot variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot. Furthermore, if the current stop symbol command corresponds to a jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

Step S608: The performance control unit 210 executes a small hit time varying performance pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control unit 210 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variable pattern command (for example, "C0H00H" to "D0H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance in correspondence with the variable pattern command, and the effect control unit 210 refers to a effect pattern selection table (not shown) and selects the effect pattern number corresponding to the variable pattern command at that time. Can be done. Note that the effect pattern number may be prepared in pairs with the variable pattern command, or a plurality of effect pattern numbers may be prepared for one variable pattern command.

Furthermore, when a performance pattern number is selected, the performance control unit 210 refers to a performance table (not shown), and determines the fluctuation schedule (variation time, type of reach, and reach occurrence timing) of the performance symbol corresponding to the fluctuation performance pattern number at that time, Determine the mode of stop display, etc. The types of performance symbols determined here all correspond to the "combination of symbols at the time of small hit."

The above procedure is for the case where the game corresponds to a "small hit", but when the game corresponds to a jackpot, the production control unit 210 confirms that it is a "jackpot" in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control unit 210 executes step S610.

Step S610: The performance control unit 210 executes a jackpot time-varying performance pattern selection process. In this process, the performance control unit 210 determines the current performance pattern number based on the variable pattern command (for example, "E0H00H" to "F0H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. In the jackpot performance pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each jackpot stop symbol.

In addition, in the case of non-election, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the production control unit 210 confirms that the game is a loss in step S604 (Yes), it then executes step S612.

Step S612: The effect control unit 210 executes a change time variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control unit 210 determines the effect pattern number at the time of failure based on the variation pattern command (for example, "A0H00H" to "A6H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. The performance pattern numbers when the game is off are classified into "normal deviation fluctuations", "short time deviation fluctuations", "missing reach fluctuations", etc., and detailed reach fluctuation patterns are defined for the "missing reach fluctuations". Note that which production pattern number the production control section 210 selects is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

When the performance pattern number at the time of a miss is selected, the performance control unit 210 refers to a performance table (not shown), and determines the fluctuation schedule (variation time, presence or absence of reach, occurrence of reach, etc.) of the performance symbol corresponding to the fluctuation performance pattern number at that time. If so, determine the reach type and reach occurrence timing) and the mode of stop display (for example, "7" - "2" - "4", etc.).

After executing any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612, the production control unit 210 next executes step S614. In addition, in step S608, step S610, and step S612, the production control unit 210 also determines a variation pattern of the fourth symbol corresponding to a miss, a jackpot, and a small hit.

Step S614: The production control unit 210 executes a preview selection process (provision performance execution means). In this process, the performance control unit 210 selects by lottery the content of the preview performance to be executed during the current variable display performance. The content of the preview performance is determined based on, for example, the result of an internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time shortened state). The preview performance is for notifying the player of the possibility that a reach state will occur during the variable display performance, or of the possibility of a jackpot in the end. Therefore, when the game is not won, the selection ratio of the preview performance is set low, but when the game is won, the selection ratio of the preview performance is set relatively high in order to increase the player's expectations.

Step S616: The production control unit 210 executes mode production management processing. In this process, the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image according to the stay mode. For example, when the stay mode is "normal mode (low probability non-time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image in which a female character is sitting on a chaise lounge. Further, when the stay mode is "fireworks rush (high probability time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image with a fireworks motif. Note that the background image of the fireworks rush can include the character selected in the character selection effect. Further, when the stay mode is "coast mode (low probability time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image with a coast as a motif. In addition, when the stay mode is "high probability non-time saving state", the effect control unit 210 may select a background image corresponding to the normal mode, or may select a background image different from the normal mode. good.
In addition, in the fireworks rush or coast mode where the player is right-handed, a process is executed to select a performance pattern for displaying the second right-handed suggestion image R2 (FIGS. 13, 14, and 18).

When the above procedure is completed, the production control section 210 returns to the production symbol management process (last address). As a result, in the subsequent performance symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 22), the fluctuation display performance and the stop display performance are executed based on the actually selected fluctuation performance pattern (performance execution means), and various A preview performance is executed based on the preview performance pattern.

[Processing when variable prize winning device is activated]
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the configuration of the process when the variable prize winning device is activated. The variable winning device operation process includes subroutines of execution selection process (step S902), variable winning device pre-operation process (step S904), variable winning device operation process (step S906), and variable winning device post-operation process (step S908). The configuration includes a group of (program modules). Here, first, the basic flow of the process when the variable prize winning device is activated will be explained along with each process.

Step S902: In the execution selection process, the effect control unit 210 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S904 to S908) from the "jump table". For example, the performance control unit 210 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the process when the variable winning device is activated as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable winning device pre-operation process has not yet started, the performance control unit 210 selects the variable winning device pre-operation process (step S904) as the next jump destination. Further, if the variable winning device pre-operation process has already been completed, the performance control unit 210 selects the variable winning device operating process (step S906) as the next jump destination. Furthermore, if the variable winning device operation process has been completed, the performance control unit 210 selects the variable winning device operation post-operation process (step S908) as the next jump destination.

Step S904: In the pre-operation process of the variable winning device, the performance control unit 210 executes a process of selecting the content of the performance to be executed during the jackpot game or the small win game. The performance control unit 210 executes, for example, a process of selecting a performance during a big winning combination as shown in FIG. 12.

Step S906: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control section 210 generates control information to instruct the display control section 220 as necessary. For example, when performing a performance using the operation unit 60 during execution of a big win performance (jackpot performance), the input control unit 228 detects whether or not the player has operated the operation unit 60, and the performance is adjusted according to the result. The content control information is instructed to the display control unit 220. In addition, in this process during operation of the variable winning device, if a variable probability area passing command is received during a jackpot game, a process is executed to select an effect indicating that a V winning has occurred, If the passing command is not received, a process is executed to select an effect indicating that a V winning prize has not occurred. In addition, during the variable winning device operation process, if the prize ball content command is not received for a certain period of time (for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds), or if for some reason it is detected that the fired game ball is flowing down the left side of the board. In this case, the performance control unit 210 can select a performance pattern that provides an audio notification of "Please hit right." Also, in this process, the effect control unit 210 executes a process of saving the character selected by the character selection effect. The selected character is displayed as part of a background image of a fireworks rush, for example.

Step S908: In the variable winning device activation process, the performance control unit 210 executes a performance that communicates the mode to which the game will be transferred to the player during the end time of the variable winning device. For example, the performance control unit 210 executes a coast mode entry performance or a fireworks rush performance depending on the winning symbol or whether or not the probability variable area is passed. Specifically, if a command to pass through a variable area is received during a jackpot game, a process is executed to select a production indicating that a fireworks rush will begin, and if a command to pass through a variable area is not received during a jackpot game. If so, a process is executed to select an effect indicating entering the coast mode.
After completing the above process, the production control section 210 returns to the production symbol management process (FIG. 22).

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for advance notice selection processing.
Step S910: The production control unit 210 executes a process of checking whether the execution conditions for the button production are satisfied.
The execution condition for the button effect can be a condition that is satisfied when at least one condition (preferably all conditions) is satisfied among the following conditions.
(1) A fluctuation pattern having a fluctuation time longer than a predetermined time is selected.
(2) Winning a predetermined production execution lottery.
(3) Being in a specific gaming state (for example, a high probability time reduction state).

As a result, if it is confirmed that the button performance execution conditions are satisfied (Yes), the performance control unit 210 executes step S911. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the button performance execution conditions are met (No), the performance control unit 210 executes step S912.

Step S911: The production control unit 210 executes button production selection processing. Specifically, the performance control unit 210 controls at least one button performance (repeated hit performance, enemy character selection performance, one-hit performance, long hit performance, etc.) shown in FIGS. Execute the process of selecting the effect pattern (press effect, effect button effect).
Then, based on the selected effect pan, the image of the button effect is controlled in the display output process, and the light and sound are controlled in the lamp drive process and the sound drive process.

Step S911: The production control unit 210 executes other preview production selection processing. Specifically, the performance control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a preview performance other than the button performance. Preview performances other than button performances include, for example, step-up performances, pseudo-continuous performances, power outage performances, dialogue performances, group preview performances, cut-in performances, and the like.
After completing the above processing, the production control section 210 returns to the production symbol management process (FIG. 24).

As explained above, the gaming machine of this embodiment has the following first to fifth technical features.

[Issues of the first technical feature to the fifth technical feature]
In a performance that prompts a player to issue an operation command (operation suggestion), a plurality of operation command events may overlap. In this case, it is difficult for the player to notice the multiple operation commands, and there is a possibility that the player may be confused about how to respond.
Therefore, the first technical feature to the fifth technical feature are aimed at making it easier for the player to recognize the importance of a plurality of operation commands.

[Specific configuration of first technical feature]
The first technical feature includes the following configuration.
(A1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a right-handed state (specific state). For example, if the player is in a low probability non-time reduction state (normal mode), the player will be left-handed, and if a jackpot or fireworks rush is in progress other than the normal mode, the player will be right-handed. The gaming machine includes a liquid crystal display 42, a handle unit 16, a push button 64, a handle lever 62, an upper plate ball removal button 6d, and a lower plate ball removal lever 6e. The liquid crystal display 42 is a presentation means that can perform presentations. The handle unit 16, the push button 64, the handle lever 62, the upper plate ball removal button 6d, and the lower plate ball removal lever 6e are operating means that can be operated by the player.
(A2) In the right-handed state, the following aspects occur.
(A3) A right-hand hitting suggestion performance (first suggestion performance) that suggests to the player a right-hand hitting (specific operation) can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 (FIGS. 12 to 14).
(A4) An operation suggestion effect (second suggestion effect) that suggests to the player the operation (special operation) of the push button 64 can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 ((D) in FIG. 12, ((D) in FIG. 13). B) to (F) in Figure 14).
(A5) It is possible to execute the right-hand hit suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance at the same time (simultaneously) (FIGS. 12 to 14). On the liquid crystal display 42, each effect can be displayed so as not to overlap.
(A6) Regarding the right-hand hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not play as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the right-hand hitting suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not hitting the right hand > Disadvantage due to not pressing the button).
(A7) In the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, the suggestion pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion performance (the first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1, the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 used for the right-handed hitting suggestion performance) is the same as that of the operation suggesting performance. It is smaller than the number of suggestion patterns (first operation suggestion image B1 to sixth operation suggestion image B6 used for operation suggestion presentation).
That is, right-handed hitting suggestion images (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1, second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2) used for right-handed hitting suggestion production and operation suggestion images (first operation suggestion image B1 to sixth operation suggestion) used for operation suggestion production In image B6), there are fewer image patterns (types of images) of the one that is disadvantageous to the player (right-handed hitting suggestion images) (number of types of "right-handed hitting suggestion images"< number of types of "operation suggestion images") .
Suggestion patterns for operation suggestion effects include, for example, single presses, repeated presses, and long presses for the push button 64 and handle lever 62, as well as many patterns such as large ones, flashy effects, and different display colors. can have On the other hand, the suggestion patterns for the right-handed batting suggestion include one that is displayed when entering the right-handed batting state (first right-handed batting suggestion image R1), one that is constantly displayed (second right-handed batting suggestion image R2), and a left-handed batting suggestion image. , is less than the suggestion pattern of the manipulation suggestion performance. Note that the left-handed hitting suggestion image can be displayed when the right-handed batting state ends and the player shifts to the left-handed batting state, or when the player accidentally hits the right batting while in the left-handed batting state.

[Effect of the first technical feature]
According to the first technical feature, because the number of suggestion patterns of right-handed hitting suggestions is small, the more opportunities to see right-handed hitting suggestions, the easier it is to recognize what kind of suggestion the idea is. Therefore, even when multiple suggestion effects are executed at the same time, the purpose of the right-handed suggestion effect (the one with fewer suggestion patterns) that is more important can be easily understood, and as a result, an innovative gaming machine is provided. can do.
Further, according to the first technical feature, in the presentation that prompts the player to make operation suggestions (operation commands), it is possible to make the player recognize the importance of each operation suggestion.

[Specific configuration of second technical feature]
The second technical feature includes the following configuration.
(B1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a right-handed state (specific state). For example, if the player is in a low probability non-time reduction state (normal mode), the player will be left-handed, and if a jackpot or fireworks rush is in progress other than the normal mode, the player will be right-handed. The gaming machine includes a liquid crystal display 42, a handle unit 16, a push button 64, a handle lever 62, an upper plate ball removal button 6d, and a lower plate ball removal lever 6e. The liquid crystal display 42 is a presentation means that can perform presentations. The handle unit 16, the push button 64, the handle lever 62, the upper plate ball removal button 6d, and the lower plate ball removal lever 6e are operating means that can be operated by the player.
(B2) In the right-handed state, the following aspects occur.
(B3) A right-hand hitting suggestion performance (first suggestion performance) that suggests to the player a right-hand hitting (specific operation) can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 (FIGS. 12 to 14).
(B4) An operation suggestion effect (second suggestion effect) that suggests to the player the operation (special operation) of the push button 64 can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 ((D) in FIG. 12, ((D) in FIG. 13). B) to (F) in Figure 14).
(B5) It is possible to execute the right-hand hit suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance at the same time (simultaneously) (FIGS. 12 to 14). On the liquid crystal display 42, each effect can be displayed so as not to overlap.
(B6) Between the right-hand hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not play as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the right-hand hitting suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not hitting the right hand > Disadvantage due to not pressing the button).
(B7) Separately from the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, a ball removal suggestion performance (third suggestion performance) that suggests to the player the ball removal operation (special operation) of the game ball can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42. ((B) in FIG. 17).
(B8) The ball removal suggestion performance can be executed while the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance are being executed ((B) in FIG. 17).
(B9) Between the ball removal suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not operate as suggested, not following the suggestion of the ball removal suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not removing the ball > Disadvantage due to not operating the button).
(B10) Among the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, the operation suggestion performance, and the ball removal suggestion performance, the suggestion pattern of the ball removal suggestion performance (the ball removal suggestion image C used for the ball removal suggestion performance) is the least. In addition, regarding the relationship between the suggestion pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the suggestion pattern of the operation suggestion performance, either one may be more or the same number may be used.

[Effect of second technical feature]
According to the second technical feature, since there are the least number of suggestion patterns for the ball-pulling suggestion performance, it is immediately recognized when the ball-pulling suggestion performance is executed, and it becomes possible to respond immediately, and as a result, a novel gaming machine is provided. can do.
Furthermore, according to the second technical feature, in the presentation that prompts the player to make operation suggestions (operation commands), it is possible to make the player recognize the importance of each operation suggestion.

[Specific configuration of the third technical feature]
The third technical feature includes the following configuration.
(C1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a right-handed state (specific state). For example, if the player is in a low probability non-time reduction state (normal mode), the player will be left-handed, and if a jackpot or fireworks rush is in progress other than the normal mode, the player will be right-handed. The gaming machine includes a liquid crystal display 42, a handle unit 16, a push button 64, a handle lever 62, an upper plate ball removal button 6d, and a lower plate ball removal lever 6e. The liquid crystal display 42 is a presentation means that can perform presentations. The handle unit 16, the push button 64, the handle lever 62, the upper plate ball removal button 6d, and the lower plate ball removal lever 6e are operating means that can be operated by the player.
(C2) In the right-handed state, the following aspects occur.
(C3) A right-hand hitting suggestion performance (first suggestion performance) that suggests the player to play right (specific operation) can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 (FIGS. 12 to 14).
(C4) An operation suggestion effect (second suggestion effect) that suggests the player to operate the push button 64 (special operation) can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 ((D) in FIG. 12, ((D) in FIG. 13). B) to (F) in Figure 14).
(C5) Ball removal suggestion performance (third suggestion performance) that suggests to the player a ball removal operation (special operation) for the game ball can be executed on the liquid crystal display 42 ((B) in FIG. 17).
(C6) It is possible to perform the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, the operation suggestion performance, and the ball removal suggestion performance at the same time ((B) in FIG. 17). On the liquid crystal display 42, each effect can be displayed so as not to overlap.
(C7) Between the right-hand hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not play as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the right-hand hitting suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not hitting the right hand > Disadvantage due to not pressing the button).
(C8) Between the ball removal suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not operate as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the ball removal suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not removing the ball > Disadvantage due to not operating the button).
(C9) The image update cycle of the image used for the performance is different between the right-handed hit suggestion performance, the operation suggestion performance, and the ball-out suggestion performance (FIGS. 18 and 19). "The image update cycles are different" means that the length of the image update cycle is different. Note that the length of the image update cycle may be the same for the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, the operation suggestion performance, and the ball-pulling suggestion performance, but the number of images used for the performance may be different.

[Effect of third technical feature]
According to the third technical feature, the image update cycle is different for the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, the operation suggestion performance, and the ball removal suggestion performance, so even if the suggestion performance is the same, each suggestion performance By changing the appearance, the difference in roles can be intuitively and easily understood by the player, and as a result, a novel gaming machine can be provided.
Further, according to the third technical feature, in the presentation that prompts the player to make operation suggestions (operation commands), it is possible to make the player recognize the importance of each operation suggestion.

[Specific configuration of the fourth technical feature]
The fourth technical feature includes the following configuration.
(D1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a right-handed state (specific state). For example, if the player is in a low probability non-time reduction state (normal mode), the player will be left-handed, and if a jackpot or fireworks rush is in progress other than the normal mode, the player will be right-handed. The gaming machine includes a liquid crystal display, a handle unit, a push button, a handle lever, a nearby LED, and a built-in LED.
(D2) In the right-handed hitting state, it is possible to execute a right-handed hitting suggestion performance (first suggestion performance) that suggests the player to play right-handed hitting (specific hitting) (FIGS. 12 to 14).
(D3) In the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, a first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 (first suggestion image) and a second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 (first suggestion image) that suggest to the player that hitting right-handed are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 ( display means). The first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 is displayed at the center of the liquid crystal display 42. The second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is displayed at the upper right of the liquid crystal display 42.
(D4) The right-handed hitting suggestion effect suggests right-handed hitting by displaying the first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 and the second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2, but the LED (nearby light emitting means) near the handle unit 16 (launching means) does not suggest right-handed hitting ((D) in Figure 12).
(D5) In the right-handed state, it is possible to execute an operation suggestion performance (second suggestion performance) that suggests the player to operate the push button 64 (operation means) ((D) in FIG. 12, (B) in FIG. 13). ) to (F) in Figure 14).
(D6) In the operation suggestion performance, the first operation suggestion image B1 (second suggestion image) to the sixth operation suggestion image B6 (second suggestion image) suggesting the player to operate the push button 64 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 ( display means). Note that the first operation suggestion image B1 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6 may be displayed in a position other than the "center" as long as they are displayed so as not to overlap with the right-handed hitting suggestion effect (the right-handed hitting suggestion image).
(D7) The operation suggestion performance suggests an operation by displaying the first operation suggestion image B1 and using the built-in LED (built-in light emitting means) of the push button 64 (operation means) ((D) in FIG. 12). The same holds true for the second operation suggestion image B2 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6.
(D8) In the right-handed hit state, the right-handed hit suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance can be executed at the same time (FIGS. 12 to 14). On the liquid crystal display 42, each effect can be displayed so as not to overlap.
(D9) Between the right-hand hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not play as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the right-hand hitting suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not hitting the right hand > Disadvantage due to not pressing the button).
(D10) In the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the operation suggestion image, the image pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion image (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1, second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2) is different from the image pattern of the operation suggestion image (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R2). It is smaller than the suggestion image B1 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6).
That is, the right-handed hitting suggestion images (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1, second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2) and operation suggestion images (first operation suggestion image B1 to sixth operation suggestion image B6) are disadvantageous to the player. The number of image patterns (types of images) is smaller for those with a larger value (images suggesting right-handed hitting) (number of types of ``right-handed hitting suggesting images''< number of types of ``operation suggesting images'').
For example, the operation suggestion image may have many patterns such as a single press, a continuous press, a long press, etc. for the push button 64 or the handle lever 62, as well as large images, images with flashy effects, images with different display colors, etc. can. On the other hand, the right-handed hitting suggestion images include the one displayed when entering the right-handed hitting state (first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1), the one always displayed (second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2), and the left-handed hitting suggestion image. Less than the image. Note that the left-handed hitting suggestion image can be displayed when the right-handed batting state ends and the player shifts to the left-handed batting state, or when the player accidentally hits the right batting while in the left-handed batting state.

[Effect of the fourth technical feature]
According to the fourth technical feature, since the number of image patterns of the right-handed hitting suggestion image is small, the more opportunities to see the right-handed hitting suggestion image, the easier it is to recognize what kind of suggestion the display is suggesting. Therefore, even when multiple suggestion images are displayed at the same time, the purpose of the right-handed suggestion image with higher importance (the one with fewer types) can be easily understood, and as a result, an innovative gaming machine is provided. be able to.
Furthermore, according to the fourth technical feature, in the presentation that prompts the player to make operation suggestions (operation commands), it is possible to make the player recognize the importance of each operation suggestion.

[Specific features of the fifth technical feature]
The fifth technical feature includes the following configuration.
(E1) This is a gaming machine that allows games to be played in a right-handed state (specific state). For example, if the player is in a low probability non-time reduction state (normal mode), the player will be left-handed, and if a jackpot or fireworks rush is in progress other than the normal mode, the player will be right-handed. The gaming machine includes a liquid crystal display, a handle unit, a push button, and a handle lever.
(E2) In the right-handed hitting state, it is possible to execute a right-handed hitting suggestion performance (first suggestion performance) that suggests to the player that he/she should play right-handed hitting (specific hitting) (FIGS. 12 to 14).
(E3) In the right-handed hitting suggestion performance, a first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 (first suggestion image) and a second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 (first suggestion image) that suggest right-handed hitting to the player are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 ( display means). The first right-handed hitting suggestion image R1 is displayed at the center of the liquid crystal display 42. The second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2 is displayed at the upper right of the liquid crystal display 42.
(E4) In the right-handed state, it is possible to execute an operation suggestion performance (second suggestion performance) that suggests the player to operate the push button 64 (operation means) ((D) in FIG. 12, (B) in FIG. 13). ) to (F) in Figure 14).
(E5) In the operation suggestion performance, the first operation suggestion image B1 (second suggestion image) to the sixth operation suggestion image B6 (second suggestion image) suggesting the player to operate the push button 64 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 ( display means). Note that the first operation suggestion image B1 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6 may be displayed in a position other than the "center" as long as they are displayed so as not to overlap with the right-handed hitting suggestion effect (the right-handed hitting suggestion image).
(E6) In the right-handed hit state, the right-handed hit suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance can be executed at the same time (FIGS. 12 to 14). On the liquid crystal display 42, each effect can be displayed so as not to overlap.
(E7) Between the right-hand hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, if you do not play as suggested, it is more disadvantageous to not follow the suggestion of the right-hand hitting suggestion performance than not to follow the suggestion of the operation suggestion performance (size of disadvantage Relationship: Disadvantage due to not hitting the right hand > Disadvantage due to not pressing the button).
(E8) In the right-handed hitting state, apart from the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, it is possible to execute a ball removal suggestion performance (third suggestion performance) that suggests to the player to remove the game ball (in Figure 17). (B)).
(E9) The ball removal suggestion performance can be executed during the execution of the right-handed hitting suggestion performance and the operation suggestion performance, and the ball removal suggestion image C (third suggestion image) that suggests to the player that he should remove the game ball. It can be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 (display means). The ball removal suggestion image C can be displayed so as to overlap with at least a portion of the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the operation suggestion image. Further, the ball removal suggestion image C can be displayed in a display area different from that of the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the operation suggestion image.
(E10) Among the right-handed hitting suggestion image, the operation suggestion image, and the ball-pulling suggestion image, the image pattern of the ball-pulling suggestion image (ball-pulling suggestion image C) is the least. In addition, regarding the relationship between the image pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the image pattern of the operation suggestion image, either one may be the largest number, or the number may be the same.

More preferably, among the right-handed hitting suggestion image, the operation suggestion image, and the ball picking suggestion image, the image pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion image (ball picking suggestion image C) is the smallest, and the image pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion image (first right-handed hitting suggestion image) is the smallest. It can be set so that the number of suggestion images R1, second right-handed suggestion image R2) is the next smallest, and the number of image patterns of operation suggestion images (first operation suggestion image B1 to sixth operation suggestion image B6) is the largest.
In other words, among the right-handed hitting suggestion image, the operation member suggestion image, and the ball-pulling suggestion image, the number of image patterns (types of images) that are more disadvantageous to the player can be set so that the number of image patterns (image types) that are more disadvantageous to the player is reduced. Number of types of ``Images''< Number of types of ``Right-hand hitting suggestion images''< Number of types of ``Operation member suggestion images''). The number of types of ball-hitting suggestion images can be one or two, and is preferably smaller than the number of right-handed hitting suggestion images. In addition, when the number of types of ball removal suggestion images is set to two types, the number of types of right-handed hitting suggestion images can be set to 3 or more and 5 or less.

[Effect of the fifth technical feature]
According to the fifth technical feature, since the number of image patterns of the ball removal suggestion image is the smallest, it can be recognized immediately when it is displayed, and it becomes possible to take immediate action, and as a result, it is possible to provide a novel gaming machine. can.
Further, according to the fifth technical feature, in the presentation that prompts the player to make operation suggestions (operation commands), it is possible to make the player recognize the importance of each operation suggestion.

If the player does not operate as instructed even though each of the performances (right-handed hitting suggestion performance, operation suggestion production, ball removal suggestion production) is executed, the following situation occurs.
[(1) Right-handed hitting suggestion]
If you do not operate according to the instructions (such as hitting left-handed, not hitting left-handed or right-handed, etc.), there is a possibility that you are not playing the game according to the game specifications (the attacker may win even though you are hitting the jackpot). There is a possibility that you will not be able to receive a payout because you cannot receive a payout, or you may not be able to receive an internal lottery according to the high-certificate even though you are in the high-certificate. In this case, although it is possible to play the game itself using the gaming machine, there is a possibility that the player will be at a disadvantage in not being able to obtain the usual benefits (according to the specifications of the game).

[(2) Operation suggestion production]
If you do not operate as instructed (if you do not operate a button during the valid operation period, look away, etc.), you may be disadvantaged by not being able to confirm the effects generated by button operations, etc.

[(3) Ball removal suggestion performance]
If you do not follow the instructions (if you leave the ball removal instructions as is), the game balls will continue to accumulate and the prize ball path will become full, which may make it impossible to shoot the game balls, and the game itself may become malfunctioning. There is a possibility that you may suffer a disadvantage.

[Size of disadvantage of each performance]
The magnitude of the disadvantage caused by not following each direction can be determined as follows: "(3) Ball removal suggestion performance">"(1) Right-handed hitting suggestion performance">"(2) Operation suggestion performance".
That is, for the player, the greatest disadvantage is that he or she cannot play the game if he or she does not follow "(3) Ball removal suggestion performance."
Further, for the player, it is less disadvantageous for the player to not be able to obtain the normal benefits that would otherwise be obtained if he does not follow the "(1) right-handed hitting suggestion presentation" rather than the "(3) ball removal suggestion presentation."
Further, for the player, it is less disadvantageous to be unable to confirm the performance when the player does not follow the "(2) operation suggestion performance" rather than the "(1) right-handed hitting performance".

[Other configurations]
At least one of the configurations shown below can be added to the first technical feature to the fifth technical feature.
(1) The right-handed hitting suggestion image is updated and displayed in the first cycle (FIG. 18). For example, the portion that emphasizes light changes at regular intervals to express the gloss of a right-handed hitting suggestion image.
(2) The operation suggestion image is updated and displayed at the second cycle ((A) and (B) in FIG. 19). For example, the image pattern of the operation suggestion image and the change mode of the effect on the operation suggestion image change at regular intervals so as to represent a state in which the push button 64 is pushed in from a normal state.

(3) Among the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the operation suggestion image, the display area of the image with respect to the display area on the liquid crystal display 42 is made smaller for the one that causes a greater disadvantage to the player (the right-handed hitting suggestion image) (in FIG. 12). (D): Display area of the “second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2”<display area of the “first operation suggestion image B1”). According to this configuration, by moving the right-handed hitting suggestion image to the edge of the screen and displaying it at a size that does not overlap with other effects, it is possible to display it effectively without interfering with other effects, and it is possible to display images that are highly important. It is possible to make them understand.
Note that the relationship between the display areas may be reversed in a specific state (display area of "right-handed hitting suggestion image">display area of "operation suggestion image").

(4) Among the first cycle in the right-hand hitting suggestion image and the second cycle in the operation suggestion image, the cycle that is more disadvantageous to the player is made longer than the other (the time of one cycle is long). Of the first cycle in the right-handed hitting suggestion image and the second cycle in the operation suggestion image, the cycle that is more disadvantageous to the player is delayed (the first cycle is delayed). According to this configuration, by lengthening the loop cycle of the right-hand hitting suggestion image and performing the animation slowly, the movement until one cycle is clearly recognized, while the animation that ends in a short time of the operation suggestion image is He can show many movements.
Note that the relationship between the lengths of the first period and the second period may be reversed in a specific state (length of the first period<length of the second period).

(5) A right-hand hitting suggestion performance (one in which the degree of disadvantage for the player who does not carry out the suggestion is greater than an operation suggestion performance) is a sound separate from the right-hand hitting suggestion performance when the player does not operate the handle unit according to the suggestion performance. However, even if the push button is not operated as suggested, the operation suggestion performance can be performed using audio, etc., in addition to the operation suggestion performance (additional performance). The process proceeds without executing any additional effects (Fig. 15).
(6) The right-handed hitting suggestion performance is such that when the player operates the handle unit according to the command (suggestion), the right-handed hitting suggestion performance can be executed continuously without executing the operation suggestion performance (additional performance) using audio etc. However, the operation suggestion performance can be ended when the player operates the push button according to the command (suggestion) (FIG. 16). Note that, regarding a specific operation suggestion performance, if the player operates the push button according to the command (suggestion), the operation suggestion performance can be continued.
(7) The ball removal suggestion image can be updated and displayed in a third period different from the first period and the second period ((C) in FIG. 19). In the case of not responding to the operation suggestion, the disadvantage of not responding to the pitch suggestion image is greater, and by making the cycle longer than that of the right-handed hitting suggestion presentation or the operation suggestion presentation, the importance of displaying the ball removal suggestion image is further increased. It can be recognized.

(8) The display area of the image relative to the display area on the liquid crystal display 42 may be made different for the right-handed hitting suggestion image, the operation suggestion image, and the ball-pulling suggestion image.
Specifically, the image pattern of the ball removal suggestion image (ball removal suggestion image C) is converted into the image pattern of the right-handed hitting suggestion image (second right-handed hitting suggestion image R2) or the image pattern of the operation suggestion image (first operation suggestion By displaying an image pattern that is larger than the image B1 to the sixth operation suggestion image B6) and in such a size that it overlaps with other effects, the importance of the image that suggests a ball being removed is increased. This makes it possible to make the user understand that the image has a high value.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The mode of presentation and various numerical values listed in one embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited to the above-mentioned contents.

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a gaming machine having a variable probability area has been described, but the present invention may be applied to a gaming machine that does not have a variable probability area. Moreover, it is also possible to apply the present invention to a so-called simultaneous turning machine.

The configuration of the first technical feature to the configuration of the fifth technical feature can be used in combination. Also, a part of the configuration of one technical feature can be added to another technical feature.

The images listed as other examples of effects are just examples, and can be modified as appropriate. Further, the structure, board configuration, specific numerical values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1, including those shown in the drawings, are preferred examples, and these can be modified as appropriate.

[Slot machine (reel type gaming machine, slot machine, pachislot machine)]
In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine using game balls has been described. The present invention may be applied to a slot machine in which rotating reels are stopped by a stop operation using a stop button, and winnings can be generated depending on the type of symbol or combination of symbols when the reel stops.

The slot machine includes a variable display section (for example, a reel) that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information (for example, symbols), each of which can be identified, and after displaying the variable display section in a variable manner, This is a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine) in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display, and winnings can be generated according to the display result.

In addition, a slot machine has a lever-shaped start switch, a button-shaped stop switch, and multiple rotating machines that start rotating based on the operation of the start switch and stop rotation based on the operation of the stop switch by the player. A winning combination that determines whether or not to win a predetermined winning combination based on the operation of a start switch in a state where a sufficient number of medals or game balls as gaming media are inserted to start the game. While performing a lottery, multiple rotating reels are rotated, and based on the operation of a stop switch, the rotating rotating reels corresponding to the operated stop switch are stopped, and predetermined symbol positions of each stopped rotating reel are connected. Based on the combination of symbols displayed on the active line, a winning determination is made as to whether or not the winning combination has been won in the winning combination lottery, and based on the result of the winning determination, the player is provided with gaming media, This is a gaming machine that provides benefits such as replays, accessories, and a device that continuously activates accessories.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 16 Handle unit 20 Starting gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 First special symbol display device 35 Second special symbol display device 34a First special Symbol operation memory lamp 35a 2nd special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU
130 RAM
210 Production control section

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can be played in a specific state,
A production means capable of performing production,
a first operating means that enables firing of the game ball;
a second operating means that enables changes in the production;
A third operation means that enables the ball to be removed from the game ball ;
In the specific state,
a first suggestion effect that suggests to the player a specific operation using the first operation means can be executed by the effect means;
a second suggestion effect that suggests to the player a special operation using the second operation means can be executed by the effect means;
The first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance can be executed at the same time,
In the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the operation is not performed as suggested, not following the suggestion of the first suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance,
Separately from the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, a third suggestion performance that suggests to the player a special operation using the third operation means can be executed by the performance means,
The third suggestion performance is executable during the execution of the first suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance,
In the third suggestion performance and the second suggestion performance, if the operation is not performed as suggested, not following the suggestion of the third suggestion performance is more disadvantageous than not following the suggestion of the second suggestion performance,
A gaming machine characterized in that among the first suggestion performance, the second suggestion performance, and the third suggestion performance, the third suggestion performance has the least number of suggestion patterns.

Images