JP7449775B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

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

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

Such games are played on a game board unit placed inside the door member. As a technique related to such a door member, Patent Document 1 discloses that when opening and closing the door of a medal lending machine, a hook locking piece rides on an inclined piece of a hook receiving part and is fitted into and locked in an engagement hole of the hook receiving part. The configuration is described.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-202147

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

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

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

Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present solution has a door member that can be opened and closed, and at least a hook and a receiving part for receiving the hook, and a locking means for locking the door member by hooking the hook to the receiving part. The hook has a predetermined slope in a portion that contacts the receiving portion, and the receiving portion has a specific slope in a portion that contacts the hook in accordance with the slope angle of the predetermined slope. This is a gaming machine characterized by having an inclined part.

The gaming machine of this solution has the following configuration.
(1) Equipped with a door member that can be opened and closed. The door member is, for example, an integral door unit, an inner frame assembly, or the like.
(2) It has at least a hook and a receiving part for receiving the hook (hook receiving part), and includes a locking means for locking the door member of (1) above by hooking (engaging) the hook on the receiving part. ing. The locking means is arranged around or near the door member.

(3) The hook in (2) above has a predetermined sloped portion (slanted surface, chamfer) at the portion that contacts the receiving portion in (2) above.
(4) The receiving part in (2) above has a specific sloped part (sloped surface, chamfer) that matches the slope angle of the predetermined sloped part in (3) above in the part that comes into contact with the hook in (2) above. have Here, matching the inclination angles means making the inclination angles the same or substantially the same. When matching the inclination angles, it is preferable to match the inclination angles completely, but the inclination angles may also be adjusted by shifting the inclination angles by several degrees to several tens of degrees. The inclined portion may be a linear member (surface) or a curved member (surface).

As described above, according to the present solution, since the receiving part has a specific slope part that matches the inclination angle of the predetermined slope part, the hook and the receiving part come into surface contact, and the hook and the receiving part come into surface contact. The sliding resistance between the parts can be reduced compared to systems in which the parts make point contact or line contact. By reducing the sliding resistance between the parts, the parts become less likely to be scratched and the durability of the parts related to the locking means can be improved, and as a result, a novel gaming machine can be provided.

Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present solution is provided in any of the above-mentioned solutions, wherein the predetermined inclined portion has a function of receiving the specific inclined portion by first coming into contact with the specific inclined portion; This gaming machine is characterized by having a function of moving the hook in a direction in which the hook is hooked on the receiving part while coming into contact with a specific inclined part.

In this solution, the predetermined slope part has a function of first contacting the specific slope part and receiving the specific slope part (a first function of receiving the part), and a function of receiving the hook while contacting the specific slope part. It also has a function to move the part in the direction of hooking it on the part (a second function to assist in moving the part).

According to this solution, since the predetermined inclined portion has two functions, the door member can be efficiently locked by the locking means.

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

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of the pachinko machine. It is a figure showing an integrated door unit alone. It is a perspective view of a unified lock unit. It is a side view of a unified lock unit. It is a figure showing a front locking tool and a unified locking unit. It is a figure which shows a rear locking tool and a unified locking unit. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the first hook and the first receiving portion of the present embodiment. It is a perspective view of a 1st hook and a 1st receiving part vicinity. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of a first hook and a first receiving portion of a comparative example. It is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of a second hook and a second receiving part of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of a second hook and a second receiving portion of a comparative example. It is a diagram (1/2) showing the operation of the first hook and the first receiving part. It is a diagram (2/2) showing the operation of the first hook and the first receiving part. It is a diagram (1/2) showing the operation of the second hook and the second receiving part. It is a figure (2/2) showing the operation of the second hook and the second receiving part. It is a front view showing the game board unit alone. It is a front view showing a part of the game board unit in an enlarged manner. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration within the production control device. It is a diagram showing the relationship between settings and winning probability of special symbol lottery. 12 is a flowchart (1/2) illustrating a procedure example of CPU initialization processing. 12 is a flowchart (2/2) illustrating a procedure example of CPU initialization processing. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for evacuation processing at power-off. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for command reception interrupt processing. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for timer interrupt processing. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for processing a switch input event. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a performance determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart showing a configuration example of special symbol game processing. It is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable prize winning device. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of an off-time variation pattern selection table. It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a stop symbol selection table at the time of a first special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a stop symbol selection table at the time of a second special symbol jackpot. It is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot time fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of special symbol stop display processing. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of display output management processing. It is a flowchart showing a configuration example of variable winning device management processing at the time of jackpot. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a big winning opening pattern setting process at the time of a jackpot. It is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a jackpot. It is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening closing process when a big hit occurs. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the end process at the time of a jackpot. It is a flowchart showing a configuration example of variable winning device management processing at the time of small winning. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a big winning opening pattern setting process when a small hit occurs. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a big winning opening opening/closing operation process when a small hit occurs. It is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a big winning opening closing process at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the end process at the time of a small hit. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "12 rounds normal symbols" or "12 rounds probability variable symbols 1 and 2" in the normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "16 round probability variable symbols" or "6 round probability variable symbols 1 and 2" in fireworks rush or coast mode. It is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect image made to correspond to a variable display and a stop display of special symbols. It is a continuous diagram showing the flow of a super reach effect executed during variable display of special symbols. It is a continuous diagram (1/4) partially showing an example of a performance during a big role when it corresponds to a "12 round normal symbol" or the like. It is a continuous diagram (2/4) partially showing an example of a performance during a big role when it corresponds to a "12 round normal symbol" or the like. It is a continuous diagram (3/4) partially showing an example of a performance during a big role when it corresponds to a "12 round normal symbol" or the like. It is a continuous diagram (4/4) partially showing an example of a performance during a big role when it corresponds to a "12 round normal symbol" or the like. It is a continuous diagram showing an example of a fireworks rush performance. It is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big win effect executed during a jackpot game when it corresponds to “6 round probability variable pattern 1” or the like. It is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big win performance executed during a jackpot game when it corresponds to "16 round probability variable symbols". It is a continuous diagram which shows the example of a performance of a coast mode. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of working memory performance management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of production design variation pre-processing. It is a flowchart showing a configuration example of a process when the variable prize winning device is activated.

[Embodiment]
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as "pachinko machine") 1. As shown in FIG. Further, FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
Here, in this specification, the left side when viewed from a player seated facing the pachinko machine 1 is referred to as the left, the right side when viewed from the player is referred to as the right, and the upper side when viewed from the player is referred to as the top. The lower side as seen from the player is the bottom, the front side as seen from the player is the front, and the back side as seen from the player is the rear.

The pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine that plays games using game balls as game media. A player borrows game balls from a game hall operator and plays a game on a pachinko machine 1. In addition, in the game on the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium that has a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game ball that the player has acquired. It can be converted into gaming value based on the number of .

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4 (a door member that can be opened and closed), and an inner frame assembly 7 (a plastic frame, a gaming machine frame, a frame member, and a door member that can be opened and closed). The integral door unit 4 is arranged at the frontmost side of the pachinko machine 1, and the inner frame assembly 7 is arranged at the rear side (rear side) of the integrated door unit 4. The outer frame unit 2 is arranged in such a manner as to

The outer frame unit 2 is a structure made by combining wood and metal materials into a vertically elongated rectangular shape. It is fixed using

A saucer unit 6 is arranged in the lower part of the integrated door unit 4. The saucer unit 6 is a unit that is provided in front of the integrated door unit 4 and can store game balls. The integral door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island equipment via the outer frame unit 2, and each operates in an open/close manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). The opening/closing axis of the hinge mechanism (not shown) extends vertically along the left end of the pachinko machine 1.

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

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

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked (the inner frame assembly 7 remains fixed to the outer frame unit 2), and only the integral door unit 4 is unlocked. The integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit is exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as balls jammed in the board. Note that when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the saucer unit 6 also moves to the front side.

Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes a game board unit (game board, game unit), and the game board unit is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integral door unit 4. The game board unit can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integral door unit 4 opened to the front side. The integral door unit 4 has a vertically elongated window 4a formed in its center, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached within this window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut to a size that can cover the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integral door unit 4 via a mounting tool (not shown). Further, a game area is formed on the front side of the game board unit, and this game area is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integral door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface into which game balls can flow.

The game board unit has elements necessary for the game, such as a starting gate corresponding to the normal symbol, a starting prize opening corresponding to the special symbol, a general prize opening (other hole prize opening), and an electric accessory ( A normal electric accessory and a special electric accessory), a symbol display device (a regular symbol display device and a special symbol display device), an integrated display board, a performance display device (liquid crystal display), etc. are arranged. When the game ball that has flown down enters the starting gate or starting prize opening, a normal symbol lottery or a special symbol lottery is executed, and special games (big hit games, small win games, normal symbol winning games, etc.) are executed depending on the lottery results. is executed. The special game allows the player to win many balls. The main control device controls the content related to the progress of the game, and the production control device controls the content related to the performance based on commands from the main control device.

The tray unit 6 is arranged to protrude from the integral door unit 4 toward the front side, and has a spherical tray 6b formed on its upper surface. This ball tray 6b can store game balls lent to players (rental balls) and game balls won by winning (prize balls). The game balls borrowed by the player are paid out to the tray unit 6 (ball tray 6b) from a payout device unit (not shown) on the back side separately from the prize balls.

A lending operation section (not shown) is provided on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6, and a ball lending button and a return button are arranged in this lending operation section. When a player operates the ball rental button with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted into a card unit (not shown), the number of balls corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees) ( For example, 125 game balls are lent. Further, a frequency display section (not shown) is disposed on the top surface of the lending operation section, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted into the card unit is displayed on this frequency display section. Note that by operating the return button, the player can receive the return of valuable media with remaining credits.

Further, a first ball extraction button (not shown) is installed on the upper left side of the saucer unit 6, and a second ball extraction button (not shown) is installed on the upper right side of the saucer unit 6. When the ball tray 6b is full, pressing the first ball extraction button or the second ball extraction button opens the ball extraction hole, thereby allowing game balls to flow downwards in the pachinko machine 1. . When the first ball extraction button and the second ball extraction button are pressed and operated, the game balls stored in the ball tray 6b fall downward, and the fallen game balls are caught in a ball receiving box, game ball counting device, etc. (not shown). It will be done.

A handle unit 16 is installed at the lower right of the saucer unit 6. When the player operates this handle unit 16, a firing control board set (not shown) is activated and a game ball can be fired toward the gaming area (launching device). The fired game ball rises from the lower edge of the game board unit along the left side edge, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (none of which are shown), etc. are arranged within the game area, and the thrown game ball flows down within the game area while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and windmills.

The pachinko machine 1 is provided with an upper lamp 46, a left lamp 48, and a right lamp 50. These lamps perform light effects, for example, by emitting light from built-in LEDs (lighting up, flashing, changes in brightness gradation, changes in color tone, etc.).

[Speaker]
The pachinko machine 1 includes a left rear speaker 54a placed on the left side of the upper lamp 46, a right rear speaker 54b placed on the right side of the upper lamp 46, an upper left speaker 54c placed below the left rear speaker 54a, and a right speaker 54c placed below the left rear speaker 54a. The upper right speaker 54d located below the rear speaker 54b, the left middle speaker 54e located on the left side of the saucer unit 6, the right middle speaker 54f located on the right side of the saucer unit 6, and the lower part of the integrated door unit 4. A curtain panel speaker 54g is installed. These speakers perform sound effects by outputting sound effects, BGM, voices, etc. (general sound).

Of these, the rear left speaker 54a and the rear right speaker 54b are movable forward (toward the player) by a drive mechanism (not shown) or the like. When the rear left speaker 54a and the rear right speaker 54b move forward, the rear left speaker 54a and the rear right speaker 54b come closer to the player's head (ear), and a special sound effect different from the normal sound effect is produced. Can produce acoustic effects.

[Top attachment]
An upper attachment 400 is attached to the upper part of the integral door unit 4. The upper attachment 400 includes an upper lamp 46, a left rear speaker 54a, a right rear speaker 54b, an upper left speaker 54c, an upper right speaker 54d, a drive mechanism (not shown), a sensor, an IC for controlling these parts, and the like. The upper attachment 400 is an attachment member that can be attached (removable, replaceable) to the integrated door unit 4 and has an upper attachment authentication ID (predetermined identification information). The upper attachment 400 can communicate with the production control device.

For example, it is necessary to attach an upper attachment for the A model to the A model. Even if the upper attachment for model B is attached to model A, the upper attachment for model B does not work properly. This point also applies to the lower attachment. To determine whether the combination is correct (whether the attachment authentication ID is normal or not), compare the attachment authentication ID obtained from the attachment with the attachment ID information stored in the ROM etc. of the production control device. It can be determined by The attachment authentication ID can be read like input signals from various sensors (sensors of movable bodies, etc.). Note that the attachment authentication ID is a fixed value.

[Lower attachment]
A lower attachment 500 is attached to the lower center of the integral door unit 4. The lower attachment 500 includes an effect switching button 510, a lever member 520, a drive mechanism (not shown), an IC for controlling these parts, and the like. The lower attachment 500 is an attachment member that can be attached (removable, replaceable) to the integrated door unit 4 and has a lower attachment authentication ID (predetermined identification information).

The effect switching button 510 is arranged at the center of the lower attachment 500 and can accept multiple types of operation inputs (single press, multiple presses, repeated presses, long presses, etc.). The lever members 520 are two rod-shaped members arranged on the left and right sides of the production switching button 510 and extending in the vertical direction. The lever member 520 may be a mere decoration, or may be a member capable of accepting multiple types of operation inputs (one push, multiple pushes, long press, etc.).

Then, when the player operates the performance switching button 510, an input signal is input to the performance control device. As a result, the production control device can switch the content of the production (for example, the content of the production displayed on the liquid crystal display), or perform some production (notice presentation, button press production, lever member press production) during symbol fluctuations or jackpot games. etc.).

In addition, a direction key (not shown) is installed on the upper surface of the saucer unit 6 adjacent to the lending operation section. The direction key has four key switches arranged in a cross shape indicating up, down, left, and right directions, and the key switches for each direction can be pressed independently. The player can arbitrarily move the cursor etc. displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display by pressing and operating the direction keys at various scenes in the performance.

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

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

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

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

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

The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference numerals), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. , game balls supplied from a supply route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are led to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The channel unit 173 guides the game balls sent out from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side. The payout control board unit 176 has a built-in payout control device, and the performance control board unit 178 has a built-in performance control device.

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

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

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the integral door unit alone.
An upper attachment 400 (see FIG. 1) can be attached to the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, and a lower attachment 500 (see FIG. 1) can be attached to the lower center of the integrated door unit 4. Then, when the upper attachment 400 and the lower attachment 500 are removed from the integrated door unit 4, the state shown in FIG. 3 will be obtained.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the unified lock unit. Moreover, FIG. 5 is a side view of the unified lock unit.
The unified lock unit 700 includes a base member 710, a cylinder lock 6a, a first plate member 720, a second plate member 730, and the like.
The base member 710 is a member that extends vertically in the vertical direction, and is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7 using fasteners (not shown).
The cylinder lock 6a is located at the lower front of the base member 710 and on the left side of the base member 710.

The first plate member 720 is a member that extends vertically in the vertical direction, and is arranged on the right side (inside) of the base member 710.
The second plate member 730 is a member that extends vertically in the vertical direction, and is arranged on the right side of the first plate member 720.

The first plate member 720 includes three first hooks 722 formed integrally with the first plate member 720. Note that the three first hooks 722 may be formed separately from the first plate member 720, and in this case, the three first hooks 722 may be members that operate in conjunction with the operation of the first plate member 720. can. The first plate member 720 (first hook 722) is urged downward by a spring (not shown).

Among the three first hooks 722, the first hook 722 is arranged at the upper front part of the base member 710, and the second first hook 722 is arranged at the front upper part of the base member 710. The third first hook 722 is located at the bottom (above the cylinder lock 6a) and is located below the cylinder lock 6a in front of the base member 710.

The first hook 722 is a plate-shaped member that projects forward from the first plate-shaped member 720. Specifically, the first hook 722 extends from the first plate member 720 toward the front side, and is bent downward at the front side. The tip of the first hook 722 on the opposite side from the first plate-like member 720 is tilted approximately 90 degrees toward the right in order to ensure a wide contact area with the first receiving portion 802 (see FIG. 6). It is bent.

When the cylinder lock 6a is rotated counterclockwise (counterclockwise) (see arrow L in FIG. 4), the first plate member 720 rises, and thereby the three first hooks 722 also rise (see arrow L in FIG. 4). (see middle arrow U).

The second plate member 730 includes two second hooks 732 formed integrally with the second plate member 730. Note that the two second hooks 732 may be formed separately from the second plate member 730, and in this case, the two second hooks 732 may be members that operate in conjunction with the operation of the second plate member 730. can. The second plate member 730 (second hook 732) is urged upward by a spring (not shown).

Of the two second hooks 732, the first second hook 732 is arranged at the rear upper part of the base member 710, and the second second hook 732 is arranged at the rear lower part of the base member 710. has been done.

The second hook 732 is a plate-shaped member that protrudes rearward from the second plate-shaped member 730. Specifically, the second hook 732 extends rearward from the second plate member 730 and is bent upward at the rear side. The tip of the second hook 732 on the opposite side from the second plate-like member 730 is tilted approximately 90 degrees toward the right in order to ensure a wide contact area with the second receiving portion 902 (see FIG. 7). It is bent.

When the cylinder lock 6a is rotated clockwise (rightward) (see arrow R in FIG. 4), the second plate member 730 descends, and thereby the two second hooks 732 also descend (see arrow R in FIG. 4). (See arrow D).

The material of the receiving parts (first receiving part 802, second receiving part 902) is SPCC (cold rolled steel plate), and the material of the hooks (first hook 722, second hook 732) is SGCC (molten steel plate). Cold-rolled steel sheet with zinc plating).
That is, even if the hook and the receiving part are made of the same material, they are made of different materials by applying a predetermined process to one of them. However, the hook and the receiving part may be made of the same material.
Here, the tips of the first hook 722 and the second hook 732 on the opposite side from the plate-like member are bent in the same direction (for example, to the right), but in order to have a compact structure, It may be bent in different directions.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a front locking device and a unified locking unit.
The front locking tool 800 is a member that extends vertically in the vertical direction, and is arranged on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 (see FIG. 1) and on the front side of the unified locking unit 700.
Three first receiving portions 802 are formed in the front locking device 800 at positions corresponding to the three first hooks 722.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a rear locking device and a unified locking unit.
The rear locking device 900 is composed of two independent parts, an upper part and a lower part, and each part is arranged inside the outer frame unit 2 (see FIG. 1) and on the rear side of the unified locking unit 700. has been done.
Two second receiving portions 902 are formed in the rear locking tool 900 at positions corresponding to the two second hooks 732. Specifically, the upper rear locking device 900 has an upper second receiving portion 902 formed at a position corresponding to the upper second hook 732, and the lower rear locking device 900 has the following features: A lower second receiving portion 902 is formed at a position corresponding to the lower second hook 732.

Thus, the unified lock unit 700 has a first hook 722 and a second hook 732. Further, the front locking device 800 (locking device of the integrated door unit 4) has a first receiving portion 802. Furthermore, the rear locking tool 900 (locking tool of the outer frame unit 2) has a second receiving part 902. Then, by hooking the first hook 722 onto the first receiving portion 802, the integral door unit 4 can be locked with respect to the inner frame assembly 7. Further, by hooking the second hook 732 onto the second receiving portion 902, the inner frame assembly 7 can be locked with respect to the outer frame unit 2. The unified lock unit 700 and the locking tool are locking means.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the first hook and first receiving portion of this embodiment. 8A shows an enlarged view of the vicinity of the circular two-dot chain line in FIG. 6, and FIG. 8B shows a further enlarged view of the vicinity of the first receiving portion.
As shown in FIG. 8A, the first hook 722 has a first predetermined inclined surface 724 at a portion that contacts the first receiving portion 802. As shown in FIG.
Further, the first receiving portion 802 has a first specific inclined surface 804 that matches the inclination angle of the first predetermined inclined surface 724 in a portion that contacts the first hook 722 .
The angle of inclination of the first predetermined inclined surface 724 and the angle of inclination of the first specific inclined surface 804 are preferably equal angles (the inclined surfaces are parallel to each other); They may be deviated by degrees (the inclined surfaces may be approximately parallel to each other).
The first predetermined inclined surface 724 also has the function of first contacting the first specific inclined surface 804 and receiving the first specific inclined surface 804, and the function of first contacting the first specific inclined surface 804 and receiving the first specific inclined surface 804. However, it also has the function of moving the first hook 722 in the direction in which it is hooked on the first receiving part 802.

As shown in FIG. 8B, the inclination angle θ1 of the first specific inclined surface 804 is preferably about 20 to 60 degrees, more preferably about 30 to 50 degrees, and 40 degrees. It is more preferable that it be about the same extent.
Incidentally, the inclination angle θ1 indicates the angle at which the inclined surface is tilted (the angle at which the inclined surface is laid down) with the up-down (vertical) direction as a reference (0 degree).
If the inclination angle θ1 is small, the force of the push-in will be strong, and if the inclination angle θ1 is large, the inclined surface will fall down, reducing the load when pushing in, but the depth of the hook will need to be determined. Within the limited dimensions, it is preferably about 30 to 50 degrees, and optimally about 40 degrees.

Further, the vertical length H of the first specific inclined surface 804 is preferably about 0.1 to 3.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and 0.1 to 3.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm. More preferably, it is about 7 to 1.0 mm.

In this embodiment, since such a shape is adopted, the first hook 722 and the first receiving part 802 cause a surface collision, and the sliding resistance between the parts can be reduced. That is, by providing the first receiving portion 802 with a chamfer that matches the inclination of the first hook 722, the sliding resistance at the time of a collision is reduced and the component is less likely to be scraped.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the first hook and the first receiving portion.
The first receiving portion 802 has a plate-like member in a portion that contacts the first hook 722, and has a first specific inclined surface 804 at the end on the first hook 722 side. The first specific inclined surface 804 is a surface extending from the front side to the back side in the figure. The first specific inclined surface 804 is wider in the depth direction in the figure than the first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the first hook 722 .
Basically, the first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the first hook 722 contacts the first specific inclined surface 804 near the center. However, even if the contact position of the first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the first hook 722 is slightly shifted in the front-rear direction in the figure, the first predetermined inclined surface 724 and the first specific inclined surface 804 may surface contact is possible.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the first hook and first receiving portion of the comparative example. Note that the comparative example is not a conventional technique (the same applies hereinafter).
The first hook 722 has a first predetermined inclined surface 724 at a portion that contacts the first receiving portion 802 .
On the other hand, the first receiving portion 802 does not have the first specific inclined surface 804 matching the inclination angle of the first predetermined inclined surface 724 in the portion that contacts the first hook 722 . Specifically, the upper right end of the first receiving portion 802 is angular.
In the shape of the comparative example, the first hook 722 and the first receiving portion 802 collide at a point (line), and it is not possible to reduce the sliding resistance between the components. That is, since the first hook 722 collides with the edge (sharp corner) of the first receiving portion 802, sliding resistance is high, resulting in a situation where parts are likely to be scraped.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the second hook and second receiving portion of this embodiment. 11A shows an enlarged view of the vicinity of the circular two-dot chain line in FIG. 7, and FIG. 11B shows a further enlarged view of the vicinity of the second receiving portion.
The second hook 732 has a second predetermined inclined surface 734 at a portion that contacts the second receiving portion 902 .
Further, the second receiving portion 902 has a second specific inclined surface 904 matching the inclination angle of the second predetermined inclined surface 734 in a portion that contacts the second hook 732 .
The angle of inclination of the second predetermined inclined surface 734 and the angle of inclination of the second specific inclined surface 904 are preferably equal angles (the inclined surfaces are parallel to each other); They may be deviated by degrees (the inclined surfaces may be approximately parallel to each other).
The second predetermined inclined surface 734 also has the function of initially contacting the second specific inclined surface 904 and receiving the second specific inclined surface 904, and the function of contacting the second specific inclined surface 904. However, it also has the function of moving the second hook 732 in the direction in which it is hooked on the second receiving part 902.

As shown in FIG. 11 (B), the inclination angle θ2 of the second specific inclined surface 904 is preferably about 20 to 60 degrees, more preferably about 30 to 50 degrees, and 40 degrees. It is more preferable that it be about the same extent.
Incidentally, the inclination angle θ2 indicates the angle at which the inclined surface is tilted (the angle at which the inclined surface is laid down) with the up-down (vertical) direction as a reference (0 degree).
If the inclination angle θ2 is small, the force of contact when pushing in will be strong, and if the inclination angle θ2 is large, the inclined surface will fall down, reducing the load when pushing in, but the depth of the hook will need to be adjusted. Within the limited dimensions, it is preferably about 30 to 50 degrees, and optimally about 40 degrees.

Further, the vertical length H2 of the second specific inclined surface 904 is preferably about 0.1 to 3.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and 0.1 to 3.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm. More preferably, it is about 7 to 1.0 mm.
Note that it is preferable that the inclination angle θ1 and the inclination angle θ2 are made different depending on the arrangement space of the parts and other parts, and it is preferable that the length H1 and the length H2 are made different.

In this embodiment, since such a shape is adopted, the second hook 732 and the second receiving part 902 cause a surface collision, and the sliding resistance between the parts can be reduced. That is, by providing the second receiving portion 902 with a chamfer that matches the inclination of the second hook 732, the sliding resistance at the time of a collision is reduced and the component is less likely to be scraped.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view showing the vicinity of the second hook and second receiving portion of the comparative example.
The second hook 732 has a second predetermined inclined surface 734 at a portion that contacts the second receiving portion 902 .
On the other hand, the second receiving portion 902 does not have the second specific inclined surface 904 matching the inclination angle of the second predetermined inclined surface 734 in the portion that contacts the second hook 732 . Specifically, the upper right end of the second receiving portion 902 is angular.
In the shape of the comparative example, the second hook 732 and the second receiving portion 902 collide at a point (line), and it is not possible to reduce the sliding resistance between the components. That is, since the second hook 732 collides with the edge of the second receiving portion 902, sliding resistance is high, resulting in a situation where parts are likely to be scraped.

13 and 14 are diagrams showing the operation of the first hook and the first receiving part.
When the integral door unit 4 is open to the inner frame assembly 7, the first hook 722 and the first receiving part 802 are placed apart from each other, as shown in (A) in FIG. Ru.

In order to lock the integral door unit 4 with respect to the inner frame assembly 7, when the integral door unit 4 is pushed toward the rear side (in the direction of the inner frame assembly 7), as shown in (B) in FIG. The first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the hook 722 and the first specific inclined surface 804 of the first receiving portion 802 are in contact. The portion that comes into contact with the initial movement is a portion above the center of the first predetermined inclined surface 724.

When the integral door unit 4 is pushed further toward the rear, the first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the first hook 722 aligns with the first specified slope of the first receiving portion 802, as shown in FIG. 13(C). The first hook 722 moves upward while being guided by the inclined surface 804 of the hook 722 .

When the integrated door unit 4 is further pushed toward the rear side, the first predetermined inclined surface 724 of the first hook 722 is pushed into the first specified position of the first receiving part 802, as shown in FIG. 14(D). The first hook 722 is hooked on the first receiving part 802.
As a result, the integral door unit 4 is locked with respect to the inner frame assembly 7.

When opening (unlocking) the integral door unit 4 with respect to the inner frame assembly 7, the cylinder lock 6a is rotated counterclockwise (counterclockwise). Then, as shown in FIG. 14(E), the first hook 722 rises.

When the integral door unit 4 is pulled forward in this state, the first receiving part 802 passes under the first hook 722 and attaches to the inner frame assembly 7, as shown in FIG. 14(F). In contrast, the integrated door unit 4 is now in a state where it can be opened.

15 and 16 are diagrams showing the operation of the second hook and the second receiver.
When the inner frame assembly 7 is open to the outer frame unit 2, the second hook 732 and the second receiving part 902 are arranged apart from each other, as shown in FIG. 15(A). Ru.
In order to lock the inner frame assembly 7 with respect to the outer frame unit 2, when the inner frame assembly 7 is pushed backward (in the direction of the outer frame unit 2), as shown in (B) in FIG. A second predetermined inclined surface 734 of the hook 732 and a second specific inclined surface 904 of the second receiving portion 902 are in contact. The part that comes into contact with the initial movement is a part below the middle of the second predetermined inclined surface 734.

When the inner frame assembly 7 is further pushed rearward, the second predetermined inclined surface 734 of the second hook 732 is pushed into the second specified position of the second receiving part 902, as shown in FIG. 15(C). The second hook 732 moves downward.

When the inner frame assembly 7 is further pushed rearward, the second predetermined inclined surface 734 of the second hook 732 is pushed into the second specified position of the second receiving part 902, as shown in FIG. 16(D). The second hook 732 is hooked on the second receiving part 902.
As a result, the inner frame assembly 7 is locked with respect to the outer frame unit 2.

When opening (unlocking) the inner frame assembly 7 with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the cylinder lock 6a is rotated clockwise (clockwise). Then, as shown in FIG. 16(E), the second hook 732 descends.

When the inner frame assembly 7 is pulled forward in this state, the second hook 732 passes under the second receiving part 902 and attaches to the outer frame unit 2, as shown in FIG. 16(F). In contrast, the inner frame assembly 7 can be opened.

FIG. 17 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate, and when the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, a game area 8a is formed inside a firing rail (no reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape. Note that the firing rail extends clockwise from the lower left corner position of the game board 8b to the upper right corner position of the game board 8b.

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

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

Moreover, four obstacle nails are arranged above the variable starting prize winning device 28, and further above these, a ball entry opening 19a and a ball discharge opening 19b are arranged. The ball entrance port 19a and the discharge port 19b are connected by a communication passage on the back side (not shown). The game ball that enters the ball entry port 19a is decelerated and rectified through this communication passage, and is released from the release port 19b.
Further, on the right side of the starting gate 20, an out port 19c (predetermined ball entry port) is arranged. The game ball released from the release port 19b basically falls straight and passes through the starting gate 20, but if it is flipped to the right by the obstacle nail, it enters the out port 19c.

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a, in the process of flowing down, may enter the medium start winning hole 26, the normal winning hole 22, 24, pass through the starting gate 20, or enter the variable start winning device when activated. 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. Here, the game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a may mainly enter the medium start winning slot 26 or the normal winning slot 22. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a enters the ball entry port 19a and is released from the release port 19b, and mainly passes through the starting gate 20 or enters the variable starting prize device 28 when activated. There is a possibility that the ball enters the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, the ball enters the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation, or the ball enters the normal winning hole 24. The game ball that has passed through the starting gate 20 continues to flow down within the gaming area 8a, but there are medium starting winning ports 26, normal winning ports 22, 24, variable starting winning device 28, first variable winning device 30, and second variable winning device. The game balls that entered the device 31 and the out port 19c are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent plate, etc. that constitutes the game board unit 8).

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

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

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

The first variable winning device 30 is activated when a predetermined condition is met (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot or small win mode) and when a predetermined first condition (for example, from the first round of a jackpot game) It operates when the following conditions are met: the 5th round, the 7th round to the 16th round, the condition that the small winning game is open, and the ball can enter the first big prize opening 30b. (Special electric accessory, first special ball entry event generating means).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The variable probability region blade member 31d is activated when the second variable winning device 31 is opened during a jackpot game. The operation pattern of the blade member 31d for variable variable area is to open the production area for a short period of time (for example, 0.1 seconds) at the start of a round, then close it for several seconds (about 2 to 3 seconds), and then open the variable variable area for a long period of time. This is a long opening pattern (for example, about 20 seconds). In addition, since the game ball does not reach the probability variable area feather member 31d in the short-term release that is executed at the same time as the start of the round, the game ball is not guided to the probability variable area by this operation. Further, even if the variable probability area feather member 31d operates, the game ball will not pass through the variable probability area if the second variable winning device 31 is short-circuited.

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

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

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

In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and game balls that do not enter the various winning ports (win) are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board unit 8. In addition, the game area includes game balls that have entered the normal winning openings 22, 24, the middle starting winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 28a, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the out opening 19c. All the game balls hit into 8a are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 to the outside of the frame through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join the supply route of the island equipment (not shown).

FIG. 18 is an enlarged front view of a part of the game board unit 8 (lower left position within the window 4a). As shown in the figure, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, for example, at the lower left position within the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 34, and a second special symbol display device 34. A special symbol display device 35 and a game state display device 38 are provided.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be explained. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices installed in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of control operations, and this main control device 70 mainly has the function of controlling the progress of games in the pachinko machine 1. There is. Note that the main control device 70 is built into the main control board unit 170.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further, a performance display monitor 200 is connected to the main controller 70 via a panel relay terminal board 87. The performance display monitor 200 displays the number of prize balls paid out when game balls enter each winning hole (starting winning hole, normal winning hole), and the number of outs (out switch) indicating the number of game balls fired into the gaming area. This is a monitor for displaying the base calculated by dividing by the number of game balls detected (99). The base is calculated for each preset section using an area (unused area) that is different from the used area used to control the progress of the game, and the base of the current section and the base of the previous section are , are switched and displayed at preset intervals. The display operation of the performance display monitor 200 is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs a control signal to the performance display monitor 200 according to the base calculation situation, and controls the lighting state of each of the seven segments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further, in the pachinko machine 1, a full tank switch 161 is installed, for example, inside the ball tray 6b (in a position at the back when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The actually paid out prize balls (game balls) are discharged into the ball tray 6b through the flow path unit 173, and when the ball tray 6b is full of game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned on and the full tank is detected. The signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends any further prize ball operations and stores the remaining number of unpaid prize balls in the RAM 98. Furthermore, the memory in the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so even if a power outage (including momentary power outage) occurs during a game, the information on the number of remaining prize balls that have not been paid out will not be lost. .

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

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

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

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

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

In addition, the production control device 124 is equipped with various functional components necessary for realizing production, such as a VDP 152, a driver IC 132, and an audio IC 134. Among these, the VDP 152 is a processor for drawing an effect screen to be played on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The driver IC 132 includes ICs that control devices such as the upper lamp 46, the left lamp 48, the right lamp 50, the panel lamp 53, the movable body motor 57, the lamp 61, the lamp motor 62, and the button motor 63. Furthermore, the audio IC 134 controls the driving of the speakers 54a to 54g. The internal functional configuration of the production control device 124 will be described in detail later with reference to the following diagram.

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

In this embodiment, a sub-connection board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the driver IC 132 and audio IC 134 are applied to various lamps via the sub-connection board 136. In addition to the direction key 66, a volume adjustment switch (not shown) is connected to the sub-connection board 136, and when the player operates these operating members, the contact signals are sent to the production control device through the sub-connection board 136. 124. Note that the direction key 66 and the volume adjustment switch may be connected to the lower attachment 500.

Additionally, a driver section 138 is installed in the game board unit 8. The driver section 138 may be composed of a single board, or may be composed of a plurality of boards to provide expandability. In addition to the panel lamp 53, a movable body motor 57 is connected to the driver section 138. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f via, for example, a link mechanism (not shown). Further, an upper attachment 400 and a lower attachment 500 are connected to the driver section 138. A drive signal from the driver IC 132 is transmitted to the panel lamp 53, the movable body motor 57, the lamp motor 62, the upper attachment 400, and the lower attachment 500 via the driver section 138.

An upper lamp 46, a rear left speaker 54a, a rear right speaker 54b, an upper left speaker 54c, an upper right speaker 54d, and a lamp motor 62 are connected to the upper attachment 400. The lamp motor 62 drives the left rear speaker 54a and the right rear speaker 54b, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). Note that a sensor may be arranged on the upper attachment 400 to detect the movable positions of the left rear speaker 54a and the right rear speaker 54b.

Further, the lower attachment 500 is connected to a lamp 61, a button motor 63, and a performance switching button 510 built into the lower attachment 500. The button motor 63 is a stepping motor for raising and lowering the effect switching button 510. The button motor 63 is driven based on a drive signal transmitted from the production control device 124, and can switch the production switching button 510 to either the normal state (initial position) or the protruded state (maximum movable position). . Further, when the player operates the performance switching button 510, a contact signal of the performance switching button 510 is inputted to the performance control device 124 through the driver section 138.
In this way, the production control device 124 (production control CPU, production control unit) can communicate with the upper attachment 400 and the lower attachment 500 (control means).

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

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

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

[Internal configuration of production control device]
FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the internal functional configuration of the production control device 124.
As described above, the performance control device 124 has the role of a performance control processor that controls the performance as the game progresses. Therefore, the production control device 124 is equipped with a control ROM 180 and a watchdog timer IC (WDTIC) 188, which are necessary for the production control device 124 to function as a production control processor, in addition to the production control CPU 126. The control ROM 180 stores basic programs related to control of effects. The performance control CPU 126 accesses the control ROM 180 via a CPU bus (not shown) and controls the performance by executing a program stored in the control ROM 180. The watchdog timer IC 188 is a timer that monitors whether the control executed by the production control device 124 is being performed normally (whether the processing is completed within the expected time), and is connected to the reset terminal of the production control CPU 126. There is. If the signal (clear pulse) for clearing the monitoring timer of the watchdog timer IC 188 is not input within a predetermined time, the watchdog timer IC 188 outputs a signal (reset pulse) for starting the reset to the production control CPU 126. do. As a result, the production control device 124 is forcibly reset and activated.

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

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

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

In this way, the performance control CPU 126 has different functions depending on the stage of performance control, and these functions are realized by properly using the resources of the performance control CPU 126. In FIG. 20, the internal resources of the production control CPU 126 are divided into several functional blocks: a production control section 210, a display control section 220, an audio control section 222, a lamp control section 224, a motor control section 226, and an input control section 228. etc. In the following description, each functional block will be treated as an operating entity of control processing.

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

The production control device 124 functions as a production control processor at the stage of overall control, whereas it functions as a production reproduction processor at the stage of individual control. Therefore, the production control device 124 further includes a VDP 152 that draws the production screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, an audio IC 134 that generates audio accompanying the production and outputs it from the speaker, and stores images and sounds used for the production. In addition to a CGROM (image/audio ROM) 190, a DRAM 191 used as a load destination for data stored in the CGROM 190, an audio IC 134, an LED driver 198, and an SMC (serial control controller) 199 and a driver IC 132. Among these, the VDP 152, audio IC 134, and SMC 199 are integrated into a single chip with the production control CPU 126. A chip 128 that integrates these circuits is equipped with a PLL circuit (phase locked circuit), which is not shown. The clock signal generated by the crystal oscillator 181 is multiplied/divided by the PLL circuit and then input to each circuit on the chip 128.

The CGROM 190 stores drawing materials (moving image data) constituting the performance screen and audio materials (sound data) that are output as the performance progresses, compressed using a predetermined compression algorithm. The maximum capacity of the CGROM 190 is 64 Gbits, of which 60 Gbits are allocated for drawing materials and 4 Gbits are allocated for audio materials. The CGROM 190 is connected to the VDP 152 and audio IC 134 via a CG bus (not shown).

By the way, in this embodiment, a NAND type SATA (Serial ATA) standard ROM is adopted as the CGROM 190. In a NAND ROM, data is read in page units (for example, 1 page = 32K bytes), but when using various drawing materials and audio materials stored in the CGROM 190 for production, it is necessary to read data from a specific address. It is necessary to read only the necessary data from the memory by random access.

Therefore, in accordance with the adoption of the NAND type CGROM 190, the present embodiment is further equipped with a DRAM 191, which is used as a load destination (temporary storage destination) for data read out page by page from the CGROM 190. This allows the VDP 152 and the audio IC 134 to read out necessary drawing materials and audio materials from the data loaded into the DRAM 191 by random access. Note that the DRAM 191 employs a DDR3 (Double-Data-Rate 3) standard SDRAM. The maximum capacity of the DRAM 191 is 8 Gbits, with 4 Gbits each allocated for drawing materials and audio materials. Further, the DRAM 191 is connected to the VDP 152 and the audio IC 134 via a bus (not shown).

Note that the maximum capacities and allocation ratios of the CGROM 190 and DRAM 191 described above are just examples, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the situation. Further, the CGROM 190 may be provided separately for drawing materials and audio materials.

The VDP 152 is a processor dedicated to drawing performance images, and is integrated into the same chip 128 along with the performance control CPU 126. Further, the VDP 152 includes a preload circuit 154, a drawing circuit 155, a VRAM 156, a drawing material decoder 157, and a display circuit 153. When an instruction (command) from the display control unit 220 is input to the VDP 152, the preload circuit 154 transfers the necessary drawing material from the CGROM 190 to the DRAM 191 and stores it (hereinafter referred to as "preload"). The drawing circuit 155 draws the effect image on the VRAM 156 while decompressing (decoding) the preloaded drawing material with the decoder 157, and develops the effect image into the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time). . Then, the display circuit 153 individually drives each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the content developed in the frame buffer, thereby realizing reproduction of the effect screen.

Note that each aspect of data preloading from the NAND type CGROM 190 to the DRAM 191 and data transfer within the DRAM 191 performed by the preload circuit 154 will be described in detail later with reference to other drawings.

The audio IC 134 is a sound generator (sound circuit) that generates sounds such as sound effects and BGM to be played during execution of the performance, and is integrated into the same chip 128 with the performance control CPU 126 like the VDP 152. The audio IC 134 is also connected to an amplifier (not shown) and an external DRAM other than the DRAM 191. Furthermore, the audio IC 134 has a built-in audio material decoder 135 that decompresses (decodes) compressed audio materials. When an instruction from the audio control unit 222 is input to the audio IC 134, the audio IC 134 reads the necessary audio material from the DRAM 191 according to the instruction, and decodes the read audio material on the external DRAM using the audio material decoder 135. By generating sound and outputting it to the speakers 54a to 54g etc. via an amplifier, stereo 2ch or monaural 2ch audio reproduction is realized (the number of channels is not limited to this). Furthermore, the audio IC 134 adjusts the output volume of each of the speakers 54a to 54g based on a contact signal input when the volume adjustment switch is operated.

By the way, the audio IC 134 reads the necessary audio material from the DRAM 191 as described above, but this is related to the fact that the audio IC 134 is not equipped with a function equivalent to the preload circuit 154 of the VDP 152. If the audio IC 134 were to read data from the CGROM 190 at the stage where audio materials are needed, it would only be possible to read in page units, making it difficult to read out specific audio materials and making it difficult to control the audio. becomes. Therefore, with the adoption of the NAND type CGROM 190, this embodiment has a configuration in which all audio materials stored in the CGROM 190 are transferred to the DRAM 191 when the power is turned on. This allows the audio IC 134 to read necessary audio materials from the data loaded into the DRAM 191 by random access without reading data from the CGROM 190.

The LED driver 198 controls the lighting pattern and brightness pattern of various lamps 46 to 53 provided on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 in accordance with execution of effects. The LED driver 198 employs an addressing synchronous serial method. The LED driver 198 first controls the lighting pattern and brightness pattern based on the instruction content sent from the lamp control unit 224, and transfers the corresponding drive data to the driver IC 132.

The SMC 199 controls the drive pattern of the movable body motor 57 and the lamp motor 62, which serve as a drive source for the performance movable body 40f provided inside the performance unit 40. The SMC 199 is also integrated into the same chip 128 along with the production control CPU 126. The SMC199 uses a clock synchronous serial method. The SMC 199 first generates a drive pattern based on the instruction content sent from the motor control unit 226, and transfers this to the driver IC 132. Note that here, the SMC199 is used only to generate drive patterns for the motor, but since the SMC199 can also generate lighting patterns and brightness patterns for not only motors but also lamps, the SMC199 is applied in place of the LED driver 198 described above. However, it is also possible to configure the SMC 199 to generate data patterns for both lamps and motors.

The driver IC 132 controls the drive voltage applied to the lamp and motor based on drive data transferred from the LED driver 198 and SMC 199. The driver IC 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown), and switches the drive voltage applied to the various lamps 46 to 53, the movable motor 57, and the lamp motor 62 (or switches the duty). ), and by managing their operations, it is possible to realize performance playback using lamps and movable bodies. Note that the various lamps include, in addition to the upper lamp 46, left lamp 48, right lamp 50, and lamp 61, other lamps built into each part of the upper attachment 400 and the lower attachment 500. Furthermore, a board lamp 53 for decoration and presentation is arranged on the game board unit 8. The board lamp 53 corresponds to the LED built in the production unit 40, the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, etc.

In addition, the driver IC 132 transfers a contact signal input when an operation member such as the effect switching button 510 is operated by a player to the effect control unit 210 via the input control unit 228. The production control unit 210 appropriately changes the content of the production to be played based on the content of the transferred contact signal.

In addition, the driver IC 132 receives the upper attachment authentication ID input from the upper attachment 400 to the production control device and the lower attachment authentication ID input from the lower attachment 500 to the production control device via the input control unit 228. and transfers it to the production control section 210. Note that if a sensor for a movable body (for example, an upper movable body sensor of the upper attachment 400) is installed in the upper attachment 400, the lower attachment 500, or other locations, the driver IC 132 inputs information regarding the sensor. It is transferred to the production control section 210 via the control section 228.

[Relationship between setting value and winning probability of special symbol lottery]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set value and the winning probability of the special symbol lottery.

When the set value is "1", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/319".
When the set value is "2", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/299".
When the set value is "3", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/279".
When the set value is "4", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/259".
When the set value is "5", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/239".
When the set value is "6", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) is "1/219".

When the set value is "1" to "6", the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (high probability state) is "1/100".

In this way, the larger the setting value is, the larger the probability of winning the special symbol lottery (low probability state) becomes, which becomes an advantageous situation for the player.

In addition, in the illustrated example, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is explained as an example in which a setting difference is provided only in a low probability state, but a setting difference may be provided also in a high probability state. Further, regarding the settings, a setting difference may be provided not only for the jackpot probability but also for the small win probability. Further, setting differences may be provided for other items (for example, the rate of transition to a high probability state, the rate of transition to a time reduction state, the number of probability variations, the number of time reductions, the number of special variations, etc.).

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

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

22 and 23 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a procedure for CPU initialization processing. Hereinafter, the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be explained step by step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step S128: The main control CPU72 executes production control output processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 first outputs the effect command set in step S118 (power return designation) or the effect command set in step S124 (RAM clear designation) to the effect command buffer. The main control CPU 72 further performs various other production commands necessary for production control (for example, model specification command, special symbol probability state specification command, special symbol destination judgment production command, production command when number of working memories increases, decrease number of working memories time production command, number-of-time counter remaining number command, special game state designation command, firing position designation command, etc.) and outputs these to the production command buffer. At this time, the main control CPU 72 sets different values for these performance commands when the power is restored and when the RAM is cleared.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Steps S136 and S138: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interrupts and then executes the initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) other than the jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) and the hit determination random number (hardware random number) corresponding to normal symbols are used. is generated programmatically. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another timer interrupt process (step S212 in FIG. 26). (the random number may not be the target) is changed. The random number for updating the initial value is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S138, the random number for updating the initial value is updated. Note that step S138 is executed after interrupts are prohibited in step S136 because a similar process is executed in another timer interrupt process (step S210 in FIG. ). In addition, in this embodiment, the jackpot determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number circuit 75, and the update period thereof is faster (for example, several μs) than the timer interrupt period (for example, several ms). Therefore, there is no need to update the initial values of the jackpot determining random number and the winning determining random number. Note that timer interrupt processing will be described later using another drawing.

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

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

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

[Evacuation processing at power outage]
Next, a description will be given of a process executed when a power cutoff (hereinafter abbreviated as "power cutoff") occurs. FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for evacuation processing at power-off. In the main control device 70, the occurrence of a power-off and the occurrence of a reset are monitored by the same monitoring IC (for example, an IC mounted on a reset controller (not shown)). This monitoring IC monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power supply control unit 162, and outputs a power cutoff warning signal to the XINT terminal of the parallel I/O port 79 when the voltage level falls below the reference voltage. The main control CPU 72 executes a power-off saving process (XINT interrupt process, backup means) in response to input of a power-off notice signal to the XINT terminal (XINT interrupt). Each procedure of the power-off save process will be explained below.

Steps S150 and S152: The main control CPU 72 reads the power-off detection switch input port of the parallel I/O port 79, checks a specific bit, and confirms whether a power-off notice signal has been detected. If it cannot be confirmed that a power-off notice signal has been detected (No), the main control CPU 72 allows the interrupt, ends the power-off saving process, and returns to the main loop of the CPU initialization process (FIGS. 22 and 23). Return to the program address pointed to by the stack pointer). On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the power-off warning signal has been detected (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S154.

Step S154: The main control CPU 72 has output ports corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big winning hole solenoid 90, the second big winning hole solenoid 97, and the probability variable area solenoid 99, as well as test signal terminals and command control. Clears the output port buffer corresponding to the signal.

Step S156, Step S158: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76, excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer, in 1-byte units, and repeats the addition until the addition is completed for the entire area. .
Step S160: When the sum calculation is completed for all areas (step S158: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S162: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value in the backup validity determination flag area.
Step S164: The main control CPU 72 also stores "00H" indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the prohibited area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.

Step S166: The main control CPU 72 sets a predetermined value in the loop counter to count the number of times the power cutoff notice signal is checked.
Step S168: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a power-off notice signal has been detected. The method for checking the power-off notice signal is the same as the method in step S150 described above. If it is confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the previous step S166. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the power-off notice signal has been detected (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S170.

Step S170: The main control CPU 72 subtracts 1 from the value of the loop counter.
Step S172: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the loop counter is "0". If it cannot be confirmed that the value of the loop counter is "0" (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S168. On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the value of the loop counter is "0" (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S174.
Step S174: The main control CPU 72 moves from the power-off save process to the CPU initialization process (FIG. 22). At this time, since the RETI instruction is not executed before the transition to the CPU initialization process, the CPU initialization process can be started while other interrupts are still prohibited.

The processes from step S166 to step S172 described above are so-called standby processes (progress observation processes) executed in preparation for cutting off the power supply from the power supply control unit 162. If the power-off warning signal is continuously detected, steps S166 to S168 are repeatedly executed, so the loop counter never becomes "0". Therefore, the standby state will continue as long as the power supply continues. On the other hand, if the detection of the power cutoff warning signal is temporary (for example, detected due to a momentary power outage, etc.), steps S168 to S172 are repeatedly executed, and the loop counter is decremented as time passes. When the value becomes "0", the CPU initialization process is started. In other words, the main control CPU 72 first calculates the checksum and saves the result before the power supply is completely cut off, and enters a standby mode, and performs other processing under the situation where the power supply is being cut off. In contrast to maintaining a standby state without running the system and waiting for the upcoming power supply cutoff in a safe state, when a stable power supply is restored after a temporary power cutoff, the CPU initializes. Shift to processing and restart main processing. By executing such standby processing, it is possible to ensure stable gaming operations of the main control device 70 and, by extension, the pachinko machine 1.

Note that when the power supply from the power control unit 162 is cut off, the power supply source to the main control device 70 is automatically switched to the backup power source. After the power is cut off, the main controller 70 is supplied with backup power from a backup power supply circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the storage contents of the RAM 76 are It is retained without being lost even after the power is turned off. Note that the backup power supply circuit may be built into the power supply control unit 162, for example.

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (to be summed) is retained as memory in the RAM 76 even after the power is turned off. Further, the retained memory is restored as backup information in the event of a power outage after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous CPU initialization process (FIG. 22).

[Command reception interrupt processing]
Next, a process executed when a command is received from the payout control device 92 will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for command reception interrupt processing. The payout control device 92 transmits a payout start designation command indicating that the payout of game balls has started to the main control device 70, and also sends various devices related to the payout of prize balls (for example, Relay transmission of commands sent from the dispensing device board 100, full tank switch 161, etc.) to the main control device 70 is performed. These commands transmitted by the payout control device 92 are received by the reception data register of a specific channel of the serial communication circuit 196 of the main control device 70. The main control CPU 72 uses this command reception (SCU interrupt) as a trigger to execute command reception interrupt processing (SCU interrupt processing). Each step of the command reception interrupt process will be explained below.

Step S180: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the A register (accumulator) and F register (flag register) used during the execution of the main loop to the save area of the RAM 76. After the value is saved, another value can be written to each register in the process of data reception interrupt processing.

Step S182: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks the specific bit of the status register to confirm whether there is data in the reception data register (reception FIFO). If it is confirmed that there is data in the reception data register (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S184. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that there is data in the reception data register (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S186.
Step S184: The main control CPU 72 stores the contents of the data register in the reception command buffer.

Steps S186 and S188: The main control CPU 72 restores the values of the A and F registers saved in step S180 to each register, and after allowing interrupts, ends the command reception interrupt processing and starts the CPU initialization processing. Return to the main loop (FIG. 23).

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be explained. FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for timer interrupt processing. The main control CPU 72 executes timer interrupt processing (PTC interrupt processing) at predetermined time intervals (for example, several milliseconds) based on the interrupt request (PTC interrupt) output by the timer circuit 194. Each step of the timer interrupt processing will be explained below.

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

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

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

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

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

Step S210: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process here as well. The contents of the process are the same as those described in the CPU initialization process (step S138 in FIG. 23).

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

Step S214: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous port input process (step S206), the gate switch 78, the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85 Based on the winning detection signals from the first winning opening switch 86 and the second winning opening switch 81, events occurring during the game are determined, and further processing is executed in accordance with each occurring event. Note that the specific details of the switch input event processing will be described later using another flowchart.

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

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

Furthermore, when the setting change process (setting-related process) is executed in this step, the main control CPU 72 generates a setting-related end designation command. Here, the "settings-related end designation command" is a production command that conveys that the process related to changing or confirming settings has ended, and the settings-related end designation command also includes information on setting values. can be included. The generated setting-related end designation command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 23) executed in the main loop.

Step S216, Step S218: The main control CPU72 executes special symbol game processing and normal symbol game processing. These processes are for concretely advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Among these, in the special symbol game process (step S216), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and controls the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol. 2. The variable display or stop display by the special symbol display device 35 is determined, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 is controlled according to the display results. The details of the special symbol game process will be described later using another flowchart.

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

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

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

Step S224: The main control CPU 72 executes a prize ball payout process. Although the detailed flow is not shown, in this process, the main control CPU 72 first checks whether the payout command buffer is not empty (a payout command to be sent has been set), If set), the various payout commands output to the payout command buffer are transmitted to the payout control device 92. For example, a payout command indicating the startup mode when the power is turned on is set during the CPU initialization process (steps S118 and S124 in FIG. 22), and output to the payout command buffer (step S126 in FIG. 22). However, a payout command indicating this activation mode is transmitted here. On the other hand, if the payout command buffer is empty, the process proceeds to instructing the payout of prize balls. The main control CPU 72 checks whether the prize ball control counter is not 0 or not. If the prize ball control counter is not 0, the main control CPU 72 sends a prize ball specified payout command to the payout control device 92 to instruct the number of prize balls corresponding to this counter. Send to. More specifically, a payout command specifying a prize ball corresponding to each prize ball control counter updated in the previous step S222 is transmitted here. Note that the transmission of the payout command is performed when the payout command permission signal is input from the payout control device 92 to the main control device 70, and the number of payout commands set in the transmission data register (transmission FIFO) is a predetermined number. (More specifically, if the payout command set in the sending FIFO in step S224 executed before the previous time has been sent, or is currently being sent and there is space in the sending FIFO) ) will only be executed.

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

In addition, the main control CPU 72 outputs a prize ball content command that transmits the content of the number of prize balls to the production control device 124 in the prize ball payout process. When a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (15 game balls). Generate prize ball content command. Further, when a winning detection signal is input from the second winning hole switch 81 corresponding to the normal winning hole 24, a prize ball content command corresponding to the second profit (10 game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in a port output process (step S236) to be described later.

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

Step S226: The main control CPU 72 executes firing position designation processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets the firing position designation flag to the previous firing position designation flag, and then clears the firing position designation flag. Then, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing position designation flag if the variable prize winning device is in operation or the time reduction function is in operation, and further, if the firing position designation flag and the previous firing position designation flag match, the main control CPU 72 turns on the firing position designation flag. If not, generate a firing position designation command. The generated firing position designation command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing (step S142 in FIG. 23) executed in the main loop.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In addition, in this embodiment, an example is given in which the processing from step S216 to step S236 (gaming control program module) is executed as part of the timer interrupt processing, but these processing may be incorporated into the main loop of the CPU and executed. There are also known programming examples that do this.

Step S238: The control CPU 72 restores the values of the HL, DE, BC, and AF registers saved in step S200 to each register, ends the timer interrupt processing, and returns to the main loop of the CPU initialization processing (FIG. 23). Return.

[Interrupt management using interrupt controller]
As explained above, in the main controller 70, during the execution of the CPU initialization process (FIG. 22) which is the main control program, an XINT interrupt (parallel Interrupt requests output by the I/O port 79), SCU interrupts (interrupt requests output by the serial communication circuit 196, which is the source of command reception interrupt processing (Fig. 25)), PTC interrupts (timer interrupts) An interrupt request (an interrupt request output by the timer circuit 194 that is the source of the interrupt process (FIG. 26)) may occur. These interrupt requests are managed/controlled by an interrupt controller 192 installed in the main control device 70. The interrupt controller 192 allows so-called maskable interrupts, which allows acceptance of interrupt requests by an interrupt enable instruction (EI instruction) from the main control CPU 72 and prohibits acceptance of interrupt requests by an interrupt disable instruction (DI instruction). is under control.

Since the XINT interrupt, SCU interrupt, and PTC interrupt are all generated based on independent generation factors with no interdependence, it is naturally possible that multiple interrupt requests may occur at the same time. Therefore, the interrupt controller 192 controls each interrupt request according to a predetermined priority order of interrupt requests, taking into consideration the importance of interrupt processing, processing efficiency, and the like.

More specifically, the priorities of interrupt requests (interrupt processing) are defined in the interrupt vector table, and the XINT interrupt (power-off save processing) has the lowest priority, and the SCU interrupt (command reception interrupt processing) is set to have the highest priority. By setting the interrupt vector table at the beginning of the CPU initialization process (step S102 in FIG. 22), the interrupt controller 192 can perform priority control of interrupt requests that occur at subsequent timings. . In reality, after the CPU initialization process transitions to the main loop (steps S136 to S146 in FIG. 23), interrupts are enabled (step S144 in FIG. 23) until interrupts are disabled (see FIG. When any interrupt request occurs during step S136) in 23, the interrupt controller 192 controls the received interrupt request based on the priority set in the interrupt vector table. For example, if an XINT interrupt and a PTC interrupt are accepted at the same time, the PTC interrupt (timer interrupt processing) with a higher priority is processed first. While the timer interrupt processing is being executed, the XINT interrupt is in an interrupt wait state, and after the timer interrupt processing is completed, the power-off save processing is executed.

Also, if we look at the procedure examples of each interrupt processing again, we can see that in the power-off saving processing (Figure 24) and the command reception interrupt processing (Figure 25), there is a procedure immediately before returning from each interrupt processing (RETI instruction Interrupts are first permitted (step S152 in FIG. 24, step S188 in FIG. 25) (immediately before the interrupt is executed), whereas in the timer interrupt processing (FIG. 26), interrupts are permitted at the beginning of the interrupt processing. After that, the main steps are executed. In other words, the interrupt controller 192 (main control CPU 72) prohibits the execution of multiple interrupts while executing the power-off saving process and the command reception interrupt process, and prohibits the execution of multiple interrupts while executing the timer interrupt process. is allowed to execute.

By controlling interrupt requests based on priorities in this manner, the interrupt controller 192 enables the main controller 70 to execute multiple interrupts.

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of switch input event processing (step S214 in FIG. 26). Each step will be explained below.

Step S10: The main control CPU 72 checks whether a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery opportunity has occurred) from the medium start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. If the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. The specific contents of the process will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether a winning detection signal has been input (a lottery opportunity has occurred) from the right starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. If the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Similarly, the specific contents of the process will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

Step S18: The main control CPU 72 checks whether a winning detection signal has been input from the first count switch 84 corresponding to the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30. If the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes the first big winning opening counting process. In the first big winning hole counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the first variable winning device 30 for each round during the jackpot game. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S21a.

Step S21a: The main control CPU 72 checks whether a winning detection signal has been input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31. If the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21b and executes the second big winning opening counting process. In the second big winning hole counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 during the jackpot game. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. If the input of this passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes a normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current number of normal symbols in working memory is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if the upper limit number has not been reached, acquires a random number per normal symbol. do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the number of normal symbol working memories by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the obtained random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S26.

Step S26: The main control CPU 72 checks whether a detection signal is input from the probability variable area switch 95 corresponding to the probability variable area provided inside the second variable winning device 31. If the input of this detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 and executes a process when passing through a variable probability region. As the process when passing through the variable probability region, the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting the value (01H) of the probability variable function activation flag as the gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability fluctuation function activation means). , advantageous gaming state transition means, special state transition means). This probability fluctuation function activation flag is reset when the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times (170 times) without a winning result after the end of the jackpot game. Furthermore, as a process when passing through a variable probability region, the main control CPU 72 generates a command to pass through a variable probability region. The probability variable area passage command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 23) executed in the main loop. The main control CPU 72 may execute the variable probability region passing process only within a specific effective time (for example, within the time period during which the variable probability region solenoid 99 is operated during the jackpot game). On the other hand, if the detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the timer interrupt process (FIG. 26).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol storage update process (step S12 in FIG. 27). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol storage update process will be explained step by step.

Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter and confirms whether the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and each section contains the jackpot determining random number and the jackpot symbol. Random numbers can be stored in sets (sets). At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 27). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one to the first special symbol operation memory number. The first special symbol working storage number counter is stored, for example, in the working storage number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) its value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a will be controlled in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 26).

Step S32: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number circuit 75 (first lottery element acquisition means, lottery element acquisition means). The random number value is obtained by specifying the pin address of the random number circuit 75. When the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, address designation is performed twice, one byte each for the upper and lower parts. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number from the specified address, it saves this at the transfer destination address as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. This random number value is also acquired by specifying the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number from the designated address, it saves this as the jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S34: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a fluctuation pattern determination random number from the fluctuation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as random values regarding the fluctuation conditions of the first special symbol (fluctuation pattern determination element acquisition means, element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random numbers is similarly performed by specifying the address of the variable random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 obtains the reach determination random number and the fluctuation pattern determination random number from the specified address, the main control CPU 72 saves these at the transfer destination address.

Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. (storage means, lottery element storage means). The plurality of sections are set in order (for example, first to fourth), and if all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current special game management status (game status) is a jackpot. If it is not a jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a jackpot (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this judgment is made in the present embodiment is that no performance based on pre-reading is performed for a ball entering during a jackpot.

Step S37: If the jackpot is not in progress (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes the performance determination process at the time of acquisition regarding the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the fluctuation starts) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol obtained in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively, and the performance content is determined based on the result. This is for making judgments (so-called "pre-reading"). Note that the specific contents of the process will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S38: Upon returning from the performance determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper byte (for example, "B8H") of the special symbol destination determination performance command regarding the first special symbol. This upper byte data describes that the command type is "for special symbol destination determination performance regarding the first special symbol." Note that the lower byte of the special figure destination determination production command has been set in the previous acquisition production determination process (step S37), so here, by combining the upper byte with the lower byte, for example, a 1 word long command will be generated.

Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the number of working memories increases regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, a 1-word long value is obtained by adding the increased number of working memories (for example, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the preceding value of the upper byte that indicates the type of command (for example, "BBH"). Generate production commands. At this time, the second digit of the lower byte is set to "0" by default, thereby indicating that the value is "a result (change information) of an increase in the number of working memories." In other words, if the lower byte is "01H", this means that the current number of working memories is "01H" as a result of increasing by one from the previous number of working memories "00H". Similarly, if the lower byte is "02H" to "04H", it means that the previous working memory number was increased by one from "01H" to "03H", and the current working memory number is "02H" to "03H". 04H". Incidentally, the preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the current production command is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU72 executes the production command output setting process regarding the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special symbol destination judgment effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command when the number of working memory increases generated in step S38a, and the starting opening prize sound control command to the effect control device 124. It is something.
After completing the above processing, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 27).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol storage update process (step S16 in FIG. 27). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol storage update process will be explained in order.

Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter and confirms whether the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol working storage number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter has reached the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 27). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation storage number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

Step S41: The main control CPU 72 adds one to the second special symbol working memory number (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 28), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 26) based on the value of the counter added here. That will happen.

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number circuit 75 (second lottery element acquisition means, lottery element acquisition means). The method of acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S32 (FIG. 28) described above.

Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method of acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 28) described above.

Step S44: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the fluctuation pattern determination random number regarding the fluctuation conditions of the second special symbol from the fluctuation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (fluctuation pattern determination element acquisition means, element acquisition means). Obtaining these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 28) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. (memory means). The storage method is similar to step S35 (FIG. 28) described above.

Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current gaming management status (gaming status) is a jackpot. If it is not a jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. On the other hand, if it is a jackpot (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this judgment is made in the present embodiment is because similarly, no effect based on pre-reading is performed for a ball that occurs during a jackpot.

Step S46: If the jackpot is not in progress (step S45a: No), then the main control CPU 72 executes the performance determination process at the time of acquisition regarding the second special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the fluctuation starts) based on the jackpot determination random number and jackpot symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, and the performance content is determined based on the result. It is for judgment. Note that the specific details of the processing will be described later.

Step S47: Upon returning from the performance determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper byte (for example, "B9H") of the special symbol destination determination performance command. This upper byte data describes that the command type is "for special symbol destination determination performance related to the second special symbol". Similarly here, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination performance command was set in the previous acquisition performance determination process (step S46), here, for example, by combining the upper byte with the lower byte, one word A long command will be generated.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a production command when the number of working memories increases regarding the second special symbol. Here, a 1-word long production command is created by adding the increased number of working memories (for example, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte of the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte that indicates the type of command. generate. Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the lower byte to "0" by default, it is possible to indicate that the value is "a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)". can. The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current performance command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the production command output setting process regarding the second special symbol. As a result, preparations are made to transmit a special symbol destination determination performance command, a performance command when the number of active memories increases, a starting opening winning sound control command, etc. regarding the second special symbol to the performance control device 124.
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to switch input event processing (FIG. 27).

[Processing for determining performance upon acquisition]
FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the performance determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes the performance determination process at the time of acquisition in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 28, step S46 in FIG. means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when the ball enters the medium start winning hole 26) and the second special symbol (when the ball enters the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following explanation may apply to the process related to the first special symbol, and may apply to the process related to the second special symbol. The details of the process will be explained below along with each step.

Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower byte (for example, "00H") of the special figure destination determination performance command (destination determination information). Note that the byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (when it fails).

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a jackpot determination random number as a random number for first determination. The random numbers loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 28) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 29). .

Step S54: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the winning value range (here, below the lower limit) (lottery result destination determination means, preliminary determination means). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random value from this comparison value. Note that the comparison value (lower limit value) is predefined according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines, for example, from the value of the flag register whether the calculation result is 0 or a positive value. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the winning value range (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes off-time variation pattern information preliminary determination processing (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command regarding the variation time at the time of deviation. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects the prior determination information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) especially when the "time reduction function" is activated. For example, if the current state is when the "time reduction function" is activated, the main control CPU 72 determines that the variation time corresponds to the "missing reach variation (non-reduction variation time)" based on the loaded reach determination random number. Determine whether it exists or not. As a result, if the variation time corresponds to "missing reach variation (non-reduced variation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to "non-reduced variation time during time reduction". In addition, in the case of reach variation, the "reach group (type of reach)" may also be determined from the reach mode random number, and a variation pattern destination determination command may be generated from the result. On the other hand, if the variation time does not correspond to the "missing reach variation (non-reduced variation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "time reduction medium reduction variation time". Alternatively, if the current state is when the "time reduction function" is not activated (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 determines whether the variation time corresponds to the "normal reach variation" based on the loaded reach judgment random number. Determine whether or not. As a result, if the variation time corresponds to the "out-of-normal reach variation", the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "out-of-normal reach variation time". On the other hand, if the variation time does not correspond to the "out-of-normal reach variation", the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "out-of-normal variation time". Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the production command output setting process (steps S39, S49). In addition, in this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of a small hit, similarly to the process at the time of a miss described above.

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the performance determination process at the time of acquisition and returns to the calling source's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 28) or second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 29). On the other hand, in the judgment at step S54, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S56.

Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when fluctuation has not yet started but there is a winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random number stored so far, the jackpot symbol random number paired with this is "a symbol that can pass through the probability variable area (any probability variable symbol other than the 12th round normal symbol)". ), the probability state schedule flag is set to, for example, "A0H". This value represents a flag value for setting a high-probability state as a plan in advance determination (pre-read determination) of a jackpot determination random number obtained after this jackpot determination random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to "non-probability variable (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, "01H" is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting a normal (low) probability state as a scheduled state in advance determination (pre-read determination) of a jackpot determination random number obtained after this jackpot determination random number. Note that if there is still no winning value among the jackpot determining random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored, for example, in a flag area of the RAM 76. Note that here, an example is given in which the "probability state schedule flag" is used to strictly determine the hit in advance, but if the hit determination is performed in advance simply based on the current probability state, this step S56 and subsequent steps Steps S58, S60, S62, S76, etc. may be omitted.

If the probability state schedule flag has not yet been set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S66.

Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 next sets a low probability time (normal time) comparison value in the A register. Note that the comparison value for low probability times is also predefined in accordance with the winning probability in the pachinko machine 1 at low probability times.

Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the "current probability state flag". This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (probability is changing), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is high probability (probability variable), the value "01H" is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low probability (normal), the value of the state flag is reset ("00H"). ”).

Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠01H), and as a result, if it represents a high probability (No. ), then step S64 is executed.

Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value for high probability. As a result, the low probability comparison value set in step S66 is rewritten. Note that the high probability comparison value is predefined in accordance with the winning probability in the pachinko machine 1 when the probability is high.

In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has not been set yet and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and then the next step S72 will be executed. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is outside the winning value range (lottery result destination determining means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random value from the comparison value set for each state. Then, the main control CPU 72 similarly determines whether the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register, and as a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes). ), the main control CPU 72 executes off-time variation pattern information preliminary determination processing (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S74.

Step S74: The main control CPU72 executes jackpot symbol type determination processing. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 28) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 29). Then, similar to step S54, calculation is performed using the comparison value, and based on the result, it is determined whether the jackpot type corresponds to "symbols that are difficult to pass through variable area (12 round normal symbols)" or "symbols that can pass through variable area". Determine. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents a "symbol that is difficult to pass through the probability variable area", the main control CPU 72 sets the probability state schedule flag to the value "01H". On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents a "symbol that can pass through the variable probability area", the main control CPU 72 sets the value "A0H" to the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in subsequent processing, it will be determined in step S56 that the flag has been set.

Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination performance command. For example, the special symbol destination determination value is set to "01H" when it corresponds to a "symbol that is difficult to pass through a variable probability area", and "A0H" when it corresponds to a "symbol that can pass through a variable probability area". In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 will be rewritten.

Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot fluctuation pattern information preliminary determination process (fluctuation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command regarding the fluctuation time at the time of jackpot. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects, for example, prior determination information regarding the reach fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) at the time of a jackpot. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the production command output setting process (steps S39, S49).

The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag is set based on the previous determination result (before the internal initial hit). On the other hand, if the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, if a prior hit determination is made based only on the current probability state, there is no need to execute the following steps S56, S58, S60, S62, and S76.

Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), it then executes step S58.

Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets a comparison value for low probability times (normal times) in the A register.

Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the "probability state schedule flag". The probability state schedule flag is used to predeterminedly set a probability state in subsequent previous judgments based on the immediately previous previous judgment result, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the probability state based on the immediately previous judgment result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability variable), "A0H" is set as the value of the probability state planned flag, and conversely, the probability state based on the immediately previous judgment result is set to "A0H". If it is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), "01H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high probability schedule (≠01H), and as a result, if it represents a high probability schedule ( No), then step S64 is executed and a comparison value for high probability is set.

In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has already been set and the value indicates a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and then from the next step S72. will be executed. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a high probability schedule, but represents a normal (low) probability schedule (Yes), the main control CPU 72 Skip S64 and execute the next step S72 and subsequent steps. As a result, in this embodiment, it is possible to perform a jackpot judgment in advance, taking into consideration subsequent changes in the internal state based on the previous judgment result (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state). .

After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 28) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 29).

[Special pattern game processing]
Next, details of the special symbol game process executed during the timer interrupt process (FIG. 26) will be explained. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game processing includes execution selection processing (step S1000), special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000), special symbol variation processing (step S3000), special symbol stop display processing (step S4000), and jackpot variable winning device. The configuration includes a group of subroutines (program modules) of management processing (step S5000) and small winning variable prize winning device management processing (step S6000). Here, first, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be explained along with each process.

Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2000 to S5000) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and also sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started variable display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000). If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In addition, in this embodiment, a process is selected by specifying a jump destination address in a "jump table", but apart from such a selection method, a "process flag" or a "process selection flag" etc. are used to select a process. There are also known programming examples where the CPU selects the next process to execute. In such a programming example, the CPU calls each process, and in the first step, refers to each flag and performs a conditional branch (continuation/return). However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

Step S2000: In the special symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU 72 performs work to prepare conditions for starting variable display of the special symbol. Note that the specific contents of the process will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (numbers 0 to 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, and thereby the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is outputted to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, and thereby the special symbol is displayed in a stopped state.

Step S5000: The variable winning device management process at the time of jackpot is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode in the previous special symbol stop display process. When the special symbols are stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state to a jackpot gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player). During the jackpot game, the jump destination is set to the jackpot variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of special symbols is not performed. In the jackpot variable winning device management process, the first big winning hole solenoid 90 or the second big winning hole solenoid 97 operates for a certain period of time (for example, 29 seconds, 0.1 seconds, or until 10 game balls are counted). ), is excited for a preset number of consecutive operations (for example, 16 times, etc.), and as a result, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 open and close in a predetermined pattern. During this time, by intensively winning game balls to the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to win many prize balls at once (special game means of execution). The opening and closing operations of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a jackpot are called a "round", and if the number of consecutive operations is 16 times in total, these are called "16 rounds". Sometimes referred to collectively.

In this embodiment, the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed from the 1st round to the 5th round and from the 7th round to the 16th round, and the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed in the 6th round. ing.

In addition, when the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening/closing operations per round, the opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process at the time of a jackpot, the first variable winning device 30 for one round Alternatively, each time the opening/closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with an initial value of 0. The main control CPU 72 also generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 23). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of consecutive operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the jackpot game (big win) for that round.

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

Step S6000: Small hit variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small win mode in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small winning mode, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state to the small winning gaming state. During the small winning game, the jump destination is set to the small winning variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of special symbols is not performed. In small winning games, although the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) within a predetermined opening time (for example, 0.1 seconds), winnings to the first big winning opening almost never occur. do not.

[Multiple winning types]
In this embodiment, the following winning types are provided as the plurality of winning types.
(1) “6 rounds guaranteed strange jackpot 1”
(2) “6 rounds guaranteed strange jackpot 2”
(3) “12 rounds guaranteed variable jackpot 1 (actually 4 rounds)”
(4) “12 rounds guaranteed variable jackpot 2 (actually 9 rounds)”
(5) “12 rounds regular jackpot (actually 9 rounds)”
(6) “16 rounds guaranteed strange jackpot”
In addition, in this embodiment, jackpots other than the 6th round, 12th round, and 16th round may be provided. Furthermore, the maximum number of rounds can be changed depending on the specifications of the game. For example, the maximum number of rounds may be 10 rounds.

The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, "6 round probability variable jackpot 1" corresponds to the jackpot of "6 round probability variable pattern 1", and "6 round probability variable jackpot 2" corresponds to the jackpot of "6 round probability variable pattern 2". Further, "12 round probability variable jackpot 1" corresponds to the jackpot of "12 round probability variable pattern 1", and "12 round probability variable jackpot 2" corresponds to the jackpot of "12 round probability variable pattern 2". Further, the "12 round regular jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot with the "12 round regular symbol", and the "16 round probability variable jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot with the "16 round probability variable pattern". Therefore, hereinafter, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as the "winning symbol."

[Opening operation pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable prize winning device. The contents of the opening of the big prize opening and variable probability area corresponding to each winning symbol will be explained.

[6 round variable pattern 1]
In the special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "6 round probability variable symbol 1", an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, from the first round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In addition, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Therefore, the jackpot game of "6 rounds probability variable pattern 1" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for 6 rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when it corresponds to "6 round probability variable pattern 1", the second grand prize opening is opened long, so there is a possibility that the game ball passes through the probability variable area. Therefore, if it corresponds to "6 round variable probability pattern 1" and the game ball passes through the variable probability area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the 6th round, after the jackpot game ends, The "probability variation function" is activated, and the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "high probability state."

Furthermore, if it corresponds to "6 round probability variable pattern 1", the jackpot game will end regardless of whether or not the probability variable area has been passed, even if the "time saving function" has been inactive in the previous game. By activating the "time reduction function" later, the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state."

[6 round variable pattern 2]
In the special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "6 round probability variable symbol 2", an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, from the first round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In addition, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Therefore, the jackpot game of "6 rounds probability variable pattern 2" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for 6 rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when it corresponds to "6 round probability variable pattern 2", the second grand prize opening is opened long, so there is a possibility that the game ball passes through the probability variable area. For this reason, if the game ball passes through the variable probability area placed inside the second variable winning device 31 in the 6th round when it corresponds to "6 round probability variable pattern 2", after the end of the jackpot game, The "probability variation function" is activated, and the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "high probability state."

Furthermore, if it corresponds to "6 round probability variable pattern 2", the jackpot game will end regardless of whether or not the probability variable area has been passed, even if the "time reduction function" has been inactive in the previous game. By activating the "time reduction function" later, the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state." The difference between the "6 round probability variable pattern 1" and the "6 round probability variable pattern 2" is the difference in the number of times saved (details will be described later).

[12 rounds variable pattern 1]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of ``12 round probability variable pattern 1'', an opportunity to shift from the previous normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, in the first and second rounds, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened short (for example, opened for 0.1 seconds). For this reason, the first and second rounds in the case where the "12 round probability variable pattern 1" is applicable end without awarding any substantial balls (prize balls) to the player. In addition, from the third round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In addition, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Furthermore, from the 7th round to the 12th round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened short (for example, opened for 0.1 seconds). Therefore, from the 7th round to the 12th round when the "12 round probability variable pattern 1" is applicable, the game ends without any substantial balls (prize balls) being awarded to the player. Therefore, the jackpot game of "12 rounds probability variable pattern 1" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for four rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 1", the second grand prize opening is opened long, so there is a possibility that the game ball passes through the probability variable area. Therefore, in the case of "12 round probability variable pattern 1" and when the game ball passes through the probability variable area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the 6th round, after the end of the jackpot game The "probability variation function" is activated, and the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "high probability state."

Furthermore, if it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 1", the jackpot game will end regardless of whether or not the probability variable area has been passed, even if the "time saving function" has been inactive in the previous game. By activating the "time reduction function" later, the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state."

[12 rounds variable pattern 2]
In the special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of ``12 round probability variable pattern 2'', an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, from the first round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In addition, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Furthermore, from the 7th round to the 9th round, the first big prize opening of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, from the 10th round to the 12th round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened short (for example, opened for 0.1 seconds). Therefore, from the 10th round to the 12th round in the case where the "12 round probability variable pattern 2" is applied, the game ends without actually awarding any balls (prize balls) to the player. Therefore, the jackpot game of "12 rounds probability variable pattern 2" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for 9 rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 2", the second grand prize opening is opened long, so there is a possibility that the game ball passes through the probability variable area. Therefore, if the game ball passes through the variable probability area placed inside the second variable winning device 31 in the 6th round when it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 2", after the end of the jackpot game, The "probability variation function" is activated, and the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "high probability state."

Furthermore, if it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 2", the jackpot game will end regardless of whether or not the probability variable area has been passed, even if the "time reduction function" has been inactive in the previous game. By activating the "time reduction function" later, the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state."

[12 rounds regular symbols]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "12 round normal symbol", an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, from the first round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened short (for example, opened for 0.1 seconds). Furthermore, from the 7th round to the 10th round, the first big prize opening of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Further, in the 10th round and the 11th round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened short (for example, opened for 0.1 seconds). Therefore, in the 10th and 11th rounds when the "12th round normal symbol" is applied, the game ends without any substantial balls (prize balls) being awarded to the player. Therefore, the jackpot game with "12 rounds normal symbols" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for 9 rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when the game corresponds to the "12th round normal symbol", the second big prize opening is opened short, so it is difficult (impossible) for the game ball to pass through the variable probability area. Therefore, after the end of the jackpot game, the "probability variation function" is not activated, and the player is not given the benefit of shifting to the "high probability state".

In addition, if it falls under the "12 round normal symbol", even if the "time reduction function" was not activated in the previous games, the "time reduction function" can be activated after the jackpot game ends. , the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state".

[16 rounds variable pattern]
In the special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of ``16 round probability variable pattern'', an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the jackpot game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, from the first round to the fifth round, the first big winning hole of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). In addition, in the sixth round, the second big winning hole of the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Furthermore, from the 7th round to the 16th round, the first big prize opening of the first variable winning device 30 is opened for a long time (for example, opened for 29.0 seconds). Therefore, the jackpot game with "16 round probability variable symbols" essentially awards the player with balls (prize balls) for 16 rounds.

Here, in the 6th round when it corresponds to the "16 round probability variable pattern", the second grand prize opening is opened long, so there is a possibility that the game ball passes through the probability variable area. Therefore, if the game ball passes through the variable probability area placed inside the second variable winning device 31 in the 6th round when it corresponds to the "16 round probability variable pattern", after the end of the jackpot game, " The "probability variation function" is activated, and the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "high probability state."

Furthermore, if it falls under the "16 round probability variable pattern", regardless of whether or not the probability variable area has been passed, even if the "time reduction function" has been inactive in the previous game, after the jackpot game ends. By activating the "time reduction function", the player is given the privilege of transitioning to the "time reduction state".

Here, the first big prize opening of the first variable winning device 30 closes without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse when a prescribed number of wins (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur within one round. be done. Similarly, the second grand prize opening of the second variable prize winning device 31 also opens when the specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occurs within one round, without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Closed.

In any case, if the winning symbol corresponds to "any variable probability symbol other than the 12th round normal symbol" and the game ball passes through the variable probability region during the jackpot game, the internal state will be changed to "high probability" after the jackpot game is over. The player is given a privilege that allows the player to enter the "Time Shortened State". On the other hand, if the winning symbol corresponds to the "12 round regular symbol", it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, so the internal state will shift to the "low probability time shortening state" after the jackpot game ends. do. Furthermore, even if the winning symbol corresponds to "any probability variable pattern other than the 12th round normal symbol", if the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, the internal state will be changed to "low probability time" after the jackpot game is over. Shift to "shortened state".

Furthermore, in the operation patterns shown in this table, the inter-round interval time is a common "1.5 seconds". Note that the inter-round interval time is a waiting time set between rounds.

[Small win]
Further, in this embodiment, a small win is provided as a winning type other than non-winning. When a small win is won, a small win game is performed separately from the jackpot game, and the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes (special game execution means). That is, in the above special symbol stop display process, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small win mode, a small win game (the first variable winning device 30 is activated) is executed in a low probability state or a high probability state. game) is executed. In such a small winning game, although the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), winnings to the first large winning opening hardly occur. In addition, even if the small winning game ends, the "probability variation function" will not operate, and the "time reduction function" will not operate, so the state will change to the "high probability state" or "time reduction state". No transfer benefits will be granted (and will not be a prerequisite for the same). Also, even if you win a small win in the "high probability state", the "high probability state" will not end after the small win game ends, and even if you win a small win in the "time reduction state", the small win will not end after the small win game ends. The "time reduction state" does not end after the winning game ends (except when the upper limit number of times is reached). In this embodiment, the game specification is such that a small win is set, but the game specification may be such that a small win is not set.

[Special pattern variation pre-processing]
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for special symbol variation pre-processing. Each step will be explained below.

Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a command for demonstration production. The demonstration production command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing (step S142 in FIG. 23). When the demonstration setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. Note that when returning, the address is returned to the last address as described above (the same applies thereafter).

On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

Step S2200: The main control CPU72 executes special symbol storage area shift processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads out the random numbers in order from the first section, erases (consumes) them, and moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random numbers are stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. If the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in a temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in this embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is performed with priority over the first special symbol. It should be noted that the program may be such that the random numbers are simply read out in the order in which they were stored, without providing such a priority order for each special symbol. In addition, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the working memory number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol, whichever shifted the random number) stored in the RAM 76 by one; Set the latter value as the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation." As a result, in the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 26), the display mode of the number of memories stored by the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1). After completing the steps up to this point, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of jackpot values, and determines whether or not the read random value is included within this range (symbol lottery execution means). The range of jackpot values set at this time differs between the low probability state and the high probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated), and in the high probability state, the range of jackpot values is expanded about 10 times as compared to the low probability state. Ru. Further, the range of the jackpot value also differs depending on the current setting value, and the range of the jackpot value is set wider when the setting is high than when the setting is low. In this way, a special symbol lottery (predetermined lottery) is executed according to the winning probability corresponding to the current set value. If the random number value read at this time is within the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot flag (01H) and then proceeds to step S2400.

If the jackpot flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of small winning values in the same jackpot determination process, and determines whether or not the read random value is included within this range (symbol lottery execution means ). The "small hit" here refers to anything other than non-winning (losing), but has a different nature from the "big hit". That is, a "big hit" generates an opportunity (a turning point in the game) to move to a "high probability state" or a "time reduction state", but a "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, a "small win" is positioned as a win that satisfies the conditions for operating the first variable prize winning device 30, similar to a "big win". Note that the range of the small winning value set at this time may be different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated), or may be the same. In any case, if the read random value is within the range of the small winning value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small winning flag and then proceeds to step S2400. In this way, in this embodiment, the range of the jackpot value and the small win value is predefined in the program as the winning range other than non-winning. A jackpot determination may be made by writing each of these into the ROM 74, reading them out, and comparing them with random numbers.

Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the value (01H) has been set to the jackpot flag in the previous jackpot determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the value (01H) has been set to the small hit flag in the previous jackpot determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. In addition, the main control CPU 72 may determine a jackpot (for example, set 01H) or a small hit (set 0AH, for example) based on the value of a common win flag, without separately preparing a jackpot flag and a small win flag.

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process on miss. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data when the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 misses. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (when losing) to be sent to the production control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing (step S142 in FIG. 23).

In addition, in this embodiment, since a 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of miss is always set to one segment (center The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H) by displaying only the bar "-" lit. In this case, the storage capacity used on the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes off-time variation pattern determination processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines a variation pattern number at the time of a miss for the special symbol (variation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the variation display of the special symbol and corresponds to the variation time required for the variation display. The fluctuation time at the time of a loss differs depending on whether or not it is in the "time reduction state", so in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and determines whether the current state is in the "time reduction state" or not. Check whether or not. If it is in the "time reduction state", the fluctuation time at the time of miss is basically set to a shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds), except when performing reach fluctuation (reduction time fluctuation time determination means ). In addition, even if the time is not in the "time reduction state", except when performing reach variation, the variation time at the time of miss is based on the "number of operating memories at the start of variation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, for example. It may be shortened (for example, the number of working memories at the start of the variable display is 0 → about 12.5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of the variable display is 1 → about 8 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of the variable display is 2 → 5 seconds) Approximately 2.5 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of the variable display is 3 → approximately 2.5 seconds). Note that the stop display time of the symbol at the time of miss is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (when it misses) in the fluctuation timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time when it misses on the stop symbol display timer.

In the present embodiment, if the internal lottery results in a non-winning result, control is performed such that, for example, a "reach effect" is generated and the winner is determined to be a loser, or a "reach effect" is not generated and the winner is determined to be a loser. It is said that In the "losing time variation pattern selection table", variation patterns corresponding to multiple types of effects, such as "non-reach effects" and "reach effects" are defined in advance, and if it falls under non-winning, the One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected from among them. Note that the reach performance includes various reach performances such as normal reach performance, long reach performance, super reach performance, and story reach performance.

[Example of deviation time variation pattern selection table]
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of an off-time variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table used in the event of a loss (in the case of non-winning) (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored in sets of one byte each in order from the top address. For example, the "comparison value" includes eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", "255 (FFH)". A "variation pattern number" of "1" to "8" is assigned to each "comparison value".

Fluctuation pattern numbers "1" to "3" correspond to fluctuation patterns that result in a loss without reaching the reach effect, and fluctuation pattern numbers "4" to "8" correspond to fluctuation patterns that result in a loss after reaching the reach. Compatible. Among these, fluctuation pattern numbers "4" to "6" correspond to fluctuation patterns that result in a loss after normal reach, and fluctuation pattern number "7" corresponds to a fluctuation pattern that results in a loss after super reach. The variation pattern number "8" corresponds to a variation pattern that becomes a failure after reaching the story. In addition, the fluctuation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation, the internal state (low probability state or high probability state, non-time reduction state or time reduction state), and winning symbols (hereinafter, similar).

Here, the length of the set variation time is greatly different between the non-reach variation pattern and the reach variation pattern. In other words, the "non-reach variation pattern" basically corresponds to a short variation time (for example, about 2.0 seconds to 13.0 seconds depending on the number of working memories), whereas the "reach variation pattern" This corresponds to a fluctuation time that is twice as long or longer (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds).

Then, the main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the above-mentioned variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the comparison value is Select a corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU 72 selects the next comparison value "101". 201'' and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "2" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Figure 33: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the jackpot determination result is a loss (other than non-winning), but when the determination result is a jackpot (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes) , the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be explained.

Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot stop symbol determination process (winning type determining means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the current winning symbol (the jackpot stop symbol number) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in a special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 can refer to the jackpot stop symbol selection table in the jackpot stop symbol determination process and determine the type of winning symbol based on the jackpot symbol random number from the stored contents.

[Winning symbol at jackpot]
In this embodiment, there are broadly six types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a jackpot. The breakdown of the six types is "6 round variable probability pattern 1", "6 round variable probability pattern 2", "12 round variable probability pattern 1", "12 round variable probability pattern 2", "12 round regular symbol", "16 round variable probability pattern" ”. Note that each winning symbol may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "6 round probability variable pattern 1", "6 round probability variable pattern 1a", "6 round probability variable pattern 1b", "6 round probability variable pattern 1c", etc. are used.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol have different selection ratios of winning symbols selected at the time of jackpot of the corresponding internal lottery. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbols to be selected depending on whether the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[1st special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol by referring to the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value "40", "10", and "50" has a denominator of 100. Corresponds to the proportion of cases. In addition, in the second column from the left, "12 round probability variable symbol 1 (actually 4 rounds)", "12 round probability variable symbol 2 (actually 9 rounds)", "12 round regular symbol ( (Actually 9 rounds)" is shown. In other words, when hitting the jackpot corresponding to the first special symbol, the proportion of "12 round variable probability pattern 1 (actually 4 rounds)" being selected is 40/100 (=40%), and the "12 round probability variable pattern 2 (actually 4 rounds)" is selected. The rate at which “9 rounds)” is selected is 10/100 (=10%), and the rate at which “12 rounds normal jackpot (actually 9 rounds)” is selected is 50/100 (=50%). . The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using jackpot symbol random numbers.

In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and selects the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. The winning symbols are selectively determined. Further, in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning, as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is written as a combination of MODE value and EVENT value, for example, and the MODE value "B1H" in the upper byte indicates that the current winning symbol was selected when the first special symbol hit the jackpot. represents. Further, the EVENT values "01H", "02H", and "03H" in the lower byte each represent the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of this jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol and "12 round variable probability symbol 1" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is written as "B1H01H". That will happen.

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects a winning symbol from the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, it generates the stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the production control device 124, for example, in production command transmission processing. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Number of definite changes]
In the second column from the right of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the variable probability number (ST number) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In this embodiment, if it corresponds to "12 round variable probability pattern 1" or "12 round variable probability pattern 2" and the game ball passes through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, the number of variable probability is given 170 times.
On the other hand, if it corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol", it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game, so the variable probability number is not given. In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the probability variable area during the jackpot game even though it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 1" or "12 round probability variable pattern 2", the probability variation number is not given.

[Number of time savings]
In the right column of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number of times) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In this embodiment, if it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 1" or "12 round probability variable pattern 2" and the game ball passes through the probability variable area during the jackpot game, the time saving number is given 170 times.
On the other hand, if it corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol", 100 times of time saving will be given.
In addition, if the game ball falls under the "12 round probability variable pattern 1" or "12 round probability variable pattern 2" but the game ball does not pass through the probability variable area during the jackpot game, the time saving number is given 100 times.

[2nd special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol by referring to the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

In the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value "60", "20", "20" has a denominator of 100. This corresponds to the percentage when . Similarly, in the second column from the left, "16 round probability variable symbols", "6 rounds probability variable symbols 1", and "6 rounds probability variable symbols 2" corresponding to the distribution values are shown. In other words, at the time of jackpot corresponding to the second special symbol, the percentage of "16 round variable probability symbols" being selected is 60/100 (=60%), and the percentage of "6 round variable probability symbols 1" being selected. is 20/100 (=20%), and the rate at which "6 round probability variable pattern 2" is selected is 20/100 (=20%).

If the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol at the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. Determine exactly. Similarly, in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning, as shown in the third column from the left. Here too, the stop symbol command is written as a combination of MODE value and EVENT value, among which the MODE value "B2H" in the upper byte is the one that was selected when the current winning symbol was the jackpot of the second special symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values "01H", "02H", and "03H" in the lower byte each represent the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of this jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol and the "16 round variable probability symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be written as "B2H01H". .

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects a winning symbol from the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, it generates the stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the production control device 124, for example, in production command transmission processing. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Number of definite changes]
In the second column from the right of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the variable probability number (ST number) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In this embodiment, if the game ball passes through the variable probability area during a jackpot game and corresponds to the "16 round variable probability pattern", "6 round variable probability pattern 1" or "6 round variable variable pattern 2", the number of variable probability is 170 times. Granted. In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game even though it corresponds to "16 round variable probability symbol", "6 round variable probability symbol 1" or "6 round variable variable pattern 2", the number of variable probability will not be awarded. .

[Number of time savings]
In the right column of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number of times) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.
In this embodiment, if it corresponds to the "16 round probability variable pattern" or "6 round probability variable pattern 1" and the game ball passes through the probability variable area during the jackpot game, the time saving number is given 170 times.
On the other hand, if it corresponds to the "6 round probability variable pattern 2" and the game ball passes through the probability variable area during the jackpot game, 100 time saving times are given.
In addition, if the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area during the jackpot game even though it corresponds to "16 round variable probability symbol", "6 round variable probability symbol 1" or "6 round variable probability symbol 2", the number of time reductions will be 100 times. Granted.

[See Figure 33: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot fluctuation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the fluctuation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variable time value in the variable timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of jackpot reach variation, a longer variation time is determined than in the case of a miss.

In this embodiment, when a jackpot is determined as a result of the internal lottery, control is performed to generate, for example, a "reach effect" on the presentation to make it a jackpot. In the "Jackpot Time Variation Pattern Selection Table", variation patterns corresponding to multiple types of "reach effects" are defined, and when a jackpot occurs, one of the variation patterns is selected from among them. It turns out.
Here, the reach performance includes various reach performances such as normal reach performance, long reach performance, and super reach performance. In addition, when winning with the time reduction function activated, you may select a variation pattern with a short variation time (a variation pattern that does not perform a reach effect) without selecting a variation pattern with a long variation time. good.

[Example of jackpot time fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table used at the time of jackpot (variation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored in sets of one byte each in order from the top address. For example, the "comparison value" includes eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", "255 (FFH)". "Variation pattern numbers" of "61" to "68" are assigned to each "comparison value".

Variation pattern numbers "61" to "68" all correspond to variation patterns in which a reach effect is performed and a win is achieved. Among these, the fluctuation pattern numbers "61" to "64" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that become a hit after the story reach, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "65" and "66" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that become a win after the super reach. The variation pattern numbers “67” and “68” correspond to the variation patterns that result in a win after normal reach. In addition, when winning in a high probability time shortening state, a fluctuation pattern that results in a win may be set without executing the reach effect.

The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the acquired variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the above-mentioned variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select a variation pattern number (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", when compared with the first comparison value "101", the random number value exceeds the comparison value, so the main control CPU 72 selects the next comparison value "101". 201'' and the random number. In this case, since the random number value is less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects "62" as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Figure 33: Special symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes jackpot and other setting processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the time reduction function activation flag (01H ) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function activation means, advantageous game state transition means, special state transition means).

In addition, in the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbols (jackpot symbols) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the jackpot symbol number. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command (at the time of a jackpot) and a lottery result command (at the time of a jackpot). These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process.

Next, the process when a small hit occurs will be explained.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of a small hit (the symbol number that stops at the time of a small hit) based on the jackpot symbol random number. Similarly here, the relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of the small hit is predefined in the special symbol selection table for the small hit (winning type specifying means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the jackpot symbol random number is used to determine the winning symbol at the time of the small hit, but a separate dedicated random number may be used.

[Winning symbol at small hit]
In this embodiment, there is only one type of winning symbol at the time of a small hit, which is the "one time open small winning symbol". However, other types may be prepared in addition to these, such as "2-time open small winning symbols" and "3-time open small winning symbols." A "small win" as a result of an internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to a "high probability state" or "time reduction state," so the "two rounds (2 It is possible to provide a "single-open small winning symbol" without being bound by the stipulations of "one-time opening) or more".

Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit fluctuation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined value of the fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In addition, in this embodiment, it is possible to select a reach variation pattern in the case of a small hit, or it is also possible to select a variation pattern equivalent to that in the case of a normal variation.

Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbols (small win symbols) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small win stop symbol number. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the production control device 124. These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process.

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (miss/hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. The main control CPU 72 then generates a fluctuation start command to be sent to the production control device 124. This fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process. After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game processing.

[Figure 31: Special symbol fluctuation processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation process, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter, and then changes the value of the timer counter according to the passage of time (the number of clock pulse counts or the value of the interrupt counter). Decrement. Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display of the special symbols while referring to the value of the timer counter until the value becomes 0. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display processing (step S4000) as the next jump destination and generates a confirmation command. Here, the "confirmation command" is a command indicating that the special symbol has stopped. The confirmed command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process (step S142 in FIG. 23) executed in the main loop.

In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 33). The main control CPU 72 also generates a stop display time end command. The stop display time end command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process. When the stopped symbols are displayed for a predetermined period of time during the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of special symbol storage area shift processing. In the previous special symbol variation preprocessing, if the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than "0" (step S2100 in FIG. 33: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Each step will be explained below.

Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the oldest one among the current working memories corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, when accessing the storage area of the RAM 76, if the oldest working memory does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 The process advances to step S2212.

Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 specifies the second special symbol as the special symbol whose storage area is to be shifted. This designation is performed, for example, by setting "02H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2214: On the other hand, if the oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 specifies the first special symbol as the special symbol to which the storage area is to be shifted. . The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting "01H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 for the target special symbol specified in either step S2212 or step S2214. In addition, the specific contents of the process are as already described in the previous special symbol variation pre-process.

Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the object to which the current storage area is to be shifted is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the "number of working memories at the start of variation" from the value of the working memory counter after the subtraction. Incidentally, here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the working memory counter may be added and then the "number of working memories at the start of variation" may be set.

Step S2222: The main control CPU 72 also checks whether the special symbol to which the current storage area is to be shifted is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: If the target is the second special symbol (Step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets a performance command when the number of working memories decreases regarding the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word long command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-mentioned "effect command when the number of working memories increases." In other words, the command when the number of working memories decreases has a value of the lower byte representing the number of working memories after the decrease (for example, "00H" to "03H") for the preceding value of the upper byte representing the command type (for example, "BCH"). "), and the value of the lower byte is further added (logical summed) with an additional value (for example, "10H") that means "reduction in the number of working memories due to consumption". Therefore, for the lower byte, by ORing the added value "10H", the second digit becomes "1", and this value represents "the result (change information) due to a decrease in the number of working memories". Become something. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the previous working memory number "4" (command notation is "14H") has been decreased by one, and the current working memory number is "3" (command notation is "14H"). The notation is "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", this is the result of each of the previous working memory numbers "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") reduced by one. , indicates that the current working memory number is "2" to "0" (command notation is "12H" to "10H"). The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current performance command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2226: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets a performance command when the number of working memories decreases regarding the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as above except that the preceding value is a value representing that it is a working memory number command for the first special symbol (for example, "BBH").

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes production command output processing. This process is for transmitting to the production control device 124 the effect command when the number of working memories decreases, which was set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 (memory number notification means).
After completing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation preprocessing (FIG. 33).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of special symbol stop display processing. Each step will be explained below.

Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not ended yet (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 31) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a stop display time end command. The stop display time end command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process. Also, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The "stop display time end command" is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set. If the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[At the time of election]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to "Jackpot variable winning device management process". Note that the main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting various functions to non-operation in this process. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated, and the time reduction function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (big win) is started, the state is shifted to a low probability non-time saving state.

Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "big winning combination start (during jackpot game)" as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of jackpot symbol. For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is "16 round variable probability symbol", a value corresponding to "16 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of jackpot symbol is "12 round probability variable symbol 1, 2" or "12 round regular symbol", a value representing "12 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of jackpot symbol is "6 round probability variable symbol 1, 2", a value representing "6 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. A status command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process.

Step S4500: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 33). For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is "16 round variable probability symbol", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "16 rounds". In addition, when the type of jackpot symbol is "12 round probability variable symbol 1, 2" or "12 round regular symbol", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "12 round". Further, when the type of jackpot symbol is "6 round probability variable symbol 1, 2", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "6 rounds". The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing.

When the above procedure is completed at the time of a jackpot, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not elected]
On the other hand, in cases other than the jackpot, the following procedure is executed.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is not set (No), then it executes step S4600.

Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 then checks whether the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. Then, if the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and the win is simply a loss (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special symbol variation pre-processing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process at the time of small winning as the jump destination address of the jump table. set.

Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit in progress)" as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that a small hit is in progress. A status command indicating that a small hit is in progress is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process.

Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number cut counter. In the "high probability state" and "time reduction state", the respective counter values of the "counter" are set in the variable probability count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76. In this embodiment, a so-called number-cutting probability variable function is adopted, so when transitioning to the "high probability time reduction state", the number-cutting counter related to the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times), The number-of-time counter related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times or 100 times). Further, when transitioning to the "low probability time reduction state", the number-of-time counter for the high-probability state is not set, and the number-of-time counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times).

Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the loaded counter value is 0 or not. At this time, if the number-cutting counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the number-cutting counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the number-cutting counter value command, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts by 1) the number-of-times counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the number-cutting counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number-of-times counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets the flag when the count cut function is activated. In this embodiment, when transitioning to the "high probability time reduction state" corresponding to "any probability variable symbol other than 6 round probability variation symbol 2", the number cut counter for the high probability state and time reduction state is set to a predetermined value. (for example, 170 times), what is reset is the probability variation function activation flag and the time reduction function activation flag.

In addition, when transitioning to the "high probability time reduction state" corresponding to the 6 round probability variable pattern 2, the number cutting counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times), and the number cutting counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 170 times). is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times). Therefore, it is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset at the end of the 100th variation, and the probability fluctuation function activation flag is reset at the end of the 170th variation (advantageous gaming state transition means , special state transition means).

Furthermore, when transitioning to the "low probability time reduction state", the number-of-time counter related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 100 times), so only the time reduction function activation flag is reset. be. As a result, the time shortening state and high probability state end after the special symbol is stopped and displayed. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S232 in FIG. 26) executed during the timer interrupt process. The display output management process includes special symbol display setting processing (step S1200), normal symbol display setting processing (step S1210), status display setting processing (step S1220), working memory display setting processing (step S1230), and continuous operation count display setting. The configuration includes a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the working memory display setting process (step S1230) are performed on the first special symbol display device 34, the second Generate and output drive signals to be applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a. This is the process of

The status display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation count display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting drive signals to be applied to each LED of the gaming status display device 38. First, in the status display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability variation status display lamp 38d and the time saving status display lamp 38e, respectively, according to the values of the probability variation function activation flag or the time reduction function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability fluctuation function activation flag when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d. In addition, the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d continues to light up until the jackpot game regarding the special symbol is started, or until the probability fluctuation function is turned OFF after the fluctuation display of the special symbol has been performed a specified number of times, and then it is turned off. The display can be switched to (off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time saving function activation flag, the main control CPU 72 sends a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the time saving status display lamp 38e, regardless of whether the power is turned on or not. Output. Furthermore, the main control CPU72 controls lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. For example, when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is activated due to a jackpot game or a small winning game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. . Further, if the value (01H) is set in the time saving function activation flag, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f in addition to the time saving status display lamp 38e. . In addition, when the firing position designation lamp 38f transitions to the "time reduction state" after a jackpot game, it lights up from the start of the jackpot game until the "time reduction state" ends, and turns off when the "time reduction state" ends ( OFF).

The main control CPU 72 also controls the lighting of the jackpot type display lamps 38a, 38b, and 38c in the continuous operation count display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for any one of the jackpot type display lamps 38a, 38b, and 38c based on the value of the continuous operation count status. At this time, the target for outputting the lighting signal is one of the display lamps 38a, 38b, and 38c corresponding to the jackpot symbol designated by the value of the continuous operation count status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "16 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38c representing "16 rounds (16R)". Further, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "12 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing "12 rounds (12R)". Further, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "6 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing "6 rounds (6R)".

[Variable prize winning device management processing at jackpot]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process at the time of jackpot will be explained. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of variable winning device management processing at the time of jackpot. The variable winning device management process at the time of a jackpot includes a game process selection process at the time of a jackpot (step S5100), a jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a jackpot opening/closing operation process at the time of a jackpot (step S5300), and a jackpot opening/closing operation process (step S5300). The configuration includes a subroutine group of winning opening closing processing (step S5400) and jackpot termination processing (step S5500).

Step S5100: In the jackpot game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and also sets the end of the jackpot variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 performs a jackpot opening pattern setting process as the next jump destination. (Step S5200). On the other hand, if the jackpot opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the jackpot jackpot opening/closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and selects the jackpot jackpot opening/closing operation process (step S5300). If the operation processing has been completed, the jackpot winning opening closing processing (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. In addition, when the jackpot opening/closing process and the jackpot opening/closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of consecutive operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects the jackpot ending process (as the next jump destination). Step S5500) is selected. Each process will be explained in more detail below.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process when hitting the jackpot]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for setting a pattern for opening a big winning hole at the time of a big hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of opening and closing operations of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 and the time for each opening at the time of a jackpot. Each step will be explained below.

Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a symbol-based opening pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the opening pattern of the big winning opening (the number of openings per round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, the count number in one round (the maximum (Number of winnings) and select the operating pattern of the variable probability area solenoid 99. The opening pattern of the jackpot opening for each winning symbol, the operating pattern of the variable probability region solenoid 99, and the interval time between rounds are as explained in the operating pattern of the variable winning device during the jackpot shown in FIG. 32. The number of prizes counted during one round (maximum number of winnings) is basically about 10, but winnings rarely occur during extremely short openings (about 0.1 seconds). (It's not very difficult, but it's extremely difficult.)

Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed in the current jackpot game based on the winning symbol at the time of the jackpot selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 33). Specifically, if the "16 round probability variable symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed to 16. Further, if "12 round probability variable symbols 1, 2" or "12 round regular symbols" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed to 12. Further, if "6 round probability variable symbols 1 and 2" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed to six. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, using a corresponding value on the program.

Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 uses the jackpot opening timer and the probability variable area timer (counts the opening time of the variable probability area) based on the big winning opening opening pattern and the operation pattern of the variable probability area solenoid 99 set in the previous step S5204. timer). The value of the timer set here becomes the opening time of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or the opening time of the probability variable area. In addition, if a time of about 20.0 to 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer and the probability variable area timer, the opening time will be determined by the number of balls entering the jackpot or probability variation during one opening. This is a sufficient time to easily pass through the area (for example, a time period during which 10 or more game balls are fired by the firing control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer and variable probability area timer, the opening time is not such that it is impossible for the ball to enter the jackpot or pass through the variable probability area during one opening. In either case, it is a short period of time (for example, shorter than 1 second, preferably shorter than the interval between game ball launches by the launch control board set 174) that hardly occurs (difficult).

Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot interval timer and the probability variable region interval timer (temporarily changes the probability variable region to Set a timer to count the waiting time for closing. The timer value set here becomes the waiting time between rounds during the jackpot or the temporary closing time of the variable probability area.

Step S5212: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening/closing operation process, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 41).

[Big prize opening opening/closing operation process when hitting a jackpot]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the opening/closing operation process of the jackpot at the time of jackpot. This process is for controlling the opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a jackpot. The following is a step-by-step explanation.

Step S5301: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the big winning opening interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to check whether the big winning slot interval timer is counting down by checking whether the big winning slot interval timer set in step S5314 below is already in operation. can.

As a result, if it is confirmed that the big winning opening interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the big winning opening interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5302.

Step S5302: The main control CPU72 opens the first big winning hole or the second big winning hole. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the jackpot shown in FIG. 32, a drive signal to be applied to the first big winning hole solenoid 90 or the second big winning hole solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes release timer countdown processing. In this process, the countdown of the opening timer set in the previous jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 42) is executed.

Step S5303a: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the probability variable area interval timer is counting down. Specifically, by checking whether the variable probability interval timer set in step S5314 below is already in operation, it is possible to confirm whether the variable probability interval timer is counting down.

As a result, if it is confirmed that the probability variable area interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the probability variable area interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5304.

Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes probability variable region release processing. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the probability variable area solenoid 99 is output based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the jackpot shown in FIG. As a result, the probability variable area wing member 31d is opened, and the game ball can be guided to the probability variable area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

Step S5305: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes probability variable area timer countdown processing. In this process, the countdown of the probability variable area timer set in the previous jackpot opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 42) is executed.

Step S5306: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the big winning opening opening time has ended. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the open timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the open timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next performs step S5307a. Execute.

Step S5307a: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the probability variable region opening time has ended. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the probability variable area timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the open timer has not yet become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5308. Execute.

On the other hand, if the value of the variable probability region timer is less than or equal to 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5307b.

Step S5307b: Execute probability variable region closing processing. Specifically, a process of stopping the output of the drive signal being applied to the probability variable area solenoid 99 is executed. As a result, the variable probability area wing member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the variable probability area disposed inside the second variable winning device 31.

Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes winning ball count processing. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 (the first big winning hole or the second big winning hole that is open) during the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 during the open time.

Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of prize balls (upper limit of the number of prize balls) allowed per opening (one round during jackpot). If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable prize winning device management process. Then, when the jackpot variable winning device management process is executed, the jump destination is currently set to the jackpot jackpot opening/closing operation process, so the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the steps S5301 to S5310. do.

If it is determined in step S5306 that the big winning opening opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5310 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5312. .

Step S5312: The main control CPU72 closes the first big winning opening or the second big winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal that was being applied to the first big winning hole solenoid 90 or the second big winning hole solenoid 97 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 shifts from the open state to the closed state.

Step S5313: The main control CPU 72 executes probability variable region closing processing. Specifically, a process of stopping the output of the drive signal being applied to the probability variable area solenoid 99 is executed. As a result, the variable probability area wing member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the variable probability area disposed inside the second variable winning device 31.

Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval timer countdown processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts down the big winning opening interval timer and the variable probability area interval timer set in the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 in FIG. 42).

Step S5315: The main control CPU72 confirms whether the big winning opening interval time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether the value of the big winning opening interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the big winning opening interval timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control The CPU 72 returns to the last address of the variable winning device management process (FIG. 41) at the time of a jackpot. Then, when the jackpot opening/closing operation process is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the first step S5301 and immediately executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the big winning opening interval timer after the countdown process has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5318.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter. The value of the open count counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with an initial value of 0.

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the open count counter after incrementing has reached the set count within the current round. Here, the "number of times set within the current round" is determined by, for example, "opening the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 multiple times within one round during the jackpot". This is to accommodate this open pattern. Note that in this embodiment, such an opening pattern is not adopted, and the "number of times set within the current round" is set to once in each round. Therefore, in each round during the jackpot game, the counter value reaches the set number of times with one opening/closing operation (Yes), and the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

On the other hand, if a pattern is adopted in which opening and closing operations are repeated multiple times within one round, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process at the time of a jackpot, the jump destination is currently set to the jackpot opening/closing operation process at the time of a jackpot, so the steps from step S5301 to step S5320 are repeatedly executed. do. As a result, the opening number counter is incremented in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot winning opening closing process, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process at the time of a jackpot is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes the big winning opening closing process at the time of a jackpot.

[Big prize opening closing process when hitting the jackpot]
FIG. 44 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure for closing the big prize opening when a big hit is achieved. This jackpot closing process is for continuing or terminating the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31. The following is a step-by-step explanation.

Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, when the first round ends and the second round begins, the value of the round number counter becomes "1".

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the round number counter after incrementing has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the round number counter after incrementing, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1 to 15 after subtracting 1), (No) , then executes step S5405.

Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production command transmission process. The production control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening/closing operation process at the time of jackpot.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, in the jackpot game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 41), the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot jackpot opening/closing operation process, which is the next jump destination. Execute. Then, after executing the jackpot opening/closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot closing process, and then executes the jackpot opening/closing process again, and repeats steps S5402 to S5408. do. As a result, the opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (9 or 16).

If the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (=0) and sets the next jump destination to the jackpot end process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process. As a result, the next time the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variable winning device management process, the jackpot ending process will be selected.

[End processing when winning a jackpot]
FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the jackpot termination process. This jackpot termination processing is for arranging conditions for terminating the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a jackpot. The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

Step S5501: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value to the jackpot end time timer, and then counts down the timer as time passes (each time this module is called).

Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the jackpot end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the jackpot end time timer has not reached 0 yet, the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the jackpot variable prize winning device management process (FIG. 41).

Thereafter, when the value of the jackpot end time timer becomes 0 as time passes, the main control CPU 72 determines that the jackpot end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes step S5503 and subsequent steps.

Steps S5503 and S5504: The main control CPU 72 resets the jackpot flag (00H). As a result, the jackpot gaming state ends under the control process of the main control CPU 72. Moreover, the main control CPU 72 erases "during jackpot" from the internal state flag and declares the end of the big win as an internal state in the control process. Note that the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation count status.

Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value (01H) of the probability fluctuation function activation flag is set. This flag is set in the previous switch input event processing (step S28 in FIG. 27).

Step S5508: If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set (Step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of probability variations (for example, 170 times). The set value of the number of probability fluctuations is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes a number-cutting counter value. The number of probability fluctuations set here becomes the upper limit number of times that special symbol fluctuations (internal lottery) are performed in a high probability state in subsequent games. In this embodiment, since a practical upper limit is set for the high probability state, there may be cases where a winning result is not obtained in the high probability state and the state returns to the low probability state (so-called number-of-time probability variation). Note that if the value of the probability fluctuation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value (01H) of the time saving function activation flag is set. This flag is set in the jackpot and other setting processing (step S2414 in FIG. 33) during the special symbol variation pre-processing.

Step S5512: Then, if the value of the time saving function activation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time saving functions (for example, 100 times or 170 times). Here, which time saving number to set depends on the value of the probability fluctuation function activation flag. That is, if the value of the probability fluctuation function activation flag is set, the main control CPU 72 sets 170 times as the time saving number (high probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means), and the value of the probability fluctuation function activation flag is set. If not set, 100 times is set as the number of time reductions (low probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means). However, even if the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set, if the winning symbol corresponds to the 6 round probability variation symbol 2, the main control CPU 72 sets 100 times as the time saving number (advantageous game state transition means, special state transition means). The set value of the number of time saving times is stored in the time saving count area of the RAM 76. The number of time reductions set here becomes the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of special symbols in subsequent games. Note that if the value of the time reduction function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a status designation command based on various flags. Specifically, when the jackpot flag is reset or the jackpot ends, a state designation command representing "normal" as the gaming state is generated. Additionally, if the probability fluctuation function activation flag is set, a state specification command representing "high probability medium" is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function activation flag is set, the internal state is "time reduction". ” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the production control device 124 in production command transmission processing.

Step S5516: After the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the jackpot opening pattern setting process.

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 31) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the jackpot variable prize winning device management process.

[Variable prize winning device management processing at small hit]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process at the time of small winning will be explained. FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing an example of the configuration of the variable winning device management process at the time of small winning. The variable winning device management process at the time of a small win includes a game process selection process at the time of a small win (step S6100), a large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small winning (step S6200), and a large winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small winning (step S6300). The configuration includes a subroutine group of , large winning opening closing process when a small hit (step S6400), and end process when a small winning occurs (step S6500).

Step S6100: In the small winning game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S6200 to S6500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and also sets the end of the variable prize winning device management process at the time of small win to the stack pointer as the return destination address. . Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. do. On the other hand, if the large winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small winning (step S6300) as the next jump destination, and If the winning opening opening/closing operation process is completed, the large winning opening closing process (step S6400) is selected as the next jump destination. In addition, when the small winning opening/closing process and the small winning opening/closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of consecutive operations, the main control CPU 72 selects the small winning ending process (step S6500). Each process will be explained in more detail below.

[Small winning big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for setting a pattern for opening a large winning opening at the time of a small hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of a small win. Each step will be explained below.

Step S6212: The main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit release pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the "opening pattern at the time of small hit", for example, an opening pattern of "0.1 second opening" is set for each of the first and second times. In addition, since there is no concept of "round" for "small winning", "opening pattern" is also expressed as "first opening", "second opening", etc.

Step S6214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of openings of the big winning hole to, for example, two times based on the big winning hole opening pattern set in the previous step S6212. The number of openings set here is stored, for example, in a buffer area of the RAM 76.

Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hit release timer. The value of the timer set here becomes the open time per time when the first variable prize winning device 30 is operated. In addition, in this embodiment, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the opening timer at the time of small winning, and such an opening time is such that winnings to the big winning opening hardly occur during one opening (difficult). ) for a short period of time (for example, shorter than 1 second, preferably shorter than the interval between firing game balls by the firing device unit).

Step S6218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit interval timer. The timer value set here becomes the waiting time for each time when the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed multiple times at the time of a small win, and this timer value is set to, for example, about 2 seconds.

Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small hit, and returns to the variable winning device management process at the time of a small winning (FIG. 46). Then, the main control CPU 72 next executes a small winning opening/closing operation process (step S6300).

[Big prize opening opening/closing operation process when winning a small hit]
FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure for opening and closing the large winning opening when a small hit occurs. This process is for controlling the opening/closing operation of the first variable prize winning device 30 at the time of a small win. The following is a step-by-step explanation.

Step S6301: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the interval timer is counting down. Specifically, by checking whether the interval timer set in step S6314 below is already in operation, it is possible to check whether the interval timer is counting down.

As a result, if it is confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6314. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6302.

Step S6302: The main control CPU72 opens the first big prize opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the first big winning opening solenoid 90 is output. As a result, the first variable prize winning device 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes release timer countdown processing. In this process, the countdown of the opening timer set in the previous large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 47) is executed.

Step S6306: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the open time has ended. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the release timer has not become 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next performs step S6308. Execute.

Step S6308: The main control CPU 72 executes winning ball count processing. In this process, the number of game balls that have won in the first variable winning device 30 (the first big winning hole that is open) during the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 during the open time.

Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of prize balls (upper limit of the number of prize balls) allowed per opening (one opening at the time of a small hit). If the count number has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 46). Then, when the small hit variable winning device management process is executed, the jump destination is currently set to the small win large winning opening/closing operation process, so the main control CPU 72 executes the steps S6301 to S6310. Execute repeatedly.

If it is determined in step S6306 that the open time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S6310 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6312. Here, since the value of the release timer is set to a short time for release at the time of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally performs the release in step S6310 before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number. In most cases, it is determined in S6306 that the open time has ended.

Step S6312: The main control CPU72 closes the first big prize opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal that was being applied to the first big prize opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the first variable prize winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval timer countdown processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the large winning opening pattern setting process (step S6218 in FIG. 47) at the time of small hit.

Step S6315: The main control CPU 72 checks whether the interval time has ended. Specifically, it is checked whether the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is less than or equal to 0, and if the value of the interval timer is not less than or equal to 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable at the time of a small hit. The process returns to the end address of the winning device management process (FIG. 46). Then, when the small winning opening/closing operation process is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the first step S6301 and immediately executes step S6314. On the other hand, if it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown process has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6316.

Step S6316: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning large winning opening closing process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process. Then, when the small winning variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes the small winning large winning opening closing process.

[Big prize opening closing process when small hit]
FIG. 49 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure for closing the large winning opening when a small hit occurs. This small winning big winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or terminating the operation. The following is a step-by-step explanation.

Step S6412: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter.

Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the value of the incremented opening number counter has reached the set number of openings. The number of openings is set in the previous big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6214 in FIG. 47). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set number of openings (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small hit.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 46).

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the small win game process selection process (step S6100 in FIG. 46), which is the next jump destination, the small win large win opening opening/closing operation process. Execute. After executing the large winning opening opening/closing operation process when a small hit occurs, the main control CPU 72 again executes the large winning opening closing process when a small winning occurs until the actual number of openings reaches the set number of openings (two times). , the opening and closing operations of the first variable winning device 30 are repeatedly performed.

When the actual number of openings at the time of a small hit reaches the set number of openings (step S6414: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6418.

Step S6418, Step S6420: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the opening number counter (=0) and sets the next jump destination to the small hit termination process.

Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 46). As a result, the next time the main control CPU 72 executes the variable winning device management process, the small hit end process will be selected.

[End processing when small hit]
FIG. 50 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the small hit termination process. This small win termination process is for arranging the conditions for terminating the operation of the first variable winning device 30 when a small win occurs. The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

Step S6502: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value to the small hit end time timer, and then counts down the timer as time passes (each time this module is called).

Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether the small hit end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hit end time timer has not yet become 0, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 ends this module and returns to the variable prize winning device management process (FIG. 46) at the time of small winning.

Thereafter, when the value of the small hit end time timer becomes 0 as time passes, the main control CPU 72 determines that the small hit end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes steps S6506 and subsequent steps.

Step S6506, Step S6508: The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small win flag (00H), and also erases "small win in progress" from the internal state flag to end the small win game. Note that in the case of a small win, the internal conditional device does not operate, so this procedure is simply for the purpose of clearing the flag.

Step S6510: After the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening pattern setting process for small winning.

Step S6512: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 31) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the small winning variable winning device management process.

[Game flow (Part 1)]
FIG. 51 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the "12 round normal symbol" or the "12 round probability variable symbol 1, 2" corresponds to the normal mode.
When starting a game on the pachinko machine 1, the game starts from [F1] normal mode. In the "normal mode", the winning probability of special symbols is "low probability state", and the winning probability of normal symbols is "low probability state". In this way, the [F1] normal mode is a "low probability non-time reduction state", so by entering the game ball into the medium starting winning hole 26, the first special symbol starts to fluctuate and the game starts. It progresses.

[F1] In the normal mode, if you win the jackpot of [F2] "12 round normal symbol", [F3] 12 round jackpot game (battle bonus) will be executed, and [F4] If you lose in the battle of the big role production. , [F5] Shift to coast mode.

[F5] Coastal mode is a low probability time reduction state. [F5] If no winning result is obtained in the coast mode, and [F6] the special symbol changes 100 times, the game shifts to [F1] normal mode.

[F1] In the normal mode, if you win the jackpot of [F7] "12 round variable pattern 1, 2", [F3] 12 round jackpot game (battle bonus) will be executed, and [F8] In the battle of big role production. win.

Then, [F9] If the game ball passes through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the 12-round jackpot game (if a V prize is won), [F10] A production indicating that a V prize has occurred is executed, and [F11] Fireworks Move to rush.

[F11] Fireworks rush is a high probability time reduction state. [F11] When a winning result is not obtained in the fireworks rush and [F12] the special symbol changes 170 times, the game shifts to [F1] normal mode.

On the other hand, if the game ball falls under [F13] "12 Round Variable Variable Patterns 1 and 2" but does not pass through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the jackpot game (if no V prize is won), [F10] V An effect indicating that no prize has been won is executed, and the process shifts to [F5] coast mode.

[Game flow (Part 2)]
FIG. 52 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the "16 round probability variable symbols" or the "6 round probability variable symbols 1 and 2" correspond to the fireworks rush or coast mode.
If you win the jackpot of [G1] "16 round variable pattern" in [F5] coast mode or [F11] fireworks rush, [G2] 16 round jackpot game (special bonus) is executed.

Then, [G3] If the game ball passes through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the 16-round jackpot game (in the case of a V winning), [G4] A production indicating that a V winning has occurred is executed, and the jackpot game ends. Later, the scene shifts to [F11] Fireworks Rush.

On the other hand, if the game ball falls under the [G5] 16-round variable probability pattern, but the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the jackpot game (if there is no V winning), [G6] V winning does not occur. After the jackpot game is finished, the game shifts to [F5] coast mode.

If you win the jackpot of [G10] "6 round probability variable symbols 1, 2" in [F5] coast mode or [F11] fireworks rush, [G11] 6 round jackpot game (normal bonus performance) is executed.

Then, [G12] If the game ball passes through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the 6-round jackpot game (if a V prize is won), [G13] A production indicating that a V prize has occurred is executed, and the jackpot game ends. Later, the scene shifts to [F11] Fireworks Rush.

On the other hand, if the game ball falls under [G14] "6 round variable probability symbols 1 and 2" but does not pass through the variable probability area in the 6th round of the jackpot game (if no V prize is won), [G15] V An effect indicating that no prize has been won is executed, and then the mode shifts to [F5] coast mode. Although it is not particularly shown, it corresponds to "6 round variable probability pattern 2", and when it shifts to fireworks rush and 100 variations have passed, it will shift to normal mode, but internally it will be in a high probability non-time reduction state. ing.

Note that the above game flow is an example of a typical game flow, and does not cover the entire flow of the game.

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

The performance design includes, for example, three types: an upper performance design, a middle performance design, and a lower performance design, and these are displayed side by side in the upper, middle, and lower rows on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). . The production patterns include, for example, numeric patterns with characters attached to them along with the numbers "1" to "9", and blank patterns placed one by one between each numeric pattern. Here, in the symbol row of the upper direction design, the number symbols are arranged in ascending order from right to left, whereas in each symbol row of the middle direction symbol and the lower direction design, the number symbols are arranged from the right. Arranged in descending order to the left. These symbol rows are displayed in a variable manner so as to flow horizontally (scroll) from right to left in the upper, middle, and lower rows of the screen, respectively.

By the way, in this embodiment, there are two modes: a vertical fluctuation mode in which the performance progresses in a manner in which the row of performance symbols scrolls vertically, and a horizontal fluctuation mode in which the performance progresses in a manner in which the row of performance symbols scrolls in the horizontal direction. Different variation modes are provided. For example, during a demonstration performance, the player can switch the variable mode by operating according to instructions shown on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The effect symbols illustrated in FIG. 1 are displayed when the horizontal variation mode is selected. Hereinafter, an example of the effect when the vertical variation mode is selected and an example of the effect when the horizontal variation mode is selected will be explained in order.

FIG. 53 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect image corresponding to a variable display and a static display of special symbols. In addition, here, regarding the fluctuation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (losing), an example of a variable display performance and a stop display performance (result display performance) performed using performance symbols is shown. This fluctuating display performance corresponds to a series of performances performed from when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol is used, but it may be the second special symbol) starts to fluctuate until it stops being displayed. do. Further, the stop display performance is a performance that represents the stop display of the special symbol and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of performance symbols. Here, first, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the variable display effect and stop display effect for each variation employed in this embodiment will be explained.

[Before fluctuation display]
(A) in FIG. 53: For example, in the state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (the state where the demonstration is not being performed), a row of three performance symbols is displayed in a large size on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect design is also in a state of being stopped and displayed.

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

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

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

Further, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the miss (eg, white display color). This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is being performed correctly and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually a "6-round jackpot," "12-round jackpot," or "16-round jackpot," rather than a "miss," the corresponding appearance (for example, blue display color or red display color) will be displayed. etc.), the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Fluctuating display performance starts]
(B) in FIG. 53: For example, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the three symbol rows scroll and fluctuate on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, thereby starting a fluctuating display performance (symbol performance means of execution). That is, in synchronization with the start of variation of the first special symbol, the columns of the left effect symbol, middle effect symbol, and right effect symbol are vertically scrolled (flowing) within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and are displayed in a variable manner. The performance begins. Furthermore, before the start of the change, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed in the pre-change display area X1 of the band-shaped part in the lower part of the liquid crystal display 42, but after the start of the change, they are displayed in the lower left part of the liquid crystal display 42. The special symbol (performance symbol) is moved to the display area X2 during variation based on the pedestal image, and continues to be displayed until the variation of the special symbol (performance symbol) is stopped and displayed (memorized image display maintenance performance). In addition, in the figure, the fluctuating display of the performance symbols is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during variable display, individual performance symbols are displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the image that is the background of the performance design (background image) is displayed on the display screen in a state that is easy to see. has been done.

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

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

[Left pattern stop]
(C) in FIG. 53: For example, after a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect symbol first stops fluctuating. This example shows that the effect pattern representing the number "8" has stopped on the left side of the screen. Note that illustration of the background image is omitted here (the same applies hereafter).

[Example of performance when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 53 (B), the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one with the start of variation, so the number of displayed markers M1 decreases accordingly. It has been decreased by one. For example, if there were 4 working memory numbers up to that point, the earliest (oldest) memory number display in marker M1 is moved by one to the changing display area X2, and the effects consumed by the internal lottery are combined. It will be done. As a result, it is possible to inform the player that the number of working memories for the first special symbol has been consumed.

In the example of (C) in FIG. 53, the marker M1, which was at the beginning in the storage order, moves to the changing display area X2, leaving only 3 markers to be displayed in the pre-changing display area X1. An effect is performed in which the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are each shifted one direction (to the left in this case) by one marker. As a result, the context of changes in the number of working memories is accurately expressed in the performance, and the player is informed that ``the number of working memories has been consumed and the number has decreased by 1'' and that ``the number of working memories has been consumed and the special symbol It is possible to teach in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner that "is changing".

[Right production pattern stop]
(D) in FIG. 53: Following the left presentation pattern, the right presentation pattern stops changing. This example shows that the effect pattern representing the number "3" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. At this point, it has already been determined that the reach state will not occur, so it is almost obvious visually that the current fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Note that reach fluctuations due to slip patterns, etc. are excluded here. A "sliding pattern" is, for example, once the production symbol representing the number "7" stops, then the symbol row slides by one symbol and the production symbol representing the number "8" stops, which develops into a reach. The idea is to do so. Alternatively, there is also a pattern where the performance symbol representing the number "9" stops, and then the symbol row slides in the opposite direction by one symbol, and the performance symbol representing the number "8" stops, which develops into a reach. be. In addition, for example, after a production pattern that represents a completely different number such as "5" stops, a character appears on the screen and the right production pattern row changes again, and the number "8" is displayed. There is also a pattern where the production pattern stops and develops into a reach.

[Stop display effect]
(E) in FIG. 53: In synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol, the last medium effect symbol stops. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) manner, the performance symbol will also be stopped and displayed in a non-winning (losing) manner. be exposed. In other words, in the illustrated example, the effect symbol representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen, and in this case, the effect symbol combination is "8" - "1" - "3". Because it is a deviation, the production is expressing that this change corresponds to a normal ``deviation.'' At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the miss (eg, white display color).

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

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

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

[Example of performance when winning the jackpot]
Next, an example of performance when winning a jackpot (winning) will be explained.
FIG. 54 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of the super reach effect executed during the variable display of special symbols. The super reach effect is a reach effect executed in conjunction with a variable display in which a medium variable time (for example, 50 to 100 seconds) is selected.

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

In the following reach effect, for example, after a variable display is performed in the first special symbol display device 34 according to a variable pattern at the time of a jackpot, the first special symbol is displayed in a jackpot mode (for example, 7 segment LED "self", "yo"). , "guchi", "snake", "F", "E", "L", "Γ", etc.) are executed until the display is stopped (ready-to-reach effect execution means). In addition, in FIG. 54, each effect pattern is simplified and shown using only numbers. Further, the markers M1, M2, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2, the pre-fluctuation display area X1, and the fluctuating display area X2 are omitted from illustration (the same applies to the following drawings). The following will explain the flow of the performance.

[Fluctuating display performance]
(A) in FIG. 54: For example, approximately in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the rows of left performance symbols, middle performance symbols, and right performance symbols are displayed vertically (for example, from the top) on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display performance starts by scrolling down).

[Pre-release preview performance (1st stage)]
(B) in FIG. 54: Next, at a relatively early stage of the variable display performance, a first stage pre-ready-to-reach performance using a character image (picture card) is performed. This pre-ready-to-reach preview performance is a preview performance in which the appearance changes step by step from the first stage to a plurality of stages (for example, stages 2 to 5) according to a predetermined order. The symbol image used in this pre-reach warning performance is located in front of the performance symbol that is being displayed in a variable manner on the screen, and is displayed, for example, by appearing suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other modes of appearance) ). It should be noted that the "notice before the occurrence of a reach" here means that the possibility of a reach or the possibility of a jackpot is foretold before any of the performance symbols are stopped and displayed. By executing such a "pre-reach event preview performance", it is possible to create a feeling of expectation in the player that "it may develop into a reach event = the possibility of winning the jackpot will increase."

[Pre-release preview performance (2nd stage)]
(C) in FIG. 54: After the first stage of the ready-to-reach pre-warning performance is executed, the change in the form of the ready-to-reach pre-warning performance proceeds to the second stage. Here, as a preview performance before the occurrence of the second stage of reaching, a performance using a different character image from the previous stage is performed. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen and is displayed overlappingly in front of the previously displayed pattern image. Further, the pattern image displayed at this time is larger in size than the previously displayed pattern image. In addition, a sound output effect is also performed in which the character represented by the picture image utters a line (for example, ``I'll become a reach'', etc.).

The pre-reach warning performance (second stage) using such a second pattern image is a step further from the pre-reach warning performance (first stage) performed in (B) in Figure 54 above. It is a developed type. The aspect of the "pre-reach advance notice performance" that develops in this way is generally referred to as "step-up notice" or the like. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach warning effect, but the third, fourth, and fifth-level pattern images may appear one after another and be displayed. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the pattern images of the third, fourth, and fifth stages appear and are displayed one after another. Incidentally, even at this stage, the fluctuating display of the performance symbols continues. In any case, by advancing the change in the form of the pre-reach warning performance to more stages, it is possible to suggest to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation level) of hitting the jackpot with this change. (For example, progression to stage 5 indicates the highest level of expectation.)

[Stop of left production pattern]
(D) in FIG. 54: The middle stage of the variable display effect is reached, and the variable display of the left effect symbol is eventually stopped. Incidentally, at this point, the effect pattern representing the number "5" has stopped on the left side of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
(E) in FIG. 54: Following the left presentation symbol, for example, the variable display of the right presentation symbol is stopped. At this point, since the performance symbol representing the number "5" has stopped on the right side of the screen, a reach state of "5" - "Fluctuating" - "5" has occurred. An image highlighting one line that is in a reach state is also displayed on the screen. In addition, a performance that outputs sounds such as "Reach!" will be performed.

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

[Preview performance after reach occurrence (1st time)]
(F) in Figure 54: Shortly after the reach state occurs, a post-reach preview effect (first time) is performed in which images representing, for example, a "heart" shape form a group and pass diagonally across the screen. . In this case, images of "hearts" are suddenly displayed on the screen in a flowing manner, thereby increasing the visual appeal to the player. By executing such a visually lively notice performance after the occurrence of a reach notice, it is possible to obtain an effect of creating even greater expectations in the player.

[Progress of reach performance]
Figure 54 (G): After the first reach occurrence, following the preview effect, images representing the numbers “2” to “6” are displayed in a three-dimensional row on the screen, and the row An effect is performed in which number images are erased from the screen in the order of ``2'', ``3'', ``4'', etc. starting from the beginning (front). Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting or reminding the player that if the number "5" remains without being erased until the end, it will be a "jackpot". Also, if the number "4" is erased and "5" remains in front of the screen, it means a "jackpot", and if the number "5" is also erased, it means a "miss". In addition, in the case of a miss, the number "6", for example, is displayed on the screen after the number "5" is erased. Therefore, during this time, as the images of numbers "2", "3", and "4" are erased in order, the player's sense of tension and anticipation increases. When the number ``4'' is actually erased on the screen and the production progresses with the number ``5'' remaining on the screen, the possibility of a ``jackpot'' increases, which increases the tension of the player. also increases rapidly.

[Preview performance after reach occurs (2nd time)]
Figure 54 middle (H): As the reach performance approaches the final stage, a character image suddenly appears on the screen, cutting into a close-up shot, and the character utters some lines (or silently). A preview performance (second time) will be performed after reaching the target (which may include smiling). At this point, for example, the content of the reach effect is, ``If the number ``5'' remains without being erased, the possibility of a jackpot of ``5'' - ``5'' - ``5''increases.'' Therefore, by making a large character image appear at this timing, it is possible to have the effect of making the player feel hopeful that he or she might hit the jackpot.

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

[Stop display effect]
(I) in FIG. 54: Then, the last medium effect symbol stops. In this example, it is possible to notify the player that he has won the jackpot by stopping and displaying the performance symbol representing "5" in the center of the screen.

(J) in FIG. 54: Then, for example, in approximately synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol, a stop display performance as a performance symbol is performed. The stop display performance of the performance symbols is performed, for example, with the left, middle, and right performance symbols restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a stop display performance, it is possible to inform the player that the final winning type has been determined in the performance. In other words, by performing an unclear stop display performance in the performance, it is possible to keep it hidden from the player which winning symbol won the prize.

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

[Example of production during the big role when it corresponds to "12 round normal symbol" etc.]
FIGS. 55 to 58 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the performance during the big win when it corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol" or the "12 round probability variable symbol 2".

In this embodiment, when it corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol", a production in which the friendly character is defeated by the enemy character is executed in the big role mid-production, and when it corresponds to the "12 round probability variable symbol 2", A production in which an ally character wins against an enemy character is executed. The flow of the production will be explained step by step below.

[1st round]
(A) in FIG. 55: When the first round of the jackpot game starts, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds "ROUND 1" is displayed on the screen, and a battle effect during the big win starts. In the example shown, an image of an umbrella ghost that will be an enemy character is displayed on the left side of the screen, an image of a female character that will be an ally character is displayed on the right side of the screen, and an image of the letters "VS" is displayed in the center of the screen. Is displayed. This makes it possible to inform the player that a battle performance is about to start.

Further, at the lower right corner position of the screen, a performance pattern (here, a "5" performance pattern) corresponding to the current winning pattern is displayed. In this way, by continuing to display the winning symbols (so-called "remaining symbols") during the jackpot game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that "he won with the performance symbol of 5."

[2nd round]
(B) in FIG. 55: When the second round of the jackpot game starts, the battle performance during the big win progresses in detail. In the illustrated example, the umbrella ghost moves from the left side to the right side. Then, the female character is startled by the umbrella ghost and runs away, disappearing to the right side of the screen.

[3rd round]
(C) in FIG. 55: When the third round of the jackpot game is started, the battle performance during the big win progresses in detail. In the illustrated example, a female character takes out a fan (weapon), and a flame (aura) appears from the fan.

[4th round]
Figure 55 (D): Then, in the fourth round of the jackpot game, an umbrella ghost performs a special move in which a long tongue pops out of its mouth, and a female character counters the special move with a fan. If the umbrella ghost wins in this state, it means that he hit the jackpot with the ``12th round normal symbol'', and if the female character wins, it means that he hit the jackpot with the ``12th round variable pattern 2''. ing.

[5th round (when the 12th round regular symbol is won)]
(E) in FIG. 56: In the case of winning with the "12 round normal symbol", a defeat effect is executed in the 5th round. Specifically, along with the words "defeat...", an umbrella ghost is displayed in a large size and a female character is displayed in a small size (an ally character defeat effect).

[6th round (when the 12th round regular symbol is won)]
(F) in FIG. 56: In the case of winning with the "12th round normal symbol", a retry promotion performance is executed in the 6th round. Specifically, a production in which a female character utters lines such as "I won't lose next time!" is performed. Thereby, it is possible to motivate the player to aim for the jackpot again. Note that the same retry promotion performance as in the 6th round is also performed in the 7th to 12th rounds of the jackpot game.

In addition, in the 6th round when winning with the "12 round normal symbol", the second variable winning device 31 opens, but the opening time is set extremely short, so the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area. There isn't.

[At the end of the big role]
(G) in FIG. 56: At the timing when the jackpot game with the "12 round normal symbols" ends (during the end process), a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to be transferred thereafter. In the illustrated example, the text information "Entering coast mode!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to the "low probability time shortening state" coast mode will be given as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

[5th round (when 12th round fixed variable pattern 2 wins)]
(H) in FIG. 57: On the other hand, in the case of winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", a winning effect is executed in the 5th round. Specifically, along with the words "Victory!!", a female character is displayed in a large size and an umbrella ghost is displayed in a small size (ally character victory effect).

[6th round (when 12th round fixed variable pattern 2 wins)]
(I) in FIG. 57: In the case of winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the 6th round. If you succeed in this challenge production, you will enter a fireworks rush, which is a ``high probability time reduction state''. Specifically, a scene is performed in which the hermit character utters lines such as ``Aim for the V-attacker!''. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player the gameplay of aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Furthermore, in the sixth round when winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", the second variable prize winning device 31 opens long, so that a profit can be obtained by hitting the ball as in the previous rounds. Furthermore, in the 6th round when the "12 round probability variable pattern 2" is won, the variable probability area solenoid 99 operates to open the variable probability area for a long time, so when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31. , the game ball passes through the variable probability area guided by the variable probability area blade member 31d.

(J) in FIG. 57: Then, when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31 and passes through the variable probability area due to the player continuing to hit the ball to the right, a panda character holds up a V mark as a congratulatory effect. is executed. Furthermore, in the 7th to 12th rounds of the jackpot game, the same blessing performance as in the 6th round is performed.

[At the end of the big role]
(K) in FIG. 57: At the timing when the jackpot game ends (during end processing), a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to which the game will be transferred thereafter. In the illustrated example, text information such as "Fireworks rush is in!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to a fireworks rush in a "high probability time shortening state" will occur as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

The above is an example of a performance when the game ball safely passes through the variable probability area when it corresponds to "12 round variable probability pattern 2", but even if it corresponds to "12 round variable probability pattern 2", the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area. If it does not pass, the following example will be produced.

[5th round (when 12th round fixed variable pattern 2 wins)]
(L) in FIG. 58: In the case of winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", a victory effect is executed in the 5th round. Specifically, along with the words "Victory!!", a female character is displayed in a large size and an umbrella ghost is displayed in a small size (ally character victory effect).

[6th round (when 12th round fixed variable pattern 2 wins)]
(M) in FIG. 58: In the case of winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the 6th round. If you succeed in this challenge production, you will enter a fireworks rush, which is a ``high probability time reduction state''. Specifically, a scene is performed in which the hermit character utters lines such as ``Aim for the V-attacker!''. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player the gameplay of aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Furthermore, in the sixth round when winning with "12 round variable probability pattern 2", the second variable prize winning device 31 opens long, so that a profit can be obtained by hitting the ball as in the previous rounds. Furthermore, in the sixth round when the "12 round probability variable pattern 2" is won, the variable probability area solenoid 99 operates to open the variable probability area for a long time, so when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, The game ball passes through the variable probability area guided by the variable probability area blade member 31d.

However, here, it is assumed that for some reason (not hitting right, balls jammed, etc.), no game ball enters the second variable winning device 31 by the end of the sixth round. In this case, the game ball will not pass through the variable probability area.

(N) in FIG. 58: In this case, a failure effect is executed in which the panda character utters the line "Too bad." It should be noted that the failure performance continues from the 7th round to the 12th round of the jackpot game.

[At the end of the big role]
(O) in FIG. 58: At the timing when the jackpot game with "12 round probability variable pattern 2" ends (during the end process), a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to be transferred thereafter. In the illustrated example, the text information "Entering coast mode!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to the "low probability time shortening state" coast mode will be given as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

Here, an example of the production when it corresponds to "12 round probability variable pattern 1" is not particularly shown, but a battle production is executed and a victory production is executed in the same way as when it corresponds to "12 round probability variation pattern 2". It is also possible to perform performances other than battle performances. Since the second variable winning device 31 opens long in the 6th round even when it corresponds to the "12 round probability variable pattern 2", when the game ball passes through the probability variable area, a fireworks rush starts. In addition, with the "12 round probability variable pattern 2", it is possible to obtain balls for substantially 4 rounds.

[Example of fireworks rush production]
FIG. 59 is a continuous diagram showing an example of a fireworks rush effect. This fireworks rush is a mode that is transferred after the jackpot game when ``any probability variable pattern other than the 12th round normal symbol'' is won and the game ball passes through the probability variable area during the jackpot game. Fireworks rush is a high probability time reduction state. Here, as an example, we will take up an example of a fireworks rush using the vertical variation mode. The flow of the production will be explained step by step below.

(A) in FIG. 59: For example, by performing the first variable display after the end of the jackpot game, the variable display of the performance symbols is performed in a "fireworks rush" state. The background image for Fireworks Rush is a background image that depicts ``a scene of fireworks being launched into the night sky'' and ``a scene of a female character admiring fireworks'' in order to deeply impress the fireworks motif on players. It becomes. Further, a fourth symbol Z2 is displayed in a variable manner at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

(B) in Figure 59: Since the first fluctuation (when not winning) after the end of the jackpot game has ended, all the production symbols are stopped and displayed ("3" - "1" - "7") ”). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning mode (eg, white display color).

(C) in FIG. 59: When the next variation starts, the second variation display is performed after the end of the jackpot game. In addition, in the fireworks rush (high probability time shortening state), the variable start winning device 28 is activated frequently, so as long as the player continues to hit right, the performance symbols will change due to the variable display of the second special symbol. Fluctuations are often displayed. In addition, if a winning result is obtained in the fireworks rush, a reach effect will be executed and it will be a jackpot.

In the fireworks rush, similarly to the normal mode, the pre-fluctuation display area X1 and the fluctuating display area X2 may be displayed to display the markers M1 and M2. This point also applies to the following coast mode.

[Big role production (normal bonus production)]
FIG. 60 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big winning effect executed during a jackpot game when the “6 round probability variable pattern 1” or the “6 round probability variable pattern 2” corresponds.

[1 round]
(A) in FIG. 60: When the first round of the jackpot game is started, a big win effect with contents corresponding to the progress of the game "during jackpot" is executed. In the big role performance, for example, text information corresponding to the number of rounds "ROUND 1" is displayed on the screen. Further, at the lower right corner position of the screen, a production pattern (in this case, production pattern 2) corresponding to the current winning pattern is displayed. In this way, by continuing to display the winning symbols (so-called "remaining symbols") even during the jackpot game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that "he won with the performance symbol 2". Furthermore, the words "Normal Bonus" are displayed in the lower area of the display screen, and images related to the festival, such as a fan and a drum, are displayed around the screen.

[6 rounds]
(B) in FIG. 60: In the case of winning with "6 round probability variable pattern 1" or "6 round probability variable pattern 2", a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the 6th round. If you succeed in this challenge production, you will enter a fireworks rush, which is a high probability time reduction state. Specifically, a production in which a female character utters lines such as "Aim for the V attacker" is executed. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player the gameplay of aiming at the second variable winning device 31. In addition, in the 6th round when you win with "6 round variable probability symbol 1" or "6 round variable probability symbol 2", the second variable prize winning device 31 opens long, so you can profit from the ball released as in the previous rounds. is obtained. Furthermore, in the 6th round when "6 round probability variable pattern 1" or "6 round probability variable pattern 2" is won, the variable probability area solenoid 99 operates to open the variable probability area for a long time, so the second variable winning device 31 When the game ball enters the ball, the game ball is guided by the variable probability region blade member 31d and passes through the variable probability region.

(C) in FIG. 60: When the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31 and passes through the variable probability area as the player continues to hit the ball to the right, a V mark is displayed at the top right of the display screen. A blessing performance will be performed.

[At the end of the big role]
(D) in FIG. 60: At the timing when the jackpot game ends, a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to which the game will be transferred thereafter. In the illustrated example, text information such as "Fireworks rush is in!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to a fireworks rush in a "high probability time shortening state" will occur as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

[Big role production (special bonus production)]
FIG. 61 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big win effect executed during a jackpot game when the “16 round probability variable symbols” are applicable.

[1 round]
(A) in FIG. 61: When the first round of the jackpot game is started, a big win effect with contents corresponding to the progress of the game "during jackpot" is executed. In the big role performance, for example, text information corresponding to the number of rounds "ROUND 1" is displayed on the screen. Further, at the lower right corner position of the screen, a performance pattern (here, a performance pattern of 7) corresponding to the current winning pattern is displayed. In this way, by continuing to display the winning symbols (so-called "remaining symbols") during the jackpot game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that "he won with the effect symbol 7". Furthermore, the words "Special Bonus" are displayed in the lower area of the display screen, and an image of a female character riding a horse and making a peace sign is displayed around the screen.

[6 rounds]
(B) in FIG. 61: In the case of winning with the "16 round probability variable pattern", a fireworks rush challenge effect is executed in the 6th round. If you succeed in this challenge production, you will enter a fireworks rush, which is a high probability time reduction state. Specifically, a scene is performed in which the hermit character utters lines such as ``Aim for the V-attacker!''. Thereby, it is possible to convey to the player the gameplay of aiming at the second variable winning device 31. Furthermore, in the 6th round when winning with the "16 round variable probability symbols", the second variable prize winning device 31 opens long, so that the player can earn a profit from the ball as in the previous rounds. Furthermore, in the 6th round when the 16-round variable probability symbol is won, the variable probability area solenoid 99 operates to open the variable probability area for a long time, so when the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31, the game ball It passes through the variable probability region guided by the variable probability region blade member 31d.

(C) in FIG. 61: When the game ball enters the second variable winning device 31 and passes through the variable probability area as the player continues to hit the ball to the right, a V mark appears next to the female character who has jumped up. The displayed blessing performance is executed.

[16 rounds]
(D) in Figure 61: After this, the jackpot game progresses smoothly and when it moves to the final 16 rounds, text information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND 16" is displayed on the screen, and the jackpot game is in progress. A unique performance image is displayed. Further, the effect pattern (effect pattern 7) as a "remaining eye" is still displayed at the lower right corner position of the screen.

[At the end of the big role]
(E) in FIG. 61: At the timing when the jackpot game ends, a big winning end effect is executed that teaches the internal state to which the game will be transferred thereafter. In the illustrated example, text information such as "Fireworks rush is in!" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big win end effect, it is possible to teach the player that a transition to a fireworks rush in a "high probability time shortening state" will occur as a benefit after the end of the jackpot game.

[Example of coast mode production]
FIG. 62 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect of the coast mode. This coast mode is a jackpot game that occurs after the end of a jackpot game when it corresponds to the "12 round normal symbol" or when the game ball does not pass through the variable probability area during a jackpot game that corresponds to any variable probability symbol. This is the mode to which the mode will be transitioned to after the end of. The coast mode is a "low probability time reduction state". Here, as an example, we will take up an example of production using the vertical variation mode in the coast mode. The flow of the production will be explained step by step below.

(A) in Fig. 62: For example, after the end of the jackpot game with "12 rounds normal symbols", the first variable display is performed, and the variable display of the production symbols is performed in the state of "coast mode". There is. The background image of the coast mode is a background image with images such as "sandy beach", "sea", and "mountain" as motifs to express the soothing impression that is the concept of the coast mode. Further, a fourth symbol Z2 is displayed in a variable manner at the upper right of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

(B) in FIG. 62: Since the current variation (non-winning time) has ended, all the production symbols are stopped and displayed ("1" - "1" - "5"). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning mode (eg, white display color).

(C) in FIG. 62: Then, the next variation is started. This coast mode ends when the special symbol changes 100 times without obtaining a winning result. When the coast mode ends, it will transition to the normal mode with a low probability of non-time reduction. In addition, if a winning result is obtained in the coast mode, a reach effect will be executed and it will be a jackpot.

Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be explained. The various effects described above are all controlled through the following control processing.

[Production control processing]
The performance control device 124 has a function as a performance control processor and a performance reproduction processor, and realizes these two functions by allocating different resources of the performance control CPU 126 to each. The performance control CPU 126 as a performance control processor receives the performance command transmitted from the main control device 70, and sets various messages and control tables for instructing reproduction of the performance according to the content of the command. In addition, the performance control CPU 126 as a performance playback processor analyzes the messages and control tables set by the performance control processor, and issues more specific instructions to each device based on the contents, thereby controlling the operation of each device ( Screen display by the liquid crystal display 42, audio output by the speakers 54a to 54g, light emission by the various lamps 46 to 48 and the panel lamp 53, etc., the movable mode of the various movable bodies by the movable body motor 57, and the left rear speaker 54a and the lamp motor 62. (the movable mode of the right rear speaker 54b, etc.) is controlled to realize performance playback in the pachinko machine 1.

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

FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the production control process.
The production control process is executed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 33.3 ms, 30 times per second), triggered by the occurrence of a frame interruption.
The production control processing includes command reception processing (step S400), working memory production management processing (step S401), production symbol management processing (step S402), attachment management processing (S403), display control processing (step S404), and input control processing. (Step S405), lamp drive processing (Step S406), sound drive processing (Step S408), effect random number update processing (Step S410), and other processing (Step S412). The basic flow of the production control process will be explained below along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the production control section 210 receives the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control unit 210 analyzes the received effect commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 by type. The production commands sent from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a special symbol destination determination production command, (special symbol) production command when the number of working memories increases, a production command when the number of working memories (special symbols) decreases, and a starting opening winning sound. Control command, demonstration production command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, confirmation command, state specification command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end production command, number-cutting counter value command, The commands include a variable pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, a probability variable area passing command, a prize ball content command, and a setting-related end designation command.

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

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

Step S403: In the attachment management process, the production control unit 210 performs authentication processing of the upper attachment 400 and the lower attachment 500, etc.

Step S404: In the display control process, the performance control unit 210 sends the display control unit 220 to display content (for example, the number of working memories for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the working memory performance pattern number, the pre-read preview performance Messages and control tables are set that instruct the pattern number, variable performance pattern number, change notice performance number, background pattern number, deletion of the relevant hold, etc.).

In response to this, the display control unit 220 analyzes the set message and issues specific instructions regarding drawing to the VDP 152, but such processing regarding drawing is not executed here. The process related to drawing is called in the process of another interrupt process (for example, Vsync interrupt process) and is executed at predetermined intervals (for example, every 33.3 ms, 30 times per second).

Step S405: In the input control process, first, the performance control unit 210 causes the input control unit 228 to control the operation member such as the performance switching button 510 from the player in synchronization with a scene that requests an operation by the player as the performance progresses. Instructs to detect whether or not it is operated in a specified manner. More specifically, the production control unit 210 sets any input control table defined in advance in the control ROM 180. In response to this, the input control unit 228 analyzes the contents of the input control table that has been set, and, based on this, sets a period during which it is possible to accept operations on any of the operation members. It also detects whether or not an operation (operation requested of the player) that matches the mode specified by the performance control unit 210 is performed, and outputs the detection result and returns it to the performance control unit 210.

Step S406: In the lamp drive process, first, the effect control section 210 sets a control table that instructs the lamp control section 224 about the effect contents. In response, the lamp control unit 224 relays the LED driver 198 and outputs a specific drive signal to the driver IC 132 based on the contents of the set control table, and outputs a specific drive signal to the light source built in various lamps and each attachment. etc. (turns on or off, blinks, changes in brightness gradation, etc.).

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

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

Step S412: In other processing, for example, first, the effect control section 210 sets a control table that instructs the motor control section 226 about the effect contents. In response to this, the motor control unit 226 instructs the SMC 199 on specific control contents based on the contents of the set control table. Furthermore, the SMC 199 creates an operation pattern for the movable body 40f based on instructions from the motor control unit 226, outputs a control signal corresponding to this to the driver IC, and drives the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body motor 57 as a driving source, and performs effects in synchronization with the image display on the liquid crystal display 42 or independently. The rear left speaker 54a and the rear right speaker 54b operate using the lamp motor 62 as a driving source, and produce effects in synchronization with the image display on the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

Through the above-described performance control processing, the performance control unit 210 can comprehensively control the content of the performance in the pachinko machine 1 and the operation of each device that reproduces the performance. While the production reproduction instructions (messages and control table settings) by the production control unit 210 are executed in the process of production control processing, the display control unit 220 receives the instructions and performs drawing-related processing (liquid crystal display control of the device 42) is executed in response to another interrupt (for example, a Vsync interrupt). Further, control of each production device by the audio control unit 222, lamp control unit 224, and motor control unit 226 is performed in synchronization with processing related to drawing by the display control unit 220. With such control, it is possible to appropriately synchronize the performance playback by each device.

[Working memory performance management processing]
FIG. 64 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of working memory performance management processing.
The working memory performance management process is a first special symbol and a second special symbol that are displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 in conjunction with an increase or decrease in the number of lottery elements (working memory number) stored in the main control device 70. This is a process for updating the display of markers M1 and M2 corresponding to (memory display effect execution means), and is called and executed in the process of effect control processing (step S401 in FIG. 63). The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

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

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

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

Step S706: The production control unit 210 executes production selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the production control unit 210 changes the marker corresponding to the lottery element consumed by the internal lottery from the pre-change display area Select the effect to be moved to the middle display area X2. Note that the memory marker moved to the display area X2 during fluctuation selects an effect to be erased when the fluctuation ends.
After completing the above procedure, the effect control section 210 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 63).

[Production design management processing]
FIG. 65 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the production symbol management process. The production symbol management process includes execution selection processing (step S500), production symbol variation pre-processing (step S502), production symbol variation processing (step S504), production symbol stop display processing (step S506), and variable winning device operation time. The configuration includes a subroutine group of processing (step S508). The basic flow of the production symbol management process will be explained below along with each process.

Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control unit 210 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S502 to S508). For example, the performance control unit 210 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the performance symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable display effect has not yet started, the effect control unit 210 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the production symbol fluctuation pre-processing has already been completed, the production control unit 210 selects the production symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the production symbol variation processing has been completed, The effect pattern stop display processing (step S506) is selected as the next jump destination. Further, the variable winning device activation process (step S508) is performed when the variable winning device management process at the time of a jackpot (step S5000 in FIG. 31) is selected in the main control CPU 72, or when the variable winning device management process at the time of a small hit (step S5000 in FIG. 31) is selected. If the middle step S6000) is selected, it is selected as the jump destination. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

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

Step S504: In the performance symbol variation process, the performance control unit 210 generates control information to instruct the display control unit 220 as necessary. For example, when performing a performance using the performance switching button 510 while executing a variable display performance using performance symbols, the input control unit 228 monitors whether or not the player operates the performance switching button 510, and Control information of the corresponding performance contents (operation trigger performance, continuous hit performance, linked operation performance, etc.) is instructed to the display control unit 220.

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

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is activated, the performance control unit 210 controls the performance content during the small hit or the jackpot (special game performance execution means). In this process, the performance control unit 210 selects the content of the performance during the big win according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of a 16-round jackpot, the performance control unit 210 selects a 16-round big winning performance pattern as the performance content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs the display control unit 220 to select the performance pattern. As a result, the image of the performance during the big win is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the content of the performance changes as the round progresses.

[Pre-processing for production pattern variation]
FIG. 66 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the production symbol variation pre-processing. The procedure will be explained below using an example procedure.

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

Step S602: The production control unit 210 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the production control section 210 selects a demonstration production pattern. The demo production pattern is designed to operate under conditions where the game of the pachinko machine 1 is not in full operation (in addition to when the first and second special symbols are in a so-called customer waiting state where the memory count is 0), and when the first and second special symbols are This stipulates the content of the performance to be executed when the number of working memories is 0 and the game is temporarily interrupted because a predetermined period of time has elapsed with the player's hand removed from the handle unit 16). . In addition, here, it may be added to the condition that the first and second special symbols do not change (stopped display).

When the above procedure is completed, the production control section 210 returns to the address at the end of the production symbol management process. The production control unit 210 then returns to the production control process, and controls the content of the demonstration production based on the demonstration production pattern in the subsequent display control process (step S404 in FIG. 63) and lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 63). Control.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this process, the performance control unit 210 can select a reach performance at the time of a jackpot (normal reach performance, super reach performance, story reach performance, battle reach performance, etc.) according to the variation pattern.

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

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

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

In this process, the performance control unit 210 can select a reach performance (normal reach performance, super reach performance, story reach performance, battle reach performance, etc.) in accordance with the variation pattern.

After executing any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612, the production control unit 210 next executes step S614.

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

Step S616: The production control unit 210 executes mode production management processing. In this process, the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image according to the stay mode. For example, when the stay mode is "normal mode (low probability non-time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes processing to select a background image in which a female character is sitting on a chaise lounge (normal mode effect). Further, when the stay mode is "fireworks rush (high probability time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image with fireworks as a motif (fireworks rush effect). Further, when the stay mode is "coast mode (low probability time reduction state)", the effect control unit 210 executes a process of selecting a background image with a coast as a motif (coast mode effect).

When the above procedure is completed, the production control section 210 returns to the production symbol management process (last address). As a result, in the subsequent performance symbol fluctuation process (step S504 in FIG. 65), the fluctuation display performance and the stop display performance are executed based on the actually selected fluctuation performance pattern (performance execution means), and various A preview performance is executed based on the preview performance pattern.

[Processing when variable prize winning device is activated]
FIG. 67 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of a process when the variable prize winning device is activated. The variable winning device operation process includes subroutines of execution selection process (step S902), variable winning device pre-operation process (step S904), variable winning device operation process (step S906), and variable winning device post-operation process (step S908). The configuration includes a group of (program modules). Here, first, the basic flow of the process when the variable prize winning device is activated will be explained along with each process.

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

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

Step S904: In the pre-operation process of the variable winning device, the performance control unit 210 executes a process of selecting the content of the performance to be executed during the jackpot game or the small win game. For example, in the case of winning with a "12 round normal symbol", a process is executed to select an effect in which an ally character is defeated by an enemy character. In addition, in the case of winning with "12 round probability variable symbols 1 and 2", a process is executed to select an effect in which an ally character wins over an enemy character. Furthermore, in the case of winning with "6 round probability variable symbols 1 and 2", a process of selecting a normal bonus effect is executed. Furthermore, in the case of winning with the "16 round variable probability symbols", processing for selecting a special bonus effect is executed.

Step S906: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control section 210 generates control information to instruct the display control section 220 as necessary. For example, when performing a performance using the performance switching button 510 during execution of a jackpot performance, the input control unit 228 detects whether or not the performance switching button 510 is operated by the player, and the performance content (operation) according to the result is detected by the input control unit 228. The display controller 220 instructs the display control unit 220 to control information such as a trigger effect, a repeated hit effect, a linked operation effect, etc. In addition, in this process during operation of the variable winning device, if a variable probability area passage command is received during a jackpot game, an effect indicating that a V winning has occurred (the effect shown in (J) etc. in FIG. 57) is selected. While executing the process, if the probability variable area passage command is not received during the jackpot game, a process of selecting a production indicating that a V winning has not occurred (production shown as (N) etc. in FIG. 58). Execute.

Step S908: In the variable winning device activation process, the performance control unit 210 executes a performance that communicates the mode to which the game will be transferred to the player during the end time of the variable winning device. For example, the performance control unit 210 executes a coast mode entry performance or a fireworks rush performance depending on the winning symbol or whether or not the probability variable area is passed. Specifically, when a probability variable area passage command is received during a jackpot game, a process is executed to select a production indicating entering into a fireworks rush (production shown in (K) etc. in FIG. 57), and the jackpot is executed. If the variable probability area passing command is not received during the game, a process is executed to select an effect indicating entering the coast mode (the effect shown in (G) etc. in FIG. 56).
After completing the above processing, the production control section 210 returns to the production symbol management process (FIG. 65).

As explained above, the present embodiment has the following effects.
(1) According to the present embodiment, the receiving portions (first receiving portion 802, second receiving portion 902) are arranged on predetermined inclined surfaces (first predetermined inclined surface 724, second predetermined inclined surface 734). ) has specific inclined surfaces (first specific inclined surface 804, second specific inclined surface 904) that match the inclination angle of the hook (first hook 722, second hook 732). (first receiving part 802, second receiving part 902) come into surface contact, and the sliding resistance between the parts is reduced compared to a method where the hook and the receiving part are in point contact or line contact. can be reduced. By reducing the sliding resistance between the parts, the parts become less likely to be scratched, and the durability of the parts related to the locking means (uniform locking unit 700, locking tool) can be improved, resulting in a novel gaming machine. can be provided.

(2) According to the present embodiment, the predetermined inclined surfaces (the first predetermined inclined surface 724 and the second predetermined inclined surface 734) serve two functions, so the locking means (unified locking unit 700, locking tool) can efficiently lock the door member (integral door unit 4, inner frame assembly 7).

(3) [Problem] One of the problems in this embodiment is as follows.
When the hook of the lock (locking means) and the receiving part come into contact, parts are scraped at the collision part. As this abrasion worsens, the sliding resistance between the hook of the lock and the receiving portion increases, making it gradually difficult to close the door member.
Therefore, in this embodiment, the receiving parts (first receiving part 802, second receiving part 902) are provided with a chamfered shape having the same angle as the shape of the hooks (first hook 722, second hook 732). (first specific slope 804, second specific slope 904). This causes surface collision between the hook and the receiving portion, and it is possible to reduce the sliding resistance between the parts.

[Effect] By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the sliding resistance experienced by the hook and the receiving part, making it difficult for the parts to be scraped, and as a result, the durability of opening and closing the door can be improved. .

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

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

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

The angle between the hook and the receiving portion may vary depending on the location. For example, among the three first hooks, the angle between the middle hook and the receiving part may be different from the angle between the upper and lower hooks and the receiving part, or the angle between the middle hook and the receiving part may be different at all locations. Good too.

Regarding the "contacting part" of the hook or the receiving part, in addition to being the part that comes into contact when closing the door etc. as in the above-mentioned embodiment, it may be the part that comes into contact when opening the door etc. .

1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Starting gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 First special symbol display device 35 Second special symbol display device 34a First special symbol operation memory Lamp 35a 2nd special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU
130 RAM
210 Production control section 220 Display control section

Claims (1)

A door member that can be opened and closed;
comprising at least a hook and a receiving part for receiving the hook, and a locking means for locking the door member by hooking the hook to the receiving part,
The hook is
having a predetermined inclined portion inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical direction in a portion that contacts the receiving portion;
The receiving portion is
having a specific slope part matching the slope angle of the predetermined slope part in the part that contacts the hook;
The predetermined inclined portion is
comprising a function of first contacting the specific inclined part to receive the specific inclined part, and a function of moving the hook in a direction to hook the hook on the receiving part while contacting the specific inclined part,
The hook is
a first hook; and a second hook located behind the first hook when viewed from the player;
The receiving portion is
a first receiving part for receiving the first hook; and a second receiving part for receiving the second hook;
The inclination angle of the specific inclined part of the first receiving part and the inclination angle of the specific inclined part of the second receiving part are different,
A gaming machine characterized in that a vertical length of a specific inclined portion of the first receiving portion and a vertical length of a specific inclined portion of the second receiving portion are different.

Images