JP7398101B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines, and is particularly applicable to pachinko gaming machines and the like.

A gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine is equipped with an external terminal board, as described in Patent Document 1 below, and outputs various signals from the external terminal board to the outside of the gaming machine as the game progresses. The outside of the gaming machine refers to external devices (for example, a data display installed above the gaming machine in the hall that displays the operating status of the connected gaming machine, or the external equipment of each gaming machine in the hall). This refers to a hall computer, etc. that aggregates and manages information such as operating status (sales management, game management).

Such pachinko gaming machines (for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-111264) include a main board (main control board, payout control board), and the main board includes a control means ( (game control means, payout control means). For example, various sensors such as a starting port sensor are connected to a main control board serving as a main board, and detection signals from the starting port sensor and the like are input. In this case, the game control means performs control processing such as determination of success or failure based on the input of the detection signal from the starting port sensor, or outputs a variable stop signal indicating a fixed stop display of the symbol to the external terminal board. The external terminal board into which the fluctuation stop signal has been input outputs the fluctuation stop signal (symbol confirmation signal) to the outside of the gaming machine in order to inform an external device that the symbols have stopped being displayed.

JP2010-51655

By the way, it is conceivable to send not only existing signals such as the symbol confirmation signal but also new signals (information) to the external device from the external terminal board of the pachinko game machine. This is because the external device can grasp the situation of the pachinko game machine in more detail. In this case, the detection signal from the existing sensor such as the starting port sensor is input to the game control means (control means) of the main control board (main board), and the signal processed by the game control means is sent to the external terminal board. will be sent to. Therefore, a configuration may be considered in which a new signal is also sent to the external terminal board via the game control means of the main control board, but this would increase the burden of control processing on the game control means.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and is intended to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the main board when a predetermined signal is sent to an external terminal board via the main board. Our goal is to provide a gaming machine that allows you to :

The gaming machine of the first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is as follows:
an appropriateness determination control unit that makes an appropriateness determination based on establishment of a predetermined condition;
a special game control unit that executes a special game that can provide a predetermined gaming profit to the player when the result of the validity determination is a specific result;
a given game ball detection unit capable of detecting game balls;
A gaming machine that plays a game by ejecting gaming media into a gaming area, comprising a gaming profit granting control unit that controls the granting of the gaming profit based on the detection result of the awarded game ball detection unit,
a gaming control section having the gaming profit granting control section;
a first specific signal output unit capable of outputting a first specific signal to the game control unit;
a second specific signal output unit capable of outputting a second specific signal to the game control unit;
an external signal output section capable of outputting a signal to the outside of the gaming machine;
a front frame that can be opened and closed into a closed state that covers the front surface of the game area and an open state that opens the front surface of the game area;
a frame signal output unit that detects that the front frame is in an open state or a closed state and outputs a frame signal,
The game control unit includes a measurement unit that measures the input time of the frame signal,
The first specific signal output section is the provided game ball detection section,
The first specific signal is a given game ball detection signal output based on the given game ball detection unit detecting a game ball,
The second specific signal output section is the frame signal output section,
The second specific signal is the frame signal,
The awarded game ball detection signal input to the game control unit is controlled and processed by a control unit included in the game control unit, and a signal based on the control process is output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit,
If the measurement time by the measurement unit exceeds a specific time, the frame signal input to the game control unit is sent to the external signal from the game control unit without being subjected to control processing by the control unit included in the game control unit. If the measurement time by the measurement unit does not exceed the specific time, the signal is not output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit.
It is characterized by this.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the main board.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a back view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing the configuration of a game board according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is an enlarged view of the main display shown in FIG. 3, and is a diagram showing displays included in the gaming machine. FIG. It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine. It is a table showing the correspondence between the type of winning and the opening pattern of the big prize opening. It is a table showing various random numbers obtained by the game control microcomputer. (A) is a jackpot determination table, (B) is a jackpot type determination table, (C) is a reach determination table, (D) is a normal symbol hit determination table, and (E) is a regular symbol variation table. This is a pattern selection table. This is a fluctuation pattern table. It is a flowchart of main control main processing. It is a flowchart of interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of starting port sensor detection processing. It is a flowchart of normal figure movement processing. It is a flowchart of normal symbol standby processing. It is a flowchart of normal symbol propriety determination processing. It is a flowchart of normal symbol random number shift processing. It is a flowchart of normal symbol fluctuation processing. It is a flowchart of normal symbol confirmation processing. It is a flowchart of normal electric accessories processing. It is a flowchart of special figure operation processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol standby processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 2 propriety judgment processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 2 variation pattern selection processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 2 variation pattern selection processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 2 random number shift processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 1 propriety judgment processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 1 variation pattern selection processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 1 variation pattern selection processing. It is a flowchart of special figure 1 random number shift processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol fluctuation processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol confirmation processing. It is a flowchart of special electric accessory processing 1 (jackpot game). It is a flowchart of gaming state setting processing. It is a flowchart of special electric accessory processing 2 (small winning game). It is a flowchart of specific area sensor detection processing. It is a flowchart of pending ball number processing. It is a flowchart of power-off monitoring processing. It is a flowchart of information output processing. It is a flowchart of information output processing. It is a flowchart of information output processing. It is a table showing signals to be outputted to the outside. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of an external output device and the like. 5 is a timing chart showing states of various signals. 5 is a timing chart showing states of various signals. 5 is a timing chart showing states of various signals. It is a flowchart of sub-control main processing. 3 is a flowchart of reception interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of 2ms timer interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of 10ms timer interrupt processing. 3 is a flowchart of received command analysis processing. 3 is a flowchart of received command analysis processing. It is a flowchart of processing when passing through a gate. It is a flowchart of a fluctuating production start process. It is a flowchart of a fluctuating performance end process. It is a flowchart of opening command reception processing. It is a flowchart of ending command reception processing. It is a flowchart of the firing notification process after the end of the winning game. It is a table showing launch notification contents. It is a flowchart of the firing notification process after the winning game ends in another aspect. 7 is a flowchart of information output processing according to the second embodiment. 7 is a flowchart of information output processing according to the second embodiment. 7 is a flowchart of information output processing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pachinko game machine according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view of a pachinko gaming machine according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view of a pachinko gaming machine according to a third embodiment. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine according to a third embodiment. FIG. It is another aspect of the block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine of Example 3.

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described using examples. In addition, in the following, the case where the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed with the end of the variable display of the symbol, and the case where the game ball that enters the variable ball entrance which becomes possible to enter based on the case where the small win symbol is stopped and displayed are explained. The present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine of the type 1 type and type 2 type that can execute a jackpot game that can award a predetermined amount of gaming profits (for example, prize balls) to a player when the player passes a predetermined specific area. An example of application will be explained.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the pachinko game machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a game machine frame 50 and a game board 2 attached within the game machine frame 50. It is configured to be detachable from the frame 50. FIG. 3 shows the game board 2 removed from the game machine frame 50. The gaming machine frame 50 includes a front frame 51 having a decorative surface, a main frame 52 for mounting the gaming board 2, etc., and an outer frame 53 for mounting the pachinko gaming machine 1 on the island equipment of the hall. The front frame 51, the main body frame 52, and the outer frame 53 are pivoted at one end and are configured to be openable and closable, respectively.

In addition, the front frame 51 includes a firing handle 60 for firing the game ball with a firing intensity corresponding to the amount of operation (rotation angle) of the player, and a firing handle 60 that can store game balls and supply the stored game balls to the firing device side. A batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 and a surplus ball receiving tray (lower tray) 62 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the batted ball supply tray 61 are provided. The front frame 51 also includes a first performance button 63a and a second performance button 63b (these two performance buttons are collectively referred to as In addition, a decorative frame lamp 66, a speaker 67, etc. are provided. The performance button 63 functions as an input means that allows input by the player, and the performance button to be used can be selectively used depending on the type of game performance. When the first performance button 63a or the second performance button 63b is operated during execution of a game performance, a predetermined operation-compatible performance is performed based on the operation. Note that the configuration of the production button 63 is not limited to the aspect of the first embodiment, and may be any device that allows the player to input, or may be an input means (for example, , a retractable type, a touch sensor type, etc.), or a non-contact type input means (photoelectric type, etc.) that detects the proximity of a part of the player's body and performs an input. .

The game board 2 has a game area 3 surrounded by a rail member 4, into which game balls shot by operating a shooting handle 60 flow down. The game board 2 is also provided with a board lamp 5 for decoration. A plurality of game nails 16 for guiding game balls are provided in the game area 3 in a protruding manner. Further, a ball return prevention piece 6 is provided at the tip of the rail member 4, and it is possible to prevent the game ball once guided to the game area from returning to the firing device side. Further, near the center of the gaming area 3, an image display device 7 made of a liquid crystal display device is provided. The display screen 7a of the image display device 7 is provided with a performance pattern display area 7b (also referred to as a "performance pattern display section") in which performance patterns 8L, 8C, and 8R (also simply referred to as "performance pattern 8") are displayed. The performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R are displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol, which will be described later. The effect pattern display area 7b consists of three pattern display areas, for example, "left," "middle," and "right." The left pattern display area displays the left pattern 8L, and the middle pattern display area displays the medium pattern. A symbol 8C is displayed, and a right production symbol 8R is displayed in the right symbol display area.

In addition, the performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R each consist of a plurality of symbols (identification information) representing numbers from "1" to "9", for example. The left, middle, and right performance symbols that are stopped and displayed in the performance symbol display area 7b are displayed on the first special symbol display 41a (also referred to as the "first special symbol display section"), which will be described later (see FIG. 4). The result of the variable display of the first special symbol (first symbol) (that is, the result of the special symbol validity determination (also simply referred to as "validity determination")), and the second special symbol display 41b ("second special symbol display section") The result of the variable display of the second special symbol (also referred to as "second symbol") (the result of the special symbol appropriateness determination) is displayed in such a way that the player can easily recognize it. Incidentally, any one of the first special symbol, second special symbol, and performance symbol may be simply referred to as a "design" or "identification information."

For example, if the result of the special symbol validity determination is a jackpot, it is possible to stop display the performance symbol with the same three digits such as "777" (also referred to as "win performance symbol"). In addition, in the case of a small hit, it is possible to stop displaying the production pattern with a preset chance pattern such as "135" or a special pattern such as "3★3" (also referred to as a "small hit production pattern"). It is. In addition, in the case of a miss, the production symbol can be stopped and displayed with a winning pattern (also referred to as a "missing effect design") in which at least one of the three symbols such as "637" or "373" is different. It is possible. Thereby, the player can easily grasp the progress of the game by looking at the performance symbols that are stopped and displayed. In other words, the player generally does not directly understand the result of the special symbol validity determination by looking at the special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display 41a or the second special symbol display 41b, but rather The user sees and understands the performance symbols displayed in the symbol display area 7b. It should be noted that the positions of the left, middle, and right symbol display areas do not need to be provided separately, and the display areas of the left, middle, and right production symbols may be used as the entire symbol display area (production symbol display area 7b). . In addition, examples of the manner in which the performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner include, for example, a manner in which they are scrolled up and down, left and right, diagonally, and the like.

On the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, in addition to displaying a game effect using the above-mentioned effect symbols (effect pattern game effect), a winning game effect executed in conjunction with a winning game, and a display for waiting for customers. Demonstration performances etc. will be displayed. In addition, in the performance symbol game performance, winning game performance, and demonstration performance, in addition to performance symbols such as numbers, performance images other than performance symbols such as background images and character images are also displayed. In addition, the display screen 7a of the image display device 7 includes a first performance reservation display area 9c (first performance reservation display section) that displays a first performance reservation 9a according to the number of stored first special symbol reservations, which will be described later. There is a second performance hold display area 9d (second performance hold display section) that displays a second performance hold 9b according to the number of second special figure hold memories, which will be described later. Depending on the display mode (display number) of the first performance hold or the second performance hold, the number of stored first special figure holds and the second special figure displayed on the first special figure hold display 43a (see FIG. 4), which will be described later. The stored number of second special figures pending displayed on the figure pending display 43b can be clearly shown to the player.

Near the center of the game area 3 and in front of the image display device 7, a center decoration 10 is provided so as to surround the performance symbol display area 7b. A stage portion 11 having a game ball rolling surface on which game balls can roll is provided at the lower part of the center decoration body 10. Further, a hollow warp portion 12 is provided on the left side of the center decoration body 10. The warp section 12 is provided with a warp entrance and a warp exit, and receives a game ball flowing down the game area 3 from the warp entrance, discharges the game ball from the warp exit, and guides it to the stage section 11. The game ball guided to the rolling surface of the stage part 11 can enter the first starting port 20, which will be described later, with a higher possibility than the game ball not guided to the stage part 11. Further, on the upper part of the center decorative body 10, a decorative member 13 having an illumination member (board lamp 5) such as an LED, which can be turned on depending on the game state, and which is shaped like letters, figures, etc., is arranged. There is.

Further, at the upper part of the center decoration body 10 and behind the decoration member 13, there is provided a movable decoration member 14 that can be operated in accordance with the game performance. In FIG. 3, only a part of the movable decorative member 14 is visible, but for example, when a game performance with a relatively high probability of winning is executed, the movable decorative member falls downward and the movable decorative member 14 is visible. The member covers the front surface of the display screen 7a, making most of it visible. This increases the player's expectation of winning. Below the image display device 7 in the game area 3, a fixed winning device 19 is provided which includes a non-variable first starting port 20 that does not change the ease with which game balls enter the game ball. Based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 20, a random number etc. for special symbol validity determination is acquired, and when a predetermined condition is established, the validity determination regarding the first special symbol (first special symbol validity determination) is obtained. Judgment) is executed, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and is stopped and displayed based on the result of the judgment.

Below the first starting port 20, a variable winning device 22 (also referred to as a "variable starting port") is provided which includes a variable second starting port 21 that changes the ease with which game balls enter. . Based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port 21, a random number etc. for special symbol validity determination is acquired, and when a predetermined condition is established, the validity determination of the second special symbol (second special symbol validity determination) is obtained. ) is executed, the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and is stopped and displayed based on the result of the validity determination. The variable prize winning device 22 includes a movable member 23, and opens and closes the second starting port 21 by operating the movable member 23. Through this opening/closing operation, the second starting port 21 can change from the first mode (closed state) to the second mode (open state) in which there is a higher possibility of a game ball entering than the first mode. be. The movable member 23 is driven by a second starting port solenoid 24 (see FIG. 5). In the first embodiment, a game ball can enter the second starting port 21 only when the movable member 23 is in the open state, and a game ball cannot enter the second starting port 21 when the movable member 23 is in the closed state. There is. In addition, if the second starting port 21 is such that it is more difficult for a game ball to enter the ball when the movable member 23 is in the closed state than when it is in the open state, the second starting port 21 is completely closed when the movable member 23 is in the closed state. It does not have to be something that makes it impossible to enter the ball.

On the right side of the first starting opening 20 in the gaming area 3, a first big prize winning device 31 (also referred to as a "first variable ball entry opening") is provided which operates when executing a jackpot game to be described later. The first grand prize winning device 31 includes a first grand prize opening 30 and an opening/closing member 32. The first grand prize opening 30 is opened by the opening operation of the opening/closing member 32, and the first grand prize winning device 31 is won by the closing operation of the opening/closing member 32. This closes the mouth 30. The opening/closing member 32 is driven by the first large prize opening solenoid 33 (see FIG. 5). A game ball can enter the first big prize opening 30 only when the opening/closing member 32 is in the open state. That is, the first variable ball entry opening 31 can be switched between a ball entry disabled state (closed state) in which a game ball cannot enter and a ball entry possible state (open state) in which a game ball can enter, by the opening/closing operation of the opening/closing member 32. It can be changed to

In addition, above the first big prize opening 30 in the game area 3 and at the lower right of the center decoration body 10, a second big prize device 36 ("second variable winning ball" (also called "mouth") is provided. The second big winning device 36 is equipped with a second big winning opening 35 and an opening/closing member (wing member) 37, and when the opening/closing member 37 is opened, the second big winning opening 35 is opened, and when the opening/closing member 37 is closed, the second big winning opening 35 is opened. This is to close the second grand prize opening 35. The opening/closing member 37 is driven by the second large prize opening solenoid 38 (see FIG. 5). A game ball can enter the second big prize opening 35 only when the opening/closing member 37 is in the open state. That is, the second variable ball entry opening 36 can be switched between a ball entry disabled state (closed state) in which a game ball cannot enter and a ball entry possible state (open state) in which a game ball can enter, by the opening and closing operation of the opening/closing member 37. It can be changed to

The second big winning device 36 is formed with a specific area 39 through which the game ball that has entered the second big winning opening 35 can pass. In this pachinko game machine 1, a jackpot game to be described later is started based on detecting that at least one of the game balls that entered the second jackpot 35 has passed through the specific area 39. ing. In other words, the specific area 39 serves as a jackpot game starting opening. The second big winning device 36 also includes a movable piece (not shown) for creating a state where the game ball can pass through the specific area 39 (open state) and a state where the game ball cannot pass through the specific area 39 (closed state). A member for changing the possibility of passage of game balls) is provided. This movable piece closes the specific area 39 when the second big winning device 36 is not activated, that is, when the opening/closing member 37 closes the second big winning opening 35, and the second big winning device 36 is activated. Based on the start, that is, the start of the opening operation of the opening/closing member 37 that opens and closes the second big prize opening 35, the operation to open the specific area 39 is started. That is, the movable piece starts operating in response to the opening operation of the opening/closing member 37. Further, the movable piece operates according to a predetermined operation pattern, and returns to the state in which the specific area 39 is closed based on the elapse of a predetermined operation time.

As a result, the timing when a game ball enters the opened second grand prize opening 35 and the entered game ball reaches the position of the specific area 39, and the timing when the movable piece opens the specific area 39. If the timings match, the game ball will pass through the specific area 39 (pass through V) and the jackpot game will start, and if the timings do not match, the game ball will not pass through the specific area 39 and will just leave the machine. The jackpot game is never started. Further, as the predetermined operation pattern, an operation pattern may be set that changes between the closed state and the open state multiple times, or that the open state or the closed state has different times. Then, the possibility of passage of the game ball to the specific area may be changed depending on the timing at which the opening/closing member is opened after starting the predetermined operation pattern. A gate 28 (game ball passage opening) through which game balls can pass is provided on the right side of the center decorative body 10 in the game area 3. Based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 28, a random number for determining the validity of the normal symbol is obtained, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a normal control is performed to determine whether or not to open the second starting port 21. As the pattern validity determination is executed, the normal symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and are stopped and displayed based on the result of the normal symbol validity determination. When the winning normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the second starting port 21 becomes open. Furthermore, a plurality of general ball entrances 27 are provided at the bottom of the gaming area 3.

The gaming area 3 where various ball entrances etc. are arranged in this way is divided into a left gaming area (first gaming area) 3A on the left side of the center in the horizontal direction, and a right gaming area (second gaming area) 3B on the right side. , can be divided into A batting style in which the game ball is launched so that it flows down the left gaming area 3A is called left-handed hitting, and a batting style in which the gaming ball is launched in such a way that it flows down in the right gaming area 3B is called right-handed batting. . In this pachinko game machine 1, when starting a game, the player aims to hit the ball to the left into the first starting hole 20. On the other hand, when the game state changes due to a hit in the judgment based on the ball entering the first starting port 20, the gate 28, the second starting port 21, the first big winning port 30, and the second The aim is to land the ball in the grand prize opening 35. When a game ball enters the first starting hole, the second starting hole, the first big winning hole, the second big winning hole, or the general ball entering hole, a predetermined ball will be placed in each ball entering hole. A number of game balls (also referred to as "prize balls") are paid out.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a main display 40 is arranged at the lower right portion of the game board 2. The main display 40 includes a first special symbol display 41a (first special symbol display section) that displays a first special symbol in a variable manner and stops, and a second special symbol display that displays a second special symbol in a variable manner and stops. It includes a device 41b (second special symbol display section), and a normal symbol display 42 (normal symbol display section) that displays normal symbols in a variable and stopped manner. In addition, the main display 40 includes a first special symbol reservation display 43a that displays the stored number of validity determination information (first special symbol reservation) related to the first special symbol, and a first special symbol reservation display 43a that displays the number of memory determination information (first special symbol reservation) regarding the first special symbol; It includes a second special pattern holding display 43b that displays the number of memorized numbers of 2 special pattern holdings), and a normal pattern holding display 44 that displays the number of memory holdings of operation holding (normal pattern holding) of the normal pattern display 42. ing.

The main display 40 also includes a hit indicator 48 that indicates that the result of the first special symbol validity determination or the second special symbol validity determination is a hit; A round indicator 45 that shows the number of rounds of the winning game to be executed when the result is a winning, a game status indicator 46 that shows that the variable time reduction function (time saving function) is activated, and the firing direction of the game ball. In other words, a firing direction indicator 47 is included which indicates whether the ball should be shot to the right or the left. The various displays included in the main display 40 are display-controlled by a main control section, which will be described later.

Here, the round indicator 45 is composed of five LEDs for 4R, 6R, 15R, 5R, and 16R. Then, when the special pattern 1 jackpot pattern A or the special pattern 2 jackpot pattern A is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, the 4R lamp is lit and displayed, and "4R▲6R△15R△5R△16R△" (for example, ▲: lit , △: off). Further, when the special pattern 1 jackpot pattern B is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, a 6R lamp is lit and displayed, and when the special pattern 2 jackpot pattern B is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, a 15R lamp is lit and displayed. These lamps are lit and displayed at the timing when the corresponding jackpot symbol is confirmed and displayed. In addition, in the case of a jackpot based on passing through a specific area via a small hit, the number of rounds is calculated by adding 1 to the opening game of the small winning game to the number of rounds of the jackpot game executed after passing the specific area. Turn on the lamp. Specifically, when the special pattern 1 small winning pattern A or the special pattern 2 small winning pattern A is stopped and displayed as the small winning pattern, and the game ball passes through a specific area within the second large prize opening opened by the small winning game. , the 5R lamp, which is 4 rounds plus 1 round of small winnings, is displayed lit. Specifically, the display mode is "4R△6R△15R△5R▲16R△". In addition, as a small winning pattern, the special figure 2 small winning pattern B is stopped and displayed, and if the game ball passes through a specific area in the second large prize opening opened by the small winning game, the small winning pattern B will be displayed in the 15th round. The lamp for 16R, which is the sum of 1 round, is displayed lit.

The variable display of the first special symbol is triggered by the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 20. The variable display of the second special symbol is triggered by the entry of the game ball into the second starting port 21. In the following explanation, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol. Further, the first special symbol display device 41a and the second special symbol display device 41b may be collectively referred to as the special symbol display section 41. Further, the first special figure holding display 43a and the second special figure holding display 43b may be collectively referred to as the special figure holding display section 43.

In the special symbol display section 41, a special symbol (identification information) is displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined period of time and then stopped, and the ball enters the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21 according to the special symbol (stopped pattern) that is stopped and displayed. The results of drawings (special symbol validity judgment, jackpot drawing, small winning drawing, etc.) based on the above will be announced. The special symbol that is stopped and displayed is one special symbol that is selected from a plurality of types of special symbols based on the special symbol appropriateness determination. If the stopping symbol is a predetermined specific special symbol (specific identification information) (that is, if it is a jackpot symbol or small winning symbol), the release will be made according to the type of the specific special symbol (hit type) that is stopped and displayed. A special game (a jackpot game or a small win game) in which the first big winning hole 30 or the second big winning hole 35 is opened according to a pattern is performed.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the first special symbol display 41a is composed of eight LEDs indicated by "i to p", and a plurality of display modes ( A maximum of 256 types can be displayed. Similarly, the second special symbol display 41b is also composed of eight LEDs indicated by "a to h", and can display multiple display modes (up to 256 modes) by combining lighting and turning off of each LED. It becomes. Then, the first special symbol display 41a displays a special symbol (first special symbol) according to the result of the first special symbol validity determination, and the second special symbol display 41b displays the special symbol according to the result of the second special symbol validity determination. A corresponding special symbol (second special symbol) is displayed. In addition, before the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined variable time, and the mode of the variable display is, for example, a light repeatedly flowing from left to right in a predetermined order. Each LED can be turned on as shown in FIG.

In this embodiment 1, four types of jackpots are provided when the result of the first special symbol validity determination is a jackpot: "Special symbol 1 jackpot A to D" (see FIGS. 6(A) and 6(B)). ), there are two types of small wins in the case of a small hit: "Special drawing 1 small hit A, B" (see Figures 6 (C) and (D)), and these jackpots or The small win is displayed in a distinguishable manner by the display mode of the first special symbol display 41a. For example, if the result of the first special symbol validity judgment is a jackpot, and the type is "Special Figure 1 Jackpot A" or "Special Figure 1 Jackpot C", the three LEDs of "ijn" will be lit. Turn off the remaining lights, and if it is "Special Figure 1 Jackpot B" or "Special Figure 1 Jackpot D", turn on the 4 LEDs of "jnkl" and turn off the remaining lights, and for other Special Figure 1 Jackpots, respectively. The display mode is determined. In addition, if the result of the first special symbol validity judgment is a small hit, and the type is "Special 1 small hit A" or "Special 1 small hit B", 4 "mnop" Turn on one LED and turn off the rest. Further, if the result of the first special symbol validity determination is negative, two LEDs "lo" are turned on and the rest are turned off. In addition, "Special Figure 1 Jackpot A" and "Special Figure 1 Jackpot C" differ only in the operating status of the time saving function and opening extension function after the jackpot game, but the stop symbols and the opening pattern of the jackpot are the same. It is said that In other words, the operating states of the time saving function and opening extension function after the jackpot game are changed depending on whether the gaming state when the "special figure 1 jackpot symbol A" is stopped and displayed is the normal state or the time saving state (Fig. (see 6). In addition, in this embodiment, "Special drawing 1 small hit A" or "Special drawing 1 small winning B" includes the stop symbol, the opening pattern of the big winning hole, the jackpot game mode after passing V, and the after the jackpot game ends. The operating conditions of the time saving function and opening extension function are all considered to be the same.

In addition, when the result of the second special symbol validity judgment is a jackpot, there are four types of jackpots: "special pattern 2 jackpots A to D" (see Figures 6 (A) and (B)), and small There are four types of small wins in the event of a hit: "Special Figure 2 Small Hits A to D" (see Figures 6 (C) and (D)), and these jackpots or small wins are Similar to the first special symbol display 41a described above, the display is distinguishable by the display mode (combination of lighting and extinguishing of each LED) of the second special symbol display 41b. In addition, the display mode of the special symbol display section 41 corresponding to each hit (big hit and small hit) is one display for multiple hit types (including modes in which only the operating state of the time saving function and opening extension function differs). It is possible to have one display mode for one hit, or multiple display modes for one hit, and similarly one or multiple display modes for misses. It is possible. If there are a plurality of display modes, the display mode may be selected by, for example, a random number lottery, and the display of the special symbol display section 41 may be controlled based on the selected display mode.

In the first embodiment, when the display mode of the stopped and displayed special symbol (stopped symbol) is a jackpot (first specific mode) or a small hit (second specific mode), the game The details of the benefits granted to the parties are different. Details regarding this point will be described later.

In this pachinko game machine 1, when a game ball enters the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21, various information such as a random number for determining the validity of a special symbol ("entering ball information" ”), and the acquired various information is temporarily stored in a special figure reservation storage unit (not shown) formed in the RAM of the main control unit. Specifically, if the ball enters the first starting port 20, it is stored in the first special pattern holding storage unit (not shown) as the first special pattern pending, and if the ball enters the second starting port 21, it is stored as the first special pattern pending. It is stored in a second special figure reservation storage unit (not shown) as a second special figure reservation. An upper limit is set for the number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage section, and the upper limit in the first embodiment is "4" for the first special figure reservation storage section and "4" for the second special figure reservation storage section. The pending storage section is set to "1". These first special figure reservation storage section and second special figure reservation storage section are respectively referred to as "first ball entry information storage means (first reservation information storage means)" and "second ball entry information storage means (second reservation information storage means)". It is also referred to as "storage means)," and is also generally referred to as "ball entry information storage means (pending information storage means)." The number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage section (upper limit) can be arbitrarily set in consideration of playability, specifications, etc. at the gaming machine design stage. The upper limit value may be the same in the storage section and the second special symbol reservation storage section, or the upper limit value of the first special symbol reservation storage section may be greater than the upper limit value of the second special symbol reservation storage section, or the upper limit value of the second special symbol reservation storage section may be set higher than the upper limit value of the second special symbol reservation storage section. It is possible to make the upper limit value of the reservation storage section larger than the upper limit value of the first special symbol reservation storage section.

The special symbol reservation stored in the special symbol reservation storage section is consumed when the special symbol can be displayed in a variable manner based on the special symbol reservation. Extinguishing the special symbol reservation means determining the special symbol propriety judgment random number etc. corresponding to the special symbol reservation, and executing a variable display of the special symbol to show the determination result. Therefore, in this pachinko game machine 1, if the special symbol variation display based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21 cannot be performed immediately upon entry, that is, the special symbol variation display Even when a display is being executed or a special game is being executed, it is possible to reserve the right to judge the validity of special symbols for the entered ball, up to a predetermined number.

The number of special figure reservations stored in the special figure reservation storage section is displayed on the first special figure reservation display 43a and the second special figure reservation display 43b. Specifically, the first special figure reservation display 43a is composed of two LEDs "uv", and by controlling the display of the LEDs according to the number of first special figures reserved, the first special figure This displays the number of pending items. For example, when the number of reservations is "0", both LEDs are turned off, such as "u□v□" (for example, □: off, ●: red, ▲: green), and the number of reservations is When is "1", the display format is "u□v●", where the "u" LED is turned off and the "v" LED is lit in red, and when the number of reservations is "2", "u● v The display mode may be such that both LEDs are lit in green, such as "u▲v▲" when the number of reservations is "4" (upper limit number).

In addition, the second special figure holding display 43b is composed of two LEDs "wx", and by controlling the display of the LEDs according to the number of second special figures holding, the second special figure holding display 43b It displays numbers. For example, if the number of reservations is "0", the display format is such that both LEDs are turned off, such as "w□x□" (for example, □: off, ●: lit red), and when the number of reservations is "1", The display mode is such that the "w" LED is turned off and the "x" LED is lit in red, such as "w□x●." Incidentally, since the upper limit of the storage number of the second special figure reservation storage section is "1", the number of second special figure reservations is only "0" or "1". The fluctuating display of the normal symbols is triggered by the passage of the game ball to the gate 28. The normal symbol display device 42 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner for a predetermined period of time, then stops displaying them, and uses the stopped and displayed normal symbols (stopped symbols) to indicate the result of the normal symbol validity determination based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 28. inform. The normal symbol that is stopped and displayed is one normal symbol selected from a plurality of types of normal symbols by the normal symbol validity determination. When the stopped and displayed normal symbol is a predetermined specific normal symbol (winning normal symbol), an auxiliary game is performed in which the second starting port 21 is opened in an opening pattern according to the current game state. Note that the opening pattern of the second starting port 21 will be described later.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the normal symbol display 42 is composed of two LEDs "st", and displays a normal symbol according to the result of the normal symbol validity determination depending on the lighting mode. It is. For example, if the determination result is a win, a normal winning symbol with both LEDs lit is stopped and displayed, such as "s■t■" (for example, ■: lit, □: turned off). If the determination result is a failure, a normal failure symbol such as ``s□t■'' in which only the ``t'' LED is lit is displayed. Note that the out-of-place normal symbol is not a specific normal symbol. Before the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined variable time period, and the manner of the variable display is, for example, in such a manner that both LEDs alternately turn on and off. be.

In this pachinko gaming machine 1, when a game ball passes through the gate 28, various information (also referred to as "entering ball information") such as a random number for determining whether a normal symbol is correct or not is acquired based on the passing of the game ball, and the acquired various The information is temporarily stored as a general pattern reservation in a general pattern reservation storage section (not shown) formed in the RAM of the main control section. An upper limit is set for the number of common symbols that can be stored in the common symbol reservation storage unit, and the upper limit in the first embodiment is four. The regular symbol reservation stored in the regular symbol reservation storage unit is consumed when the variable display of the ordinary symbol based on the ordinary symbol reservation becomes possible. The extinguishing of a normal symbol reservation means to determine the random number for normal symbol propriety determination corresponding to the ordinary symbol reservation, and to execute a fluctuating display of the ordinary symbol to show the determination result. Therefore, in this pachinko gaming machine 1, when the fluctuating display of the normal symbols based on the passing of the game ball to the gate 28 cannot be executed immediately at the time of the passage, that is, when the fluctuating display of the regular symbols is being executed or the auxiliary game is being executed. However, it is possible to reserve the right to judge the validity of normal symbols for the passage of a predetermined number of symbols as an upper limit.

The number of common symbols stored in the common symbol reservation storage section is displayed on the common symbol reservation display 44. Specifically, the Fuzuzu reservation display 44 is composed of two LEDs "qr", and displays the number of Fuzuzu reservations by lighting up the LEDs according to the number of Fuzuzu reservations. be. For example, when the number of reservations is 0, the display format is such that both LEDs are turned off, such as "q□r□" (for example, □: off, ●: lit in red, ▲: lit in green), and the number of pending is 1. In this case, the display mode can be such as "q□r●" in which the "q" LED is turned off and the "r" LED is lit in red. Further, the number of reservations 2 to 4 is also determined in the same manner as the first special figure reservation display 43a.

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be explained based on FIGS. 2 and 5. The pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment has a main control board 80 (also referred to as a "main control section") that performs control regarding game progress and gaming profits, such as special symbol validity determination, normal symbol validity determination, and transition of gaming states. A sub-control board 90 (also referred to as a "sub-control unit" and a "performance control unit") that performs control regarding the effects executed as the game progresses; a sub-control board 90 that controls the payout of game balls; The payout control board 110 (also referred to as the "payout control unit"), the effect pattern 8 displayed on the image display device 7, the pattern displayed on the effect display 102, the effect first special figure holding display 103a, and the effect number 1 It is equipped with an image control board 100 (image control section) etc. that performs display control of the 2 special figure reservation display 103b and the like.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a main control board storage case that stores the main control board 80 is provided approximately at the center of the rear side (back side) of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and above the main control board case. is provided with an image control board storage case that stores an audio control board 106, a lamp control board 107, and an image control board 100, and a sub-control board storage case that stores a sub-control board 90 on the image control board storage case. A case is provided. Further, a payout control board case for storing a payout control board is provided on the lower left side of the main control board case, and a power board case for storing a power supply board 109 is provided on the right side thereof.

A one-chip microcomputer for game control (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer for game control") 81 is mounted on the main control board 80 and controls the progress of the game of the pachinko game machine 1 according to a program. The game control microcomputer 81 includes a ROM that stores programs for controlling the progress of the game, a RAM used as a work memory, and a CPU that executes the programs stored in the ROM. The game control microcomputer 81 transmits and receives data (information) to and from other boards etc. via an input/output circuit 87 (I/O port section). The input/output circuit 87 may be built into the game control microcomputer 81. Further, the ROM may be externally attached. The RAM of the game control microcomputer 81 is provided with the above-mentioned special symbol reservation storage section (first special symbol reservation storage section and second special symbol reservation storage section) and regular symbol reservation storage section.

Various sensors and solenoids are connected to the main control board 80 via a relay board 88. Therefore, signals are input from each sensor to the main control board 80, and signals are output from the main control board 80 to each solenoid. Specifically, the sensors include a first starting hole sensor 20a, a second starting hole sensor 21a, a gate sensor 28a, a first big winning hole sensor 30a, a second big winning hole sensor 35a, a specific area sensor 39a, and a general A ball entrance sensor 27a is connected. These various sensors are also referred to as "detection means".

The first starting port sensor 20a is provided in the first starting port 20 and detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 20. The second starting port sensor 21a is provided within the second starting port 21 and detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 21. The gate sensor 28a is provided inside the gate 28 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 28. The first big winning hole sensor 30a is provided in the first big winning hole 30 and detects a game ball that has entered the first big winning hole 30. The second big winning hole sensor 35a is provided in the second big winning hole 35 and detects a game ball that has entered the second big winning hole 35. The specific area sensor 39a is provided in a specific area 39 within the second big prize opening 35, and detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 39. The general ball entrance sensor 27a is provided in each general ball entrance 27 to detect a game ball that has entered the general ball entrance 27.

Further, as the solenoids, a second starting port solenoid 24, a first big winning port solenoid 33, and a second big winning port solenoid 38 are connected. The second starting port solenoid 24 is for driving the movable member 23 of the variable prize winning device 22. The first big prize opening solenoid 33 is for driving the opening/closing member 32 of the first big winning device 31. The second big prize opening solenoid 38 is for driving the opening/closing member 37 of the second big winning device 36.

Furthermore, the main control board 80 includes a first special symbol display 41a, a second special symbol display 41b, a normal symbol display 42, a first special symbol reservation display 43a, a second special symbol reservation display 43b, and a regular symbol display 42. A hold indicator 44, a round indicator 45, a game status indicator 46, a firing direction indicator 47, and a hit indicator 48 are connected. That is, the display control of these main display devices 40 is performed by the game control microcomputer 81.

The main control board 80 also transmits various commands to the payout control board 110 and receives signals from the payout control board 110 for payout monitoring. The payout control board 110 includes a payout device 120 that pays out prize balls and rental balls, and a card unit 135 (installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1, which stores information on an inserted prepaid card (gaming value storage medium), etc.). A device that allows ball lending based on information about the ball is connected to the terminal, and a firing device 112 is also connected via a firing control board 111 (also referred to as a "launching control section"). Firing device 112 includes firing handle 60 (see FIG. 1).

The payout control board 110 has a payout control one-chip microcomputer 116 (also referred to as a "payout control microcomputer") that controls the payout of game balls of the pachinko game machine 1 according to a program. The payout control microcomputer 116 includes a ROM that stores programs for controlling the payout of game balls, a RAM used as a work memory, and a CPU that executes the programs stored in the ROM. The payout control microcomputer 116 controls the payout motor 121 of the payout device 120 based on the signal from the game control microcomputer 81 and the signal from the card unit 135 connected to the pachinko gaming machine 1 via the input/output circuit 117. It is driven to pay out prize balls or pay out rental balls. The game balls that are paid out are detected by payout sensors 122 and 123 for counting. Note that when the player operates the handle 60 (see FIG. 1) of the firing device 112, the touch switch 114 detects the player's contact with the firing handle 60, and the firing volume 115 changes to the position of the firing handle 60. Detects the amount of rotation. Then, the firing motor 113 is driven and controlled so that the game ball is fired with a strength corresponding to the magnitude of the detection signal of the firing volume 115.

The main control board 80 also sends various commands to the sub-control board 90. The connection between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 is a unidirectional communication connection that allows only the transmission of signals from the main control board 80 to the sub-control board 90. That is, a unidirectional circuit (for example, a circuit using a diode), not shown, is interposed between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 as a communication direction regulating means.

Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the sub-control board 90 is equipped with a performance control one-chip microcomputer 91 (``performance control microcomputer'') that controls the performance of the pachinko game machine 1 according to a program. The performance control microcomputer 91 includes a ROM that stores programs for controlling the performance as the game progresses, a RAM used as a work memory, and a CPU that executes the programs stored in the ROM. . The production control microcomputer 91 sends and receives data to and from other boards etc. via the input/output circuit 95. The input/output circuit 95 may be built in the production control microcomputer 91. Further, the ROM may be externally attached.

An image control board 100, an audio control board 106, and a lamp control board 107 are connected to the sub-control board 90. The production control microcomputer 91 of the sub-control board 90 causes the CPU of the image control one-chip microcomputer 101 ("image control microcomputer") of the image control board 100 to display images based on commands received from the main control board 80. Display control of the device 7, the effect display 102, the effect first special figure hold display 103a, and the effect second hold display 103b is performed. The RAM of the image control board 100 is a memory for expanding image data. The ROM of the image control board 100 stores still image data and video data displayed on the image display device 7, specifically characters, items, figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (including performance patterns, reserved patterns, etc.) Image data such as images and background images are stored. The CPU of the image control board 100 reads image data from the ROM based on instructions from the performance control microcomputer 91. Then, display control is executed based on the read image data.

The performance display device 102 consists of two LEDs, and performs a variable display and a stop display in accordance with the fluctuating display and stop display of the performance pattern 8, and changes the performance pattern by turning on/off the two LEDs or by a combination of colors. 8 is stopped and displayed in a display mode showing the display result (result of special symbol validity judgment). In addition, the first performance special figure hold display 103a and the second performance hold display 103b are similarly composed of two LEDs. Then, depending on the lighting/extinguishing of the two LEDs or the combination of colors, the performance first special figure reservation display 103a will display the number of reservations displayed in the first performance reservation display area 9c and the first special figure reservation display 43a. The display is controlled in a display mode that shows the same number of pending items as the displayed number of pending items. In addition, the performance second special figure reservation display 103b is displayed in a display mode that shows the same number of reservations as the number of reservations displayed in the second performance reservation display area 9d and the number of reservations displayed in the second special figure reservation display 43b. controlled. This can be done by displaying the character pattern on almost the entire display screen 7a (effect pattern display section), or by operating the movable decorative member 14 to cover the effect pattern display area 7b (effect pattern display section) of the display screen 7a. This display device is provided because part or all of the performance symbols, the first performance pending display section, or the second performance pending display section may become invisible. Note that a VDP (Video Display Processor) may be provided in place of or in addition to the image control one-chip microcomputer 101 of the image control board 100.

Furthermore, the performance control microcomputer 91 outputs audio, music, sound effects, etc. from the speaker 67 via the audio control board 106 based on commands received from the main control board 80. Acoustic data such as audio output from the speaker 67 is stored in the ROM of the sub-control board 90. Note that a CPU may be mounted on the voice control board 106, and in that case, the CPU may be caused to execute voice control. Furthermore, in this case, a ROM may be mounted on the audio control board 106, and acoustic data may be stored in the ROM. Alternatively, the speaker 67 may be connected to the image control board 100 and the CPU of the image control board 100 may execute audio control. Furthermore, in this case, the acoustic data may be stored in the ROM of the image control board 100.

In addition, the performance control microcomputer 91 generates light emission pattern data (data that determines lighting/extinguishing, lighting color, etc.) that determines the lighting mode of lamps such as the frame lamp 66 and the panel lamp 5 based on commands received from the main control board 80. The lamp data (also referred to as lamp data) is determined from data stored in the ROM, and lighting control of lamps (LEDs) such as the frame lamp 66 and the panel lamp 5 is performed via the lamp control board 107.

Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 91 drives an electric drive source such as a motor or a solenoid connected to the lamp control board 107 via the relay board 108 based on the command received from the main control board 80 to control the movable decorative members. Operate 14. As described above, the movable decorative member 14 is a movable so-called gimmick provided on the center decorative body 10 (behind the decorative member 13). The effect control microcomputer 91 determines operation pattern data (also referred to as "drive data") for operating the movable decoration member 14 in a predetermined operation mode from data stored in the ROM of the sub-control board 90, The motion of the movable decorative member 14 is controlled based on the determined motion pattern data. Note that a CPU may be mounted on the lamp control board 107, and in that case, the CPU may control the lighting of the lamp and the operation of the movable decorative member 14. Furthermore, in this case, a ROM may be mounted on the lamp control board 107, and data regarding the light emission pattern and the operation pattern may be stored in the ROM.

Further, the sub-control board 90 includes a first performance button detection switch 63c and a second performance button detection switch 63c that detects that the first performance button 63a or the second performance button 63b (see FIG. 1) has been operated (pressed, rotated, pulled, etc.). A production button detection switch 63d is connected. Therefore, when a player performs a predetermined input operation on the first performance button 63a or the second performance button 63b, a signal is outputted to the sub-control board 90 from the corresponding performance button detection switch. Note that the first performance button detection switch 63c and the second performance button detection switch 63d are also collectively referred to simply as "performance button detection switch."

Next, control related to the validity determination in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment will be explained. In the first embodiment, the results of special symbol validity determination include "big hit", "small hit", and "miss". At the time of "jackpot", the "jackpot symbol" (first specific identification information) is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display section 41. In addition, when there is a "small win", the "small win symbol" (second specific identification information) is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display section 41. Moreover, when it is a "miss", the "missing symbol" is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display section 41. When a jackpot or small win is determined, a "special game" is executed in which the first big prize opening 30 or the second big prize opening 35 is opened in an opening pattern according to the type of the special symbol that is stopped and displayed. . A special game that is executed as a jackpot is called a "jackpot game," and a special game that is executed as a small win is called a "small win game."

There are a plurality of types in this first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 6(A) to (D), there are "special pattern 1 jackpot A to D" and "special pattern 1 small hit A, B" as the winning types of the first special symbol (special pattern 1). There are two types of hits for the second special symbol (special symbol 2): "Special symbol 2 jackpot A to D" and "Special symbol 2 small hit A to D." A winning pattern) is provided. The first big winning hole 30 opens when the special drawing 1 jackpot and the special drawing 2 jackpot hit, and the second big winning hole 35 opens when the special drawing 1 small hit and the special drawing 2 small winning hit.

Among the "Special Figure 1 Jackpots A to D", "Special Figure 1 Jackpots A and B" are jackpots that can occur when the gaming state at the time of the jackpot occurrence is "normal state (non-time saving state)" (Figure 6 ( A), "Special Figure 1 Jackpot C, D" are jackpots that can occur when the gaming state at the time of the jackpot occurrence is "time saving state" (see FIG. 6(B)). Here, the jackpot game played by the occurrence of a jackpot is constituted by a plurality of rounds (R) in which the first jackpot 30 is opened. Incidentally, the time saving state means a state in which a variable time saving function (time saving function) for special symbols and normal symbols operates as described later. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the time saving function is activated, an opening extension function that extends and increases the opening time and the number of openings when the second starting port 21 is opened is also activated. The details of the gaming state of the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment will be described later.

"Special Figure 1 Jackpot A, C" has the number of rounds "4", and the number of openings and opening time of the first big prize opening 30 in each round from the 1st round to the 4th round is "1 time" and "25 seconds". This is a jackpot, and the game ball can easily enter the first jackpot 30 in each round. In addition, "Tokuzu 1 jackpot A" is also a jackpot that changes the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game to a time-saving state, that is, a jackpot that activates the variable time reduction function (time-saving function), and "Tokuzu 1 jackpot C" is This is also a jackpot that changes the gaming state after the jackpot game to the normal state (non-time saving state), that is, a jackpot that does not activate the variable time saving function (time saving function). In addition, below, a jackpot that changes the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game to the time-saving state (a jackpot that triggers the activation of the variable time reduction function) is also referred to as a "time-saving jackpot", and the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is referred to as the normal one. A jackpot that results in a state (non-time-saving state) (a jackpot that does not trigger the activation of the variable time-saving function) is also referred to as a "non-time-saving jackpot."

"Special Figure 1 Jackpot B, D" is a jackpot where the number of rounds is "6", the number of times the first jackpot 30 is opened in each round from the 1st round to the 6th round, and the opening time is "1 time" and "25 seconds". It is. Among the "Special Figure 1 Jackpots B and D", "Special Figure 1 Jackpot B" is also a "non-time-saving jackpot" (6R non-time-saving jackpot), and "Special Figure 1 Jackpot D" is also a "time-saving jackpot" (6R time-saving jackpot). jackpot).

"Special drawing 1 small hit A, B" are both small winnings in which the number of openings of the second big prize opening 35 and the opening time are "1 time" and "1.6 seconds", and "Special drawing 1 small winning A" can occur when the gaming state when the small hit occurs is "normal state (non-time saving state)", and "Special figure 1 small hit B" can occur when the gaming state when the small winning occurs is "time saving state". . In addition, in the small winning game (small winning game), the number of openings of the big winning hole is simply called the number of openings, not the number of rounds. In both cases, "Special Figure 1 Small Hit A, B" is achieved when at least one of the game balls that entered the second big prize opening 35 passes through the specific area 39 (hereinafter also referred to as "V passing"). , after passing V, a jackpot similar to the above-mentioned "Special Figure 1 Jackpot C", that is, the number of rounds is "4", the number of openings and opening time of the first big prize opening 30 in each round from 1st round to 4th round. This is a small win that generates a "4R non-time-saving jackpot" in which the game state after the jackpot game is a non-time-saving state is "1 time" and "25 seconds".

Among the “Special Figure 2 Jackpots A to D”, “Special Figure 2 Jackpots A and B” are jackpots that can occur when the gaming state at the time of the jackpot occurrence is “Normal State (Non-Time Saving State)”; 2 jackpots C and D are jackpots that can occur when the gaming state at the time of the jackpot occurrence is the "time saving state". "Special Figure 2 Jackpot A, C" has the number of rounds "4", and the number of openings and opening time of the first big prize opening 30 in each round from the 1st round to the 4th round is "1 time" and "25 seconds". It is a jackpot, and the game ball can easily enter the first jackpot 30 in each round. Among the "Special Figure 2 Jackpots A and C", "Special Figure 2 Jackpot A" is also a "time-saving jackpot" (4R time-saving jackpot), and "Special Figure 2 Jackpot C" is also a "non-time-saving jackpot" (4R non-time-saving jackpot). jackpot). In addition, for "Special Figure 2 Jackpot B, D", the number of rounds is "15", the number of times the first big prize opening 30 is opened in each round from 1st round to 15th round, and the opening time is "1 time" and "25 seconds". This is a jackpot, and the game ball can easily enter the first jackpot 30 in each round. Both “Special Figure 2 Jackpots B and D” are also “time-saving jackpots” (15R time-saving jackpots).

"Special drawing 2 small winnings A to D" are all small winnings in which the number of times the second big prize opening 35 is opened and the opening time is "1 time" and "1.6 seconds". "B" is when the gaming state when the small hit occurs is "normal state (non-time saving state)", "Special figure 2 small winning C, D" is when the gaming state when the small winning occurs is "time saving state", Each can occur. Among the "Special Figure 2 Small Hits A to D", the "Special Figure 1 Small Hit A" is determined by the above-mentioned "Special Figure 1 Small Hit A" when at least one of the game balls that entered the second large prize opening 35 passes through V. This is a small hit that generates a jackpot similar to ``1 Jackpot A'' and ``Special Figure 2 Jackpot A'', that is, a ``4R Time Saving Jackpot''. In addition, "Tokuzu 2 small hit C" is achieved by at least one of the game balls that entered the second big prize opening 35 passing through V, and the above-mentioned "Tokuzu 1 jackpot C" and "Tokuzu 2 jackpot" are generated. This is a small hit that generates a jackpot similar to "C", that is, a "4R non-time-saving jackpot". In addition, "Special drawing 2 small hit B, D" is the same as the above-mentioned "Special drawing 2 jackpot B, D" when at least one of the game balls that entered the second big prize opening 35 passes through V. This is a small hit that generates a jackpot, that is, a "15R time-saving jackpot."

As shown in FIG. 6, in the first embodiment, when the result of the special symbol validity determination is a hit, the distribution probability to each hit is as follows depending on the gaming state at the time of occurrence of the hit. . That is, in the normal state (non-time-saving state), if the result of the judgment of the first special symbol (special symbol 1) is a jackpot, special symbol 1 jackpot A (4R time-saving jackpot) is 50%, special symbol 1 jackpot B ( 6R non-time-saving jackpot) is 50%, and if the result of the judgment of special drawing 1 is a small hit, special drawing 1 small hit A (a small hit that can generate a 4R non-time-saving jackpot) is 100%. ing. In addition, in the normal state (non-time-saving state), if the result of the judgment of the second special symbol (special symbol 2) is a jackpot, the special symbol 2 jackpot A (4R time-saving jackpot) is 50.5%, and the special symbol 2 jackpot is 50.5%. B (15R time-saving jackpot) is 49.5%, and if the result of the judgment of special drawing 2 is a small hit, special drawing 2 small hit A (small winning that can generate a 4R time-saving jackpot) is 50. 2%, and the special figure 2 small hit B (a small hit that can generate a 15R time-saving jackpot) is 49.8%.

On the other hand, in the time-saving state, if the result of the judgment of special figure 1 is a jackpot, the special figure 1 jackpot C (4R non-time-saving jackpot) is 50%, and the special figure 1 jackpot D (6R time-saving jackpot) is 50%. Therefore, when the result of the judgment of special drawing 1 is a small hit, the special drawing 1 small winning B (a small winning that can generate a 4R non-time saving jackpot) is 100%. In addition, in the time-saving state, if the result of the judgment of special figure 2 is a jackpot, the special figure 2 jackpot C (4R non-time-saving jackpot) is 50.5%, and the special figure 2 jackpot D (15R time-saving jackpot) is 49.5%. %, and if the result of the judgment of special figure 2 is a small hit, the special figure 2 small hit C (small hit that can generate a 4R non-time saving jackpot) is 50.2%, and the special figure 2 small hit D (A small hit that can generate a 15R time-saving jackpot) is 49.8%.

Here, the game specifications of the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment will be briefly explained. In the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, the frequency with which game balls enter the second starting port 21 in the normal state (non-time saving state) is lower than in the time saving state. ), the player aims to enter the first starting port 20 by hitting the game ball to the left (launching the game ball to the left side of the game area). In other words, the game progresses while actively determining the validity of the special drawing 1. Then, if the result of the judgment of special drawing 1 becomes a jackpot and the jackpot becomes "Special drawing 1 jackpot A (4R time-saving jackpot)", the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game related to the jackpot becomes a time-saving state. . In the time saving state, the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port 21 is higher than in the normal state (and the frequency of entering the second starting port is higher than the frequency of ball entering the first starting port). Therefore, when playing the game in a time-saving state, the player aims to hit the ball into the second starting port 21 by hitting the ball to the right (launching the game ball into the right side area of the game area). In other words, the game progresses while actively determining the validity of the special figure 2. And, in the special drawing 2 hit, there is a "15R time-saving jackpot" that cannot occur with the special drawing 1 winning, and a "small winning that can generate a 15R time-saving jackpot", and there are also small winnings of the special drawing 1 ( The jackpot (hereinafter also referred to as "V jackpot") that occurs by passing V in the small winning game related to special drawing 1 small winning A, B) only exists "4R non-time saving jackpot", and after passing through the V jackpot of special drawing 1. No time shortening conditions occur. From this, in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, there is a possibility that it will be more advantageous for the player to win in the judgment of the validity of the special drawing 2, which is made when the game ball enters the second starting port 21. It can be said that the situation is high (the possibility of occurrence of a time-shortened state is high). Therefore, when the opening extension function is in operation (time saving state) where the frequency of balls entering the second starting port 21 increases, it is possible to proceed with the game more advantageously than in the normal state (non-time saving state) in which the opening extension function does not operate. Therefore, the player expects to play the game in a time-saving state (playing right-handed).

Further, although details will be described later, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment is provided with a random number for determining the validity of special symbols that takes a value in the range of "0 to 65535" (see FIG. 7(A)). The jackpot judgment value in the correctness judgment of Figure 1 and the correctness judgment of special drawing 2 is "655232 to 65535", the special drawing 1 small hit judgment value in the correctness judgment of special drawing 1 is "1 to 3277", the correctness judgment of special drawing 2 The special figure 2 small hit determination value in is set to "1 to 16080" (see FIG. 8(A)). In other words, the probability of winning the jackpot is "1/215.57", the probability of winning 1 small of the special drawing is "1/19.99", and the probability of winning 2 small of special drawing is "1/4.07". For this reason, in the time-saving state in which you proactively judge the validity of the special drawing 2, the special drawing 2 small hit will occur with a high probability, so it is necessary to repeatedly generate the V jackpot triggered by the special drawing 2 small winning. is the main purpose of the game. Then, when a V jackpot occurs by drawing the special figure 2 small hit C (a small hit that can generate a 4R non-time saving jackpot) in the time saving state, the gaming state after the jackpot game related to the V jackpot ends will be a non-time saving state. Become. Here, in this first embodiment, the upper limit of the number of reservations in the second special symbol reservation storage section is set to "1", and as will be described later, the second special symbol reservation is extinguished (the second special symbol fluctuates and is displayed). Since this is executed with priority over the expiration of the first special symbol reservation (fluctuating display of the first special symbol), the jackpot game ends with the second special symbol reservation existing, and then When the game in the time saving state (variable display of special symbols) is started, it will be started from the end of the second special symbol suspension (variable display of the second special symbols). As mentioned above, in the first embodiment, the probability of winning the special pattern 2 small in the non-time saving state is "1/4.07", and the small winning of the special drawing 2 is "special drawing 2 small winning A". There are two types of "Special Figure 2 Small Win B", both of which are small wins that can generate time-saving jackpots. Therefore, after transitioning (falling) from a time-saving state to a non-time-saving state, the second special drawing reservation is extinguished in priority to the first special drawing reservation, and as a result, the special drawing 2 becomes a small hit. If a V jackpot occurs, the transition to the time saving state will be confirmed again. In this way, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment 1, the second special figure pending is extinguished immediately after the time-saving state shifts (falls) to the non-time-saving state (the jackpot game related to the special figure 2 small hit C is executed). However, players can expect to return to the time-saving state again (time-saving withdrawal), and this can increase their interest in the game immediately after transitioning (falling) from the time-saving state to the non-time-saving state. It becomes.

In this pachinko gaming machine 1, the judgment of whether it is a jackpot, a small hit, or a miss is made based on a "random number for special symbol correctness judgment (also referred to as "correctness judgment information")", and when a jackpot is achieved, a jackpot The type is determined based on the "random number for determining the jackpot type (also referred to as the "random number for determining the jackpot symbol" or "information for determining the jackpot symbol")", and in the case of a small hit, the determination of the small win type is " This is done based on the random number for determining the small hit type (also referred to as the "random number for determining the small winning symbol" or "information for determining the small winning symbol"). As shown in FIG. 7(A), the random number for determining the validity of the special symbol takes a value in the range of "0 to 65535", the random number for determining the jackpot type takes a value in the range of "0 to 199", and the random number for determining the jackpot type takes a value in the range of "0 to 199". The random number for determination takes a value in the range of "0 to 210". In addition, the random number (ball entry information) acquired based on the ball entering the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21 includes a random number for determining the validity of a special symbol, a random number for determining the jackpot type, and a random number for determining the small hit type. In addition to random numbers, there are "reach random numbers (also referred to as "reach information")" and "fluctuation pattern random numbers (also referred to as "fluctuation pattern information")."

The reach random number is a random number that determines whether or not to generate a reach in a game performance (performance symbol game performance) that shows the result using a performance symbol when the result of the special symbol propriety judgment is a failure. Reach, for example, refers to a state in which two production symbols 8R and 8L on the left and right are stopped (temporarily stopped) at the same symbol, and the remaining one medium production symbol 8C is fluctuating (of "7↓7"). situation). If the fluctuating medium performance symbol 8C stops at the same symbol as the stopped performance symbols 8R and 8L, the three performance symbols will stop at the same symbol, resulting in a win. In this case, the stoppage (temporary stop) of the performance symbols also includes a display that appears to be shaking somewhat within the performance symbol display area 7b (fluctuation fluctuation). This reach random number takes a value in the range of "0 to 126".

Further, the fluctuation pattern random number is a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern including a fluctuation time. The fluctuation pattern random number takes a value in the range of "0 to 198". Furthermore, the random numbers obtained based on passage through the gate 28 include the random numbers for normal symbol validity determination shown in FIG. 7(B). The normal symbol validity determination random number is a random number for determining whether or not to perform the auxiliary game that opens the second starting port 21 (normal symbol lottery). Normal symbol random numbers take values in the range of "0 to 240".

Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment will be explained. The pachinko game machine 1 has a plurality of game states depending on the combinations in which the probability variation function, the variation time reduction function, and the opening extension function are activated or deactivated for special symbols and normal symbols. . It should be noted that since the pachinko machine of the first embodiment is a one type and two type mixed type, it does not have a probability variation function for special symbols.

Regarding the special symbols (first special symbol and second special symbol), a state in which the variable time reduction function is activated is referred to as a "time reduction state", and a state in which it is not activated is referred to as a "non-time reduction state". In the time-saving state and the non-time-saving state, the success/failure determination is performed using the hit determination table shown in FIG. 8(A). Specifically, the probability that the special symbol is determined to be a jackpot (jackpot probability) is "1/215.57" for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol. In addition, the probability that the special symbol is judged to be a small hit (small hit probability) is "1/19.99" for the first special symbol and "1/4.07" for the second special symbol. , the small hit probability of the second special symbol is higher than the small win probability of the first special symbol (see FIG. 8(A)).

In addition, in the time saving state, the average value of the variation time of the special symbols (time from the start of the variable display to the time of final display) is shorter than the average value of the variation time of the special symbols in the non-time saving state. That is, in the time-saving state, a variation pattern is determined using a variation pattern table that is determined so that a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected more often than in a non-time-saving state (see FIG. 9). As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace at which the reserved special symbols are consumed becomes faster, and effective ball entry into the starting slot (balls that can be stored as reserved special symbols) is more likely to occur. Therefore, players can aim for a jackpot while the game progresses smoothly.

The probability fluctuation function and fluctuation time shortening function for the normal symbols operate in synchronization with the fluctuation time shortening function for the special symbols. That is, the probability variation function and variation time shortening function of the normal symbol operate in the time saving state of the special symbol, and do not operate in the non-time saving state. Therefore, in the time-saving state, the probability of winning in normal symbol validity determination is higher than in the non-time-saving state. In other words, normal symbol correctness determination (normal symbol determination) is performed using a normal symbol hit determination table in which the value of the normal symbol random number (hit random number) that is determined to be a hit is larger than the normal symbol hit determination table used in the non-time saving state. (See FIG. 8(E)). In other words, when the probability variation function of the normal symbol display 42 is activated, the probability that the result of the variable display of the normal symbol will be a hit (the stopped symbol will become a normal winning symbol) will be higher than when it is not activated. .

Also, in the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter than in the non-time saving state. In the first embodiment, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 30 seconds in the non-time saving state, but is 1 second in the time saving state (see FIG. 8(E)). Furthermore, in the time saving state, the opening time of the second starting port 21 in the auxiliary game is longer than in the non-time saving state. In other words, the opening time extension function of the variable prize winning device 22 is operating. In addition, in the time saving state, the number of times the second starting port 21 is opened in the auxiliary game is greater than in the non-time saving state. That is, the function of increasing the number of openings of the variable winning device 22 is operating. Specifically, when the result of the normal symbol validity determination in the non-time saving state is a hit, the opening/closing member 37 of the variable winning device 22 performs one opening operation for 0.2 seconds, and the second starting port remains open during that period. Become. In addition, in the time saving state, when the result of the normal symbol validity determination is a hit, the opening/closing member 37 of the variable winning device 22 performs an opening operation of 2.0 seconds three times. Note that the opening time extension function and the opening frequency increasing function may be collectively referred to simply as the "opening extension function."

Under the situation where the probability fluctuation function and fluctuation time shortening function for normal symbols, and the opening extension function of the variable winning device 22 are operating, the second starting hole is shorter than when these functions are not operating. 21 is opened frequently, and the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port 21 increases (also referred to as a "high frequency state"). As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of fired balls, increases. Therefore, a state in which these functions are operating is called a "high base state", and a state in which they are not operating is called a "low base state". In a high base state, you can aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls you have.

In the high base state (high frequency state), not all of the above functions may be activated. In other words, by operating at least one of the probability variation function and variation time shortening function for normal symbols, and the opening time extension function and opening number increase function of the variable winning device 22, it is possible to increase the probability from when that function is not activated. It is sufficient that the second starting port is easily opened (the ball enters the ball more frequently). Further, the high base state may be controlled independently without accompanying the time saving state of the special symbol. A function that generates such a high base state can also be referred to as a "high base generation function."

In the pachinko game machine 1 of the first embodiment, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game in the case of "special drawing 1 jackpot A, D" or "special drawing 2 jackpot A, B, D" is a time saving state and a high base. state (see Figure 6). This gaming state is also referred to as a "time saving and high base state". In the time-saving high base state, the variable display of special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), or a jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed, or a small win is won and the small win game is being executed. The game ball passes through the specific area 39 and becomes a V jackpot, and the jackpot game is executed and ends. Furthermore, in the case of "Special Figure 1 Jackpot B, C" or "Special Figure 2 Jackpot C", the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be a non-time saving state and a low base state (see FIG. 6). This gaming state is also referred to as a "non-time saving low base state". When playing the pachinko game machine 1 for the first time, the gaming state (initial state) after the power is turned on is a non-time saving low base state (normal state).

Furthermore, if the game ball passes through the specific area 39 during the small hit game and becomes a V jackpot due to "special figure 2 small hit A, B, D", the game state after the jackpot game ends is based on the time saving high. (See Figure 6), and the game becomes "Special Figure 1 Small Hit A, B" or "Special Figure 2 Small Hit C", and during that small winning game, the game ball passes through the specific area 39 and becomes a V jackpot. In this case, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be a non-time saving low base state (see FIG. 6). In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 39 during the small winning game (if it does not become a V jackpot), the gaming state after the small winning game ends will, in principle, be the same as before the small winning game started. . However, in the final round (100th time in this example) when the time saving high base state ends in the time saving high base state, the small winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the special symbol fluctuation display, and the small winning game related to this. If the game ball does not pass through the specific area 39 during the game (if the V jackpot does not occur), the gaming state after the small winning game is a non-time saving low base state.

In the high base state, it is more advantageous to advance the game if the game ball enters the right game area (right side area) 3B by hitting the ball to the right. The second starting port is arranged at a position where a game ball fired into the right game area can enter, but a game ball fired into the left game area cannot enter. Incidentally, the gate 28 is also arranged at a position where a game ball launched into the right game area can enter. In the high base state, the second starting port 21 is more likely to be opened than in the low base state, and the game ball is more likely to be opened in the right gaming area than in the left gaming area and aiming at the first starting opening 20. If the game ball is fired and aimed at the second starting port 21, there is a higher possibility that the ball will enter the starting port. Therefore, while passing the game ball to the gate 28 which is a trigger for determining whether the symbol is correct or not, the player performs a right hit to cause the game ball to enter the second starting port 21. As a result, in a high base state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball right-handed than to hit the left-handed ball, since it is possible to obtain a larger number of starting pitches (opportunities to determine whether the special symbol is correct or not). In this state (high base state), the firing direction indicator 47 (also referred to as "first firing notification means") whose display is controlled by the main control unit 80 is controlled to light up in a predetermined manner, and the firing direction indicator 47 (also referred to as "first firing notification means") is controlled to be lit in a predetermined manner, and the firing direction indicator 47 (also referred to as "first firing notification means") is controlled in a predetermined manner. It is supposed to inform what should be done. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the jackpot game and the small win game, the game is played by hitting to the right, so the firing direction indicator 47 is designed to notify that the ball should be fired to the right gaming area.

On the other hand, in the low base state, the game can proceed more advantageously if the game ball enters the left game area (left side area) 3A by hitting the ball to the left. The first starting port is arranged at a position where a game ball launched into the left game area can enter. Further, the first starting port may be arranged so that the game ball launched into the right game area cannot enter the ball, or may be arranged so that the ball can enter the first starting port. When arranging the ball so that it can enter, firing the game ball into the left playing area has a higher possibility of the game ball entering the first starting port than shooting the game ball into the right playing area. shall be taken as a thing. In addition, in the low base state, the second starting port 21 is more difficult to open than in the high base state, so rather than firing into the right gaming area and aiming for the ball to enter the second starting port 21, it is better to The probability of the ball entering the starting port is higher when the ball is fired into the area and aimed at entering the first starting port 20. As a result, in a low base state, hitting the game ball to the left to make it enter the first starting port 20 provides a greater number of starting balls (opportunities to judge the validity of special symbols) than hitting to the right. This is advantageous for players. In this state (low base state), the firing direction indicator 47 whose display is controlled by the main control unit 80 is lit (displayed) controlled in a predetermined manner different from that in the high base state, and fires toward the left gaming area. It is supposed to notify what should be done.

Specifically, the firing direction indicator 47 is composed of two LEDs "yz", and indicates the firing direction by lighting the LEDs according to the game state. For example, in the low base state, it is possible to notify that the light should be emitted to the left gaming area by displaying "y□z□" (for example, □: off, ■: on), which turns off both LEDs. can. Also, in the high base state and during the execution of winning games, the display mode that lights up both LEDs should be emitted to the right game area as "y z ■" (for example, □: off, ■: on). This can be reported.

[Main control main processing]
Next, the operation of the game control microcomputer 81 (control processing by the main control section) will be explained based on FIGS. 10 to 38. Note that the counters, flags, status, buffers, etc. that appear in the explanation of the operation of the game control microcomputer 81 are provided in the RAM of the main control board 80. When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the game control microcomputer 81 provided in the main control board 80 reads out the main control main processing program shown in FIG. 10 from the ROM of the main control board 80 and executes it. .

As shown in the figure, in the main control main processing, initial settings are first performed (S101). Initial settings include, for example, stack settings, constant settings, interrupt time settings, CPU settings of the main control board 80, SIO, PIO, and CTC (interrupt time controller) settings, and reset of various flags, status, and counters. etc. The initial value of the flag is "0", that is, "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initial setting (S101) is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter. In this Example 1 and the drawings, the ordinary design is referred to as "ordinary design", the special design as "special design", the first special design as "special design 1", "first special design", and the second special design as "special design". It is sometimes referred to as "Figure 2" or "Second special map."

Following the initial setting (S101), interrupts are prohibited (S102), and normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing (S103) is executed. In this normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S103), the values of the various random number counters shown in FIG. 7 are updated by adding one. When the value of each random number counter reaches the upper limit value, it returns to "0" and is added again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0" or may be changed randomly. The updated random number counter value is sequentially stored in a predetermined update value storage area (not shown) of the RAM of the main control board 80.

When the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S103) is completed, an interrupt is permitted (S104). While interrupts are enabled, interrupt processing (S105) can be executed. This interrupt processing (S105) is executed based on an interrupt pulse that is repeatedly input to the CPU of the main control board 80, for example, at a period of 4 ms. Then, after the interrupt processing (S105) ends and until the next interrupt processing (S105) starts, the updating processing of various counter values by the normal symbol / special symbol main random number updating processing (S103) is repeated. executed. Note that if an interrupt pulse is input to the CPU while the interrupt is disabled, the interrupt processing (S105) is not started immediately, but is started after the interrupt is enabled (S104).

[Interrupt processing]
Next, interrupt processing (S105) will be explained. As shown in FIG. 11, in the interrupt processing (S105), output processing (S201) is first executed. In the output process (S201), commands (control signals) set in the output buffer provided in the RAM of the main control board 80 in each process described below are output to the sub control board 90, payout control board 110, etc. do. The commands and the like outputted here include information regarding the gaming state, the result of special symbol validity determination, symbols as winning types (big winning symbols, small winning symbols), fluctuation patterns, etc. Note that the command consists of, for example, 2 bytes of information. The upper 1 byte is information regarding the type of command, and the lower 1 byte is information regarding the contents of the command.

In the input process (S202) that is performed next to the output process (S201), various sensors attached to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (first starting opening sensor 20a, second starting opening sensor 21a, first big winning opening sensor 30a, the second big winning hole sensor 35a, the general ball entering hole sensor 27a, etc. (see FIG. 5)) are read and stored in the output buffer of the RAM as prize ball information. It also captures a detection signal from the lower tray full switch that detects whether the lower tray 62 is full and stores it in the output buffer of the RAM 84 as lower tray full data.

The normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S203) performed next is the same as the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (S103) performed in the main control main process of FIG. That is, the updating process of the various random number counter values (including the normal symbol random number counter value) shown in FIG. This is done both during the period until the next interrupt processing (S105) is started).

Following the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update processing (S203), the starting port sensor detection processing (S204), which will be described later, normal symbol operation processing (S205), special symbol operation processing (S206), pending ball number processing (S207), Power-off monitoring processing (S208) and information output processing (S209) are executed. Thereafter, other processing (S209) is executed, and the interrupt processing (S105) is ended. Then, the processes of S102 to S104 of the main control main process are repeatedly executed until the next interrupt pulse is input to the CPU of the main control board 80 (see FIG. 10), and when the interrupt pulse is input (after about 4 msec) ), the interrupt processing (S105) is executed again. In the output process (S201) of the interrupt process (S105) executed again, the commands etc. set in the output buffer of the RAM in the previous interrupt process (S105) are output. Here, although the details will be described later, in the information output process, various signals (game information) generated by the game control microcomputer 81 of the main control board 80 are output to the outside of the game machine via the information output circuit 82. This is a process for By connecting an external device (wiring of a hall computer, etc.) to a terminal (terminal) provided on the external output device 83 (also referred to as a "terminal board"), the external device can output output from the game control microcomputer 81. It becomes possible to receive various game information (FIGS. 5 and 41).

[Starting port sensor detection processing]
As shown in FIG. 12, in the starting port sensor detection process (S204), first, it is determined whether the game ball has passed through the gate 28, that is, whether the game ball has been detected by the gate sensor 28a (S301). . If the game ball has passed through the gate 28 (YES in S301), the number of normal symbol reserved balls (the number of regular symbols reserved, specifically the value of the counter that counts the number of regular symbols reserved) is It is determined whether the number is 4 or more (S302), and if the game ball has not passed through the gate 28 (NO in S301), the process proceeds to S305.

If the number of normal symbols pending is 4 or more (YES in S302), proceed to S305. On the other hand, if the number of normal symbols reserved balls is not 4 or more (NO in S302), "1" is added to the number of normal symbols reserved balls (S303), and the normal symbol random number acquisition process (S304) is performed. In the normal symbol random number acquisition process (S304), the value of the random number counter for normal symbol validity determination (label -TRND-H, FIG. 7(B)) stored in the update value storage area (not shown) of the RAM is acquired. Then, the obtained random number value (entering ball information) is stored in an address space corresponding to the current number of normal symbol reserved balls in the regular symbol reserved storage section provided in the RAM of the main control board 80.

In S305, it is determined whether a game ball has entered the second starting port 21, that is, whether a game ball has been detected by the second starting port sensor 21a (S305). If no game ball enters the second starting port 21 (NO in S305), the process proceeds to S309, but if a game ball enters the second starting port 21 (YES in S305), the special The number of 2 reserved balls (the number of 2nd special symbols reserved, specifically the value of the counter that counts the number of 2nd special symbols reserved in the RAM of the main control unit 80) reaches 1 (upper limit number) It is determined whether or not there is one (S306). If the number of special map 2 reserved balls has reached 1 (YES in S306), proceed to S309, but if the number of special map 2 reserved balls is less than 1, that is, there is no special map 2 reserved, (NO in S306), add 1 to the number of reserved balls for special map 2 (S307).

Subsequently, special figure 2 related random number acquisition processing (S308) is performed. In the special figure 2 related random number acquisition process (S308), the value of the random number counter for determining the validity of special symbols (label -TRND-A) stored in the update value storage area of the RAM (not shown), the random number for determining the jackpot type Counter value (label-TRND-AS), value of random number counter for small hit type determination (label-TRND-KS), value of reach random number counter (label-TRND-RC), and value of fluctuation pattern random number counter (label- TRND-T1) (that is, acquire the random number values shown in FIG. 7(A)), and store those acquired random numbers (entering ball information) in the current special figure 2 reserved ball in the second special figure reserved memory unit. Store in the address space according to the number.

Subsequently, in the starting port sensor detection process (S204), it is determined whether a game ball has entered the first starting port 20, that is, whether a game ball has been detected by the first starting port sensor 20a (S309). ). If no game ball enters the first starting port 20 (NO in S309), the process ends, but if a game ball enters the first starting port 20 (YES in S309), the special When the number of 1 reserved balls (the number of 1st special symbols reserved, specifically the value of the counter that counts the number of 1st special symbols reserved in the RAM of the main control unit 80) reaches 4 (the upper limit number) It is determined whether or not there is one (S310). Then, if the number of special figure 1 reserved balls has reached 4 (YES in S310), the process ends, but if the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is less than 4 (NO in S310), Add "1" to the number of reserved balls for special map 1 (S311).

Subsequently, special figure 1 related random number acquisition processing (S312) is performed. In the special figure 1 related random number acquisition process (S312), similarly to the special figure 2 related random number acquisition process (S308), the value of the special symbol validity determination counter stored in the update value storage area (not shown) of the RAM (Label-TRND-A), value of random number counter for determining jackpot type (label-TRND-AS), value of random number counter for determining small hit type (label-TRND-KS), value of reach random number counter (label-TRND -RC) and the value of the fluctuation pattern random number counter (label -TRND-T1) (that is, obtain the random number shown in FIG. 7(A)), and store these obtained random numbers in the first special figure reservation storage unit. It is stored in the address space according to the current number of reserved balls for special figure 1.

[General figure movement processing]
The game control microcomputer 81 performs the normal figure operation process (S205) shown in FIG. 13 following the starting opening sensor detection process (S204). In the normal pattern movement processing (S205), the processing regarding the normal pattern display 42 and the variable winning device 22 is divided into four stages, and "normal pattern movement status 1, 2, 3, 4" is assigned to each of these stages. . Then, if the "common pattern movement status" is "1" (YES in S401), the normal pattern standby process (S402) is performed, and if the "common pattern movement status" is "2" (S401 NO in S403, YES in S403), perform the normal symbol fluctuation processing (S404), and if the "Normal pattern movement status" is "3" (NO in both S401 and S403, YES in S405), the normal symbol is confirmed. Processing (S406) is performed, and if the "normal figure action status" is "4" (all of S401, S403, and S405 are NO), normal electric accessory processing (S407) is performed. In addition, the general drawing operation status is "1" in the initial setting.

[Normal symbol standby processing]
As shown in FIG. 14, in the normal symbol standby process (S402), it is first determined whether the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is "0" (S501), and if it is "0" (YES in S501). Finish this process. On the other hand, if it is not "0" (NO in S501), a normal symbol validity determination process to be described later is performed (S502). Further, following the normal symbol validity determination process (S502), a normal symbol variation pattern selection process is performed (S503). In the normal symbol fluctuation pattern selection process, with reference to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern selection table shown in FIG. 8(E), if the gaming state is the time saving state, a normal symbol fluctuation pattern with a normal symbol fluctuation time of 1 second is selected. do. On the other hand, if the gaming state is a non-time saving state, a normal symbol fluctuation pattern in which the normal symbol fluctuation time is 30 seconds is selected. Further, following the normal symbol variation pattern selection process, a normal symbol random number shift process (S504), which will be described later, is performed. Further, following the normal symbol random number shift process (S504), a normal symbol variation start process is performed (S505), and the process ends. In the normal symbol variation start process, the variable display of the normal symbol is started in the normal symbol variation pattern selected in S503, and the normal operation status is set to "2". In the normal symbol variation start process, a normal symbol variation start command is set in order to notify the sub-control board 90 of the start of variation of the normal symbols.

[Normal symbol validity determination process]
As shown in FIG. 15, in the normal symbol validity determination process (S502), first, the value (label -TRND-H) of the random number counter for normal symbol validity determination stored in the regular symbol reservation storage unit is read (S601). Next, it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON (that is, whether the gaming state is in the time saving state) (S602). In S602, if it is determined that the time-saving flag is ON, that is, the time-saving state is determined (YES in S602), the table for the time-saving state among the normal symbol hit determination tables shown in FIG. 8(D) (the hit determination value is "0" to "239"), it is determined whether or not it is a hit (S604), and the process moves to S605. That is, it is determined whether the read value of the random number counter for normal symbol validity determination (label -TRND-H) matches any of the hit determination values. On the other hand, if it is determined in S602 that the time-saving flag is not ON, that is, it is a non-time-saving state (NO in S602), the table for the non-time-saving state of the normal symbol hit determination table shown in FIG. It is determined whether it is a hit or not by a low probability normal pattern correctness judgment based on the judgment value "0", "1") (S603), and the process moves to S605.
Then, in S605, it is determined whether the result of the normal pattern correctness determination (S603, S604) is a hit (normal pattern hit) or not (S605). The symbol (original symbol) is determined (S606), and the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined to be a hit (ordinary figure hit) in S605 (YES in S605), the winning normal symbol (ordinary figure per symbol) to be stopped and displayed is determined (S607), and the ordinary figure hit flag is turned ON (S608). , finishes processing.

[Normal pattern random number shift processing]
Next to the normal symbol variation pattern selection process (S503), the normal symbol random number shift process (S504) is executed. As shown in FIG. 16, in the normal symbol random number shift process (S504), first, the number of normal symbols reserved balls is decremented by 1 (S701). Next, the storage location of each common symbol reservation in the common symbol reservation storage unit is shifted by one position from the current position to the side from which it is read (S702). Then, the address space, which is the storage location of the highest level of pending memory in the general pattern holding storage section, is made empty ("0"), that is, the RAM area corresponding to the fourth pending general pattern is cleared to 0 (S703 ), the process ends. In this way, the reservations for common maps are cleared in the order of reservation.

[Normal symbol fluctuation processing]
As shown in FIG. 17, in the normal symbol variation process (S404), first, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (S801), and if it has not elapsed (NO in S801), the process ends. On the other hand, if it has elapsed (YES in S801), the normal symbol fluctuation stop command is set (S802), and the normal symbol movement status is set to "3" (S803). Then, after performing other processing such as stopping the fluctuating display of the normal symbol at the display result (normal symbol winning or normal symbol missing) according to the judgment result of the random number for determining the validity of the normal symbol (S804), this processing finish.

[Normal pattern confirmation process]
As shown in FIG. 18, in the normal symbol determination process (S406), first, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hit flag is ON (S901). If the ordinary figure flag is not ON (NO in S901), the ordinary figure operation status is set to "1" (S905), and this process ends. On the other hand, if the normal map per flag is ON (YES in S901), then it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON, that is, whether or not the time saving state is in progress (S902). If it is in the time saving state (YES in S902), the opening pattern in the time saving state is set as the opening pattern of the variable prize winning device 22 (second starting port 21) (S903). The opening pattern during the time saving state is, as described above, an opening pattern in which opening for 2.0 seconds is repeated three times. Therefore, the second starting port opening counter that counts the number of times the second starting port 21 is opened is set to "3".

On the other hand, if it is in the non-time saving state (NO in S902), the opening pattern in the non-time saving state is set as the opening pattern of the variable prize winning device 22 (second starting port 21) (S906). The opening pattern during the non-time saving state is, as described above, an opening pattern in which opening is performed once for 0.2 seconds. Therefore, the second starting port opening counter is set to "1". Then, following the setting of the opening pattern (S903, S906), the normal figure action status is set to "4" (S904), and this process is finished.

[Normal electric accessory processing]
As shown in FIG. 19, in the normal electric accessory processing (S407), first, it is determined whether or not the normal figure per end flag is ON (S1001). The common symbol winning end flag is a flag indicating that the opening of the second starting port 21 has ended in the auxiliary game executed as a winning result.

If the normal pattern hit end flag is not ON (NO in S1001), it is determined whether or not the second starting port 21 is being opened (S1002). If it is not open (NO in S1002), it is determined whether the timing for opening the second starting port 21 has come (S1003), and if it has not been opened (NO in S1003), the process is finished and the process is completed. If so, the second starting port 21 is opened (S1004), and the process ends. On the other hand, if the second starting port 21 is being opened (YES in S1002), whether or not the timing for closing the second starting port 21 has come (that is, after opening the second starting port 21, a predetermined timing is determined). It is determined (S1005) whether or not the set opening time has elapsed, and if it has not (NO in S1005), the process is finished, and if it has (YES in S1005), the second starting port 21 is closed (closed). (S1006).

Then, following the closing process of the second starting port 21 (S1006), the value of the second starting port opening counter is decremented by 1 (S1007), and it is determined whether the value of the second starting port opening counter is "0" or not. Determine (S1008). If it is not "0" (NO in S1008), the process is finished in order to open the second starting port 21 again. On the other hand, if it is "0" (YES in S1008), a normal pattern per end process is performed to end the auxiliary game (S1009), a normal pattern per end flag is set (S1010), and the process ends. The second starting port opening counter becomes "0" when the second starting port 21 is opened (opening operation of the movable member 23) three times during the time saving state, and becomes "0" when the second starting port 21 is opened (opening operation of the movable member 23) three times. When the second starting port 21 is opened once, it becomes "0".

On the other hand, if the end flag per normal pattern is ON in S1001 (YES in S1001), the opening operation of the second starting port 21 has been completed the number of times set in S903 or S906, so the normal pattern per At the same time as turning off the end flag (S1011), turning off the ordinary figure per flag (S1012), and setting the ordinary figure operation status to "1" (S1013), the process ends. As a result, in the next interrupt process, the normal symbol standby process (S402) will be executed again as the normal symbol operation process (FIG. 13).

[Special figure movement processing]
As shown in FIG. 11, the game control microcomputer 81 performs the special figure operation process (S206) following the regular figure operation process (S205). In the special figure operation process (S206), as shown in FIG. "Special figure operation status 1, 2, 3, 4, 5" is assigned to each stage. Then, if the "special pattern movement status" is "1" (YES in S1101), special pattern standby processing (S1102) is performed, and if the "special pattern movement status" is "2" (S1101 (NO in S1103, YES in S1103), special symbol fluctuation processing (S1104) is performed, and if the "special symbol movement status" is "3" (NO in both S1101 and S1103, YES in S1105), the special symbol is confirmed. Processing (S1106) is performed, and if the "special figure operation status" is "4" (NO in S1101, S1103, S1105, YES in S1107), special electric accessory processing 1 as a jackpot game (S1108) When the "special figure operation status" is "5" (all of S1101, S1103, S1105, and S1107 are NO), special electric accessory processing 2 (S1109) as a small winning game is performed. In addition, the special figure operation status is "1" in the initial setting.

[Special symbol standby processing]
As shown in FIG. 21, in the special symbol standby process (S1102), first, it is determined whether the number of reserved balls in the second starting port 21 (i.e., the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2) is "0" (S1201) . When the number of reserved balls in special figure 2 is "0" (YES in S1201), that is, when there is no memory of the random number counter value obtained based on the ball entering the second starting port 21, the first starting It is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls in the mouth 20 (namely, the number of reserved balls on special map 1) is "0" (S1206). Then, if the number of reserved balls for special figure 1 is also "0" (YES in S1206), that is, if there is no memory of the random number counter value obtained based on the ball entering the first starting port 20, the image It is determined whether or not the display screen 7a of the display device 7 is being processed as a standby screen (demonstration screen for waiting for customers is being executed) (S1211), and if so (YES in S1211), the process is finished, Otherwise (NO in S1211), a standby screen setting process is executed to display a standby screen (S1212).

If the number of reserved balls for special map 2 is not "0" in S1201 (NO in S1201), that is, if there is one or more memory of the random number counter value obtained based on the ball entering the second starting port 21, , special figure 2 validity determination process (S1202), special figure 2 variation pattern selection process (S1203), special figure 2 random number shift process (S1204), and special figure 2 variation start process (S1205), which will be described later, are performed in this order. In addition, if the number of reserved balls for special drawing 2 is "0" but the number of reserved balls for special drawing 1 is not "0" (YES in S1201, NO in S1206), that is, the random number counter value related to the second starting port 21 is There is no memory, but if there is memory of one or more random number counter values acquired based on the ball entering the first starting port 20, the special figure 1 validity judgment process (S1207) described later, the special figure 1 fluctuation Pattern selection process (S1208), special figure 1 random number shift process (S1209), and special figure 1 fluctuation start process (S1210) are performed in this order. As described above, in the first embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol based on the first special symbol reservation is performed only when the second special symbol reservation is "0" (YES in S1201). That is, the extinguishment of the second special symbol reservation (fluctuating display of the second special symbol) is executed with priority over the extinguishment of the first special symbol retention (fluctuating display of the first special symbol). In the first embodiment, the judgment based on the second special figure reservation is more likely to result in a jackpot that is profitable for the player than the judgment based on the first special figure reservation (Fig. 8(B) )).

[Special figure 2 validity judgment process]
As shown in FIG. 22, in the special figure 2 validity judgment process (S1202), first, as a judgment value, the lowest area of the second special figure reservation storage section of the RAM (that is, corresponding to the first piece of the second special figure reservation) The value (label -TRND-A) of the special symbol validity judgment random number counter (oldest memory) stored in the RAM area (RAM area) is read out (S1302). Next, a determination is made based on the hit determination table shown in FIG. 8(A) (S1303). In this hit determination table, the jackpot determination value in the validity determination of special figure 1 and the validity determination of special figure 2 is "655232 to 65535" (jackpot probability:. Also, the special figure 1 in the validity determination of special figure 1 The small hit determination value is "1 to 3277", and the special figure 2 small hit determination value in determining whether the special figure 2 is correct or not is "1 to 16080".

If the result of the success/failure determination (S1303) is determined to be a "jackpot" (YES in S1304), the value of the random number counter for determining the jackpot type (label -TRND-AS) is read out, and the jackpot type determination shown in FIG. 8(B) is performed. The jackpot type is determined based on the table (S1310), the jackpot symbol is determined based on the value of the random number for determining the jackpot type (S1311), the jackpot flag is turned ON (S1312), and the process ends. In addition, in the case of judgment regarding the first special symbol, the jackpot type is judged using the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol, and in the case of the judgment regarding the second special symbol, the jackpot type is determined using the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol. The jackpot type is determined using the jackpot type determination table. Further, the jackpot type is determined based on the gaming state (current gaming state) at the time of making the determination. That is, it is determined whether the time-saving flag is ON or not, and if the time-saving flag is not ON, the jackpot type is determined using the jackpot type determination table for non-time-saving states, and if the time-saving flag is ON, the jackpot type is determined for the time-saving state. The jackpot type is determined using the jackpot type determination table. If the result of the judgment (S1303) of the second special symbol (special symbol 2) is determined to be a jackpot, and the current gaming state is a non-time saving state, the jackpot type is either special symbol 2 jackpot A or B (4R jackpot or 15R jackpot) (see Figures 6(A) and 8(B)), and if the current gaming state is the time saving state, the jackpot type is either special chart 2 jackpot C or D (4R jackpot or 15R jackpot) (see FIG. 6(B) and FIG. 8(B)). In the first embodiment, the jackpot flags are set as jackpots, such as "Special chart 2 jackpot flag A corresponding to special chart 2 jackpot A, special chart 2 jackpot flag B corresponding to special chart 2 jackpot B..." Since it is provided corresponding to each type, in S1312, the jackpot flag corresponding to the jackpot type determined in S1310 (determination result in S1310) is turned ON.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the result of the win/fail determination (S1303) is not a "big hit" (NO in S1304), it is determined whether or not it is a small hit (S1305). Here, in the case of judgment regarding the first special symbol, the value of the special symbol propriety judgment random number counter (label -TRND-A) is between "1" and "3227" which is the small hit judgment value of special symbol 1. It is determined whether it matches any of them, and in the case of the judgment regarding the second special symbol, the value of the random number counter for special symbol judgment (label-TRND-A) is the small hit judgment value of the special symbol 2. It is determined whether it matches any one of "1" to "16080" (see FIG. 8(A)). If it is determined that it is not a "small hit" (NO in S1305), a missed symbol is determined (S1309) and the process ends. In other words, if the result of the judgment (S1303) is neither a "big hit" nor a "small hit" (NO in S1304, NO in S1305), the result is a "miss".

On the other hand, if the result of the small hit determination (S1305) is determined to be a "small hit" (YES in S1305), the value of the random number counter for determining the small win type (label-TRND-KS) is read out, and the value shown in FIG. The small winning type is determined based on the small winning type determination table shown in C) (S1306), the small winning symbol is determined based on the value of the random number for determining the small winning type (S1307), and the small winning flag is turned ON. (S1308), and the process ends. In addition, in the case of judgment regarding the first special symbol, the small hit type is determined using the small hit type determination table for the first special symbol, and in the case of the judgment regarding the second special symbol, the small hit type is determined using the small hit type determination table for the first special symbol. The small hit type is determined using the small hit type determination table for symbols. Further, the determination of the small hit type is performed based on the gaming state (current gaming state) at the time of making the determination. That is, it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON or not, and if the time saving flag is not ON, the small hit type is determined using the small winning type determination table for non-time saving states, and if the time saving flag is ON, the time saving flag is ON. The small hit type is determined using the small hit type determination table for the state. When it is determined that the second special symbol (special symbol 2) is a small hit, if the current gaming state is a non-time saving state, the special symbol 2 will be either small win A or B (Figure 6(C) , see FIG. 8(C)), and if the time is short, the special figure 2 small win will be either C or D (see FIG. 6(D), FIG. 8(C)). In the first embodiment, such as "Special figure 2 small hit flag A corresponding to special figure 2 small win A, special figure 2 small hit flag B corresponding to special figure 2 small win B...", etc. Since a small hit flag is provided corresponding to each small hit type, in S1308, the small hit flag corresponding to the small hit type determined in S1306 (determination result of S1306) is turned ON.

[Special figure 2 variation pattern selection process]
In the special symbol standby process (FIG. 21), after the special symbol 2 validity determination process (S1202), the special symbol 2 variation pattern selection process is performed (S1203). As shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, in the special figure 2 variation pattern selection process (S1203), first, it is determined whether the gaming state is a time saving state (whether the time saving flag is ON or not) (S1401). Then, if it is not in a time-saving state (NO in S1401), that is, in a non-time-saving state, it is determined whether the jackpot flag is ON or not (S1402), and if it is ON (YES in S1402), it is a jackpot in a non-time-saving state. A fluctuation pattern is selected based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value (label-TRND-T1) with reference to the fluctuation pattern table (part of the fluctuation pattern table shown in FIG. 9 that corresponds to the non-time saving state and jackpot) . In this process, one of the variation patterns P1, P2, and P3 is selected.

On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is not ON (NO in S1402), it is determined whether the small hit flag is ON (S1405). Then, if the small hit flag is ON (YES in S1405), the table for small and medium winnings in the non-time-saving state (the part corresponding to the non-time-saving state and small winnings in the fluctuation pattern table shown in FIG. 9) is referred to, and the fluctuation A variation pattern is selected based on the pattern random number counter value (S1409). Specifically, in the first embodiment, the variation pattern P4 is always selected.

Further, if the small hit flag is not ON (NO in S1405), it is determined whether the reach random number counter value (label -TRND-RC) is a reach establishment random number (S1406). As shown in FIG. 8(D), the reach establishment random number is "0" to "5" in the time-saving state, and is "0" to "13" in the non-time-saving state. In other words, in the time-saving state, it is harder to reach when the ball misses than in the non-time-saving state. This is to speed up the processing speed of special map reservations by allowing more non-reach effects with short fluctuation times to be selected in the time-saving state.

If the reach random number counter value (label -TRND-RC) is the random value of the reach establishment (YES in S1406), that is, if the reach is successful or not, the reach random number counter value (label -TRND-RC) is the reach establishment random value (YES in S1406), that is, if the reach is successful or not, the reach random number counter value (label - TRND-RC) is A variation pattern is selected based on the variation pattern random number counter value by referring to the portion of the pattern table that corresponds to the non-time-saving state and the reach/out-of-reach state (S1407). In the first embodiment, variation pattern P5 or P6 is selected.

If the reach random number counter value (label -TRND-RC) is not a random value that establishes a reach (NO in S1406), that is, if the reach is not missed, the reach random number counter value (label -TRND-RC) is not reached, in other words, if the reach is not missed, the table for reach not missed during the non-time saving state (the fluctuation pattern shown in Figure 9) A variation pattern is selected based on the variation pattern random number counter value (S1408) by referring to the part of the table that corresponds to a non-time-saving state and a reach-free state. When the ball is out of reach, a shortening variation function is activated according to the number of balls held. That is, when the number of reserved balls of the special symbol is "3" or "4", a fluctuation pattern with a shorter fluctuation time is selected compared to when the number of reserved balls of the special symbol is "0" to "2". It is supposed to be done. In the first embodiment, variation pattern P7 or P8 is selected.

In addition, in S1401, if it is determined that the gaming state is in the time-saving state (YES in S1401), the fluctuation pattern table to be referred to is changed to the table for the time-saving state (the fluctuation pattern table shown in FIG. Processing (S1410 to S1416) is performed in the same flow as steps S1402 to S1609 above, except for changing the part corresponding to the time saving state. In other words, if it is a jackpot, refer to the part in the time saving state in Figure 9 and corresponding to the jackpot, if it is a small hit, refer to the part in the time saving state in Fig. 9 and corresponding to the small hit, and if it is reach or miss. Based on the fluctuation pattern random number counter value by referring to the part in the time saving state in FIG. 9 that corresponds to reach/out of reach, and if the reach is not out of reach while in the time saving state in FIG. to select the fluctuation pattern.

In addition, in the variation pattern table during the time saving state (the part of the variation pattern table shown in FIG. 9 that corresponds to the time saving state), the shortening variation function according to the number of balls held when the reach is not missed is set to the number of balls held "2". ～It works when it is "4". In other words, the shortening variation is more likely to be selected than during the non-time saving state. Furthermore, when winning a jackpot, a variation pattern with a shorter variation time is more likely to be selected than in a non-time saving state. In other words, the variation pattern table during the time saving state is such a table that the average value of the variation time of the special symbol is shorter than the variation pattern table during the non-time saving state.

After selecting a variation pattern as described above, other processing (S1404) shown in FIG. 23 is performed and this processing is completed. In other processing (S1404), a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the output buffer of the RAM. The set variation pattern designation command is included in a variation start command, which will be described later, and is sent to the sub-control board 90 through output processing (S201).

[Special figure 2 random number shift processing]
As shown in FIG. 25, in the special figure 2 random number shift process (S1204), first, the number of reserved balls in the special figure 2 is decremented by 1 (S1501). Next, the storage location of various counter values in the second special figure reservation storage section is set to one level lower (for example, if the second special figure reservation storage section consists of an address space corresponding to addresses "0000" to "0003", the address (S1502). Then, set "0" in the highest address space of the second special figure reservation storage section, that is, (if the upper limit number has been stored), the RAM area corresponding to the fourth of the second special figure reservation. is cleared to 0 (S1503), and this process ends.

After executing the special figure 2 random number shift process (S1204), the special figure 2 fluctuation start process (S1205) of FIG. 21 is executed. In the special figure 2 variation start process (S1205), the special figure operation status is set to "2", a variation start command is set to the output buffer of the RAM, and the variation display of the second special symbol is started.

In the special symbol standby process (S1102) in FIG. 21, if the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 is "0" and the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 is not "0" (YES in S1201, NO in S1206), , special figure 1 validity determination process (S1207), special figure 1 variation pattern selection process (S1208), special figure 1 random number shift process (S1209), and special figure 1 variation start process (S1210) are performed in this order.

[Special figure 1 validity judgment process]
As shown in FIG. 26, in the special figure 1 validity determination process (S1207), processing (S1601 to S1612) is performed in the same flow as the special figure 2 validity determination process (S1202) shown in FIG. Therefore, detailed explanation of this process will be omitted.

However, since this process is related to special figure 1, in S1601, it is stored in the lowest area of the first special figure reservation storage section of RAM (that is, the RAM area corresponding to the first of the first special figure reservation). The random number counter value (label -TRND-A) for special symbol validity determination is read out, and the validity determination is performed based on the hit determination table of FIG. 8(A) (S1603). Then, if the result of the judgment (S1603) of the first special symbol (special symbol 1) is a jackpot (YES in S1604), the jackpot type determined in S1610 is determined if the current gaming state is a non-time saving state. If the time is short, either special map 1 jackpot A or B (4R jackpot or 6R jackpot) (see Figures 6 (A) and 8 (B)), and if the time is short, special map 1 jackpot C or D. (4R jackpot or 6R jackpot) (see FIG. 6(B) and FIG. 8(B)). In the first embodiment, the jackpot flags are set as jackpots, such as "Special chart 1 jackpot flag A corresponding to special chart 1 jackpot A, special chart 1 jackpot flag B corresponding to special chart 1 jackpot B..." Since it is provided corresponding to each type, in S1612, the jackpot flag corresponding to the jackpot type determined in S1610 (determination result in S1610) is turned ON.

In addition, if the result of the judgment (S1603) of the first special symbol (special symbol 1) is a small win (YES in S1605), the small win type determined in S1606 is the current gaming state is a non-time saving state. If so, the special figure 1 small hit will be A (see Figure 6 (C), Figure 8 (C)), and if the time is shortened, the special figure 1 small hit will be B (Figure 6 (D), Figure 8 (C) ). In the first embodiment, the special figure 1 small hit flag A corresponds to the special figure 1 small win flag A, the special figure 1 small win flag B corresponds to the special figure 1 small win B...'', and so on. Since the small hit flag is provided corresponding to each small hit type, in S1608, the small hit flag corresponding to the small hit type determined in S1606 (determination result of S1606) is turned ON.

[Special figure 1 variation pattern selection process]
As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the special figure 1 variation pattern selection process (S1208) follows the same flow as the special figure 2 variation pattern selection process (S1203) shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 (S1701 to S1716). )I do. Therefore, a detailed explanation of this process will be omitted.

[Special figure 1 random number shift processing]
As shown in FIG. 29, in the special figure 1 random number shift process (S1209), first, the number of reserved balls in the special figure 1 is decremented by 1 (S1801). Next, the storage locations of various counter values in the first special figure reservation storage section are shifted to the lower side by one (S2002). Then, set "0" in the highest address space of the first special figure reservation storage unit, that is, (if the upper limit number is stored), the RAM area corresponding to the fourth of the first special figure reservation. is cleared to 0 (S1803), and this process ends.

After executing the special figure 1 random number shift process (S1209), the special figure 1 fluctuation start process (S1210) of FIG. 21 is executed. In the special figure 1 variation start process (S1210), the special figure operation status is set to "2", a variation start command is set in the output buffer of the RAM, and the variation display of the first special symbol is started.

[Special symbol fluctuation processing]
As shown in FIG. 30, in the special symbol variation process (S1104), first, in S1909, it is determined whether or not the variable display is executed for the second special symbol (S1909). If it is determined that the variable display is not the second special symbol, that is, the first special symbol (NO in S1909), the special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag is turned OFF (if it is already OFF, it remains OFF), and S1901 Shift to processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variable display is the second special symbol (YES in S1909), then it is determined whether the special symbol 2 stop flag is ON (S1910). In S1910, if the special figure 2 stop flag is not ON, that is, if the special figure 1 stop flag is ON or any stop flag is not ON (NO in S1910), the process moves to S1901.

Here, the special symbol stop flag is a flag that is set when ending the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol confirmation process (S1106) described later. Then, when it is the first special symbol that ends the variable display, the special symbol 1 stop flag is turned ON, and when it is the second special symbol that ends the variable display, the special symbol 2 stop flag is turned ON. will be turned on. Therefore, the fact that the special symbol 2 stop flag is determined to be ON in S1910 means that the special symbol that was fluctuated and displayed last time (the special symbol that was stopped and displayed last time) is the second special symbol, and the special symbol 1 stop flag is determined to be ON. The fact that is determined to be ON means that the special symbol that was variably displayed last time (the special symbol that was stopped and displayed last time) is the first special symbol. In addition, in the first fluctuating display of special symbols after the power is turned on, since there is no special symbol that was fluctuated and displayed last time (special symbol that was stopped and displayed last time), both the special symbol 1 stop flag and the special symbol 2 stop flag are , is turned off.

In S1910, when it is determined that the special figure 2 stop flag is ON (YES in S1910), the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is turned ON (S1911), and the process moves to S1901. If it is determined in S1910 that the special symbol 2 stop flag is ON, both the special symbol that was variably displayed last time and the special symbol that was variably displayed this time are the second special symbols. That is, the "special figure 2 continuous variation flag" which is turned ON when the second special symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner is a flag indicating that the second special symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner. In the pachinko game machine of this embodiment, in the low base state, it is set in a state where it is extremely difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port, so the game can be played in the normal manner in the low base state. If so, the possibility that the second special symbol will be continuously displayed in a variable manner is considered to be extremely low.

In addition, if a right-handed game that allows the game ball to enter the second starting hole is performed in a low base state, a left-handed game notification effect that notifies the prohibition of right-handed games will be executed, so the game will be played accordingly. If this is done, it can be said that there is no possibility that the second special symbol will be displayed in a continuous manner in a low base state. In other words, the state in which the second special symbol is continuously fluctuated and the "special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag" is turned ON is a high base state or a low base state that is set after the high base state described below. You can say that.

In S1901, it is determined whether the special symbol variation time (variation time determined according to the variation pattern selected in S1203 or S1208 of FIG. 21, see FIG. 9) has elapsed (S1901). If it is determined that the variable time has not elapsed (NO in S1901), the process ends. As a result, the variable display of the special symbols is continued.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation time has elapsed (YES in S1901), a fluctuation stop command is set (S1902). Then, it is determined whether the time-saving flag is ON or not (S1903), and if it is ON (YES in S1903), the time-saving counter is subtracted by 1 (S1904), and it is determined whether the value of the time-saving counter is "0" or not. (S1905). If it is determined in S1905 that the time saving counter is "0", the time saving flag is turned OFF and the process moves to S1907. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time saving flag is not ON (NO in S1903), the process moves to S1907.

In S1907, the special figure operation status is set to "3" (S1907). Then, other processes such as stopping the fluctuation display of the special symbols according to the judgment results of the special symbol validity judgment random number, jackpot type determination random number, and small hit type determination random number are performed (S1908), and this process finish.

[Special design confirmation process]
As shown in FIG. 31, in the special symbol confirmation process (S1106), first, through S2014 to S2020, a special symbol stop flag setting process is performed when the special symbol is stopped. In S2014, it is determined whether the special symbol stopped and displayed is the second special symbol (S2014). If it is determined that the stopped display is the second special symbol (YES in S2014), then it is determined whether the special symbol 1 stop flag is ON (S2015), and if it is determined that it is ON (S2015) Since it is the second special symbol that is displayed as stop this time, the special symbol 1 stop flag is turned OFF (S2016), and the special symbol 2 stop flag is turned ON (if it is already ON, it remains ON) ( S2017), the process moves to S2001. Additionally, if it is determined that the special map 1 stop flag is not ON (NO in S2015), the special map 2 stop flag is turned ON (if it is already ON, it remains ON) (S2017), and the process moves to S2001. .

On the other hand, if it is determined in S2014 that the stopped display is not the second special symbol (NO in S2014), then it is determined whether the special symbol 2 stop flag is ON (S2018), and it is determined that it is ON. If so (YES in S2018), since it is the first special symbol that was stopped this time, the special symbol 2 stop flag is turned OFF (S2019), and the special symbol 1 stop flag is turned ON (if it is already ON, turn it ON). (S2020), then proceed to the process of S2001. In addition, if it is determined that the special map 2 stop flag is not ON (NO in S2018), the special map 1 stop flag is turned ON (if it is already ON, it remains ON) (S2020), and the process moves to S2001. .

In S2001, it is determined whether the jackpot flag is ON (S2001). If the jackpot flag is ON (YES in S2001), based on the jackpot flag that is ON, the value of the round counter that counts the number of rounds to be executed during the jackpot game is set, and the first jackpot is won. The number of times the mouth 30 is opened per round and the opening time (see FIG. 6) are set (S2003). As described above, in the first embodiment, the number of rounds of the jackpot game related to the special figure 1 jackpot is "4R" or "6R", and the number of rounds of the jackpot game related to the special figure 2 jackpot is "4R" or "15R". Therefore, in S2003, the value of the round counter is set to "4", "6", or "15", and the number of openings and opening time of the first big prize opening 30 per round is set to "1 time". Set "25 seconds".

After completing the process of S2003, in order to start the jackpot game, set the jackpot opening command (S2005), start the opening performance of the jackpot game (S2006), and set the special figure operation status to "4" ( S2007).

Further, when it is determined in S2001 that the jackpot flag is not ON (NO in S2001), it is determined whether the small hit flag is ON (S2008). If the small win flag is ON (YES in S2008), the value of the small win opening counter that counts the number of openings of the large winning opening (second large winning opening 35) during the small winning game is set, and the second The opening time of the grand prize opening 35 (see FIG. 6) is set (S2009). As mentioned above, in the first embodiment, the number of openings and the opening time of the second big prize opening 35 in the small winning game are "1 time" and "1.6 seconds", so in S2009, the opening for the small winning Set the counter value to "1" and set the open time to "1.6 seconds".

After completing the process of S2009, in order to start the small winning game, set the small winning opening command (S2010), start the opening performance of the small winning game (S2011), and set the special figure operation status to "5". Set (S2012). Incidentally, if the small winning flag is not ON in S2008 (NO in S2008), neither the jackpot game nor the small winning game will be started, so the special figure operation status is set to "1" and the process ends.

[Special electric accessory processing 1 (jackpot game)]
As shown in FIG. 32, in the special electric accessory processing 1 (S1108), it is first determined whether the jackpot game execution flag is ON (S2125). The jackpot game execution flag is a flag indicating that the jackpot game is being executed, and is turned ON while the jackpot game is being executed, and turned OFF when the jackpot game ends. If it is determined in S2125 that the jackpot game execution flag is not ON (NO in S2125), the jackpot game execution flag indicating that the jackpot game is being executed is turned ON (S2126), and the process moves to S2103. On the other hand, if it is determined that the jackpot game execution flag is ON, that is, it has already been turned ON at the start of the jackpot game (YES in S2125), the process directly proceeds to S2103.

In S2103, it is determined whether or not the time saving flag is ON (S2103), and when it is determined that it is ON (YES in S2103), the time saving flag is turned OFF (S2104). In other words, while the jackpot game is being executed, the control is made to a non-time saving state. In the first embodiment, since the non-time saving state is always in the low base state, the low base state is also controlled during the execution of the jackpot game.

Next, it is determined whether the jackpot end flag is ON (S2105). The jackpot end flag is a flag indicating that the opening of all first jackpot holes 30 in the jackpot game has ended (the jackpot game has ended).

If the jackpot end flag is not ON (NO in S2105), it is determined whether the first jackpot opening 30 is being opened (S2106). If it is not open (NO in S2106), whether the time (timing) has arrived to open the first jackpot opening 30, that is, whether the opening time of the jackpot has passed and it is time to start the first round. Alternatively, it is determined whether the interval time between rounds has elapsed and it is time to start the next round (next opening) (S2107).

If the determination result in S2107 is NO, the process ends. On the other hand, if the determination result in S2107 is YES, the process proceeds to S2110, and the first big winning device 31 is activated in order to open the first big winning opening 30 according to the opening pattern according to the type of jackpot (see FIG. 6). .

If the first big winning hole 30 is open in S2106 (YES in S2106), the number of balls entering the first big winning hole 30 in that round is the specified maximum number of balls entering (in this embodiment 1, per round) 10) has been reached (S2111). If the specified number of balls has not been reached (NO in S2111), it is determined whether the timing for closing the first prize opening 30 has come, that is, the predetermined opening time after opening the first prize opening 30. It is determined whether or not (see FIG. 6) has elapsed (S2112). If the opening time of the first big prize opening 30 has not elapsed (NO in S2112), the process ends.

On the other hand, if the specified number of balls has been reached (YES in S2111), or if the opening time of the first big prize opening 30 has elapsed (YES in S2112), either of the two round end conditions is met. If this is true, the first grand prize opening 30 is closed (S2113). Then, the value of the round counter is decremented by 1 (S2114), and it is determined whether the value of the round counter is "0" (S2115). If it is determined that it is not "0" (NO in S2115), the process ends in order to start the next round.

On the other hand, if it is determined to be "0" (YES in S2115), a jackpot ending command is set as a jackpot ending process to end the jackpot game (S2116), and a jackpot ending effect is started (S2117). Then, a jackpot end flag is set (S2118), and the process ends. In addition, if the current jackpot is a 15R jackpot, the round counter becomes "0" after the opening of the first jackpot 30 is executed 15 times, and if it is a 6R jackpot, the round counter becomes "0" when the opening of the first jackpot 30 is executed 15 times. If it is executed six times, it becomes "0", and if it is a 4R jackpot, it becomes "0" if the opening of the first big prize opening 30 is carried out four times.

Also, if the jackpot end flag is ON in S2105 (YES in S2105), the final round has ended, so it is determined whether the execution time (ending time) of the jackpot ending effect has elapsed (S2119). , if the ending time has not elapsed (NO in S2119), the process ends. On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (YES in S2119), after turning off the jackpot end flag (S2120), a game state setting process (S2121) to be described later is performed. Then, the jackpot flag is turned off (S2122), the jackpot game execution flag is turned off (S2124), the special figure operation status is set to "1" (S2123), and the process ends. As a result, in the next interrupt processing, the special symbol standby processing (S1102) will be executed again as the special symbol operation processing (FIG. 20).

[Special electric accessory processing 2 (small winning game)]
As shown in FIG. 33, in the special electric accessory processing 2 (S1109), it is first determined whether the small winning game execution flag is ON (S2229). The small winning game execution flag is a flag indicating that the small winning game is being executed, and this small winning game execution flag is turned on while the small winning game is being executed, and is turned off when the small winning game ends. be made into If it is determined in S2229 that the small winning game execution flag is not ON (NO in S2229), the small winning game execution flag indicating that the small winning game is being executed is turned ON (S2230), and the process moves to S2201. On the other hand, if it is determined that the small winning game execution flag is ON, that is, it has already been turned ON at the start of the small winning game (YES in S2229), the process directly proceeds to S2201.

In S2201, it is determined whether the small hit end flag is ON (S2201). The small winning end flag is a flag indicating that opening of all the second large prize openings 35 in the small winning game has been completed.

If the small winning end flag is not ON (NO in S2201), it is determined whether or not the second big prize opening 35 is being opened (S2202). If it is not open (NO in S2202), it is determined whether the time (timing) to open the second big prize opening 35 has arrived, that is, when the opening time of the small winning has passed and the first opening starts. It is determined whether or not the interval time between multiple openings has elapsed and it is time to start the next opening (S2203).

If the determination result in S2203 is NO, the process ends. On the other hand, if the determination result in S2203 is YES, the second big prize device 36 is operated to open the second big prize opening 35 according to the small winning opening pattern (see FIG. 6) (S2204), and the second big prize In order to open the specific area 39 provided in the winning device 36, the movable piece (not shown) starts operating according to a predetermined operation pattern (S2205), and furthermore, the specific area sensor 39a detects the game ball. The V validity period to be determined as valid is set (S2206). Note that determining that the detection of the game ball by the specific area sensor 39a is valid means that the jackpot flag is turned ON based on the detection of the game ball by the specific area sensor 39a (see steps S2211 to S2221 described later). , determining that the detection of a game ball by the specific area sensor 39a is invalid means that the jackpot flag is not turned on even if a game ball is detected by the specific area sensor 39a.

Here, in the present embodiment 1, the opening pattern of the second big prize opening 35 in the small winning game is set to the number of opening times "1 time" and the opening time "1.6 seconds". In addition, in the first embodiment, the operation pattern of the movable piece is such that the specific area 39 is opened for "0.75 seconds" when the second big prize opening 35 starts opening, and then closed for "0.1 seconds". After this state, it is brought into the open state again for "0.75 seconds" and the specific area 39 is brought into the closed state in conjunction with the closing of the second grand prize opening 35. Furthermore, in the present Example 1, the number of times during the opening of the second big winning opening 35 in the small winning game and after the closing of the second big winning opening 35 (after the opening of the second big winning opening 35 in the small winning game) The V valid period is set to seconds. The reason why the V validity period is not only during the opening of the second grand prize opening 35 but also several seconds after the closing of the second grand prize opening 35 is that, for example, when the opening of the second major prize opening 35 ends, the second This is done in consideration of the possibility that the game ball that entered the grand prize opening 35 may be detected by the specific area sensor 39a (pass through the specific area 39) after the second grand prize opening 35 is closed. This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of a problem in which the game ball that enters the second big prize opening 35 does not win the jackpot even though it has legitimately passed through the specific area 39. In the first embodiment, the V validity period is "2.6 seconds", and in addition to the opening time of the second big prize opening 35 in the small winning game "1.6 seconds", after the second big prize opening 35 is closed. "1 second" is determined to be valid for detecting a game ball by the specific area sensor 39a.

Next, if the second grand prize opening 35 is open in S2202 (YES in S2202), the number of balls entering the second grand prize opening 35 is the prescribed maximum number (10 in this embodiment 1). It is determined whether it has reached (S2207). If the prescribed number of balls has not been reached (NO in S2207), it is determined whether the time has come to close the second grand prize opening 35, that is, the predetermined opening time after opening the second grand prize opening 35 (Fig. 6 ) has elapsed (S2208). Then, if the opening time of the second big prize opening 35 has not elapsed (NO in S2208), the process moves to S2211.

On the other hand, if the number of balls entered into the second grand prize opening 35 reaches the specified number of balls entered (YES in S2207), or if the opening time of the second grand prize opening 35 has elapsed (YES in S2208) Then, the second big prize opening 35 is closed (S2209), and the value of the small win opening counter is decremented by 1 (S2210). In addition, in the present Example 1, since the opening pattern of the second big prize opening 35 in the small winning game is set to the number of openings "1 time" and the opening time "1.6 seconds", the second big winning opening 35 is It is virtually impossible for 10 game balls to enter the ball. For this reason, there is almost no possibility that an affirmative determination will be made in the process of S2207.

Next, it is determined in S2211 whether or not a game ball has been detected by the specific area sensor 39a (whether or not the game ball has passed through the specific area 39) (S2211). If it is determined that there is a detection (YES in S2211), the process proceeds to S2220 and subsequent steps shown in FIG. 34, and if it is determined that there is no detection (NO in S2211), the value of the small hit opening counter is "0". It is determined whether or not (S2212). If it is determined in S2212 that it is not "0" (NO in S2212), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in S2212 that it is "0" (YES in S2212), the process moves to the small hit ending process in S2213. In S2213, as a small winning ending process to end the small winning game, a small winning ending command is set and a small winning ending performance is started (S2214). Then, the small hit end flag is turned on (S2313), and the process ends. In the first embodiment, the small winning opening counter becomes "0" when the second big winning opening 35 is opened once.

In S2201, if the small hit end flag is ON (YES in S2201), one opening of the second big prize opening 35 has been completed, so it is determined whether the small winning ending time has elapsed. (S2216), and if the ending time has not elapsed (NO in S2216), the process ends. On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (YES in S2216), the small winning end flag is turned off (S2217), the small winning flag is turned off (S2218), and the small winning game execution flag is turned off (S2231). , Furthermore, the special figure operation status is set to "1" (S2219), and the process ends. As a result, in the next interrupt processing, the special symbol standby processing (S1102) will be executed again as the special symbol operation processing (FIG. 20).

Note that the time saving flag is not switched from ON to OFF at the start of the small winning game. Further, when the small winning game ends, the game state setting process (S2121, FIG. 35) is not performed. That is, in this pachinko game machine 1, the game state is not changed before and after the execution of the small winning game.

If it is determined in S2211 that a game ball has been detected by the specific area sensor 39a (YES in S2211), the process for generating a V jackpot, that is, the process for ending the small win game and starting the jackpot game. conduct. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 34, it is determined whether the detection of the game ball by the specific area sensor 39a is during the V validity period (S2220). Then, if it is determined that the V is in the valid period (YES in S2220), the small hit flag is turned OFF (S2221), the small hit game execution flag is turned OFF (S2232), the jackpot flag is turned ON (S2222), and the V Set the passage command (S2223). Here, in the present embodiment 1, as described above, the small hit flag is provided corresponding to each small hit type, and as shown in FIGS. 6(C) and (D), the small hit flag is The types of V jackpots (4R time-saving jackpot, 4R non-time-saving jackpot, 15R time-saving jackpot) are determined. In addition, in this embodiment 1, in addition to the jackpot flags corresponding to jackpot types such as the above-mentioned special drawing 1 jackpot flag A and special drawing 2 jackpot flag A, the "4R time-saving jackpot flag" which is a jackpot flag corresponding to the V jackpot type is used. ”, “4R non-time saving jackpot flag” and “15R time saving jackpot flag” are provided. Therefore, in S2222, based on the small hit flag turned OFF in S2221, that is, the small hit type of the small hit flag turned ON in S1308 or S1608, the jackpot flag (4R Either the time-saving jackpot flag, the 4R non-time-saving jackpot flag, or the 15R time-saving jackpot flag) is turned ON (S2222).

In S2224, based on the jackpot flag turned ON in S2222, the value of the round counter that counts the number of rounds executed during the jackpot game is set, and the number of openings per round of the first jackpot 30 and the number of openings are set. Set the time (see Figure 6) (S2224). In the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6(C) and (D), the number of rounds of the jackpot game related to the V jackpot is either "4R" or "15R", so in S2224, the value of the round counter is Set either "4" or "15", and set "1 time" or "25 seconds" as the number of openings and opening time of the first big prize opening 30 per round.

After completing the process of S2224, in order to start the jackpot game, set the jackpot opening command (S2225), start the opening performance of the jackpot game (S2226), and set the special figure operation status to "4" ( S2227). In addition, this opening command should be a command that can be identified as an opening command related to a jackpot game that is executed when the game ball passes V (also referred to as "small win V") based on a small win game. is possible.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S2220 that it is not within the V validity period (NO in S2220), the current detection of the game ball by the specific area sensor 39a is not legitimate and there is a possibility of fraud, so a V jackpot is generated. Error handling is performed without any error (S2227), and the process ends. Error processing includes notifying an abnormal state indicating that a game ball has been detected by the specific area sensor 39a when the V validity period is not in progress, or notifying the ball when it enters the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21. Examples of processing include temporarily stopping (interrupting) processing related to special symbol fluctuations such as acquisition of various random numbers based on the above information and judgment of special symbol propriety. In addition, notification of an abnormal state or temporary suspension of game progress due to the execution of error processing may be canceled when a predetermined cancellation condition is met. Examples of cancellation conditions include the passage of time, turning the power on again, clearing the RAM, etc. I can give an example.

[Game status setting process]
As shown in FIG. 35, in the game state setting process (S2121), it is first determined whether the type of jackpot related to the jackpot game executed this time, that is, the type of the jackpot that has ended, is a time-saving jackpot (S2301). In S2301, based on the jackpot type that corresponds to the jackpot flag that is currently ON, that is, the jackpot flag that was turned ON in S1312, S1612, and S2222, it is determined whether the type of jackpot that has ended is a time-saving jackpot. Determine. Specifically, the current jackpot is "Tokuza 1 jackpot A, D" or "Tokuza 2 jackpot A, B, D" when the result of the judgment of the validity of Tokuza 1 or Tokuza 2 is a jackpot. Or, if it is a "4R time-saving jackpot" or "15R time-saving jackpot" in the case of a V jackpot triggered by a small hit, the type of the completed jackpot is a time-saving jackpot (see FIG. 6).

If it is determined in S2301 that it is a time-saving jackpot (YES in S2301), the time-saving flag is turned on (S2302), the time-saving counter is set to "100" (S2303), and the process ends. As a result, the game state after the end of the current jackpot game becomes a special symbol time saving state and high base state (that is, a time saving high base state). This short-time high base state ends when either of the following conditions is met: the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner 100 times, or the next jackpot (including the V jackpot) occurs. The time saving counter counts the total number of times the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S2301 that it is not a time-saving jackpot (NO in S2301), that is, the current jackpot is "Tokuzu 1 Jackpot B, C" when the result of the judgment of the validity of Tokuzu 1 or 2 is a jackpot, or If it is a "special figure 2 jackpot C" or a "4R non-time-saving jackpot" in the case of a V jackpot triggered by a small hit, the process is finished without turning on the time-saving flag. As a result, the game state after the end of the current jackpot game becomes a special symbol non-time saving state and low base state (namely, a non-time saving low base state).

[Held pitch count processing]
As shown in FIG. 11, the game control microcomputer 81 performs the reserved ball number process (S207) following the special figure operation process (S206). In the reserved ball number processing (S207), as shown in FIG. 36, first, the number of special symbol 1 reserved balls, the number of special symbol 2 reserved balls, and the number of normal symbol reserved balls stored in the RAM of the main control board 80 is read out ( S2501). Next, data on the number of held balls (a held ball number command for transmitting the held ball number information to the sub control board 90, etc.) is set in the output buffer of the RAM (S2502).

[Power-off monitoring processing]
As shown in FIG. 11, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a power-off monitoring process (S208) following the pending ball count process (S207). In the power-off monitoring process (S208), as shown in FIG. 37, first, it is determined whether or not a power-off signal is input (S2601), and if there is no input (NO in S2601), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is a power-off signal input (YES in S2601), the current state of the gaming machine (whether it is fixed or not, whether it is playing a winning game or not, how many balls are on hold, and how many remaining fluctuations in fixed and time saving are there? etc.) in the RAM (S2602), turns on the power-off flag (S2603), and thereafter performs loop processing without returning to the interrupt processing (FIG. 11).

[Output signal]
Next, a game signal (game information) that can be outputted to the outside through the information output processing (FIGS. 38 to 40) of the first embodiment will be explained using FIG. 41(A). Through this information output processing, a predetermined game signal (game information) generated by a game control microcomputer or the like is outputted in a manner that can be received by an external device (such as a hall computer). In the first embodiment, six types of signals shown in FIG. 41(A) are provided as signals output from the main control board 80 to the outside of the gaming machine. These six types of output signals will be explained.

The information output circuit 82 (signal output section) of the main control board 80 is equipped with first to sixth output sections, and the signals generated by the game control microcomputer 81 are output to the first to sixth output sections of the information output circuit 82. The signal is outputted from each section to an external output device 83 (signal output section, external terminal board, calling signal output means) in an ON state or an OFF state (FIG. 42). If the external output device is connected to the wiring or connector of a hall computer, the hall computer can receive the output signal and read (judge) the state of the signal (ON or OFF). . By reading the gaming signals externally output from gaming machines using hall computers, etc., it can be used for security (fraud prevention measures, fraud detection, fraud prevention, etc.), and gaming information (number of jackpots) based on the received signals. , the number of consecutive wins, the number of special symbol fluctuation displays, etc.) and can be used to provide information to players.

The information output circuit 82 of the main control board 80 is also referred to as a "signal output section" or "external signal output section" that outputs a predetermined signal (gaming signal, special signal) to the external output device 83. The external output device 83 also outputs predetermined signals (gaming signals, special signals) to the hall computer 142 and island equipment (data display, external device) outside the gaming machine connected to the external output device 83. Also called "signal output section" or "external signal output section."

Further, the first output section of the information output circuit 82 can output a jackpot game signal, the second output section can output a time saving signal, and the third output section can output a specific signal (special signal). can be output, the fourth output part can output a small winning game signal, the fifth output part can output a special symbol confirmation signal, and the sixth output part can output an error signal. has been done. These output signals are switched to an ON state (signal logic: 1) or an OFF state (signal logic: 0) depending on the gaming state (game state).

Specifically, the jackpot game signal is output in an ON state while a jackpot game is being executed, and is output in an OFF state while a jackpot game is not being executed. Further, the time saving signal is output in an ON state during a time saving state (during a high base state), and is output in an OFF state during a non-time saving state. In addition, details of the specific signal (special signal) will be described later, but if it is in any of the jackpot game state, time-saving game state, or special figure 2 continuous fluctuation state (continuous signal), it will be output in the ON state, and either If neither of the conditions apply, the output is in the OFF state. Further, the small winning game signal is output in the ON state while the small winning game is being executed, and is output in the OFF state while the small winning game is not being executed. In addition, the special symbol confirmation signal is kept in the ON state for a predetermined period of time (in this example, 0.6 seconds) from the time when the special symbol fluctuation stops (determined stop display), and is turned OFF after the predetermined time elapses in the ON state. Ru. Further, the error signal (abnormal signal) is turned ON when a predetermined error (for example, frame opening) is detected, and turned OFF when the error is canceled (for example, frame closing). In addition, the jackpot gaming signal is also referred to as the "winning gaming signal," the small winning gaming signal is also referred to as the "winning gaming signal," and the jackpot gaming signal and the small winning gaming signal are collectively referred to as the "winning gaming signal." Sometimes.

In the first embodiment, only one type of error signal is provided, but it may be possible to output a plurality of error signals. For example, the second error signal may be turned ON when a V passage outside the V validity period is detected, and the second error signal may be turned OFF when a predetermined time elapses or by a predetermined operation by a gaming store clerk. It is possible. In addition, in a game state where left-handed hitting is required, when right-handed hitting is detected (detected by the gate 28), the third error signal may be turned on. Further, when an unauthorized radio wave, vibration, magnetism, etc. is detected, a predetermined error signal may be turned on. These can also be turned off after a predetermined period of time has elapsed or by a predetermined operation by a game store clerk.

[Information output processing]
Next, the information output process (S209) of the first embodiment will be explained using FIGS. 38 to 40. In the information output process (S209), first, it is determined whether the jackpot game execution flag is ON, that is, whether the jackpot game is being executed (S5101). When it is determined in S5101 that the jackpot game execution flag is ON, that is, the jackpot game is being executed (YES in S5101), the jackpot game information flag is turned ON and a jackpot game in progress signal is output in the ON state. The hall computer or the like that receives the ON-state jackpot game signal determines that the current gaming state is a jackpot game. Here, the "jackpot game signal (hit game signal, second special signal)" is output in an ON state or an OFF state, corresponding to the state (ON or OFF) of the jackpot game execution flag, This is a signal indicating that a jackpot game is being executed (the accessory continuous operation device is in operation).

On the other hand, the "jackpot game information flag (hit game signal, second special signal)" is for setting the state of a specific signal described later, and the timing to turn it on is the same as the execution (start) timing of the jackpot game. However, the timing of turning it off is different from the end timing of the jackpot game. Specifically, the "jackpot game information flag" in the ON state is turned OFF after a predetermined time (50 ms in this embodiment) has elapsed from the end of the jackpot game. This makes it possible to delay the timing at which the jackpot game information flag is turned from ON to OFF, and to set the ON period to be slightly longer than the execution period of the actual jackpot game. As a result, although the details will be described later, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state (first frequency state), and the reservation information stored in the second special symbol reservation storage section 85b in the low base state When the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner based on the above, the specific signal indicating that the consecutive winning period is in progress becomes OFF at the timing after the end of the jackpot game and before the start of the variable display of the second special symbol. can be reliably prevented.

In this embodiment, the delay processing of the jackpot game information flag was performed by software processing using a timer or the like, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide a delay circuit using a capacitor or the like and delay the timing at which the jackpot game signal changes from ON to OFF by a predetermined period of time depending on the circuit configuration.

If it is determined in S5101 that the jackpot game execution flag is not ON (NO in S5101), the jackpot game in progress signal is output in the OFF state (S5104), and the process moves to S5105. The hall computer or the like that receives the OFF-state jackpot game signal determines that the current gaming state is not a jackpot game. In S5105, it is determined whether the jackpot game information flag is ON (S5105), and it is determined that the jackpot game information flag is not ON, that is, the jackpot game signal is in the OFF state, and the jackpot game information flag is also OFF. If so (NO in S5105), the process moves to S5110. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5105 that the jackpot game information flag is ON, that is, the jackpot game signal is OFF, but the jackpot game information flag is ON (YES in S5105), then the delay timer is It is determined whether it is being executed, that is, whether delay time measurement is being executed by the delay timer (S5106). If it is determined in S5106 that the delay time is not being measured by the delay timer (NO in S5106), a predetermined delay time (50 ms in this example) is set in the delay timer and measurement of the delay time is started. (S5107) and proceeds to the process of S5108.

If it is determined in S5106 that the delay time is being measured by the delay timer (YES in S5106), the process moves to S5108. In S5108, it is determined whether the value of the delay timer is "0", and if it is determined that it is not "0", that is, the delay time is still being measured (delay processing is being executed) (NO in S5108), the value of the delay timer is determined to be "0". Move to processing. If it is determined in S5108 that the value of the delay timer is "0" (YES in S5108), the jackpot game information flag is turned OFF (S5109), and the process moves to S5110. This completes the delay processing of the jackpot game information flag. Note that the delay time may be set to a time longer than the period (4 ms) of the interrupt processing (S105), and may not be 50 ms.

In S5110, it is determined whether the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is ON. "Special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag" indicates that the second special symbol among the first special symbol and the second special symbol fluctuates continuously (two or more times in a row) in the special symbol fluctuation process (S1104). It is turned on based on the display. Further, when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner while the special symbol 2 continuous variation flag is ON, it is turned OFF. In addition, in this example, the number of consecutive fluctuations is set to two, but if the number of consecutive fluctuations is set to three or more times and the second special symbol is displayed fluctuating continuously for the predetermined number of times, the "special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag" is turned ON. It may also be something to do.

In S5110, when it is determined that the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is ON (YES in S5110), the process moves to S5114. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5110 that the special map 2 continuous fluctuation flag is not ON (NO in S5110), then it is determined whether the jackpot game information flag is ON (S5111), and it is determined that the jackpot game information flag is ON. If so (YES in S5111), the process moves to S5114. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5111 that the jackpot game information flag is not ON (NO in S5111), then it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON (S5112). If it is determined in S5112 that the time saving flag is ON (YES in S5112), the time saving signal is output in the ON state (S5113), and the process moves to S5114. A hall computer or the like that receives the time saving signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state is in the time saving state. If it is determined in S5112 that the time saving flag is not ON (NO in S5112), the time saving signal is output in an OFF state (S5115), and the process proceeds to S5116. A hall computer or the like that receives the time-saving signal in the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state is a non-time-saving state.

In S5114, the specific flag is turned ON, and in S5116, the specific flag is turned OFF (if it is already OFF, it remains OFF), and the process moves to S5117. This "specific flag" is set to ON or OFF in the processing of S5110 to S5116, and the special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag is ON, the jackpot game information flag is ON, and If at least one of the three conditions that the time saving flag is ON is satisfied (if any one is ON), the time saving flag is turned ON. On the other hand, if all of these three conditions are not satisfied (all are OFF), it is turned OFF. In addition, the period during which this specific flag is ON is a period during which the player can play jackpot games consecutively in a short period of time, a so-called continuous winning period (also referred to as a "specific period") that is advantageous to the player. ing.

In S5117, it is determined whether the specific flag is ON, and if it is determined that the specific flag is ON (YES in S5117), the specific signal is output in the ON state, and the process moves to S5113. A hall computer or the like that receives the specific signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is in a consecutive game period (specific period). On the other hand, if it is determined that the specific flag is not ON (NO in S5117), the specific signal is output in an OFF state (S5119), and the process moves to S5120. A hall computer or the like that receives the specific signal of the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is not in the consecutive game period (specific period).

In S5120, it is determined whether the small winning game execution flag is ON, and when it is determined that the small winning game execution flag is ON (YES in S5120), a small winning game in progress signal is output in the ON state (S5121), Proceed to process S5123. A hall computer or the like that receives the ON-state small winning game in progress signal can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is in the small winning game. On the other hand, if it is determined that the small winning game execution flag is OFF (NO in S5120), the small winning game in progress signal is output in the OFF state (S5122), and the process moves to S5123. A hall computer or the like that receives the OFF state small winning game in progress signal can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is in the small winning game.

In S5123, it is determined whether the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) has been stopped and displayed (determined stop display), and it is determined that the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) has been stopped and displayed. If so (YES in S5123), the special figure confirmation signal is output in the ON state (S5124), and the process moves to S5126. A hall computer or the like that receives the special symbol confirmation signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is a state in which the special symbols are stopped and displayed. Also, based on this special symbol confirmation signal, it is possible to count the number of times the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is not displayed in a stopped state (YES in S5123), the special symbol confirmation signal is output in the OFF state (S5125), and the process proceeds to S5126. . A hall computer or the like that receives the special symbol confirmation signal in the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is not a state in which the special symbols are stopped and displayed.

In S5126, it is determined whether the special figure confirmation signal is in the ON state and being outputted, and if it is determined that it is in the ON state and being outputted (YES in S5126), it is determined whether the special figure confirmation signal output time has elapsed. (S5127). The special figure confirmation signal is turned off when a predetermined time (0.6 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of output. Therefore, in S5127, when it is determined that the special figure confirmation signal output time (0.6s) has elapsed (YES in S5127), the special figure confirmation signal is output as OFF (S5128), and the process moves to S5129. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5126 that the special figure confirmation signal is not output in the ON state (NO in S5126), and the special figure confirmation signal output time (0.6) has not elapsed, that is, the special figure confirmation signal If it is determined that the output time is being measured (NO in S5126), the process moves to S5129. Through the processing of S5123 to S5128, it becomes possible to output the special symbol confirmation signal in the ON state for a predetermined time (0.6 s) from the time when the special symbol is displayed as stopped (determined stop display).

In S5129, it is determined whether a predetermined error flag is ON, and if it is determined that the error flag is ON (YES in S5129), an error signal is output in an ON state (S5130), and the process ends. A hall computer or the like that receives the error signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is in an error state. On the other hand, if it is determined that the error flag is OFF (NO in S5129), the error signal is output in the OFF state (S5131) and the process ends. A hall computer or the like that receives the error signal of the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state (gaming state) is a normal state (not an error state). The means for determining the gaming state (gaming situation) of the gaming machine in this manner is called a "state judgment control section."

[Timing chart]
Next, using FIGS. 43 to 45, the change timing of the state of various flags such as the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag, jackpot game execution flag, and time-saving flag, as well as the jackpot game signal, time-saving signal, specific signal, etc. The timing of changes in the output states of various signals will be explained. As shown in FIG. 43, the special figure 2 continuous variation flag indicates the timing when the second special symbol starts to display a continuous variation, specifically, with the start of the variation display of the second special symbol related to tt3, Set to ON. In addition, determination as to whether or not the second special symbol has been continuously displayed in a variable manner is made based on the special symbol stop flag that is set to ON corresponding to the special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the timing that the special symbol is stopped and displayed. ing. Specifically, when the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner while the special figure 2 stop flag is set to ON, the special figure 2 continuous variation flag is set to ON. Therefore, like the variable display of the second special symbol related to tt1, when it is determined that the variable display of the second special symbol is performed with the special symbol 1 stop flag turned ON, the special symbol 2 continuous variation The flag is not set to ON.

Further, as shown in FIG. 44, the specific flag is turned ON if any one of the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag, the jackpot game information flag, and the time saving medium flag is turned ON. The period in which the specific flag is ON is a period in which the player can win a plurality of jackpot games in a short period of time, and is considered to be a continuous winning period (specific period) that is advantageous to the player. Specifically, in the normal state (non-time-saving state), based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port 20, a judgment regarding the first special symbol is executed, and the result of the judgment is the time-saving jackpot ( When the special drawing 1 jackpot A) in FIG. 6 occurs, a consecutive winning period (specific period) will start. In the case of a time-saving jackpot, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a time-saving state (high base state), and according to the specifications of the pachinko game machine of this embodiment, if you play according to the instructions, you will almost be able to win the next jackpot. Guaranteed to occur. Then, in this time-saving state (second frequency state), based on the ball entering the second starting port, which has become easier to enter, the judgment regarding the second special symbol is executed, and the result of the judgment is the result of the time-saving judgment. When it becomes a jackpot (special figure 2 jackpot D in Figure 6) or a jackpot based on a time-saving small hit (special figure 2 small hit D in Fig. 6), the time-saving state is set again after the end of the jackpot game, This makes it possible to execute a plurality of jackpot games (many times) in a short period of time and obtain a large amount of gaming profits (prize balls).

In addition, based on the entry of the ball into the second starting port, which has become easier to enter, a judgment is made regarding the second special symbol, and as a result of the judgment, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is changed to a non-time saving state ( Even in the case of a low base state), if the reservation information is stored in the second special symbol reservation storage section at the end of the jackpot game, a variable display of the second special symbol is performed in the non-time saving state. The second special symbol validity determination in the non-time saving state, which is executed for the first time after the end of the jackpot game, is set to be more advantageous than the second special symbol validity determination in the time saving state. Specifically, when the jackpot is executed based on the second special symbol validity determination, the time after the jackpot game ends is longer than when the jackpot is executed based on the second special symbol validity determination in the time-saving state. The gaming state is considered to be the time saving state with a high probability. More specifically, when a jackpot is executed based on the second special symbol validity determination in a non-time saving state, the time saving state is set with a 100% probability. In addition, in the second special symbol validity determination, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is set very high compared to the first special symbol validity determination, and when the second special symbol validity determination is executed, the 1. It is said that the possibility of a jackpot is higher than that of special symbol validity judgment.

Therefore, in a state where the reservation information is stored in the second special figure reservation storage section in the time-saving state (high base state), if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the non-time-saving state, the non-time-saving state is simply It is not advisable to judge that the consecutive rental period (specific period) has ended when this happens. That is, depending on the result of the second special symbol validity judgment based on the suspension information in the second special symbol reservation storage section that is executed after the non-time saving state is set, the consecutive winning period (specific period) or consecutive It is desirable to continue the period (specified period). For example, if it is determined that the jackpot game will not be executed based on the result of the second special symbol validity determination (missing, or small hit but not passing V), the consecutive game period will end. . On the other hand, when a jackpot game is executed based on the result of the second special symbol validity determination, the consecutive game period is continued. As a result, it is possible to set a long consecutive game period, and when counting and displaying the number of jackpot games executed during the consecutive game period (number of consecutive games), it is possible to indicate a large number of consecutive games. , it becomes possible to increase interest in the game.

In this way, if any of the following conditions is satisfied: the jackpot game is being executed, the time saving state is being executed, and the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is in the ON state, it is considered to be a consecutive winning period (specific period). Here, when these consecutive winning periods are determined by the jackpot game execution flag, the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag, and the time saving medium flag that indicate the execution period of the jackpot game, the state change timing of the jackpot game execution flag and the special figure Due to the timing of the state change of the 2 consecutive fluctuation flag, it takes a very short time (period for one interrupt, 4 ms) from the end of the jackpot game until the special symbol 2 consecutive fluctuation flag is set to ON. There may be a period when all three flags are OFF. Since the jackpot game execution flag indicates the jackpot game execution period, it is turned off at the end of the jackpot game, and then it is turned off for the first time in the variable display of the second special symbol for the first time after the jackpot game ends in a non-time saving state. When the 2 special symbols are continuously displayed in a variable manner, the special symbol 2 continuous variation flag is turned ON in the start process at the time of the variation table. As a result, as shown in FIG. 44, after the jackpot game execution flag is turned OFF, a case may occur where the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is turned ON after the delay period s1 has elapsed.

In such a case, the jackpot game and time saving state are set again based on the second special symbol validity determination, so although it is originally intended to be a consecutive winning period, the jackpot game execution flag, special symbol double special variation flag, and There is a possibility that all of the short-time flags are turned off, the specific flag is turned off, and it is determined that the consecutive game period has once ended and the consecutive game period has occurred again. In order to prevent such a situation, in this embodiment, a jackpot game information flag is provided to indicate that a jackpot is being executed, and the timing when the jackpot game information flag turns OFF is set to the timing when the jackpot game actually ends ( The timing is set to be delayed by a predetermined time (ss1) from the timing when the jackpot game execution flag turns OFF. Also, by setting the delay time ss1 (50ms in this example) longer than s1 (4ms in this example), the jackpot game information flag can be It becomes possible to reliably prevent all of the special figure double special variation flag and time saving medium flag from being in the OFF state.

In addition, in this embodiment, a specific flag is provided that becomes ON if any one of the jackpot game information flag, the special symbol double special variation flag, and the time saving medium flag is ON, and the state of this specific flag is By determining this, it becomes possible to easily determine whether or not it is a consecutive viewing period (specific period). This specific flag turns OFF when all of the jackpot game information flag, the special symbol double special variation flag, and the time saving medium flag are turned OFF.

Further, as shown in FIG. 45, in the first embodiment, as an external output signal externally outputted from the game control microcomputer 81 via the information output circuit 82 and the external output device 83, the jackpot game execution flag is ON during the ON period. A jackpot game signal that is output in the state, a time-saving signal that is output while the time-saving flag is ON, a specific signal that is output while the specific flag is ON, and a small-hit game execution. The small winning game signal is output while the flag is ON, the special symbol confirmation signal is output while the flag is ON for a predetermined period of time after the special symbol is confirmed, and the error flag is output while the error flag is ON. and an error signal. These external output signals are output after being switched to an ON state or an OFF state at a predetermined timing according to a change in the gaming state.

As explained above, in the pachinko game machine 1 of the first embodiment, it is determined whether the special figure 2 is in a state in which the special figure 2 is continuously fluctuating and displayed using the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag, and the game state after the end of the jackpot game is non-standard. Even if the time is shortened, if the jackpot game is executed again based on the result of the second special symbol validity judgment related to the second special symbol pending, consecutive games will be played without turning off the specific flag. This makes it possible to determine that the period continues. Furthermore, by using the jackpot game information flag to consider that the jackpot game continues for a predetermined period even after the jackpot game actually ends, it is determined that the consecutive game period has ended even though it is still a consecutive game period. (Specific flag turning OFF) can be reliably prevented. Thereby, the consecutive game period can be set as long as possible, the number of jackpot games during the consecutive game period (the so-called number of consecutive games) can be counted as high as possible, and the interest in the game can be increased.

[Sub control main processing]
Next, the operation of the production control microcomputer 91 will be explained based on FIGS. 46 to 58. Note that the counters, flags, status, buffers, etc. that appear in the explanation of the operation of the production control microcomputer 91 are provided in the RAM of the sub-control board 90 (sub-control unit). When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the performance control microcomputer 91 provided in the sub-control board 90 reads out the sub-control main processing program shown in FIG. 46 from the ROM of the sub-control board 90 and executes it. . As shown in the figure, in the sub-control main processing, CPU initialization processing is first performed (S4001). In the CPU initialization process (S4001), stack settings, constant settings, CPU 92 settings, SIO, PIO, CTC (interrupt time controller) settings, and various flags, status, and counter resets are performed.

Subsequently, in S4002, it is determined whether the power-off signal is ON and the contents of the RAM of the sub-control board 90 are normal (S4002). If the result of this determination is NO (NO in S4002), the RAM of the sub-control board 90 is initialized (S4003), and the process proceeds to S4004. On the other hand, if the determination result is YES (YES in S4002), the process proceeds to S4004 without initializing the RAM of the sub-control board 90. In other words, if the power-off signal is not ON, or if the contents of the RAM are not normal even if the power-off signal is ON (NO in S4002), the RAM of the sub-control board 90 is initialized. If the power-off signal is turned ON but the contents of the RAM are maintained normally (YES in S4002), the RAM is not initialized. When the RAM is initialized, various flags, statuses, and counter values are reset. Note that S4001 to S4003 are executed only once after the power is turned on (when the power is turned on), and are not executed thereafter.

In S4004, interrupts are prohibited. Next, random number seed update processing is executed (S4005). In the random number seed updating process (S4005), the values of various performance determining random number counters are updated. The updated random number counter value is sequentially stored in a predetermined update value storage area (not shown) of the RAM of the sub control board 90. Note that the random numbers for determining a performance include a random number for determining a preview performance that determines a preview performance, and a random number for determining a performance symbol that determines a performance symbol. The random number updating method can be the same as the random number updating process performed by the main control board 80 described above. When updating, the random number values may be added by 2 instead of being added by 1. The random number for performance determination is acquired at a predetermined timing. This timing may be, for example, when the main control board 80 sends a control signal (starting ball command) notifying that a starting ball has arrived, or when the main control board 80 sends a control signal (starting ball entering command) notifying the start of fluctuation. This can be done when a fluctuation start command (fluctuation start command) is sent, or when a fluctuation effect pattern (to be described later) is determined. The acquired random number for effect determination is stored in a predetermined random number counter value storage area (not shown) of the RAM of the sub-control board 90. In this first embodiment, the random numbers for determining the preview effect include a random number for determining the conversation notice, a random number for determining the step-up notice, a random number for determining the pseudo-variation notice, a random number for determining the moving part notice, and a random number for determining the advance notice effect. The preview performance to be executed is determined using the acquired values of these random numbers for determining the preview performance and the respective preview determination tables shown in FIGS. 49 and 50.

When the random number seed update process (S4005) is completed, command transmission process is executed (S4006). In the command transmission process, various commands (control signals) stored in the output buffer in the RAM of the sub-control board 90 are transmitted to the image control board 100, the audio control board 106, and the lamp control board 107. Each control board (each control unit) that has received the command uses various presentation devices (image display device 7, speaker 67, panel lamp 5, frame lamp 66, movable decorative member 14, etc.) to perform various operations according to the received command. Performances (performance symbol game performances, special game performances associated with jackpot games and small win games, etc.) are executed. The performance control microcomputer 91 then permits an interrupt (S4007). Thereafter, S4004 to S4007 are looped. While interrupts are enabled, reception interrupt processing (S4008), 2ms timer interrupt processing (S4009), and 10ms timer interrupt processing (S4010) can be executed.

[Reception interrupt processing]
In the reception interrupt processing (S4008), as shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not it has been input (S4101). If it is determined in S4101 that the strobe signal is not ON (NO in S4101), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in S4101 that the strobe signal is ON (YES in S4101), various commands sent from the main control board 80 are stored in the RAM of the sub control board 90 (S4102), and the process ends. . This reception interrupt process (S4008) is a process that is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4009, S4010).

[2ms timer interrupt processing]
The 2 ms timer interrupt process (S4009) is a process that is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 2 msec period is input to the sub control board 90. As shown in FIG. 48, in the 2ms timer interrupt processing (S4009), first, input processing is performed to create switch data (edge data and level data) based on the detection signals from the production button detection switches 63c and 63d (S4201). . Subsequently, lamp data output processing is performed to output lamp data created in 10ms timer interrupt processing, which will be described later (S4202). Next, a drive data output process is performed to create and output drive data for driving the movable decorative member 14 (S4203). Then, watchdog timer processing is performed to reset the watchdog timer (S4204).

[10ms timer interrupt processing]
The 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4010) is a process that is executed every time an interrupt pulse of 10 msec period is input to the sub control board 90. As shown in FIG. 49, in the 10ms timer interrupt processing (S4010), first, received command analysis processing, which will be described later, is performed (S4301). Next, a firing notification process is performed after the end of the jackpot game, which will be described later (S4302). In this firing notification process after the end of the jackpot game (S4302), when the game state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, it is notified that the second special figure reservation (second performance reservation information) exists. As a condition, control (adjust) the execution timing of the firing notification performance (second left-handed firing notification performance in FIG. 50) that suggests returning the firing direction from the right gaming area to the left gaming area, that is, changing from right-handed to left-handed firing. ).

Next, an illumination control process is performed to create lamp data to be output (data that controls lighting of the board lamp 5 and frame lamp 66), manage production time, etc. (S4303). Next, a switch state acquisition process is performed in which the switch data created in the 2ms timer interrupt process is stored in the RAM of the sub control board 90 as switch data for the 10ms timer interrupt process (S4304). Next, a switch process is performed to set the display contents of the display screen 7a based on the switch data stored in the switch state acquisition process (S4305). Thereafter, other processing such as updating the random number for effect determination is executed (S4306).

[Received command analysis processing]
As shown in FIGS. 50 and 51, in the received command analysis process (S4301), first, the performance control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not it has received a gate passing command from the main control board 80 (main control unit) (S4419). ), if it is determined that a gate passing command has been received (YES in S4419), a gate passing process (S4420), which will be described later, is executed and the process moves to S4401. If it is determined in S4419 that the gate passing command has not been received (NO in S4419), the process proceeds to S4401 without performing the gate passing process.

In S4401, it is determined whether or not a starting ball entering command has been received (S4401), and if it is determined that a starting ball entering command has been received (YES in S4401), processing to start the effect when entering the ball is performed (S4402), and S4403 Shift to processing. If it is determined in S4401 that the starting ball entering command has not been received (NO in S4401), the process proceeds to S4403 without performing the ball entering performance start process. This performance start processing upon ball entry is executed when a starting ball entering command indicating that a ball has entered the starting port (first starting port 20 or second starting port 21) is received from the main control unit. By performing this process, unconsumed performance pending information is stored in the performance pending storage unit (first performance pending storage unit 104 and second performance pending storage unit 105) of the sub-control unit 90, Display control (control regarding changes in the number of displays and the display mode of the performance hold) of the effect holds (first effect hold 9a and second effect hold 9b) displayed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, A so-called pre-reading performance (also referred to as a "pre-performance") is performed based on the ball entry information acquired by the main control unit when the ball enters the ball.

Note that when a game ball enters the first starting port 20, information indicating ball entering information acquired based on the ball entering the first starting port 20 is transmitted from the main control unit 80 to the sub-control unit 90. and is added and stored in the first performance suspension storage unit 104 of the sub-control unit 90 as unconsumed performance suspension information (performance information). In addition, the upper limit of the number of pending presentation information (also referred to as "first presentation pending") stored in the first presentation holding storage section is the number of first special drawings pending stored in the first special drawing holding storage section. The number is assumed to be the same (four), and the number of memories stored at each time is also assumed to be the same. In addition, the upper limit of the number of pending presentation information (also referred to as "second presentation pending") stored in the second presentation holding storage section is the number of second special drawings pending stored in the second special drawing holding storage section. The number is said to be the same (one), and the number of memories stored at any given time is also said to be the same. In addition, when a fluctuation start command to be described later is received, and if it indicates the first special symbol, the oldest effect pending information stored in the corresponding first effect pending storage unit 104 is deleted. Ru. The same applies when a game ball enters the second starting port 21.

In S4403, it is determined whether or not a fluctuation start command has been received from the main control unit (S4403), and if it is determined that a fluctuation start command has been received (YES in S4403), a fluctuation effect start process to be described later is performed (S4404) , the process moves to S4407. If it is determined in S4403 that the variation start command has not been received (NO in S4403), the process proceeds to S4407 without performing the variation effect start process.

In S4407, it is determined whether a fluctuation stop command has been received from the main control unit (S4407), and if it is determined that a fluctuation stop command has been received (YES in S4407), a fluctuation production end process described below is performed (S4408), Proceed to the process of S4409. If it is determined in S4407 that the fluctuation stop command has not been received (NO in S4407), the process proceeds to S4409 without performing the fluctuation production end process.

Next, in S4409, it is determined whether an opening command has been received from the main control unit (S4409), and if it is determined that an opening command has been received (YES in S4409), opening command reception processing described below is performed (S4410). , the process moves to S4411. If it is determined in S4409 that the opening command has not been received (NO in S4409), the process proceeds to S4411 without performing the opening command reception process. In S4411, it is determined whether or not an ending command has been received from the main control unit (S4411), and if it is determined that an ending command has been received (YES in S4411), ending command reception processing is performed (S4412), and the processing in S4413 is performed. Transition. On the other hand, if it is determined in S4411 that the ending command has not been received (NO in S4411), the process proceeds to S4413 without performing the ending command reception process.

Next, it is determined whether or not a V passing command (a command indicating that V has passed based on the occurrence of a small winning game) has been received from the main control unit (S4413), and if it is determined that a V passing command has been received. (YES in S4413), sets a V passage notification command (S4414), and moves to the process of S4415. In addition, when using the V passing command, the result of the special symbol validity judgment will be either A or B for the special pattern 1 small hit, or A to D for the special pattern 2 small win, and if the player enters the 2nd major prize opening during the corresponding small winning game. This is a command for notifying the sub-control board 90 from the main control board 80 that the ball has passed through a specific area during the V validity period. When the V passing notification command is sent to the image control board 100 (image control unit) etc. in the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 reads predetermined image information from the ROM of the image control board 100. Then, characters such as "V passed! Jackpot!" are displayed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. This notifies the player that the game ball will pass through the specific area 39 and that a jackpot game will be executed. On the other hand, if it is determined in S4413 that the V passage command has not been received (NO in S4413), the process proceeds to S4415 without setting the V passage notification command. In S4415, other processing is executed and the processing ends.

Incidentally, even when the game ball detects a specific area outside the V effective period, a V passage command including information that can specify that the passage is outside the V effective period may be received. As a result, it is possible to perform error notification using the speaker 67, the image display device 7, the frame lamp 66, the panel lamp 5, etc. controlled by the sub-control unit 90, based on the reception of the V passing command outside the valid period.

[Processing when passing through the gate]
As shown in FIG. 52, in the gate passing process (S4420), first, in S4901, it is determined whether the gaming state is a high base state (S4901), and if it is determined that it is a high base state (YES in S4901), The process ends without executing the left-handed hitting notification performance (the first left-handed hitting notification performance shown in FIG. 50, which corresponds to the "first game area launch notification"). In the high base state (corresponding to the "second frequency state"), the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment performs the game by firing the game ball into the right playing area, so it detects that the game is played to the right. Even if he did, he would not perform a left-handed hit notification performance. Here, the gate passing process is a process that is executed when a gate passing command is received, and when it is detected that the player is playing a right-handed game in a predetermined gaming state, the process is executed when a gate passing command is received. In this state, right-handed games are prohibited, and this is a process for executing a notification effect that instructs the player to play left-handed games (return to left-handed games). The gate passage command is a command sent from the main control unit 80 to the sub-control unit 90 based on the passage to the gate 28 (also referred to as "common map starting gate") described above. The gate 28 has a firing direction notification function that notifies (instructs) the firing direction, and a normal symbol starting function that displays the regular symbols in a variable manner. In addition, the gate 28 allows game balls fired into the right gaming area (corresponding to the "second gaming area") to enter, and game balls fired into the left gaming area (corresponding to the "first gaming area"). is provided in a position where the ball cannot enter, and by detecting the game ball with this gate 28, it is possible to detect that the player has launched the game ball into the right game area (second game area). becomes.

If it is determined in S4901 that the gaming state is not a high base state, that is, a low base state (corresponding to the "first frequency state") (NO in S4901), then it is determined whether the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is ON or not. Determine (S4902). If it is determined that the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is ON (YES in S4902), the process ends without executing the left-handed hitting notification effect even if a right-handed hitting is detected in a low base state. On the other hand, if it is determined in S4902 that the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is not ON (NO in S4902), a left-handed hitting notification effect (first left-handed hitting notification effect, equivalent to "first game area firing notification") execution command is set. (S4903) and ends the process. Further, when the first left-handed hitting notification effect execution command set in S4903 is transmitted to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 executes the predetermined effect image shown in FIG. is read from the ROM of the image control board 100, and a firing notification performance (launch direction notification performance) is performed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. Specifically, in the "first left firing notification performance (third firing notification performance)", text such as "Please refrain from firing into the right area, please fire into the left area" is displayed on the display screen 7a. do.

Further, the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag can be turned ON in the opening command reception process (S4410) and the firing notification process after the end of the jackpot game (S4302), which will be described later. In principle, if the gaming state is a low base state (excluding jackpot games and small winning games), the game is played by firing the game ball into the left gaming area (first gaming area). If right-handed hitting is detected, a firing direction notification performance (launching direction instruction performance) instructing left-handed hitting is executed. However, if the above-mentioned left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is ON, even if the game state is in a low base state (excluding jackpot games and small winning games), the firing that instructs left-handed hitting will not be activated. It is assumed that the direction notification performance (left-handed notification performance) is not executed.

In addition, when the gaming state is a jackpot game, a small win game, or a high base state, the game is played by firing the game ball into the right game area (second game area), and the game is played with a right-handed hit. Even if this is detected, the left-handed hitting notification effect will not be executed. This type of notification is intended to lead players to an advantage in pachinko machines in which the game mode is changed between right-handed and left-handed depending on the game state. This is to avoid the trouble of switching between hitting and left-handed hitting as much as possible. This makes it possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game as much as possible.

[Variable effect start processing]
As shown in FIG. 53, in the variable performance start process (S4404), first, in S4501, the performance control microcomputer 91 acquires a performance determination random number such as a preview performance determination random number or a performance design determination random number. Performs acquisition processing (S4501). Specifically, in this embodiment, the random numbers for determining the preview performance include a random number for determining the conversation preview (also referred to as a "random number for determining the first preview performance") and a random number for determining the step-up notice ("random number for determining the second preview performance"). random numbers for determining character previews (also referred to as "random numbers for determining third preview effects"), random numbers for determining movable part previews (also referred to as "random numbers for determining fourth preview effects"), and random numbers for determining advance notice effects. It has a random number ("random number for determining the fifth preview performance"), and at the timing when the fluctuation start command is received from the main control unit 80, the process of S4501 is performed and a predetermined value (entering ball information) is calculated from each random number. will be obtained. In addition, in the setting process (S4506) for advance notice effects, which will be described later, advance notice effects (conversation notice, step-up notice, character notice, movable part notice, advance notice), etc.

Next, in S4502, the variation start command is analyzed by the performance control microcomputer 91 (S4502). The variation start command includes a variation pattern designation command (information specifying a variation pattern) that specifies the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection process of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The information specifying the variation pattern includes variation pattern information (P1 to P17) shown in FIG. 9, gaming state information specifying the current gaming state, first special symbol validity determination or second special symbol validity determination. The determination result and symbol information specifying the winning type are included (see FIG. 8). The variable pattern information, game state information, symbol information, etc. can be used in other processes other than the variable performance start process to be executed thereafter.

Next, in S4503, the production control microcomputer 91 refers to the current mode status (S4503). The mode status is for determining the production mode to be executed. The mode status is set to any value from "1" to "5", and each value is assigned to a production mode A to E.

Here, the performance mode is a performance mode on the image display device 7, and when the performance mode is different, part or all of the performance mode of the game performance such as the advance notice performance and the reach performance will be different. Specifically, the images displayed on the image display device 7 may be different, such as the characters, items, and background images that appear to be different, and the effect design game effects may also be executed in a manner according to the effect mode. Further, when providing a plurality of game performances (notice performance, reach performance, etc.), different game performances may be made possible depending on the performance mode. In this embodiment, production modes A, D, and E are executed when controlled to a low base state, and production mode B is executed when controlled to a high base state. Further, the performance mode C is executed when the game is controlled to a low base state after the end of the jackpot game and the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Therefore, by confirming which of the performance modes A to C is in effect, the player can grasp the current gaming state.

Next, in S4504, a process for determining a variable performance pattern (also referred to as a "performance pattern") for the image display device 7, board lamp 5, movable decorative member 14, etc. controlled by the performance control microcomputer 91 is performed. Set the table (S4504). Specifically, as a table for determining the fluctuation performance pattern, a performance symbol variation mode determination table for determining the fluctuation mode of the performance symbol is created based on the variation pattern designation command received from the main control unit 80, although it is not shown in the figure. Set. In this embodiment, different production symbol variation mode determination tables are set depending on the gaming state and production mode.

Next, in S4505, based on the variable effect pattern table set in S4504, a variable effect pattern that is compatible with the specified variable pattern and that corresponds to the effect mode indicated by the referenced mode status is selected (S4505). In addition, in S4505, among the variable performance patterns, the variation mode of the performance symbols displayed in the performance symbol display area 7b (the mode of performance symbol game performance) is mainly determined. As a result, in the production symbol game production, when performing a reach production (design game production with reach), when performing a character production using a specific character (character production symbol game production), when performing a reach production A case where character performance is not performed (ready-to-reach non-performance symbol game performance) is set.

Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, a plurality of reach performances (normal reach performance, super reach performance, etc.) and character performances are set as the variation modes of production symbols, and in S4505, the variation mode of production symbols is Based on the determination table, it is determined which of these effects to perform or not to perform (this is also referred to as "normal variation"). Then, it is possible to determine which of these effects will be executed and perform a preliminary notification effect that indicates in advance the occurrence of the effect to be executed.

Here, when a super reach effect is executed as a game effect, the possibility of a jackpot is set to be higher than when a normal reach effect is executed. In other words, it can be said that the super reach performance is a game performance with higher jackpot reliability (possibility of hitting the jackpot) compared to the reach (normal reach) performance.

Next, in S4506, a setting process such as a preview effect is performed. In the preview performance etc. setting process (S4506), based on the random number for performance determination obtained in S4501, it is determined which of the preview performance types to perform the preview performance in the variable performance pattern. In addition, a performance pattern to be stopped and displayed (also referred to as a "stop performance pattern") is determined. Through these processes (S4505 and S4506), a variable effect pattern is determined.

Next, in S4507, a variable performance start command is set to start the performance symbol game performance etc. based on the variable performance pattern selected in S4505 and S4506 (S4507), and the variable performance start process is ended.

Further, when the variable effect start command set in S4505 is sent to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 transfers a predetermined effect image from the ROM of the image control board 100. The symbols are read out and the performance symbol game performance is performed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7.

In addition, the performance symbol that is stopped and displayed as a result of the performance symbol game performance is, for example, when the result of the special symbol validity judgment is a 15R jackpot, it will be the double of an odd numbered symbol such as "777", and for other jackpots (4R jackpot). , 6R jackpot), it can be a double of an even number symbol such as "666". Further, when a small win occurs, a predetermined chance number such as "135" or a small win exclusive symbol such as "3☆3" may be stopped and displayed. In addition, when there is a reach or miss, one of the three production symbols such as "787" is different from the other production symbols, and when there is no reach, there are three productions such as "635". A winning combination is selected in which at least one performance pattern among the symbols is different from the other performance patterns. It should be noted that the above-described manner of stopping and displaying the performance symbols is just an example, and what is stopped and displayed as the stop performance symbol when a jackpot, small hit, or miss occurs can be changed as appropriate.

[Fluctuating performance end processing]
As shown in FIG. 54, in the variation production end process (S4408), first, in S4601, the production control microcomputer 91 analyzes the variation stop command (S4601), and refers to the mode status (S4602). This determines which of A to E the current performance mode is. Next, in S4603, it is determined whether the gaming state changes. For example, transitioning from a high base state to a low base state, transitioning from a low base state to a high base state, or changing from a low base state and a state where the second special symbol fluctuates to a low base state and the second special symbol fluctuates. It is determined whether there is a transition to a non-display state. If it is determined in S4603 that the gaming state changes (YES in S4603), a performance mode (A to E) setting command corresponding to the changed gaming state is set (S4604), and the process moves to S4605. On the other hand, if it is determined in S4603 that the gaming state does not change (NO in S4603), the process moves to S4605. In S4605, the performance control microcomputer 91 sets a variable performance end command for ending the performance symbol game performance (S4605), and ends the process.

[Opening command reception processing]
Next, the opening command reception process will be explained using FIG. 55. In the opening command reception process (S4410), first, in S4701, it is determined whether the second launch notification flag is ON. Here, the "second firing notification flag" is a flag that is set at the end of a winning game (big hit game, small winning game) in the ending command reception process (FIG. 48) described later, and the game state after the winning game ends. When is set to the high base state, the second firing notification flag remains ON. Further, when the game state after the winning game is set to the low base state, or when the high base state changes to the high base state, the second firing notification flag is turned OFF. That is, the "second launch notification flag" is a flag indicating that the base is in a high base state. In addition, if the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner after the end of the winning game (there is a second special symbol pending), the second firing notification flag shall be turned OFF after the variable display of the second special symbol is finished. do.

If it is determined in S4701 that the second firing notification flag is ON (YES in S4701), the second firing notification flag is turned OFF (S4703), and the process proceeds to S4709. If it is determined in S4701 that the second launch notification flag is not ON (NO in S4701), the process moves to S4709. In S4709, it is determined whether the second chance mode flag is ON (S4709), and if it is determined that the second chance mode flag is ON (YES in S4709), the second chance mode flag is turned OFF (S4710), and S4702 Shift to processing. If it is determined in S4709 that the second chance mode flag is OFF (YES in S4709), the process moves to S4702. Note that the "second chance mode flag" will be described later. In S4702, the first firing notification flag is turned ON (S4702), and the process moves to S4704. Here, the "first firing notification flag" is a flag indicating that a winning game is in progress, and is turned ON in the opening command reception process executed at the start of the winning game, and is turned ON in the ending command reception process executed at the end of the winning game. It is assumed that the switch is turned OFF.

In S4704, the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is turned ON (S4704), then the first right-handed hitting notification performance execution command is set (S4705), and the process moves to S4706. In the pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment, during a winning game, the first grand prize opening or the second grand prize opening provided at a position where the game ball launched into the right gaming area (second gaming area) can enter. In order to play the game with aim, it is necessary to play the right-handed game. Therefore, in order to prevent the first left-handed hitting notification effect from being executed when the game ball passes through the gate 28, the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is turned ON in the opening command reception process that is executed when the winning game starts. Perform processing.

Further, when the first right-handed notification performance execution command set in S4705 is transmitted to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 executes the predetermined performance image shown in FIG. is read from the ROM of the image control board 100, and a firing notification performance (launch direction notification performance) is performed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. Specifically, in the "first right shot notification performance (first firing notification performance)", characters such as "Please fire aiming at the attacker in the right area" are displayed on the display screen 7a for a predetermined period of time. The first right hit notification performance is a notification performance that is executed in conjunction with the execution of the winning game, and may be displayed throughout the execution of the winning game, or may be terminated when a predetermined condition is met. For example, when a game ball is detected at the gate 28 or the like, and a right-handed hit is actually detected, the notification effect may be ended. Further, in the case of a jackpot game, the notification performance may be executed until a predetermined round, such as displaying from the 1st round to the 2nd round. Further, the performance mode of the notification performance may be changed during the jackpot game. For example, the notification effect may be displayed in a large size at the beginning of the jackpot game, and may be displayed in a small size from a predetermined round onwards.

In S4706, the opening command is analyzed (S4706), and based on the analyzed opening command, special game performance pattern selection processing is performed to select the performance mode of the special game performance to be executed during the special game (big hit game or small win game). Do (S4707). This special game performance includes an opening performance that is executed during the opening period before the opening of the big prize opening with the start of the special game, and an opening performance that is executed during the special game and during the opening game (round) of the big winning opening and the opening game. and a special game execution performance executed during the interval between the open game and the open game (between rounds). Next, in S4708, the microcomputer 91 for performance control sets an opening performance start command for starting a special game performance based on the selected special game performance pattern (S4708), and the process ends. Incidentally, a jackpot game or a small win game that opens a large prize opening is also referred to as a "win game."

In addition, as a special game performance selected when executing a special game as a small hit, in the opening performance, a game ball is fired aiming at the second big prize device 36 (second big prize opening 35) (right It may also be possible to select one that displays on the display screen 7a a message indicating that a hitting game will be played. That is, at a predetermined timing (opening period) before the second grand prize device 36 (second grand prize opening 35) is opened, an effect is performed to notify that the right-handed game should be started. Ru. This makes it possible to increase the possibility that the game ball will enter the second grand prize opening 35 during the short opening time of the second major prize opening 35 of 1.8 seconds in total. On the other hand, when executing a special game as a jackpot, an opening performance that does not involve such notification (notification that the player will continue to play right-handed from before the opening of the second big prize opening 35) may be selected.

[Ending command reception processing]
Next, the ending command reception process will be explained using FIG. 56. In the ending command reception process (S4412), first, in S4801, a first right-handed hitting notification production end command is set. As a result, with the end of the winning game, the first right-hitting notification performance that notifies the user that the game ball will be fired aiming at the attacker (the first big winning hole or the second big winning hole) ends. Next, in S4802, the left-handed shot notification prohibition flag is turned OFF (S4802), the first firing notification flag is turned OFF (S4803), the second firing notification flag is turned ON (S4804), and the process moves to S4805.

Here, the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is turned OFF when the winning game ends, and when the gaming state after the winning game is set to a high base state or when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Then, it is turned ON again in the firing notification process (S4302) after the end of the jackpot game, which will be described later. In addition, the second firing notification flag is turned ON when the winning game ends, and turned OFF when the game state after the winning game is set to the low base state and the variable display of the second special symbol is not executed. be done. That is, while the second firing notification flag is ON, left-handed hitting notification is not executed. After the winning game ends, turning off the second firing notification flag can be regarded as "establishment of a specific condition", and it is possible to execute the left-handed hitting notification performance (first game area firing notification).

In S4805, the ending command is analyzed (S4805), and then mode status change processing is performed (S4806). In the mode status change process (S4806), if the special game currently being executed is a jackpot game related to a time-saving jackpot, the mode status is set to the status related to production mode B. Further, in a jackpot game related to a non-time-saving jackpot, if there is a second special symbol pending, the mode status is set to the status related to production mode C. Further, in a jackpot game related to a non-time-saving jackpot, if there is no second special symbol pending, the mode status is set to the status related to production mode A.

By changing (setting) the mode status like this, the performance mode in the performance symbol game performance that is executed in conjunction with the variable display of the special symbol after the special game (big hit game, small hit game) is changed (after the setting) ) is considered to be a production mode corresponding to the mode status. Next, in S4807, the production control microcomputer 91 refers to the mode status (S4807), and then, based on the analyzed ending command and the referenced mode status, the ending production selects a production pattern (production mode) for the ending production. Perform pattern selection processing (S4808). Incidentally, the ending performance is a performance executed during the ending period after all the big winning opening opening processes (big winning opening opening game) in the special game are finished. Then, in S4809, the performance control microcomputer 91 sets an ending performance start command for starting the ending performance based on the selected ending performance pattern (S4809), and ends the process.

Furthermore, when the ending effect start command set in S4809 is sent to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 transfers the predetermined ending effect image to the ROM of the image control board 100. The image data is read out from the image display device 7 and displayed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. Here, in this embodiment, when a special game related to a time-saving jackpot is executed, a performance that displays the words "Enter Performance Mode B (Chance Mode)" on the display screen 7a is selected as the ending performance. This makes it possible to notify the player that the game has entered a chance mode in which there is a high possibility of executing another jackpot game.

Furthermore, as an ending effect for the special game when there is a non-time-saving jackpot and a second special symbol pending, an effect that displays the words "Enter performance mode C (second chance mode)" on the display screen 7a is selected. This makes it possible to notify the player that the game has entered a second chance (last chance) mode in which there is a high possibility of returning to the chance mode. Furthermore, as an ending effect for the special game in the case of a non-time-saving jackpot and no second special drawing reservation, an effect that displays the words "Enter performance mode A (normal mode)" on the display screen 7a is selected. This notifies the player that the chance mode advantageous to the player has ended and the gaming state has returned to the normal state.

[Fire notification processing after jackpot game ends]
Next, using FIG. 57, the firing notification process (S4302) after the end of the jackpot game will be explained. The firing notification process after the end of the jackpot game is a process for controlling the firing notification performance (fire direction notification) after the end of the jackpot game. In the firing notification process after the end of the jackpot game (S4302), first, it is determined whether the second firing notification flag is ON (S5001). The second firing notification flag is a flag that is turned ON (set) at the end of the winning game, and is turned ON during the period when the game state after the winning game is in a predetermined special state. When the condition is no longer present, it is turned OFF. If it is determined in S5001 that the second launch notification flag is not ON (NO in S5001), the process ends. That is, this process can be said to be a process performed when the second launch notification flag is ON.

If it is determined in S5001 that the second firing notification flag is ON (YES in S5001), then whether it is in a high base state or not, that is, whether the gaming state after the winning game is set to a high base state. (S5002). If it is determined in S5002 that the gaming state is a high base state (YES in S5002), the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is turned on (S5003), and the left-handed hitting notification flag is turned ON (S5003), since the game is played by right-handed hitting in the high base state as described above. Shift to processing. As a result, even if a right-handed game is detected in the high base state, the left-handed game informing performance cannot be performed. In S5004, it is determined whether the second right-handed hitting notification performance is being executed (S5004), and if it is determined that the second right-handed hitting notification performance is already being executed (YES in S5004), the process is ended. If it is determined that the second right-handed hitting notification performance is not being executed (NO in S5004), a second right-handed hitting notification performance execution command is set (S5005), and the process ends. That is, with the start of the high base state, the left-handed hitting notification performance is set to be disabled, and a predetermined right-handed hitting notification performance is executed.

Further, when the second right-handed notification performance execution command set in S5005 is transmitted to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 executes the predetermined performance image shown in FIG. is read from the ROM of the image control board 100, and a firing notification performance (launch direction notification performance) is performed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. Specifically, in the "second right shot notification effect (second firing notification effect)", text such as "Please aim and fire the electric chew in the right area" is displayed on the display screen 7a for a predetermined period of time. . “Electric chew” refers to the second starting port 21. In addition, the second right-handed notification effect is a notification effect that is executed when the gaming state is set to the high base state, and may be displayed throughout the execution of the high base state, or may be displayed when a predetermined condition is met. You may terminate the process by For example, when a game ball is detected at the gate 28 or the like, and a right-handed hit is actually detected, the notification effect may be ended. Further, in the high base state, the notification effect may be terminated on condition that a predetermined period of time elapses or that a special symbol (second special symbol) is displayed variably a predetermined number of times. Further, after the start of the high base state, the performance mode of the notification performance may be changed as a predetermined period of time passes (predetermined conditions are met). For example, the notification effect may be displayed in a large size at the beginning of the high base state, and may be displayed in a small size thereafter.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S5002 that the gaming state is not in a high base state (NO in S5002), then it is determined whether or not the second right-hand hitting notification performance is being executed (S5006). In S5002, the case where it is determined that the gaming state is not a high base state, that is, it is a low base state, can include, for example, the occurrence of a non-time-saving jackpot where the gaming state is set to a low base state after the end of the jackpot game. . In addition, although a time-saving jackpot occurs in which the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the high base state, even if the special symbol validity judgment is executed the upper limit number of times (100 times in this example) in the high base state, When a jackpot game is not executed, a low base state may be set. In S5006, it is determined that the second right-handed hitting notification effect is being executed in this latter case. If it is determined in S5006 that the second right-handed hitting notification performance is being executed (YES in S5006), a second right-handed hitting notification performance end command is set in order to end the second right-handed hitting notification performance that is being executed, Proceed to process S5007.

In S5007, it is determined whether the number of second effects pending (the number of second special symbols pending) is greater than zero. In the first embodiment, the upper limit number of second effects pending that can be stored in the second effects pending storage section is "1", so whether there is a second effect pending (whether it is "1" or not) is also possible. In S5007, the number of second performance pendings stored in the second performance pending storage unit is greater than 0, that is, the second special symbol validity judgment will be executed from now on and the second performance symbol (second special symbol) will change. If it is determined that the screen should be displayed (YES in S5007), the process moves to S5009. In addition, if it is determined in S5007 that no pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section (NO in S5007), then it is determined whether the second performance symbol (second special symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner. Determine (S5011). If it is determined in S5011 that the second production symbol (second special symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, that is, the result of the second special symbol validity determination will be shown from now on (YES in S5011), the process moves to S5009. . In this way, unexploited reservation information is stored in the second performance reservation storage section, or unexploited reservation information is not stored in the second performance reservation storage section, but the performance symbol related to the second special symbol (the 2 effect symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, that is, when it is certain that the result of the second special symbol validity determination will be shown from now on, the process moves to S5009.

In S5009, the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is turned ON (if it is already ON, it remains ON) (S5009), the second chance mode flag is turned ON (S5010), and the process ends. As a result, even if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, the unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section, or the unused pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section. If the consumption pending information is not stored but the effect pattern (second effect pattern) related to the second special pattern is being displayed in a variable manner, the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag is turned ON. In this special state, even if a right-handed hit is detected in a low base state, no special left-handed notification effect is executed, and the gaming state when the special state ends is a low base state and a non-winning gaming state. Under this condition, the left-handed hitting notification effect can be executed. Furthermore, in this special state, the sub-control unit 90 does not execute the right-handed hitting notification performance, so the period is set such that it does not execute either the left-handed hitting notification performance or the right-handed hitting notification performance.

Most importantly, the firing direction indicator 47 (first firing notification means) controlled by the main control unit 80 described above, when the gaming state is a low base state, indicates whether or not the second special symbol is on hold or whether it is being displayed in a variable manner. Regardless, the display mode (notification mode) indicates a left-handed game. However, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, this firing direction indicator 47 indicates the right-handed game state or the left-handed game state by a relatively small display section (LED), so it is possible to use the display screen 7a to It is said to be difficult for players to recognize compared to the firing notification effect (also referred to as "second firing notification means"). Furthermore, since most players play the game by paying attention to the display mode of the display screen 7a shown in FIG. 3 rather than the display mode of the main display 40 shown in FIG. Changes are said to be difficult to notice.

Here, ``Even if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, whether the unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section or the second performance pending storage section When the unconsumed hold information is not stored but the performance symbol (second performance symbol) related to the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is turned on to detect the right-handed hit. The reason why the left-handed hit notification effect is not performed even when the left-handed hit player is on hold or the second left-handed hit alert effect shown in FIG. 58 is not immediately executed based on the low base state setting is that ) This is because there is a possibility that a jackpot game will occur again based on the second special symbol validity determination that has been confirmed to be executed. If a jackpot game occurs again, it is necessary to perform a right-handed game in which the game ball is fired into the right game area (second game area). For example, if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a low base state and the second left hit notification performance (fourth firing notification performance) is immediately executed, then the second special symbol validity or failure related to the pending or fluctuating If it is a jackpot based on the result of the determination, the right-handed hitting notification effect will be executed again in a very short period of time. In this way, during a short period of time after the end of the right-handed game state (jackpot game), the left-handed hit notification effect is once performed to make the player play the left-handed game, and if the jackpot occurs again, the right-handed hit notification is again issued. If a game mode (launch direction notification mode) is executed in which a player is given a presentation to play a right-handed game, the player may find it bothersome and may reduce his or her interest in the game.

In order to prevent a decrease in gaming interest due to such a complicated firing notification effect, we have created a system called ``Even if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, the unexploited data will be stored in the second effect pending storage section. If the pending information is stored or the unconsumed pending information is not stored in the second performance pending storage section, but the performance symbols (second performance symbols) related to the second special symbol are being displayed in a variable manner.'' , until the variable display of the second performance symbol is all completed (until the result of the second special symbol validity determination is displayed), the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is turned ON, and the second left-handed hit notification performance is not executed. I take it as a thing. As a result, in this special state, even if the player continues playing the right-handed game in the low base state or stops firing, the left-handed game notification effect will not be executed.

In addition, when a jackpot game is executed based on the fluctuating display of this second performance symbol (the result of the second special symbol validity determination is a jackpot or a small hit and passes through a specific area and becomes a jackpot), , left-handed hitting notification effects will continue to be prohibited during the jackpot game. On the other hand, all the second performance reservations (second special design reservations) disappear, and the fluctuating display of the performance symbols (second performance symbols) related to the second special symbol ends, and the performance symbols related to this second special symbol If the jackpot game is not executed based on the variable display of (second performance symbol), processing (S5014) for turning off the left-handed hit notification flag, etc. is executed.

Specifically, in S5007, it is determined that the suspension information is not stored in the second performance suspension storage unit (NO in S5007), and the performance symbol (second performance symbol) related to the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. If it is determined that this is not the case (NO in S5011), the second chance mode flag is turned OFF (if it is OFF, it remains OFF) (S5012), the second firing notification flag is turned OFF (S5013), and the left-handed shot notification is prohibited. The flag is turned OFF (S5014), a second left-handed hitting notification performance execution command is set (S5015), and the process is finished. Further, when the second left-handed hitting notification effect execution command set in S5015 is transmitted to the image control board 100 by the command transmission process (S4006), the CPU of the image control board 100 executes the predetermined effect image shown in FIG. is read from the ROM of the image control board 100, and a firing notification performance (launch direction notification performance) is performed on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7. Specifically, in the "second left firing notification effect (fourth firing notification effect)", text such as "Chance mode has ended. Please fire aiming at the left area" is displayed on the display screen 7a for a predetermined period of time. to be displayed. As a result, from now on, when a game ball is detected by the gate 28 (a right-handed game is detected), the first left-handed hitting notification effect (third firing notification effect) is performed based on the gate passing process (S4420) shown in FIG. will be executed.

In addition, in the first embodiment, a state in which the gaming state is set to a high base state (second frequency state) is referred to as a "chance mode", and the frequency of balls entering the second starting port is increased (second frequency state). (It is assumed that the ball can easily enter the starting hole.) The probability of being judged as a jackpot in the second special symbol correctness determination is the same as the first special symbol correctness determination, but the probability of being judged as a small hit in the second special symbol correctness determination is the same as that of the first special symbol correctness determination. It is set higher than the judgment. As a result, the possibility of the next jackpot game being executed in a short period of time is set to be very high due to a jackpot based on the small win (small win V). Therefore, in the chance mode, there is a high possibility that the next jackpot game will be executed during the chance mode, that is, there is a high possibility that so-called consecutive games (continuous jackpot games) will occur. Further, if the jackpot is a time-saving jackpot, the chance mode will be set again after the jackpot game ends.

In this chance mode (time saving state, high base state), the probability of entering the time saving state when the result of the second special symbol validity determination is a jackpot is 49.5%. Further, based on the result of the second special symbol validity determination being a small hit and passing through a specific area, the probability that the time saving state will occur when a jackpot is achieved is 49.8%. That is, the probability that a jackpot game is executed during the chance mode and that the chance mode (time saving state) is set again after the jackpot game ends is about 50%.

On the other hand, in the low base state (non-time saving state, normal state), the probability of entering the time saving state when the result of the second special symbol validity determination is a jackpot is 100%. Furthermore, the probability of a time-saving state when a jackpot occurs based on the fact that the result of the second special symbol validity determination is a small hit and passes through a specific area is also 100%. That is, in the low base state (non-time saving state, normal state), if the second special symbol validity judgment is executed and a jackpot game is executed, after the end of the jackpot game, the chance mode (time saving state, high base state) is executed. ) is set to 100%. In addition, the probability that the result of the second special symbol validity determination is determined to be a jackpot is "1/215.57", which is the same as the probability that the result of the first special symbol validity determination is determined to be a jackpot. The probability is set so that it is difficult to determine a jackpot based on the number of times (for example, "1" time).

On the other hand, the probability that the result of the second special symbol validity determination is determined to be a small hit is "1/4.07", and the probability that the result of the first special symbol validity determination is determined to be a small hit is "1/19". .99''. Therefore, the probability that the result of the second special symbol validity determination is determined to be a small hit is set to be much higher than the probability that the result of the first special symbol validity determination is determined to be a small hit. In addition, in the second special symbol correctness determination, the possibility of determining a small hit with a small number of determinations (for example, "1" time) is also set to be relatively high (approximately 25% for 1 time). Therefore, if the second special symbol validity judgment is executed in the low base state (normal state, non-time saving state), there is a high possibility that a jackpot game will be executed, and after the end of the jackpot game, the chance mode (high It can be said that there is a high possibility that chance mode will be executed.

Here, although the second special symbol validity determination in the low base state is set to be more advantageous than the first special symbol validity determination in the low base state, in the low base state, the game ball does not reach the second starting hole. The frequency of ball entry is set low. Therefore, in the low base state, it is difficult to enter the game ball into the second starting hole and execute the second special symbol validity determination that is advantageous to the player. In addition, in the low base state, a left-handed game is played, so it is extremely difficult (impossible) to let the game ball pass through the gate 28 or enter the second starting port 21 in the first place. It can be said that it is.

On the other hand, in the pachinko gaming machine of the first embodiment, the second special symbol validity determination can be executed relatively easily in the low base state when the gaming state is set to the high base state. In the high base state, it is easy for the game ball to enter the second starting port 21, so the game ball enters the second starting port 21 to display the second special symbol in a variable manner, and The unconsumed reservation information (second special figure reservation) is stored in the second special figure reservation storage section. Then, in this state, if a jackpot game is executed based on the determination result of the second special symbol that is being fluctuated and displayed, and the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, "In the low base state A state in which the second special symbol validity determination is executed (special state)" is reached.

Therefore, if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state as explained based on FIG. In the case where the unconsumed pending information is not stored in the performance pending storage unit, but the performance symbol related to the second special symbol (second performance symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, from now on, the 2 This is a state that indicates the result of the special symbol validity determination, and for the player, it is considered as a "second chance mode" in which there is a high possibility of returning to the "chance mode (high base state)" again. A second chance mode flag is provided as a flag to indicate a period during which there is a high possibility of entering this second chance mode (``second chance mode''), and this second chance mode flag is turned ON in S5010. . The sub-control unit can determine the state of this second chance mode flag and execute a second chance effect on the display screen 7a or the like.

In this way, if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to the low base state, the unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section, or the second performance pending storage section In the case where the unconsumed pending information is not stored but the performance symbol related to the second special symbol (second performance symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, in other words, in the second chance mode (special state), the low base state (left Although the game is set to a high base state (right-handed hitting state), there is a high possibility that it will be set to a high base state (right-handed hitting state) again in a short period of time (via a jackpot game). Therefore, if the jackpot game is not executed after waiting for the end of the fluctuating display of the second special symbol whose execution has been confirmed, the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is turned OFF, and the left-handed hit notification performance based on the right-handed hit detection ( This makes it possible to execute the first left-handed firing notification effect). Further, a left-handed hitting notification performance (second left-handed firing notification performance) is executed based on the end of the variable display of the second special symbol. As a result, the player switches to a left-handed game and plays the game aiming at the first starting opening 20.

By doing the above, it is possible to prevent firing notification effects such as right-handed shot notification effects and left-handed shot notification effects from being executed unnecessarily frequently, and to prevent players from changing the firing direction many times in a short period of time. It is possible to eliminate the trouble of switching and to prevent the game from feeling troublesome. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

Next, the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment will be explained using FIG. 41(B) and FIGS. 60 to 62. In the first embodiment, during a jackpot game, the special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag is set to ON so that the consecutive winning period can be easily grasped by a hall computer or the like connected to the external output device 83 (signal output unit, external terminal version 141). A specific signal (special signal) is provided that is output in an ON state during either the time-saving game or the time-saving game. Thereby, the hall computer or the like that received the specific signal could determine that the consecutive game period (specific period) was in progress if the specific signal was determined to be in the ON state. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. In the aspect of the first embodiment, it is very easy to determine whether or not the period determined by the gaming machine is the consecutive game period. However, because of the individual signals, it is difficult to set the consecutive play period on the hall computer side, and other types of signals are not handled in the same way as external output signals of pachinko machines, or they are special signals. Therefore, there was a problem of lack of versatility. In addition, the control unit that determines whether the gaming state of the gaming machine is (1) in the jackpot game, (2) with the special chart 2 continuous fluctuation flag ON, and (3) in the time-saving game is ``state judgment control section''.

[Output signal]
In the second embodiment, it is assumed that a plurality of signals that can specify the consecutive game period are outputted to the outside, and the consecutive game period is set on the hall computer side that receives the plurality of signals. Specifically, the game signal (game information) that can be outputted to the outside by the information output processing (FIGS. 60 to 62) of the second embodiment will be explained using FIG. 41(B). By the information output processing of this second embodiment, a predetermined game signal (game information) generated by a game control microcomputer or the like is outputted in a manner that can be received by an external device (hall computer, etc.). In the second embodiment, there are six types of signals shown in FIG. 41(B) as signals output from the main control board 80 to the outside of the gaming machine. These six types of output signals will be explained.

The information output circuit 82 of the main control board 80 of the second embodiment is equipped with the first to sixth output parts as in the first embodiment, and the signal generated by the game control microcomputer 81 is transmitted to the information output circuit 82 ( The signals are output from the first to sixth output sections of the signal output section) to the external output device 83 (signal output section, external signal output section, external terminal plate 141) in an ON state or an OFF state, respectively. Further, the first output part of the information output circuit 82 can output a jackpot game information signal (win game signal), the second output part can output a time saving signal, and the third output part can output a time saving signal. The special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation signal (continuous signal) can be output, the fourth output part can output the small winning game signal, the fifth output part can output the special symbol confirmation signal, and the sixth output part can output the special symbol confirmation signal. An error signal can be output from the output section. These output signals are switched to an ON state (signal logic: 1) or an OFF state (signal logic: 0) depending on the gaming state.

Specifically, the jackpot game information signal is output in an ON state at the start of a jackpot game, and is output in an OFF state after a predetermined period has elapsed from the end of the jackpot game. That is, the "jackpot game information signal" is output in the ON state during the execution of the jackpot game and during a predetermined delay time after the end of the jackpot, and is output in the OFF state during the other periods. This point is different from the "jackpot game in progress signal" which is output in an ON state only during execution of a jackpot game in the first embodiment.

Further, the time saving signal is output in an ON state during a time saving state (during a high base state), and is output in an OFF state during a non-time saving state. Further, the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation signal is output in the ON state when the second special symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner in the OFF state, and is output in the OFF state when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner in the ON state. Further, the small winning game signal is output in the ON state while the small winning game is being executed, and is output in the OFF state while the small winning game is not being executed. In addition, the special symbol confirmation signal is kept in the ON state for a predetermined period of time (in this example, 0.6 seconds) from when the fluctuation of the special symbol stops (determined stop display), and is turned OFF after the predetermined time elapses in the ON state. Ru. Further, the error signal (abnormal signal) is turned ON when a predetermined error (for example, frame opening) is detected, and turned OFF when the error is canceled (for example, frame closing).

[Information output processing]
Next, the information output process (S209) of the second embodiment will be explained using FIGS. 60 to 62. In the information output process (S209) of the second embodiment, first, it is determined whether the jackpot game execution flag is ON, that is, whether the jackpot game is being executed (S5151). In S5151, when it is determined that the jackpot game execution flag is ON, that is, the jackpot game is being executed (YES in S5151), the jackpot game information flag is turned ON and the jackpot game information signal is output in the ON state. A hall computer or the like that receives the jackpot game information signal in the ON state determines that the current gaming state is a jackpot game. Here, the "jackpot game information signal" is output in the ON state or OFF state corresponding to the state (ON or OFF) of the jackpot game information flag, and is output during the execution of the jackpot game (accessories continuous operation device is in operation).

Further, as described above, the "jackpot game information signal" in the ON state is turned OFF after a predetermined time (50 ms in this embodiment) has elapsed from the end of the jackpot game. This makes it possible to delay the timing at which the jackpot game information signal turns from ON to OFF, and to set the ON period to be slightly longer than the actual execution period of the jackpot game. As a result, the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a non-time saving state (low base state), and in the non-time saving state, the second special symbol is displayed based on the reservation information stored in the second special symbol reservation storage section 85b. When displaying fluctuations, please be aware that after the end of the jackpot game and before the start of the fluctuation display of the second special symbol, the jackpot game information signal, the special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation signal, and the time saving signal all turn OFF. This can be reliably prevented.

If it is determined in S5151 that the jackpot game execution flag is not ON (NO in S5151), then it is determined whether the jackpot game information flag is ON (S5154), and if the jackpot game information flag is not ON, that is, the jackpot If it is determined that the game information signal is in the OFF state (NO in S5154), the process moves to S5160. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5154 that the jackpot game information flag is ON, that is, the jackpot game execution flag is OFF, but the jackpot game information flag is ON (YES in S5154), then the delay timer is It is determined whether the process is being executed, that is, whether the delay time is being measured by the delay timer (S5155). If it is determined in S5155 that the delay time is not being measured by the delay timer (NO in S5155), a predetermined delay time (50 ms in this example) is set in the delay timer and measurement of the delay time is started. (S5107) and proceeds to the process of S5157.

If it is determined in S5155 that the delay time is being measured by the delay timer (YES in S5155), the process moves to S5157. In S5157, it is determined whether the value of the delay timer is "0", and if it is determined that it is not "0", that is, the delay time is still being measured (delay processing is being executed) (NO in S5157), the value of the delay timer is determined to be "0". Move to processing. If it is determined in S5157 that the value of the delay timer is "0" (YES in S5157), the jackpot game information flag is turned OFF (S5158), the jackpot game information signal is output in the OFF state (S5159), and the Move to processing. This completes the delay processing of the jackpot game information signal. Note that the delay time may be set to a time longer than the period (4 ms) of the interrupt processing (S105), and may not be 50 ms.

In S5160, it is determined whether the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is ON. "Special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag" indicates that the second special symbol among the first special symbol and the second special symbol fluctuates continuously (two or more times in a row) in the special symbol fluctuation process (S1104). It is turned on based on the display. Further, when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner while the special symbol 2 continuous variation flag is ON, it is turned OFF. In addition, in this embodiment, the consecutive number is set to 2 times, but if it is set to a predetermined number of times of 3 or more, and the second special symbol is displayed fluctuating continuously for the predetermined number of times, the "special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation flag" is turned ON. It may also be something to do.

In S5160, when it is determined that the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation flag is ON (YES in S5160), the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation signal is output in the ON state (S5161), and the process moves to S5163. A hall computer or the like that receives the special symbol 2 continuous variation signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state is a state in which the second special symbol is continuously varied and displayed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special figure 2 continuous variation flag is not ON (NO in S5160), the special figure 2 continuous variation signal is output in the OFF state (S5162), and the process moves to S5163. A hall computer or the like that has received the special symbol 2 continuous fluctuation signal in the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state is a state in which the second special symbol is not continuously displayed in a variable manner. In S5163, it is determined whether the time saving flag is ON (S5163), and if it is determined that the time saving flag is ON (YES in S5163), the time saving signal is output in the ON state (S5113), and the process moves to S5120. do. A hall computer or the like that receives the time-saving signal in the ON state can determine that the current gaming state is the time-saving state. If it is determined in S5163 that the time saving flag is not ON (NO in S5163), the time saving signal is output in an OFF state (S5115), and the process proceeds to S5120. A hall computer or the like that receives the time-saving signal in the OFF state can determine that the current gaming state is a non-time-saving state. Further, the processing from S5120 to S5131 shown in FIG. 62 is the same as the processing in the first embodiment, so the description thereof will be omitted.

As mentioned above, in the second embodiment, a plurality of signals can be outputted to the outside as signals generated by the game control microcomputer 81, and by reading these externally outputted signals with a hall computer or the like connected to an external output device, the above-mentioned It becomes possible to grasp the consecutive game period (specific period), the number of jackpot games (number of consecutive games), the number of variable displays, etc. during the consecutive game period, and provide it to the player as game information. In particular, since the jackpot game information signal, time-saving medium signal, and special chart 2 continuous fluctuation signal are output as signals that can be used to grasp the consecutive winning period, it is possible to appropriately grasp the consecutive winning period based on these signals. .

In addition, similarly to the first embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment also determines whether the special figure 2 is in a state where the special figure 2 is continuously fluctuating and displaying based on the special figure 2 continuous fluctuation signal, and the game state after the end of the jackpot game is determined. Even if it is in a non-time saving state, if the jackpot game is executed again based on the result of the second special symbol validity determination related to the second special symbol reservation, the determination of the consecutive winning period is turned OFF. This makes it possible to determine that the consecutive home rental period continues without the need for a long period of time. In addition, by determining that the jackpot game is continuing for a predetermined period even after the jackpot game actually ends, the hall computer side can determine that the consecutive game period has ended even though it is still a consecutive game period. This makes it possible to reliably prevent misjudgment. Thereby, the consecutive game period can be set as long as possible, the number of jackpot games during the consecutive game period (the so-called number of consecutive games) can be counted as high as possible, and the interest in the game can be increased.

Next, the pachinko game machine 151 of the third embodiment will be explained using FIGS. 63 to 67. The pachinko gaming machine 151 of the third embodiment differs from the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment in the structure of the gaming machine frame 50 and the configuration of the control section. Since the other parts have different configurations, we will mainly explain the differences and omit the explanation of the common parts. Furthermore, the same components as in the first embodiment will be explained using the same reference numerals.

A pachinko gaming machine 151 according to the third embodiment will be explained based on FIGS. 63 to 67. In the following description, the left-right direction of each part of the pachinko game machine 151 as an example of a game machine will be explained so as to correspond to the left-right direction for a player facing the pachinko game machine 151. Further, the front direction of each part of the pachinko game machine 151 is taken as the direction toward the player facing the pachinko game machine 151, and the rear direction of each part of the pachinko game machine 151 is taken as the direction away from the player facing the pachinko game machine 151, explain.

As shown in FIG. 63, the pachinko game machine 151 of the third embodiment includes a game machine frame 50 and a game board 2 (not shown) attached within the game machine frame 50. The gaming machine frame 50 forms the outer shell of the pachinko gaming machine 151, and includes an outer frame 53, a main body frame 52, and a front frame (glass door frame) 51. The front frame (front door part) 51 is disposed on the front side of the outer frame 53 and the main body frame 52, and has a vertical rectangular shape for holding the game board 2. An opening is formed in the center of the front frame 51, and a transparent glass plate (window) 152 is attached to the opening so that the player can view the gaming area (predetermined area) 3.

The front frame 51 includes an upper decorative unit 200 on the upper side, a left side decorative unit 210 on the left side, a right side decorative unit 220 on the right side, an operating mechanism unit 230 on the lower side, and an upper decorative unit 200 on the rear side. A base member is provided on which the left side decorative unit 210, the right side decorative unit 220, and the operating mechanism unit 230 are assembled.

A handle (shooting operation means) 60 is provided on the right side of the operating mechanism unit (game medium storage section) 230 for shooting the game ball with a shooting intensity that corresponds to the rotation angle. The operation mechanism unit 230 also includes a ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 that stores game balls (game media), and an excess ball tray (lower tray) 62 that stores game balls that cannot be accommodated in the ball supply tray 61. is provided. Further, the operation mechanism unit 230 is provided with a production button 63 and a select button (cross key) 64 that can be operated by the player during production performed as the game progresses. Note that the select button 64 includes an up button, a down button, a left button, and a right button. Further, on the left side of the operating mechanism unit 230, a call switch 180 (operating means, input means) is provided for calling (calling) an employee of the hall. This call switch 180 is placed next to the select button 64 in a position that is easily visible to the player. A detailed description of the call switch 180 will be given later.

As shown in FIGS. 63 to 65, the upper decoration unit (upper decoration part) 200 includes a box-shaped housing part 290 with an open upper side, a left frame movable body 600L and a right frame movable body accommodated in this housing part 290. It is equipped with a body 600R. A rotating shaft 441 extending in the front-rear direction is attached to the center of the accommodating portion 290 in the left-right direction, and the rotating shaft is inclined downward toward the front. The left frame movable body 600L and the right frame movable body 600R are rotatably attached to the rotation shaft 441.

In the initial state, the left frame movable body 600L and the right frame movable body 600R are in the storage position (standby position, first position) shown in FIGS. 63 and 64. Then, during the initial operation when the power is turned on, or with the execution of a predetermined game performance (SP reach performance or jackpot performance), the left side frame movable body 600L rotates 90 degrees clockwise around the rotation axis 441 from the storage position. Then, the protruding position (operating position, second position) shown in FIG. 65 is reached. At the same time, the right side frame movable body 600R rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise around the rotating shaft 441 from the storage position to reach the protruding position (operating position, second position) shown in FIG. 65. The left frame movable body 600L and the right frame movable body 600R are driven by a frame movable body drive motor (not shown). The left frame movable body 600L and the right frame movable body 600R are collectively referred to as a "frame movable body 600 (movable member)."

When the frame movable body 600 is in the storage position, as shown in FIGS. 63 and 64, it is located below the upper edge 155 of the gaming machine frame 50 (front frame 51). When the frame movable body 600 moves to the protruding position, it protrudes above the upper edge 155 of the gaming machine frame 50, as shown in FIG. This makes it possible to give a strong impact to the players.

As shown in FIGS. 64 and 65, the front end position P1 of the upper decorative unit 200 is further forward than the front end position P2 of the operating mechanism unit 230. That is, the upper decorative unit 200 protrudes furthest forward than the other units (members) of the gaming machine frame 50 (front frame 51). Therefore, in the gaming machine frame 50, the upper decorative unit 200 is shaped to protrude toward the player, making it possible to give an impact in terms of shape. In addition, since the upper decoration unit 200 largely protrudes forward, the accommodating portion 290 becomes large, making it possible to configure the frame movable body 600 in a large size.

Further, as shown in FIG. 63, a frame lamp 156 is provided on the front wall of the upper decorative unit 200. Specifically, the frame lamp 66 includes, in order from the left side to the right side, an "L" shaped first light emitting section, an "O" shaped second light emitting section, and a "G" shaped third light emitting section. and an "O"-shaped fourth light emitting section. The frame lamps 156 thus form a series of meaningful character strings consisting of "LOGO".

As shown in FIGS. 64 and 65, a data display 160 is installed above the pachinko game machine 151. The data display 160 displays the operating status (game status, gaming status) of the connected pachinko gaming machine 151. This data display 160 includes a fixing device 161 fixed to a vertical wall SH, a display device 162 attached to the fixing device 161 so as to be tiltable back and forth, and a caller for calling an employee of the hall. It includes a button 163 and a call lamp 164 for indicating that the data display 160 is in a call state (calling in progress).

When the call button 163 is pressed, a call signal is transmitted from the data display 160 to the hall computer 142. This allows the hall computer 142 to know that the data display 160 is in the calling state. In this case, the hall employee will go to the pachinko game machine 151 where the call button 163 has been pressed. Further, at this time, the call lamp 164 continues to emit light (light up) based on the pressing operation of the call button 163. This indicates to the player, surrounding employees, etc. that the data display 160 is in the calling state.

Then, when the data display 160 is in the calling state, when a player or a called employee of the hall presses the call button 163, a non-call signal is sent from the data display 160 to the hall computer 142. be done. Thereby, the hall computer 142 can recognize that the data display 160 has been switched to the non-calling state (normal state). At this time, the call lamp 164 is switched from being lit to being turned off based on the pressing operation of the call button 163. This indicates to the player, surrounding employees, etc. that the calling state of the data display 160 has been released.

The display device 162 includes a start count display section 165 that shows the number of times the special symbol has been variably displayed, a jackpot count display section that shows the number of jackpot wins today (predetermined period), and a jackpot number display section that shows the number of prize balls (number of balls won). A prize ball number display section is provided to show the number of prize pitches. Note that the display section provided in the display device 162 is not limited to the start count display section, the jackpot count display section, and the prize ball count display section, but also a high probability occurrence count display section that indicates the number of occurrences of a high probability state. Alternatively, a display section showing the number of jackpot wins on the previous day indicating the number of jackpot wins on the previous day may be provided, and this can be changed as appropriate.

The display device 162 is configured such that the forward tilt angle θ with respect to the fixing device 161 can be varied from 15 degrees to 25 degrees. By tilting the display device 162 forward in this manner, the display device 162 becomes easier to see for a sitting player. However, as described above, when the frame movable body 600 protrudes above the upper edge 50U of the gaming machine frame 50, there is a possibility that the frame movable body 600 interferes with the display device 162.

As shown in FIG. 65, the frame movable body 600 of the third embodiment projects obliquely forward in a side view. This avoids interference between the frame movable body 600 and the display device 162. As a result, when the frame movable body 600 is in the protruding position, the front end position P3 of the frame movable body 600 is located further forward than the front end position P1 of the upper decoration unit 200. That is, the frame movable body 600 in the protruding position protrudes further forward than the upper decorative unit 200 protruding forward. Therefore, the frame movable body 600 in the protruding position comes closer to the player, and it is possible to strengthen the impact on the player. Note that when the frame movable body 600 is in the protruding position, the forward tilt angle φ (see FIG. 65) of the frame movable body 600 with respect to the vertical wall surface SH is 25 degrees.

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine 151 of the third embodiment will be explained. As shown in FIG. 66, in the pachinko game machine 151 of the third embodiment, as in the first example, the main control board 80 includes a one-chip microcomputer for game control that controls the progress of the game of the pachinko game machine 1 according to the program. 81 (hereinafter also referred to as "gaming control microcomputer") is implemented. The game control microcomputer 81 (game control unit) includes a ROM that stores programs for controlling the progress of games, a RAM used as a work memory, a CPU that executes the programs stored in the ROM, and data and signals. It includes an I/O port section (input/output circuit) for inputting/outputting.

Various sensors and solenoids (not shown) are connected to the main control board 80 via a relay board 88. Therefore, signals are input from each sensor to the main control board 80, and signals are output from the main control board 80 to each solenoid. Specifically, the sensors include a first starting hole sensor 20a, a second starting hole sensor 21a, a gate sensor 28a, a first big winning hole sensor 30a, a second big winning hole sensor 35a, a specific area sensor 39a, and a general winning hole sensor. A mouth sensor 27a is connected.

The first starting port sensor 20a is provided within the first starting port 20 and detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 20. The second starting port sensor 21a is provided within the second starting port 21 and detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 21. The gate sensor 28a is provided inside the gate 28 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 28. The first big winning hole sensor 30a is provided in the first big winning hole 30 and detects a game ball that has entered the first big winning hole 30. The second big winning hole sensor 35a is provided in the second big winning hole 35 and detects a game ball that has entered the second big winning hole 35. The specific area sensor 39a is provided in a specific area 39 within the second large prize opening 35 and detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 39. Further, a non-specific area sensor may be provided in the second large winning hole 35 to detect a game ball that has passed through the non-specific area 70 in the second large winning hole 35. The general ball entrance sensor 27a is provided in the general ball entrance 27 and detects a game ball that has entered the general ball entrance 27.

The aforementioned first starting hole sensor 20a, second starting hole sensor 21a, first big winning hole sensor 30a, second big winning hole sensor 35a, specific area sensor 39a, and general ball entrance sensor 27a detect the game ball. Based on this, it is also referred to as a "first specific signal output section" that outputs a first specific signal to the main control board 80 (gaming control section). The first specific signals output by these first specific signal output units (first starting opening detection signal, second starting opening detection signal, first big winning opening detection signal, second big winning opening detection signal, specific area detection signal, The general ball entrance detection signal) is input to the main control board 80 (gaming control unit), and after predetermined control processing is executed by the gaming control microcomputer 81, external output signals (jackpot signal, symbol confirmation signal, award The ball information signal, game status signal, etc.) are output to the external terminal board 141 (external output section).

In addition, the first specific signals outputted by these first specific signal output units (first starting opening detection signal, second starting opening detection signal, first big winning opening detection signal, second big winning opening detection signal, specific area detection signal, general ball entrance detection signal) is input to the main control board 80 (gaming control unit, main board), and after predetermined control processing is executed by the game control microcomputer 81, the payout control board 110 ( After the input is input to the game control unit, main board) and predetermined control processing is executed by the payout control microcomputer 116, it is output to the external terminal board 141 (external output unit) as an external output signal (for example, prize ball information signal, etc.). Output. The starting port detection signal is also referred to as a "guidance detection signal."

The main control board 80 is also referred to as a propriety determination control section that makes a propriety determination based on the establishment of a predetermined condition. Further, the main control board 80 and the payout control unit 110 are also referred to as a special game control unit that executes a special game that can award a predetermined gaming profit to the player when the result of the judgment is a specific result. The payout control unit 110 is also referred to as a gaming profit granting control unit that manages and controls the amount of gaming profits awarded.

Further, the main control board 80 transmits various commands to the payout control board 110 and receives signals from the payout control board 110 for monitoring payout. The payout control board 110 includes a payout device 120 (prize balls and rental balls) and a card unit (installed adjacent to the pachinko game machine 151, which enables ball rental based on information on an inserted prepaid card, etc.). ) is connected, and a launcher is also connected via a launch control circuit (not shown). Firing device 112 includes a handle 60.

The payout control board 110 is equipped with a one-chip microcomputer 116 for payout control (hereinafter also referred to as "microcomputer for payout control") that performs control processing related to payout of game balls according to a program. The payout control microcomputer 116 (payout control unit, game control unit) includes a ROM that stores programs for controlling payouts, a RAM used as a work memory, a CPU that executes programs stored in the ROM, and data. It includes an I/O port section (input/output circuit) for inputting and outputting signals and signals.

The payout control microcomputer 116 drives the payout motor of the payout device 120 to pay out prize balls based on signals from the game control microcomputer 81 and signals from the card unit connected to the pachinko gaming machine 151. and pay out rental balls. The prize balls to be paid out are detected by either of the two payout sensors for counting, and a detection signal from the payout sensor is output to the payout control board 110. Further, the paid out rental balls are also detected by the payout sensor for counting, and a detection signal (given game ball detection signal) by the payout sensor (given game ball detection section) is output to the payout control board 110.

The above-mentioned payout sensor outputs a first specific signal to the payout control board 110 (gaming control unit, main board, gaming profit giving control unit) based on the detection of a game ball. Also called "output section." The first specific signal (payout sensor detection signal) output by the first specific signal output unit is input to the payout control board 110 (game control unit), and after predetermined control processing is executed by the payout control microcomputer 116. , is outputted to the external terminal board 141 (external output section) as an external output signal (prize ball information signal, etc.).

Further, as in the first embodiment, the main control board 80 transmits various commands to the sub-control board 90. The connection between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 is a unidirectional communication connection that allows only the transmission of signals from the main control board 80 to the sub-control board 90. That is, a unidirectional circuit (for example, a circuit using a diode), not shown, is interposed between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 as a communication direction regulating means. The configurations of other control boards, such as the sub-control board, image control board, audio control board, and lamp control board, are the same as in Example 1, so detailed explanations will be omitted (see FIG. 5).

As shown in FIG. 66, in the third embodiment, the external terminal board 141 (corresponding to the external output device 83) is connected to both the main control board 80 and the payout control board 110. Instead of this configuration, the external terminal board 141 (external output device) may be connected to the main control board 80 and not connected to the payout control board 110 (however, the output signal from the payout control board 110 can be output to the external terminal board 141 via the main control board 80). Alternatively, the external terminal board 141 may be connected to the payout control board 110 but not connected to the main control board 80 (however, the output signal from the main control board 80 is connected to the external terminal board 141 via the payout control board 110). 141). Also, as in the third embodiment, when the external terminal board 141 is connected to both the main control board 80 and the payout control board 110, the output signal from the main control board 80 is connected to the payout control board 110. Alternatively, the output signal from the payout control board 110 may be output to the external terminal board 141 via the main control board 80.

Based on the signals output by the game control microcomputer 81 or the payout control microcomputer 116, various signals are output to external devices arranged outside the pachinko game machine 151, such as the data display 160 and the hall computer 142. The external terminal board 141 is provided with a plurality of channels for external output. The connector corresponding to each channel and the connector on the data display 160 side are connected by a cable. One signal is output from each connector to the outside.

The external terminal board 141 can output a jackpot signal (jackpot gaming signal) from one channel among the plurality of channels. The jackpot signal is a signal indicating that a jackpot game is being executed. Further, the external terminal board 141 can output a symbol confirmation signal (special symbol confirmation signal) from one channel among the plurality of channels. The symbol confirmation signal (special symbol confirmation signal) is a signal indicating that the special symbol that was being displayed in a variable manner has been stopped and displayed. Further, the external terminal board 141 can output a prize ball information signal from one of the plurality of channels. The prize ball information signal is a signal indicating that a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of prize balls (gaming profits) have been ejected. Further, the external terminal board 141 can output a calling signal from one channel among the plurality of channels. The call signal is a signal indicating that a call switch 180, which will be described in detail later, has been pressed. Further, the external terminal version 141 can output a frame opening signal from one channel among the plurality of channels. The frame opening signal (frame signal) is a signal indicating that a gaming machine frame 50, which will be described in detail later, has been opened.

In addition to the above-mentioned signals, when the variable winning device 22 and the big winning device (first big winning device 31 and second big winning device 36) are not activated, the winning hole (first big winning hole) related to these devices is activated. 30, second big prize opening 35, second starting opening 21) security signal indicating that there was a winning, starting opening signal indicating that there was a winning in the first starting opening 20 or second starting opening 21; A high-probability state signal that indicates that the state is in a high-probability state, which will be described later, and an excessive entry signal that indicates that more than a predetermined number of game balls have entered a specific ball entry port during a predetermined period of time. Signals etc. can be output from each channel. In addition to the above-mentioned jackpot signal, the external terminal board The type of signal output from 141 can be changed as appropriate.

In the third embodiment, the signals (outer end output signal, specific signal, special signal) that the payout control microcomputer 116 outputs to the external terminal board 141, and the signals that the game control microcomputer 81 outputs to the external terminal board 141. The signals (outer end output signal, specific signal, special signal) are each separate signals (parallel data) and are input to the external terminal board 141 as parallel data. When parallel data is input to the external terminal board 141, a signal transmission element such as a photorelay provided corresponding to each channel switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state according to each input signal. As a result, external output signals (jackpot signal, symbol confirmation signal, prize ball information signal, call signal, frame opening signal, etc.) are output from the channel in which the photorelay has become conductive.

In addition, the signal that the payout control microcomputer 116 outputs to the external terminal board 141 and the signal that the gaming control microcomputer 81 outputs to the external terminal board 141 may be serial data having an information amount of multiple bits. . In this case, the serial data is converted into parallel data by an S/P conversion circuit (serial/parallel conversion circuit), not shown, and is input to the external terminal board 141 as parallel data.

The data display 160 counts the number of times the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner based on the switching from non-reception to reception (ON edge) of the symbol confirmation signal, and calculates the count value to the number of times the data display 160 starts. Display on the display. That is, when the first starting port sensor 20a or the second starting port sensor 21a detects the ball entering, a detection signal is inputted to the main control board 80 via the relay board 88. Thereby, the game control microcomputer 81 obtains various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, which will be described later, and determines whether or not it is a jackpot. Then, the game control microcomputer 81 displays a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) indicating the determination result of whether or not it is a jackpot, and then stops displaying it (determined display). At this time (at the timing of the stop display), the game control microcomputer 81 outputs an outer end output signal indicating the final display of the special symbol to the external terminal board 150. As a result, the external terminal board 141 outputs a symbol confirmation signal to the data display 160. As a result, the data display 160 is configured to display the number of times the special symbol has been displayed in a variable manner incremented by one in the start number display section.

The game control microcomputer outputs an outer end output signal indicating the final display of the special symbol to the payout control board 110, and the payout control microcomputer 116 outputs an outer end output signal indicating the final display of the input special symbol. may be configured to be output to the external terminal board 150 (without or after being controlled by the payout control microcomputer 116). The same applies to other outer end output signals (jackpot signal, symbol confirmation signal, prize ball information signal, call signal, frame opening signal, etc.) to be described later.

Further, the data display 160 counts the number of jackpot occurrences based on the switching from non-reception to reception (ON edge) of the jackpot signal, and displays the count value on the jackpot number display section of the data display 160. . That is, as described above, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not it is a jackpot based on the acquired jackpot random number, and if the determination result is a jackpot, after displaying a special symbol indicating a jackpot, Stop display. When the stop display of the special symbol indicating a jackpot ends, the game control microcomputer 81 outputs an external output signal to an external terminal indicating that a jackpot game (opening game, round game, ending game) is being executed. Output to board 141. As a result, the external terminal board 141 outputs a jackpot signal to the data display 160. As a result, the data display 160 displays the number of jackpots incremented by one in the jackpot number display section. Incidentally, the outer end output signal indicating that the jackpot game is being executed continues to be output until the ending game ends.

Further, the data display 160 counts so that the number of prize balls increases by 10 balls based on the switching from non-reception to reception of the prize ball information signal (ON edge), and displays the count value on the data display 160. It is displayed on the prize pitch number display section (not shown). That is, after the game ball enters the first starting hole 20, second starting hole 21, first big winning hole 30, second big winning hole 35, or general ball entrance 27, the payout sensor actually pays out the ball. When the put out game ball is detected, a detection signal is input to the payout control board 110. As a result, when the payout control microcomputer 116 determines that the number of game balls that have been paid out has reached 10, it outputs an outer end output signal indicating an increase in the number of prize balls displayed to the external terminal board 141. Note that the payout control microcomputer 116 does not output an outer end output signal indicating an increase in the number of prize balls displayed unless it is determined that the number of played game balls has reached 10 balls. In this way, the external terminal board 141 receives the outer end output signal indicating the increase in the number of prize balls displayed, and outputs the prize ball information signal to the data display 160. As a result, the data display 160 displays the number of prize balls incremented by 10 in a prize ball number display section (not shown).

The hall computer 142 aggregates information such as the operating status (playing status, gaming status) of each pachinko machine installed in the hall, including the pachinko machine 151, and performs business management, game management, etc. This is the device. This hall computer 142 is installed in a hall management room, etc., and is connected to the pachinko game machine 151 via a data display 160 or directly to an external terminal board 141. Therefore, the various external output signals described above (jackpot signal, symbol confirmation signal, prize ball information signal, call signal, frame opening signal, etc.) are also input to the hole computer 142.

Next, the configuration of the call switch 180 provided in the operating mechanism unit 230 will be explained. The feature is that the call switch 180 is provided not on the outside of the gaming machine but on the pachinko gaming machine 151 itself. As shown in FIG. 63, the call switch 180 is an operation means (input means) that can be pressed and operated by the player. It is detected by the sensor 181 (see FIG. 12). The call sensor 181 (second specific signal output section) is a photosensor that has a light emitting section that emits light and a light receiving section that receives light from the light emitting section, and the light from the light emitting section is blocked by a pressing operation. This is how the pressing operation is detected. Therefore, the call sensor 181 is a momentary operation type sensor that detects only while being pressed. This call switch 180 has a light emitting member (hereinafter referred to as a "call lamp") on the front side. The call lamp 182 (call notification means) is capable of emitting light upward.

When the power is turned on to the pachinko game machine 151, the power supplied from the power supply board is supplied to the call lamp 182 in addition to various control boards. Therefore, the call lamp 182 is in a lighting state where it continues to be lit (emit light) after the power is turned on. Thereby, the upward light emitted by the call lamp 182 is visible to the player. This allows the player to recognize that the call switch 180 is ready for use.

On the other hand, when the call switch 180 is pressed, a detection signal from the call sensor 181 is input to a control board (not shown) that controls lighting of the call lamp 182. Thereby, the control board switches the call lamp 182 from the lighting state to the blinking state based on the switching from non-reception to reception of the detection signal by the call sensor 181 (ON edge). As a result, the player is made aware that the call switch 180 has been pressed and is now in use (calling). After that, when the call switch 180 is pressed down, the detection signal from the call sensor 181 is again input to the control board that controls the lighting of the call lamp 182. As a result, the control board switches the call lamp 182 from a blinking state to a lighting state. The flashing of the call lamp 182 corresponds to a call notification that indicates that the call switch 180 has been pressed.

As shown in FIG. 66, the call switch 180 (call sensor 181) is connected to the external terminal board 141 via the payout control board 110 (main board, game control unit) and the main control board 80 (main board, game control unit). It is connected. However, although the detection signal (second specific signal) from the call sensor 181 is input to the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80, it is not used for the control processing of the payout control microcomputer 116 and the game control microcomputer 81. Instead, it is output to the external terminal board 150 as is. That is, the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80 will play the role of a relay board between the call switch 180 and the external terminal board 150.

The aforementioned call switch 180 (call sensor 181) is also referred to as a "second specific signal output section" that outputs a second specific signal (call signal) to the payout control board 110 based on being pressed. The second specific signal (calling signal) output by the second specific signal output unit is input to the payout control board 110 (gaming control unit), is output without being controlled by the payout control microcomputer 116, and is output to the main It is input to the control board 80 (gaming control section), outputted without being controlled by the gaming control microcomputer 81, and outputted to the external terminal board 141 (external signal output section) as an external output signal (calling signal, etc.). Ru. With this configuration, when the second specific signal (calling signal) is sent to the external signal output section via the gaming control section, the burden of control processing by the control section of the gaming control section increases. It is possible to prevent this as much as possible.

Further, as shown in FIG. 66, the frame release switch 183 (frame signal output unit), like the call switch 180, sends a second specific signal to the payout control board 110 based on the opening of the gaming machine frame 50. It is also referred to as a "second specific signal output section" that outputs (frame opening signal). The second specific signal (frame opening signal) output by the second specific signal output unit is input to the payout control board 110 (gaming control unit), and is output without being controlled by the payout control microcomputer 116. It is output to the external terminal board 141 (external signal output section) as an external output signal (frame opening signal, etc.) (without being input to the main control board 80). With such a configuration, when the second specific signal (frame opening signal) is sent to the external signal output section via the game control section, the burden of control processing by the control section of the game control section increases. It becomes possible to prevent this as much as possible.

In addition, in the embodiment of FIG. 66, the call switch 180 (call sensor 181) is connected to the external terminal board 141 via the payout control board 110 (main board, game control unit) and the main control board 80 (main board, game control unit). The configuration was such that it connects to the Instead of changing to such a mode, the call switch 180 (call sensor 181) can be operated via the payout control board 110 (main board, game control part) without going through the main control board 80 (main board, game control part). It may also be configured to be connected to the external terminal board 141. Alternatively, the call switch 180 (call sensor 181) can be operated via the main control board 80 (main board, game control unit) without going through the payout control board 110 (main board, game control unit). It may be configured such that it is connected to the external terminal board 141. Even in this case, although the detection signal (second specific signal) from the call sensor 181 is input to the payout control board 110 or the main control board 80, it is not used for the control processing of the payout control microcomputer 116 or the game control microcomputer 81. The signal is output to the external terminal board 150 as it is without being transmitted. In other words, the payout control board 110 or the main control board 80 simply serves as a relay board between the call switch 180 and the external terminal board 150. Therefore, even if a detection signal from the call sensor 181 is input to the payout control board 110 or the main control board 80, the detection signal and the control processing related to payout by the payout control microcomputer 116, or the game control by the game control microcomputer 81. It is unrelated to processing.

With the above-described configuration, the calling signal output based on the pressing of the calling switch 180 is output from the external terminal board 150 and input to the data display 160. The data display 160 causes a call lamp 164 to emit light to indicate the call status. The data display 160 can then transmit a paging signal to the hall computer 142 to make it aware that the data display 160 is in the paging state. Thereby, it is possible to call an employee of the hall to the pachinko game machine 1 in which the call switch 180 has been pressed.

After that, when the player or the employee of the hall who has been called presses the call switch 180 again, a detection signal from the call switch 180 is output to the external terminal board 141 via the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80. be done. Thereby, the external terminal board 141 outputs a calling signal to the data display 160. In this way, the data display 160 to which a calling signal is input while in the calling state turns off the calling lamp 164 to indicate a non-calling state. Then, the data display 160 can transmit a non-calling signal to the hall computer 142 to make it aware that the data display 160 has been switched to the non-calling state.

As described above, the call switch 180 of the third embodiment is a momentary operation type that outputs a detection signal only while being pressed. Therefore, when the pressing operation on the call switch 180 is released, the detection signal from the call sensor 181 is no longer output, and the call signal from the external terminal board 150 is also no longer output.

The technical significance of the call switch 180 of the third embodiment will be explained. As shown in FIGS. 64 and 65, the front end position P1 of the upper decorative unit 200 is further forward than the front end position P2 of the operating mechanism unit 230. Therefore, for a player playing a game while sitting, the visibility and operability of the data display 160 installed above the gaming machine 1 are deteriorated due to the upper decorative unit 200 protruding forward. In particular, as shown in FIG. 65, when the frame movable body 600 is in the protruding position, it is located above the upper edge 50U of the gaming machine frame 50, making it difficult to reach the call button 163 of the data display 160. In addition, since the front end position P3 of the frame movable body 600 protrudes further forward than the upper decoration unit 200 that protrudes forward, it is difficult for short players to press the call button 163 while sitting. becomes almost impossible.

Therefore, in the third embodiment, the pachinko game machine 151 itself is provided with a switch (call switch 180) that can output a signal to an external terminal board. Therefore, when a malfunction or failure occurs during a game, even a short player can press the call switch 180 to call a hall employee from a seated position. Further, before the call switch 180 is pressed, a call lamp 182 emits light to make it more visible. Therefore, even for players who do not know that the pachinko game machine 151 is provided with the call switch 180, the existence of the call switch 180 is made easy to understand.

By the way, for short players, the upper decorative unit 200 that protrudes forward and the frame movable body 600 that protrudes above the upper edge 50U of the gaming machine frame 50 may cause the call lamp 164 of the data display 160 to emit light. may be difficult to see or may not be visible at all. That is, after pressing the call switch 180, there is a possibility that it may not be possible to determine whether or not the current call is in progress (the call state of the data display 160). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the call switch 180 is pressed down, the call lamp 182 blinks, making it possible to visually confirm that the call operation has been performed. Thereby, the player who presses the call switch 180 can know that the call is currently being made without seeing the call lamp 164 illuminated.

In the third embodiment, although the detection signal (second specific signal) from the call sensor 181 is input to the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80, it is not used in the control processing of the payout control microcomputer 116 and the game control microcomputer 81. It is output to the external terminal board 141 without being used. Therefore, there is no need to change the control processing of the existing payout control microcomputer 116 and the game control microcomputer 81, and the existing main control board 80 can be used as is. Note that the detection signal from the call sensor 181 is not input to the sub-control board 90 or the production control microcomputer 91. In this way, it is possible to implement an existing pachinko game machine with as few changes as possible to the hardware and/or software configuration.

FIG. 67 shows another aspect of the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine 151 of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 66. In FIG. 66, the call signal (second specific signal) is input to the payout control board 110, but the call signal is not input to the payout control microcomputer 116 (it is not controlled and processed by the payout control microcomputer 116). ), and was output from the payout control board 110. In addition, the calling signal (second specific signal) output from the payout control board 110 is then input as is to the main control board 80, but the calling signal is not input to the game control microcomputer 81 ( (without being controlled by the game control microcomputer 81) and is output from the main control board 80. Further, the calling signal (the second specific signal) output from the main control board 80 is then input as is to the external terminal board 141.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 67, instead of the above-described embodiment, when a call signal (second specific signal) is input to the payout control board 110, the call signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 116, and the payout is It is assumed that the control process is not performed by the control microcomputer 116 and is output as is from the payout control microcomputer 116 and the payout control board 110. Similarly, when the call signal (second specific signal) output from the payout control board 110 is input to the main control board 80, the call signal is input to the game control microcomputer 81 to control the game. The game control microcomputer 81 and the main control board 81 output the game control board 81 as they are without being controlled by the gaming microcomputer 81. Further, the calling signal (the second specific signal) output from the main control board 80 is then input as is to the external terminal board 141.

Also, regarding the frame release signal (second specific signal), when the frame release signal (second specific signal) is input to the payout control board 110, the frame is released in the same manner as the call signal (second specific signal). It is assumed that the signal is input to the payout control microcomputer 116 and outputted from the payout control microcomputer 116 and the payout control board 110 as it is without being controlled by the payout control microcomputer 116. Further, the frame opening signal (the second specific signal) output from the payout control board 110 is configured to be input as is to the external terminal board 141 thereafter.

Alternatively, instead of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 66 and 67, the second specific signal may be input to only one of the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80 and output without any control processing, or the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80, output without any control processing by either control board, and input to an external terminal board. Alternatively, the information may be inputted to a control board other than the payout control board 110 and the main control board 80, output as is without any control processing, and inputted to an external terminal board.

Further, as another aspect, the payout control board 110 may be provided with an input time measuring section (measuring section) that measures the input time of the frame opening signal (frame signal). When the frame opening signal output from the frame opening switch 183 is input to the payout control unit 110, the input time measuring unit measures the input time (continuous input time) of the frame opening signal to the payout control board 110. may be measured, and the slot opening signal may be output from the payout control board 110 only when the measured time exceeds a specific time (for example, 1 second). Then, the frame opening signal (the second specific signal) output from the payout control board 110 is input to the external terminal board 141. As a result, if the gaming machine frame (front frame) is left open for a very short time (within a specific time), there is almost no risk of fraud, etc., and the frame opening signal is sent from the payout control board 110. No output. That is, when the gaming machine frame (front frame) is left open for only a very short time (within a specific time), the frame open signal is not output to the external terminal board and is not output externally to the hall computer or the like. As a result, it is possible to delete as much information as possible without the risk of fraud, such as when the frame is opened for a very short time due to vibration, etc., or when a frame open signal is output due to noise. It is possible to reduce as much as possible the hassle of such work.

[Other aspects 1]
In the above-described embodiment, the consecutive winning period was set using the specific flag output based on the special figure 2 continuous variation flag and the special figure 2 continuous variation signal. That is, in Examples 1 and 2, if any one of the jackpot gaming state, the time-saving gaming state, and the state where the second special symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner, it is determined that it is a consecutive game period (specific period). It was outputting a signal so that it could be done. However, the identification of the consecutive rental period is not limited to this manner. In another aspect, if the state is any one of a jackpot game state, a time-saving game state, and a variable display of the second special symbol, it may be determined that it is a consecutive game period. In this other aspect, instead of the special figure 2 continuous variation flag, the special figure 2 variation flag is turned ON when the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, and is turned OFF when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. 2. Provide a fluctuation flag. In the first embodiment, the condition for turning the specific flag ON is that the special figure 2 variation flag is ON, and in the second embodiment, when the special figure 2 variation flag is ON, the condition is ON. A "special figure 2 fluctuation signal" which is output in the OFF state and output in the OFF state when it is OFF shall be provided. This makes it easier and more convenient to control the determination of the consecutive game period.

[Other aspect 2]
Next, a pachinko gaming machine according to another aspect 2 will be described using FIG. 51. In the first embodiment, if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a non-time saving state (low base state), unexploited pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section, or 2. In the case where the unused pending information is not stored in the production pending storage unit, but the production pattern (second production pattern) related to the 2nd special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, that is, in the second chance mode (special state). , uniformly turn on the left-handed hit notification flag, turn off the left-handed hit prohibited flag on the condition that the fluctuating display of the production symbol (second production symbol) related to the second special symbol is completed, and set the left-handed pitch notification production to made possible to execute.

In another aspect 2, if the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a non-time saving state (low base state), unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section, or Even if the unconsumed suspension information is not stored in the second performance suspension storage unit, but the performance symbols related to the second special symbol (second performance symbols) are being displayed in a variable manner, the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag Rather than setting it uniformly, the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is set when there is a high possibility that a jackpot game will be executed based on the fluctuating display of the production symbol (second production symbol) related to the second special symbol. This is set to ON to prevent the left-handed hitting notification effect from being executed. In addition, "a case where there is a high possibility that a jackpot game will be executed based on the fluctuating display of the performance symbols (second performance symbols) related to the second special symbol" means the first performance stored in the second performance suspension storage unit. There are two cases in which the judgment result of the performance pending information is a big hit and a small hit. This may be determined by preliminary determination or by determination at the start of fluctuation. In addition, as a so-called false effect, even in a certain variation pattern among the out-of-the-ordinary variations, there is a possibility that a jackpot game will be executed based on the variable display of the production symbol (second production symbol) related to the second special symbol. It is also possible to turn on the left-handed hitting notification prohibition flag.

Specifically, in the firing notification process after the end of the jackpot game in other aspect 2, the processes from S5051 to S5058 and S5061 are the same as the firing notification process after the jackpot game in Example 1, so the explanation will be given below. Omitted. In another aspect 2, ``When the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a low base state, and it is determined that unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage section, or In the case where it is determined that no unconsumed pending information is stored in the second performance pending storage unit, but the performance symbols related to the second special symbol (second performance symbols) are being displayed in a variable manner, that is, YES in S5057. If it is determined that this is the case, or if the determination is YES in S5061, the process moves to S5059.

In S5059, it is determined whether there is a hit (big hit or small hit) as a result of the unconsumed pending information stored in the second performance pending storage unit or the fluctuating display of the performance symbol related to the second special symbol being executed. (S5059), and if it is determined that there is a hit (big hit or small hit) (YES in S5059), there is a high possibility that a jackpot game will be executed and a high base state will be set, so the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is set. Turn on. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5059 that there is no hit (big hit or small hit), that is, it is a miss (NO in S5059), the process proceeds to S5062 to S5064 without turning on the left-handed hitting notification flag. The processing from S5062 to S5064 is the same as the firing notification processing after the end of the jackpot game in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

As a result, if the result of the second special symbol propriety judgment (judgment result related to the second special symbol reservation) executed in the low base state is incorrect, the production symbol related to the second special symbol (the second production symbol ) without waiting for the end of the variable display (end of the special state), and quickly (in accordance with the display control of the firing direction indicator 47 controlled by the main control unit 80) executes the second left-handed hitting notification effect. If a right-handed hit is detected, it is possible to set the first left-handed hit notification effect to be executable. In addition, with such a configuration, if a skilled player is in a low base state after the end of a jackpot game and while the second special symbol is fluctuating, he or she can play a right-handed game and execute a left-handed notification effect. It is also possible to use whether or not the jackpot game is executed again as an index (advance notice) for determining whether or not the jackpot game will be executed again or whether the chance mode will be entered again. This makes it possible to provide new gameplay, such as determining whether the next jackpot game or a high base state will occur depending on the presence or absence of the firing notification effect, and the game state after the jackpot game is a low base state. It is possible to increase the interest in the game when it is set to . Furthermore, it is possible to appropriately execute the firing notification effect without making the player have excessive expectations for a jackpot.

[Other aspect 3]
Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the left-handed hitting notification performance (first left-handed hitting notification performance) shown in FIG. 44 is executed based on the passing of the game ball to the gate 28 provided in the right gaming area. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. In another aspect 3, other ball entry ports (general ball entry port 27, etc.) and other gates are provided to enable detection of game balls fired into the right game area (second shooting area), and A left-handed hitting notification performance (first left-handed hitting notification performance) may be executed based on the detection of the game ball. In addition, instead of the game ball detection means that detects the game ball, an operation amount detection means that detects the rotation amount (operation amount) of the firing handle is provided, and the operation amount detection means detects the rotation amount (operation amount) by a predetermined amount ( When it is detected that the amount corresponding to a right-handed hit has been reached, processing corresponding to FIG. 44 may be performed.

[Other aspect 4]
In addition, in the first embodiment, even if the gaming state is a low base state (excluding jackpot games and small winning games), during the special state (during the variable display of the performance symbols related to the second special symbol), Although the firing notification performance (left-handed notification performance) that instructs left-handed hitting is not executed, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, if the gaming state is a low base state (excluding jackpot games and small win games) and the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is OFF, when a right-handed hit is detected, the first left-handed firing notification effect is executed. It shall be. Then, if the gaming state is a low base state (excluding jackpot games and small win games) and the left-handed hit notification prohibition flag is ON, even if a right-handed hit is detected, the first left-handed firing notification presentation will be performed. It is also possible to perform "another firing notification effect" in addition to not performing the above. Various modes can be considered as the display mode and execution mode of this "other launch notification effect". For example, like the first left-handed firing notification performance, it instructs the player to hit left-handed, but it is presented in a less conspicuous manner (in a state in which the player plays a left-handed game) than the first left-handed firing notification performance. It is possible to perform this in a manner that is difficult to recognize. For example, when displaying "another firing notification effect" on the display screen 7a, it may be displayed in a smaller size so as to be less conspicuous than the first left-handed firing notification effect, or it may be displayed on the edge of the display screen 7a. It may be displayed in the form of a graphic, or it may be displayed in a graphic form without displaying text. In addition, the first left-handed firing notification effect is displayed on the display screen 7a to make it conspicuous to the player, while the "other firing notification effects" are lit or blinking using lamps, etc. outside the display screen 7a. It may be displayed in this manner.

[Other aspects 5]
In addition, in the first embodiment, when a jackpot game is executed based on the execution of the second special symbol validity determination in a non-time saving state (low base state), the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game is a time saving state ( Although the probability of being in a high base state is 100%, it is not limited to this mode. The probability that the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be in the time-saving state may be set to a predetermined probability of less than 100%. In this case, in the non-time saving state (low base state), there is a probability that a jackpot game will be executed based on the execution of the second special symbol validity judgment and the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be a time saving state. is set higher than the probability that a jackpot game will be executed based on the execution of the second special symbol validity judgment in the time saving state (high base state) and the gaming state after the end of the jackpot game will be in the time saving state. It is possible to do so. Furthermore, it is possible to make the probability of a small hit determined by the second special symbol validity determination higher than the probability of a small hit determined by the first special symbol validity determination.

[Other aspects]
Further, in the configuration of the gaming machine described above, for example, the first form can be called an OFF state, and the second form can be called an ON state. Alternatively, the first form may be in the ON state and the second form may be in the OFF state. It is also possible to call the first form a low level (0) state and the second form a high level (1) state. Alternatively, the first form may be a high level (1) state, and the second form may be a low level (0) state. Further, by using the specific information outputted by the information output means, it is possible to grasp the duration during which a situation advantageous to the player continues. In addition, for example, it is also possible to grasp the number of special games played during this continuous period, the number of times identification information is changed and displayed, and the like.

Further, in the configuration of the gaming machine described above, a hall computer capable of receiving the specific information and the second specific information outputted by the information outputting means is provided, and the control means of the hall computer analyzes and analyzes the specific information and the second specific information. By using this information through calculations, etc., it becomes possible to provide players with a variety of gaming information. For example, the hall computer includes a specific period determining means that can determine the specific period in which the specific information is in the second form, and a specific period determining means that can determine the number of times special games (jackpot games) have occurred in the specific period (counting the so-called number of consecutive games). The number of special games counted by the special game counting means is reset (recounted) based on the special game counting means counting and the specific information changing from the first form to the second form or from the second form to the first form. ) Count reset means. Further, it is also possible to provide a second special game counting means for counting the number of times special games occur during business hours. Furthermore, it is provided with a game information display device that displays the values counted by the special game counting means and the second special game counting means, and the hall computer controls the display of the game information display device, so that the player can receive the following information: It becomes possible to notify game information. As a result, the player can use the gaming information as a reference when deciding which gaming machine to play among the many gaming machines, when to finish playing, etc.

In the above-mentioned configuration of the gaming machine, "performing the first gaming area firing notification based on the establishment of a specific condition" may mean performing the first gaming area firing notification at least after the specific condition is satisfied; Furthermore, the first game area firing notification may be performed based on other conditions being satisfied (for example, the firing area detection means detects a right-handed hit).
In addition, in the above-mentioned configuration of the gaming machine, the "first frequency state where the frequency of balls entering the variable starting port is a predetermined frequency" includes a state in which the ball cannot enter the variable starting port, that is, the ball entering frequency is 0. This includes situations where it is extremely difficult to enter the ball and the ball almost never enters the variable starting port. Further, the "specific display mode" refers to, for example, a jackpot display mode or a small win display mode. Note that a plurality of different display modes may be provided for each of the jackpot display mode and the small win display mode.

In addition, in the configuration of the above-mentioned gaming machine, ``When the special game is executed based on the ball entering the variable starting port, the special game is executed based on the ball entering the starting port. The game state after the end of the special game is likely to be set to the second frequency state." Further, it may be set such that "the possibility that the special game will be executed based on the ball entering the variable starting port is higher than the possibility that the special game will be executed based on the ball entering the starting port". As a result, even after entering the first frequency state, if there is pending information acquired based on the ball entering the variable starting port, a special game may occur again from the first frequency state, or The probability that the condition will occur is considered to be relatively high. Therefore, even if the first frequency state is reached, the first game area firing notification will be executed until the fluctuation display of the identification information related to the pending information, which indicates whether the special game or the second game state will occur again, is finished. It is also possible not to do so. If the special game or the second frequency state occurs again, the first game area firing notification will not be executed again, and if the special game or the second frequency state does not occur again (misses) In this case, the first game area launch notification may be executed.

In addition, in the configuration of the above-mentioned gaming machine, "game ball detection capable of putting the variable starting port into a second frequency state where there is a high possibility of entering the game ball based on the detection of the variable starting port or the game ball" At least one of the means is placed in a position where a game ball fired into the first gaming area does not enter (not detected) or a position where it is difficult to enter (detect) a game ball fired into the first gaming area. It is possible to do so. This makes it possible to prevent game balls from entering the variable starting port in the first frequency state. In addition, the game ball has a first firing strength and a second firing strength that is larger than the first firing strength as the firing strength of the game ball, and at least one of the variable starting opening or the game ball detection means is If the game ball is fired at the second firing intensity of the area, the ball will be placed in a position where the ball can enter the area, but if the game ball is fired at the first firing intensity, the ball will not be able to enter (undetectable).'' .

In addition, in the configuration of the gaming machine described above, when the gaming state after the end of the special game is set to the second frequency state, the first frequency state, and when the second frequency state is set to the first frequency state, the first game area firing notification is not executed before the specific condition is satisfied, and the first game area firing notification is not executed after the specific condition is satisfied. It may be possible to execute game area launch notification. In addition, in the configuration of the gaming machine described above, when the gaming state after the end of the special game is set to the second frequency state, the first frequency state, and when set from the second frequency state to the first frequency state, the first game area firing notification is executed even if the firing area detection means detects a game ball before the specific condition is satisfied. Instead, after the specific condition is established, the first game area firing notification may be executed when the firing area detection means detects a game ball.

Furthermore, in the above-mentioned configuration of the gaming machine, "during the execution of the variable display of the identification information based on the pending information in the pending information storage means stored based on the entry of the ball into the variable starting port, the firing area detecting means detects the game ball. The first game area firing notification may not be executed whether the game state at the time of detection is the first frequency state or the second frequency state.

In addition, in the above-described configuration of the gaming machine, "a first gaming area firing detection means for detecting firing into the first gaming area is provided, and in the second frequency state, the first gaming area firing detecting means detects a game ball." If there is, the second game area firing notification indicating the firing to the second game area is executed, and in the first frequency state, while the identification information related to the hold is being displayed in a fluctuating manner, the second game area firing detecting means fires the game ball. Even if there is a detection of a game ball, the first gaming area firing notification may not be executed, and even if the first gaming area firing detection means detects a game ball, the second gaming area firing notification may not be executed. . In addition, "in the first frequency state, after the fluctuating display of the identification information related to the hold information stored based on the ball entering the variable starting port ends, the game ball is detected by the second game area launch detection means. Then, the first game area launch notification may be executed, and even if a game ball is detected by the first game area launch detection means, the second game area launch notification may not be executed.

In addition, in the configuration of the gaming machine described above, there is a first starting port into which a game ball can enter, a variable second starting port in which the possibility of entering a game ball can be changed, and a second starting port that allows a game ball to enter the first starting port. a first validity determination means for performing a first validity determination based on the entry of the ball into the second starting port; a second validity determination means for performing the second validity determination based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port; A first variable ball entry hole (first grand prize opening) that can change between a ball entering state in which a ball can enter and a ball entry state in which a game ball cannot enter; a second variable ball entry opening (second grand prize opening) that is capable of changing between a ball-enabled state and a ball-inhibited state in which a game ball cannot enter, and has a specific area inside through which a game ball can pass; A special game execution means capable of executing a special game in which the first variable ball entry port or the second variable ball entry port is set in a state in which a ball can be entered when the result of the first validity determination or the second validity determination is a win. You can also use it as

Set to a first frequency state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port is a predetermined frequency, and a second frequency state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port is higher than the first frequency state. A game state setting means may also be provided. Further, it is assumed that the frequency of entry of game balls into the variable starting port is a first frequency state in which the frequency is a predetermined frequency, and here, the "predetermined frequency" includes 0. In addition, as a result of the first validity determination or the second validity determination, there is a first specific result (big hit) and a second specific result (small hit), and the result of the first validity determination or the second validity determination is the first The game ball enters the second variable ball entry opening where the ball enters the state where the ball enters a state where the result of the first judgment or the second judgment becomes the second identification result. It may also include a jackpot game execution means that executes a jackpot game when the object passes through a specific area.

In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the number of openings of the first grand prize opening or the second grand prize opening in one round is one time, but the number of openings of the first grand prize opening or the second grand prize opening in one round is The game may be played multiple times, or may have rounds with different numbers of openings.

In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the control process is such that the second special figure reservation is given priority to the first special figure reservation, the so-called special figure 2 priority control process, but the first special figure reservation is not limited to this. It is also possible to perform a control process that gives priority to the second special figure reservation, a so-called control process that gives priority to the first special figure. In addition, priority is not set for extinguishing the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation, and among the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation, they are consumed in order from the oldest memorized one. The control process may be a so-called control process for digesting pitches in order of arrival (order of memory).

In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, there are a jackpot and a small win as a result of the special symbol correctness determination, and when a jackpot is achieved, and when a small win is achieved, the specific area 39 provided in the large prize opening is Although the present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine (so-called type 1 type and type 2 type game machine) that can execute a jackpot game both when and when , the present invention is applied, it is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention may be applied to pachinko games (so-called type 1 gaming machines) in which a jackpot game can be executed only when the result of special symbol validity determination is a jackpot, or the present invention may be applied to pachinko games (so-called type 1 gaming machines) in which a jackpot game can be executed only when the result of special symbol validity determination is a jackpot. The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine equipped with a probability setting means that can set a low probability state in which there is a low probability of winning the jackpot and a high probability state in which the probability of winning the jackpot is high. Further, the present invention is applicable to all types of gaming machines, and the present invention may be implemented by combining some or all of the above-described embodiments, other aspects, and other configurations.

[others]
(Reference invention 1)
In a conventional gaming machine, when a jackpot game is executed based on the result of a judgment made by a ball entering the starting hole or the variable starting hole, and the ball enters the starting hole or the variable starting hole, after the jackpot game ends. There is a gaming machine that can set the gaming state to a non-time-saving state in which the frequency of balls entering the variable starting port is low, or a time-saving state in which the frequency of balls entering the variable starting port is high. In addition, the jackpot game is executed when the result of the judgment is a jackpot, or when the result of the judgment is a small hit and the game ball enters the opened jackpot, and the game ball enters the jackpot. There was a gaming machine that would run if you passed through a specific area.

The gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-51655) is provided with a starting port and a variable starting port, and a jackpot game is executed based on the result of a judgment made by a ball entering the starting port or the variable starting port. Then, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is divided into a non-time-saving state where the frequency of balls entering the variable starting port is low, a time-saving state where the frequency of balls entering the variable starting port is high, and a probability that the jackpot will be determined in the judgment as to whether it is a jackpot or not. It is possible to set it to a low probability state or a high probability state where the probability of being judged as a jackpot is high in the judgment of success or failure. It is also described that, in response to changes in the gaming state, time saving information indicating whether the time saving state is set and probability information indicating whether the high probability state is set is output from the external output terminal. ing.

However, as in Patent Document 1, simply outputting a signal indicating the gaming state in accordance with a change in the gaming state may not be able to effectively indicate a continuous period that is advantageous to the player. there were. The present invention 1 has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and provides a gaming machine that enhances gaming interest by outputting a signal indicating a new gaming state that has not existed before.

The gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-1 invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is as follows:
a first starting port into which a game ball can enter;
a second starting port that can be changed into a first mode and a second mode in which the possibility of a game ball entering is higher than the first mode;
a second reservation information storage means capable of storing ball entry information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port as reservation information;
a variable ball entry opening that can be changed between a ball entry state in which a game ball can enter and a ball entry disabled state in which a game ball cannot enter;
a first symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port;
a second symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port;
a first frequency state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port is a predetermined frequency; and a second frequency state in which the frequency of entering game balls into the second starting port is higher than the first frequency state. , a ball entry frequency setting means that can be set to ,
A gaming machine capable of executing a winning game in which the variable ball entry opening is set to a state where a ball can be entered based on the first symbol or the second symbol being stopped and displayed in a specific manner,
a state determination control unit that determines the state of the game;
a signal output section that outputs a special signal that can be changed into a first form and a second form based on the judgment result of the state judgment control section,
The signal output section includes at least:
When the state determination control unit determines that the winning game is being executed, when determining that the second frequency state is being set, and when determining that the second symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the special signal is activated. is the second form,
When the state determination control section determines that the state is the first frequency state and the first symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the special signal is set to the first form.

According to such a gaming machine, when a winning game is executed, there is a period from the start of the winning game, a period in which the gaming state after the winning game is set to the second frequency state, and a period after the winning game ends. Even if the gaming state is set to the first frequency state, it is possible to maintain the special signal output by the signal output unit in the second form during the period when the second symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. .

Specifically, since this gaming machine is equipped with a second pending information storage means that can store the ball entering information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port, the first frequency state occurs after the winning game ends. Even if it is set to , if the hold information is stored, the second symbol will be displayed in a variable manner based on the hold information. When a winning game is executed based on the variable display of the second symbol, it is possible to maintain the special signal in the second form continuously during that period and thereafter. Further, the special signal may be referred to as a signal indicating that a situation advantageous to the player is occurring. Further, the period in which the special signal is in the second form (continues) may be referred to as a period in which a situation advantageous to the player continues. Further, it is assumed that the special signal is set to the first form in the initial state when the power is turned on.
In addition, "having a plurality of display modes as the specific mode,
Depending on which display mode is stopped as the specific mode, the first frequency state may be set after the end of the winning game, or the second frequency state may be set. .

Furthermore, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-1,
having a winning game signal indicating that the winning game is being executed;
The winning game signal remains in the second form until a predetermined period of time has elapsed even after the winning game ends;
The state determination control section is characterized in that it determines whether or not the winning game is being executed based on the winning game in progress signal.

According to such a gaming machine, there is a winning game in progress signal that indicates that a winning game is being executed, and when a winning game is being executed, the winning game in progress signal indicates that a winning game is being executed. Since the period is delayed until a predetermined period has elapsed after the end of the winning game, the special signal is prevented from changing from the second form to the first form immediately after the winning game is actually ended. This makes it possible to maintain the special signal in the second form until a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the end of the winning game. Then, if the conditions for making the special signal in the second form are met before the predetermined period passes, the special signal will be reliably sent in the second form from the winning game (without going through the first form). It becomes possible to maintain.

The winning game signal indicates that the winning game continues to be played for a predetermined period of time even after the winning game ends.

In addition, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-3 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-2,
When the winning game ends, pending information is stored in the second pending information storage means, and after the winning game ends, the variable display of the second symbol is executed based on the pending information,
The win game signal is characterized in that it remains in the second form until a predetermined time after the variable display of the second symbol is started.

According to such a gaming machine, when the pending information is stored in the second pending information storage means at the end of the winning game, the variable display of the second symbol based on the pending information is executed after the winning game ends. do. In addition, in such control processing, if there is no delay processing for the signal during a winning game, depending on the situation, the special signal may be activated in the first form during a short period of time from the end of the winning game until the variable display of the second symbol starts. There is a risk that it will become.

Specifically, in the case where the gaming state after the winning game is set to the first frequency state, after the winning game is finished, the winning game is in the first frequency state, and neither the winning game nor the variable display of the second symbol is executed. situations may arise. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the winning game signal indicating that a winning game is being executed is delayed until the timing when the variable display of the second symbol can be started after the winning game ends, , it is possible to reduce the possibility that the special signal becomes the first form until the start of the variable display of the second symbol, and it becomes possible to more reliably maintain the special signal in the second form. This makes it possible to appropriately and effectively control the form of the special signal.

In addition, even if the gaming state after the winning game is set to the first frequency state, the second symbol will be displayed in a variable manner based on the suspended memory, and if the winning game is executed again based on the variable display, during that time Continuing, it becomes possible to use the second form of the special signal. This makes it possible to lengthen the period during which the special signal continues in the second form, and to notify the player that the advantageous period continues for a long period of time. Moreover, this makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

The winning game signal indicates that the winning game is being executed until a predetermined time after the start of the variable display of the second symbol.

Furthermore, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-4 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1-1 to Reference Invention 1-3,
The signal output section is
A second special signal that can be changed into a third form and a fourth form is output based on the judgment result of the state judgment control unit,
When the state judgment control section determines that the winning game is being executed, the second special signal is set to the fourth form, and when it is determined that the winning game is not being executed, the second special signal is set to the fourth form. The present invention is characterized in that it is the third form.

According to such a gaming machine, in addition to the special signal indicating that a situation advantageous to the player is occurring (continuing), the signal output section also outputs a second special signal indicating that a winning game is being executed. Output a signal. By using these special signals and the second special signal, it becomes possible to provide players with various gaming information. Furthermore, by increasing the period during which the special signal continues in the second state, it becomes possible to notify the player as many times as possible of the number of winning games while the advantageous period continues. . This also makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, as an invention of another aspect of Reference Invention 1,
a first starting port into which a game ball can enter;
a second starting port that can be changed into a first mode and a second mode in which the possibility of a game ball entering is higher than the first mode;
a second reservation information storage means capable of storing ball entry information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port as reservation information;
a first symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port;
a second symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port;
a first frequency state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port is a predetermined frequency; and a second frequency state in which the frequency of entering game balls into the second starting port is higher than the first frequency state. , a ball entry frequency determining means that can be set to ,
A gaming machine capable of executing a winning game advantageous to a player based on the first symbol or the second symbol being stopped and displayed in a specific manner,
Having a plurality of display modes as the specific mode,
Based on which display mode is stopped and displayed as the specific mode, the gaming state after the winning game is set to the first frequency state or the second frequency state. There is,
A continuous signal indicating that the second symbol among the first symbol and the second symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner;
a state determination control unit that determines the state of the game;
a signal output section that outputs a special signal that can be changed into a first form and a second form based on the judgment result of the state judgment control section,
The signal output section includes at least:
When the state determination control unit determines that the winning game is being executed, when determining that the second frequency state is being set, and when the second symbol is being displayed in a continuous manner based on the continuous signal. When it is determined that the special signal is in the second form,
When the state determination control unit determines that the first symbol is in the first frequency state and the first symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the special signal may be in the first form.

According to such a gaming machine, when a winning game is executed, there is a period from the start of the winning game, a period in which the gaming state after the winning game is set to the second frequency state, and a period after the winning game ends. Even when the state is set to the first frequency state, it is possible to maintain the special signal output by the signal output section in the second form during the period in which the second symbol is variably displayed.

Specifically, since it is provided with a second pending information storage means that can store the ball entering information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port, it is assumed that the period after the end of the winning game is set to the first frequency state. Also, if the hold information is stored, the second symbol is displayed in a variable manner based on the hold information. When a winning game is executed based on the variable display of the second symbol, it is possible to maintain the special signal in the second form continuously during and after that.

Further, there is a continuous signal indicating that the second symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner, and the special signal is of the second form based on this continuous signal. As a result, when the second symbol fluctuates and displays in the first frequency state after the winning game ends after passing through the second frequency state, the special signal is in the second form, but when aiming at the second starting port in the first frequency state, When playing a game and a game ball happens to enter the second starting port and the second symbol is displayed in a variable manner only once, it is possible to keep the special signal in the first form. Moreover, this makes it possible to set the period during which the special signal is in the second state to be an appropriate and effective period.

In addition, as an invention of another aspect of Reference Invention 1,
a first starting port into which a game ball can enter;
a second starting port that can be changed into a first mode and a second mode in which the possibility of a game ball entering is higher than the first mode;
a second reservation information storage means capable of storing ball entry information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port as reservation information;
a first symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the first starting port;
a second symbol that is variably displayed based on the entry of the game ball into the second starting port;
a first frequency state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port is a predetermined frequency; and a second frequency state in which the frequency of entering game balls into the second starting port is higher than the first frequency state. , a ball entry frequency setting means that can be set to ,
A gaming machine capable of executing a winning game advantageous to a player based on the first symbol or the second symbol being stopped and displayed in a specific manner,
Having a plurality of display modes as the specific mode,
Based on which display mode is stopped and displayed as the specific mode, the first frequency state may be set or the second frequency state may be set after the winning game ends,
Equipped with a signal output section that can output gaming information of the gaming machine to the outside of the gaming machine,
The game information outputted by the signal output section includes at least the following:
a continuous signal indicating that the second symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner;
a winning game signal indicating that the winning game is being executed;
a frequency state signal indicating that the second frequency state is being set;
The winning game in progress signal may indicate that the winning game is being executed until a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the winning game ends.

According to such a gaming machine, the signal output unit outputs a winning game signal indicating that a winning game is being executed, a continuous signal indicating that the second symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner, and a game state. It is possible to output a frequency state signal (gaming state signal) indicating that the second frequency state is set, and a winning game in progress signal indicates that the winning game is being executed until a predetermined period of time has passed after the winning game ends. It is assumed that As a result, if the equipment connected to the gaming machine receives these externally output signals and performs control such as reading, the gaming state from the start of the winning game to the end of the winning game will be set to the second frequency state. Even if the gaming state after the end of the winning game is set to the first frequency state, it is possible to grasp the period during which the second symbol is displayed in a variable manner as a specific period. Become.

As mentioned above, since the second pending information storage means is provided that can store the ball entering information acquired based on the ball entering the second starting port, it is assumed that the period after the winning game is set to the first frequency state. Also, if the hold information is stored, the second symbol is displayed in a variable manner based on the hold information. When a winning game is executed based on the variable display of the second symbol, the period can also be recognized as a specific period. Furthermore, a continuous signal indicating that the second symbol is continuously displayed in a variable manner can be outputted to the outside. As a result, when the second symbol fluctuates in the first frequency state after passing through the second frequency state and ends the winning game, a continuous signal is output in a form indicating that the second symbol is continuously fluctuating. However, if you play a game aiming at the second starting hole in the first frequency state, and the game ball happens to enter the second starting hole and the second symbol fluctuates only once, the continuous signal will be sent. The second symbol is not output in a form indicating that it is displayed in a continuous variable manner. This makes it possible to set the period during which the special signal is in the second form to an appropriate and effective period.

In addition, since the period during which the winning game signal indicates that a winning game is being executed is delayed until a predetermined period has elapsed after the winning game ends, the winning game signal is output immediately after the winning game ends. prevent changes in As a result, the winning game signal indicates that the winning game is being executed until a predetermined period elapses after the winning game ends, and the gaming state after the winning game ends is the first frequency state, and Even when a continuous signal is switched to a form showing a continuously fluctuating display of a second symbol after the end of a winning game, the specific period can be grasped seamlessly and surely.

According to the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1, by outputting a signal indicating a new gaming status, it is possible to accurately judge the gaming status and improve gaming interest.

(Reference invention 2)
Furthermore, gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines are equipped with an external terminal board, and output various signals to the outside of the gaming machine as the game progresses from the external terminal board, as described in Patent Document 1 below, for example. There is. The outside of the gaming machine refers to external devices (for example, a data display installed above the gaming machine in the hall that displays the operating status of the connected gaming machine, or the external device of each gaming machine in the hall). This refers to a hall computer, etc. that aggregates and manages information such as operating status (sales management, game management).

Such pachinko gaming machines (for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-111264) include a main board (main control board, payout control board), and the main board includes a control means ( (game control means, payout control means). For example, various sensors such as a starting port sensor are connected to a main control board serving as a main board, and detection signals from the starting port sensor and the like are input. In this case, the game control means performs control processing such as determination of success or failure based on the input of the detection signal from the starting port sensor, or outputs a variable stop signal indicating a fixed stop display of the symbol to the external terminal board. The external terminal board into which the fluctuation stop signal has been input outputs the fluctuation stop signal (symbol confirmation signal) to the outside of the gaming machine in order to inform an external device that the symbols have stopped being displayed.

By the way, it is conceivable to send not only existing signals such as the symbol confirmation signal but also new signals (information) to the external device from the external terminal board of the pachinko game machine. This is because the external device can grasp the situation of the pachinko game machine in more detail. In this case, the detection signal from the existing sensor such as the starting port sensor is input to the game control means (control means) of the main control board (main board), and the signal processed by the game control means is sent to the external terminal board. will be sent to. Therefore, a configuration may be considered in which a new signal is also sent to the external terminal board via the game control means of the main control board, but this would increase the burden of control processing on the game control means.

This Reference Invention 2 has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and is intended to prevent an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the main board when a predetermined signal is sent to the external terminal board via the main board. The objective is to provide a gaming machine that allows such avoidance.

The gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-1 for solving the above-mentioned problem is:
an appropriateness determination control unit that makes an appropriateness determination based on establishment of a predetermined condition;
a special game control unit that executes a special game that can provide a predetermined gaming profit to the player when the result of the validity determination is a specific result;
A gaming machine comprising: a gaming profit granting control unit that manages and controls the granting amount of gaming profits;
a game control unit including at least one control unit of the validity determination control unit, the special game control unit, and the gaming profit grant control unit;
a first specific signal output unit capable of outputting a first specific signal to the game control unit;
a second specific signal output unit capable of outputting a second specific signal to the game control unit;
An external signal output section (external output section) capable of outputting a signal to the outside of the gaming machine,
The first specific signal input to the game control unit is controlled by a control unit included in the game control unit, and a signal based on the control process is output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit,
The second specific signal input to the game control unit is output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit without being subjected to control processing by a control unit included in the game control unit. It is something.

According to such a gaming machine, the game control section includes at least one control section of a win/fail determination control section, a special game control section, and a gaming profit grant control section. Further, the first specific signal output from the first specific signal output section is input to the game control section, subjected to control processing by the game control section, and outputted from the game control section to the external signal output section. Further, the second specific signal output from the second specific signal output section is input to the game control section and outputted from the game control section to the external signal output section without being controlled by the game control section. Thereby, when the second signal is sent to the external signal output section via the game control section, it is possible to prevent the burden of control processing by the control section of the game control section from increasing as much as possible.

Further, the first specific signal output from the first specific signal output section (for example, the starting port sensor) is controlled and processed by the control means of the main board. Through this control processing, a control processing signal (for example, an outer end output signal indicating the final display of a special symbol) is output from the game control section (main board) to the external signal output section (external output section, external terminal board). Then, the external signal output section outputs a signal based on the control processing signal (for example, a symbol confirmation signal) to an external device (data display, hall computer, etc.). Further, the second specific signal output from the second specific signal output section is output to the external signal output section without being used for control processing of the control means of the game control section (main board). The external signal output section can output a signal based on the input of the second specific signal to an external device. In this way, when sending new information related to the second specific signal to the external signal output section (external device) via the game control section (main board), control by the control means of the game control section (main board) It is possible to avoid an increase in processing load.

Further, an identification information display means for variably displaying the identification information based on the result of the validity determination;
a variable ball entry opening that can be changed between a ball entry state in which a game ball can enter and a ball entry disabled state in which a game ball cannot enter;
special game execution means for executing a special game in which the variable ball entry opening is in a state where balls can be entered,
When the result of the validity determination is a specific result, the gaming machine may stop displaying the identification information in a specific manner and execute the special game.

In addition, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-2 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-1,
A gaming machine that plays a game by ejecting a gaming medium into a gaming area,
a front frame that can be opened and closed in a closed state that covers the front surface of the gaming area and an open state that opens the front surface to the gaming area;
a frame signal output unit that detects that the front frame is in an open state or a closed state and outputs a frame signal,
The second specific signal output section is the frame signal output section,
The second specific signal is the frame signal.

According to such a gaming machine, there is a front frame that opens and closes the front of the gaming area, and a frame signal output that detects that the front frame is in an open state (or that it is in a closed state) and outputs a frame signal. It is equipped with a section and a section. It is assumed that the frame signal output section, which is the second specific signal output section, outputs the frame signal, which is the second specific signal. Thereby, the frame signal output from the frame signal output section is output to the external signal output section without being used for the control processing of the control means of the game control section. The external signal output section can output a signal based on the input of the frame signal to an external device. Furthermore, this makes it possible for the external device to determine whether the front frame is in the open or closed state, thereby preventing fraud. Furthermore, even when such a frame signal is sent to an external signal output section (external device) via the game control section, it is possible to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the game control section. It is possible.

In addition, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-3 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-2,
Equipped with a start detection section that can detect the entry of game balls,
The predetermined condition is established based on the start detection unit detecting a game ball,
The first specific signal output section is the start detection section,
The first specific signal is characterized in that it is a start detection signal outputted by the start detecting section based on detecting a game ball.

According to such a gaming machine, a predetermined condition for making a validity determination is established based on the detection of a game ball by the start detection section. It is assumed that the start detection section, which is the first specific signal output section, outputs the start detection signal, which is the first specific signal. As a result, the first specific signal that is input to the game control unit and controlled and processed by the game control unit is used as a start detection signal necessary for judgment of validity, and the start detection signal is controlled and processed to be used as an external signal from the game control unit. Output to the output section.

Furthermore, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-4 is the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-2,
comprising a given game ball detection unit capable of detecting the game balls given as the gaming profit;
The gaming profit award control unit is configured to manage and control the number of gaming balls awarded as the gaming profit based on the detection result of the awarding game ball detection unit,
The first specific signal output section is the provided game ball detection section,
The first specific signal is characterized in that it is a given game ball detection signal outputted based on the given game ball detecting section detecting a game ball.

According to such a gaming machine, the gaming profit award control section manages and controls the number of gaming profits awarded based on the detection result of the award game ball detection section. It is assumed that the awarded game ball detection unit, which is the first specific signal output unit, outputs the awarded game ball detection signal, which is the first specific signal. As a result, the first specific signal input to the game control unit and controlled and processed by the game control unit is used as the awarded game ball detection signal necessary for management control of the amount of gaming profits awarded, and the awarded game ball detection signal is used as the awarded game ball detection signal. The signal is subjected to control processing and output from the game control section to the external signal output section.

Furthermore, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2-5 is
an appropriateness determination control unit that makes an appropriateness determination based on establishment of a predetermined condition;
a special game control unit that executes a special game that can provide a predetermined gaming profit to the player when the result of the validity determination is a specific result;
A gaming machine comprising: a gaming profit granting control unit that manages and controls the granting amount of gaming profits;
a gaming control section having at least the gaming profit granting control section;
a first specific signal output unit capable of outputting a first specific signal to the game control unit;
a second specific signal output unit capable of outputting a second specific signal to the game control unit;
Equipped with an external signal output section capable of outputting a signal to the outside of the gaming machine,
A gaming machine that plays a game by ejecting a gaming medium into a gaming area,
a front frame that can be opened and closed in a closed state that covers the front surface of the gaming area and an open state that opens the front surface to the gaming area;
a frame signal output unit that detects that the front frame is in an open state or a closed state and outputs a frame signal,
The game control unit includes a measurement unit that measures the input time of the frame signal,
The second specific signal is the frame signal,
The first specific signal input to the game control unit is controlled by a control unit included in the game control unit, and a signal based on the control process is output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit,
The frame signal input to the game control section is outputted from the game control section to the external signal output section when the time measured by the measurement section exceeds a specific time, and the frame signal inputted to the game control section is outputted from the game control section to the external signal output section, The present invention is characterized in that the game control section does not output any signal to the external signal output section unless a specific time period has elapsed.

According to such a gaming machine, the game control section includes at least one control section of a win/fail determination control section, a special game control section, and a gaming profit grant control section. The game also includes a front frame that opens and closes the front of the gaming area, and a frame signal output unit that detects that the front frame is in an open state (or that it is in a closed state) and outputs a frame signal. The first specific signal output from the first specific signal output section is input to the game control section, subjected to control processing by the game control section, and outputted from the game control section to the external signal output section. Further, it is assumed that the frame signal output section, which is the second specific signal output section, outputs the frame signal, which is the second specific signal. The input time of this frame signal output from the frame signal output unit is measured by the measurement unit of the game control unit, and when the measured time exceeds a specific time, it is output to the external signal output unit, and the input time is measured by the measurement unit of the game control unit. If there is no signal, it will not be output to the external signal output section.

Furthermore, when the frame signal is output to the external signal output section, the external signal output section can output a signal based on the input of the frame signal to the external device. Furthermore, this makes it possible for the external device to determine whether the front frame is in the open or closed state, thereby preventing fraud. Further, since the frame signal is output only when the input time exceeds the specific time, an increase in the burden of control processing can be avoided without outputting extra control signals. Furthermore, even when the frame signal is sent to the external signal output section (external device) via the gaming control section, it is possible to prevent the burden of control processing by the control means of the gaming control section from increasing as much as possible. It becomes possible.

Also, a gaming machine according to another means of Reference Invention 2 will be explained.
The gaming machine according to other means 1 is
In a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine, slot machine) that controls a special gaming state advantageous to the player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
Operation means (input means, call switch) that can be operated by the player;
A call signal output means capable of outputting a call signal indicating that the call operation has been performed to the outside of the gaming machine (data display) based on a call operation (push operation, push operation) for operating the operating means. (external terminal board).

According to the gaming machine having this configuration, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, a calling signal is output to the outside of the gaming machine (an external device such as a data display or a hall computer). Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to leave his/her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, allowing the player to play comfortably. is possible.

Furthermore, the gaming machine according to other means 2 is the gaming machine according to other means 1,
The operation means may be provided with a call notification means (call lamp) capable of issuing a call notification (blinking red with the words "call switch") to notify that the call operation has been performed.

According to such a gaming machine, after performing a calling operation on the operation means, it is possible to easily understand that a call is being made by a call notification. In particular, since the operation means is provided with the call notification means, it is possible to easily understand the relationship between the call operation of the operation means and the call notification.

Further, the gaming machine according to other means 3 is the gaming machine according to other means 1 or other means 2,
comprising a gaming machine frame (front frame) in which the operating means is provided,
The gaming machine frame includes a window (glass plate, reel window) that allows a predetermined area (gaming area, reel arrangement area) provided inside the gaming machine frame to be viewed;
a game media storage section (operation mechanism unit, medal tray section) located below the window section and capable of storing game media;
an upper decoration part (upper decoration unit) located above the window part and decorating the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means provided in the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine according to other means 4 is the gaming machine according to other means 3,
a movable member provided in the gaming machine frame;
A movable member control means (sub-control unit) capable of moving the movable member to a predetermined standby position (first position, storage position) or operating position (second position, protrusion position),
The operating position may be a position where at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to the gaming machine having such a configuration, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, so that it is possible to enhance the performance effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means.

Further, the invention according to other means 5 is the gaming machine according to other means 4,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is located in front of a front end (front end position) of the upper decorative portion.

According to such a gaming machine, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is not only located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, but also protrudes forward from the front end of the upper decorative portion. Therefore, although it becomes more difficult to reach the data display, it is possible to summon an employee of the hall in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operation means.

Furthermore, the gaming machine according to other means 6 is
In a gaming machine that controls a special gaming state (jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to a player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
an operation means that can be operated by a player;
a calling signal output means capable of outputting a calling signal indicating that the calling operation has been performed to the outside of the gaming machine based on the calling operation by operating the operating means;
The apparatus may also include a call notification means that can perform a call notification to notify that the call operation has been performed.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, a calling signal is output to the outside of the gaming machine. Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to get up from his or her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, allowing the player to play comfortably. Is possible. Furthermore, after performing a calling operation on the operation means, it is possible to easily recognize that a call is in progress by a call notification.

Further, the gaming machine according to other means 7 is the gaming machine according to other means 6,
The call notification means may end the call notification when a call cancellation operation is performed on the operation unit during execution of the call notification.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, a calling notification is started, and when a calling cancellation operation is performed on the same operating means, the calling notification ends. Therefore, it is possible to make it easy to understand how to end the call notification.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 8 is the gaming machine of other means 7,
Equipped with a production control means that can control production as the game progresses,
The effect control means displays, on a predetermined display means, an explanatory image shown in a cancellation explanation display explaining that if a call cancellation operation is performed on the operating means during execution of the call notification, the call notification ends. The display may be made executable.

According to such a gaming machine, even a player who has never operated the operating means can understand how to end the call notification by displaying the cancellation explanation.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 9 is the gaming machine of any of other means 6 to 8,
Equipped with a timekeeping means (measuring unit) for measuring time,
The call notification means may end the call notification based on the fact that the timer measures a predetermined time while the call notification is being executed.

According to such a gaming machine, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the call notification, it is possible to automatically end the call notification. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the call notification continues to be executed when the player does not know how to end the call notification or is away from his/her seat.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 10 is the gaming machine of any of the other means 6 to the other means 9,
comprising a gaming machine frame in which the operating means is provided,
The gaming machine frame includes a window portion provided inside the gaming machine frame through which a predetermined area can be viewed, and a gaming media storage portion located below the window portion and capable of storing gaming media; an upper decoration part located above the window part and decorating the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means provided in the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 11 is the gaming machine of other means 10,
a movable member provided in the gaming machine frame;
A movable member control means capable of moving the movable member to a predetermined standby position or an operating position,
The operating position may be a position where at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to such a gaming machine, since the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame when it is in the operating position, it is possible to enhance the presentation effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 12 is the gaming machine of other means 11,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is located in front of a front end of the upper decorative portion.

According to such a gaming machine, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is not only located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, but also protrudes forward from the front end of the upper decorative portion. Therefore, although it becomes more difficult to reach the data display, it is possible to summon an employee of the hall in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operation means.

In addition, the gaming machine of other means 13 is
Equipped with a gaming machine frame that forms the outer shell of the gaming machine,
The gaming machine frame includes a window portion provided inside the gaming machine frame through which a predetermined area can be viewed, and a gaming media storage portion located below the window portion and capable of storing gaming media; an upper decoration part located above the window part and decorating the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
In a gaming machine that controls a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
an operating means that can be operated by a player; and a calling signal output means that can output a calling signal indicating that the calling operation has been performed to the outside of the gaming machine based on a calling operation that operates the operating means. , and the operating means may be disposed on the upper decoration part.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, a calling signal is output to the outside of the gaming machine. Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to get up from his or her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, making it possible for the player to play comfortably. It is possible. Furthermore, since the operating means is arranged on the upper decoration part rather than near the game medium storage section, it is difficult for the player to misunderstand the operating means as a performance button or the like located near the game medium storage section, thereby making it difficult for the player to operate the operating means erroneously. is possible.

Further, the invention according to other means 14 is the gaming machine according to other means 13,
The operation means may be provided with a call notification unit that can issue a call notification to notify that the call operation has been performed.

According to such a gaming machine, after performing a calling operation on the operation means, it is possible to easily understand that a call is being made by a call notification. In particular, since the operation means is provided with the call notification means, it is possible to easily understand the relationship between the call operation of the operation means and the call notification.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 15 is the gaming machine of other means 14,
The call notification means may end the call notification when a call cancellation operation is performed on the operation unit during execution of the call notification.

According to the gaming machine having this configuration, if a call cancellation operation is performed on the same operation means while the call notification is being executed, the call notification ends, so it is possible to make it easy to understand how to end the call notification. Since the operating means is located in the upper decoration part, it is easier for the employee of the hall who is called to complete the call notification than if the operating means were located near the game media storage part. It is possible to make it easier.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 16 is the gaming machine of any of the other means 13 to 15,
A firing operation means capable of firing a game ball as the game medium toward the game area as the predetermined area is disposed on the right side of the game medium storage part, and on the left side of the upper decoration part. The operating means may be disposed in the control device.

If the operating means is arranged on the right side of the upper decoration part, it will be difficult for the player to operate the operating means with his left hand while operating the firing operating means with his right hand. Therefore, according to the gaming machine with this configuration, since the operating means is arranged on the left side of the upper decorative part, the player can easily operate the operating means with his left hand while operating the firing operating means with his right hand. It is possible to do so.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 17 is the gaming machine of any of the other means 13 to 16,
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means provided in the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 18 is the gaming machine of any of the other means 13 to 17,
a movable member provided in the gaming machine frame;
A movable member control means capable of moving the movable member to a predetermined standby position or an operating position,
The operating position may be a position where at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to such a gaming machine, since the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame when it is in the operating position, it is possible to enhance the presentation effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of other means 19 is the gaming machine of other means 18,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is located in front of a front end of the upper decorative portion.

According to such a gaming machine, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is not only located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, but also protrudes forward from the front end of the upper decorative portion. Therefore, although it becomes more difficult to reach the data display, it is possible to summon an employee of the hall in a simple manner by performing a calling operation on the operation means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 20 is
In a gaming machine that controls a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
an operating means that can be operated by a player; and a calling signal output means that can output a calling signal indicating that the calling operation has been performed to the outside of the gaming machine based on a calling operation that operates the operating means. , a production control means capable of controlling production as the game progresses;
The performance control means may be capable of displaying a function explanation for explaining the function of the operation means on a predetermined display means.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, a calling signal is output to the outside of the gaming machine. Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to get up from his or her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, allowing the player to play comfortably. Is possible. However, if a new operating means is provided, there is a risk that the player may misunderstand the operating means as an effect button or the like and operate the player incorrectly. Therefore, by executing a function explanation display that explains the function of the operating means, it is possible to make it difficult for the operating means to be erroneously operated.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 21 is the gaming machine of the other means 20,
comprising a gaming machine frame in which the operating means is provided,
The gaming machine frame is
a window portion provided inside the gaming machine frame through which a predetermined area can be viewed;
a game media storage section located below the window and capable of storing game media;
an upper decoration part located above the window part and decorating the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by operating the operating means provided on the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 22 is the gaming machine described in the other means 20,
A gaming machine frame in which the operating means is provided, a movable member provided in the gaming machine frame, and the movable member may be moved to a predetermined standby position (storage position) or operating position (protruding position). movable member control means capable of
The operating position may be a position where at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to such a gaming machine, since the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame when it is in the operating position, it is possible to enhance the presentation effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can easily summon an employee of the hall by operating the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 23 is the gaming machine of any of the other means 20 to 22,
an operable setting operation means; an explainable setting that allows the effect control means to execute the function explanation display based on a setting operation for operating the setting operation means; and an explanation possible setting in which the effect control means executes the function explanation display. and an explanation setting means that can be set to either a non-explanatory setting or a non-explainable setting.

According to such a gaming machine, for example, it is possible to arbitrarily select whether or not to display a function explanation according to the intention of a hall employee. Therefore, for example, for a game machine where malfunctions are relatively easy to occur, an explainable setting is made so that a function explanation display can be executed, and for a game machine where there is a lot of mischief with the operation means, a function explanation display is not executed and an explanation is not possible. It is possible to set.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 24 is
A control means (main control section, payout control section) capable of executing control processing that affects the result of the game,
A main board (main control board, payout control board) on which the control means is mounted,
In a gaming machine that controls a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
a first signal output means capable of outputting a predetermined first signal to the main board;
a second signal output means capable of outputting a predetermined second signal to the main board;
an external terminal board capable of outputting a predetermined signal to the outside of the gaming machine based on the input signal,
The first signal input to the main board is subjected to control processing by the control means, and a control processing signal based on the control processing (an outer end output signal such as a symbol confirmation signal, an outer end output signal indicating an increase in the number of prize balls displayed) A second signal (signal) is output from the main board to the external terminal board, while a second signal (detection signal by the call sensor) input to the main board is not used for the control process of the control means, and is output from the main board to the external terminal board. It may be characterized in that it is output to an external terminal board.

Like existing gaming machines, the first signal output from the first signal output means (for example, starting port sensor) is controlled and processed by the control means of the main board. Through this control processing, a control processing signal (for example, an outer end output signal indicating final display of a special symbol) is output from the main board to the external terminal board. Then, the external terminal board outputs a signal based on the control processing signal (for example, a symbol confirmation signal) to an external device. By the way, according to the gaming machine having this configuration, the second signal output from the second signal output means is output to the external terminal board without being used for control processing of the control means of the main board. The external terminal board can then output a signal based on the input of the second signal to an external device. In this way, when new information related to the second signal is sent to the external terminal board (external device) via the main board, it is possible to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the main board. It is possible.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 25 is the gaming machine of the other means 24,
Equipped with operation means that can be operated by the player,
The second signal output means outputs the second signal based on a calling operation that operates the operation means,
The external terminal board may be capable of outputting a calling signal indicating that the calling operation has been performed to the outside of the gaming machine based on the input of the second signal.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, the external terminal board outputs a calling signal to the external device. Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to get up from his or her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, making it possible for the player to play comfortably. It is possible.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 26 is the gaming machine of the other means 25,
The control means is a game control means (main control unit) that can execute a game control process (main control process) that controls the progress of the game as the control process,
The main board may be a main control board on which the game control means is mounted.

According to such a gaming machine, when sending a call signal based on the operation of the operating means to an external device, it is possible to realize this without increasing the burden on the game controlling means of the main control board. In other words, it is possible to configure a gaming machine that outputs a call signal to an external device without changing the game control processing of the existing game control means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 27 is the gaming machine of the other means 26,
comprising a gaming machine frame in which the operating means is provided,
The gaming machine frame is
a window part provided inside the gaming machine frame that allows a predetermined area to be viewed; a game media storage part located below the window part and capable of storing game media; and an upper side of the window part. an upper decorative part located at the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by operating the operating means provided on the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 28 is the gaming machine of the other means 27,
a movable member provided in the gaming machine frame;
A movable member control means capable of moving the movable member to a predetermined standby position or an operating position,
The operating position may be a position where at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to such a gaming machine, since the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame when it is in the operating position, it is possible to enhance the presentation effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can easily summon an employee of the hall by operating the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 29 is the gaming machine of the other means 28,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is located in front of a front end of the upper decorative portion.

According to such a gaming machine, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is not only located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, but also protrudes forward from the front end of the upper decorative portion. Therefore, although it becomes more difficult to reach the data display, it is possible to summon an employee of the hall in a simple manner by operating the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 30 is
a payout control means (payout control unit) capable of executing control processing related to payout of game media;
A payout control board mounting the payout control means,
In a gaming machine that controls a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the establishment of predetermined control conditions,
a first signal output means capable of outputting a predetermined first signal to the payout control board;
a second signal output means capable of outputting a predetermined second signal to the payout control board;
an external terminal board capable of outputting a predetermined signal to the outside of the gaming machine based on the input signal,
The first signal input to the payout control board is controlled and processed by the payout control means,
A first control processing signal based on the control processing is output from the payout control board to the external terminal board, while a second signal input to the payout control board is used for control processing of the payout control means. It is also possible to output the signal to the external terminal board without having to do so.

Further, like the existing gaming machine, the first signal output from the first signal output means (detection sensor that detects the ejection of prize balls) is controlled and processed by the payout control means of the payout control board. Through this control processing, a first control processing signal (for example, an outer end output signal indicating an increase in the number of prize balls displayed) is output from the payout control board to the external terminal board. Then, the external terminal board outputs a signal (for example, a prize ball information signal) based on the first control processing signal to an external device (data display, hall computer, etc.). By the way, according to the gaming machine having this configuration, the second signal output from the second signal output means is output to the external terminal board without being used for the control process of the payout control means of the payout control board. The external terminal board can then output a signal based on the input of the second signal to an external device. In this way, when new information related to the second signal is sent to the external terminal board (external device) via the payout control board, it is possible to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the payout control means. It is.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 31 is the gaming machine of the other means 30,
Equipped with operation means that can be operated by the player,
The second signal output means outputs the second signal based on a calling operation performed by operating the operating means, and the external terminal board outputs the second signal when the calling operation is performed based on the input of the second signal. It may also be possible to output a call signal indicating that a call has been received to the outside of the gaming machine.

According to such a gaming machine, when a calling operation is performed on the operating means, the external terminal board outputs a calling signal to the external device. Thereby, it is possible to summon the employees of the hall. In other words, if a problem occurs with the gaming machine, the player does not have to get up from his or her seat to operate the call button on the data display or call for a hall employee, allowing the player to play comfortably. Is possible.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 32 is the gaming machine of the other means 31,
comprising a gaming machine frame in which the operating means is provided,
The gaming machine frame includes a window portion provided inside the gaming machine frame through which a predetermined area can be viewed, and a gaming media storage portion located below the window portion and capable of storing gaming media; an upper decoration part located above the window part and decorating the upper part of the gaming machine frame;
The upper decoration part may protrude more forward than the front end of the game medium storage part.

According to such a gaming machine, since the upper decorative part of the gaming machine frame protrudes forward from the front end of the gaming medium storage part, it is possible to strengthen the impact on the shape of the gaming machine frame. However, the forwardly protruding upper decorative portion makes it difficult to operate the call button and the like of the data display installed above the gaming machine. Therefore, the player can call the hall employee in a simple manner by operating the operating means provided on the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 33 is the gaming machine of the other means 32,
a movable member (movable part) provided in the upper decorative part;
A movable member control means capable of moving the movable member to a predetermined standby position or an operating position,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is above an upper edge of the gaming machine frame.

According to such a gaming machine, since the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame when it is in the operating position, it is possible to enhance the presentation effect. However, in this case, the visibility and operability of the data display installed above the gaming machine deteriorate. Therefore, even if the movable member is located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, the player can easily summon an employee of the hall by operating the operating means.

Further, the gaming machine of the other means 34 is the gaming machine of the other means 33,
The operating position may be a position in which at least a portion of the movable member is located in front of a front end of the upper decorative portion.

According to such a gaming machine, when the movable member is in the operating position, it is not only located above the upper edge of the gaming machine frame, but also protrudes forward from the front end of the upper decorative portion. Therefore, although it becomes more difficult to reach the data display, it is possible to summon an employee of the hall in a simple manner by operating the operating means.

According to the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2, it is possible to avoid an increase in the burden of control processing by the control means of the main board.

Note that any one or more of Reference Inventions 1 and/or 2 described above may be combined.

1 Pachinko gaming machine, 7b production symbol display area (production symbol display section), 8 production symbol, 20 first starting opening, 21 second starting opening, 30 first grand prize opening, 35 second grand prize opening, 39 specific area , 41a first special symbol display (first special symbol display section), 41b second special symbol display (second special symbol display section), 80 main control board (main control section), 90 sub control board (sub control part), 100 image control board (image control unit), 103a performance first special figure reservation display, 103b performance second special figure reservation display.

Claims (1)

an appropriateness determination control unit that makes an appropriateness determination based on establishment of a predetermined condition;
a special game control unit that executes a special game that can provide a predetermined gaming profit to the player when the result of the validity determination is a specific result;
a given game ball detection unit capable of detecting game balls;
A gaming machine that plays a game by ejecting gaming media into a gaming area, comprising a gaming profit granting control unit that controls the granting of the gaming profit based on the detection result of the awarded game ball detection unit,
a gaming control section having the gaming profit granting control section;
a first specific signal output unit capable of outputting a first specific signal to the game control unit;
a second specific signal output unit capable of outputting a second specific signal to the game control unit;
an external signal output section capable of outputting a signal to the outside of the gaming machine;
a front frame that can be opened and closed into a closed state that covers the front surface of the game area and an open state that opens the front surface of the game area;
a frame signal output unit that detects that the front frame is in an open state or a closed state and outputs a frame signal,
The game control unit includes a measurement unit that measures the input time of the frame signal,
The first specific signal output section is the provided game ball detection section,
The first specific signal is a given game ball detection signal output based on the given game ball detection unit detecting a game ball,
The second specific signal output section is the frame signal output section,
The second specific signal is the frame signal,
The awarded game ball detection signal input to the game control unit is controlled and processed by a control unit included in the game control unit, and a signal based on the control process is output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit,
If the measurement time by the measurement unit exceeds a specific time, the frame signal input to the game control unit is sent to the external signal from the game control unit without being controlled by the control unit of the game control unit. If the measurement time by the measurement unit does not exceed the specific time, the signal is not output from the game control unit to the external signal output unit.
A gaming machine characterized by:

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