JP2006263363A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables players to have a strong desire for making an operation affecting the performances and moreover to enjoy games for a longer period of time by combining the pachinko games, and the performances to synergically enhance interests and concerns about the games. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with a liquid crystal display device 32 for displaying a ready for win performance image selection screen which lets the players select any kind out of a variety of ready for win performance images and the selected kind of ready for win performance image, a sub CPU 206 which conducts a control S320 to display the ready for win performance image selection screen and controls S350 and S370 to display the selected kind of ready for win performance image and decision buttons 81a and 81b that let the players make an operation as for the selection of the ready for win performance image. The sub CPU 206 conducts a control S360 to display a new ready for win image selection screen to match the selected kind of ready for win performance image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a pachislot gaming machine, or a slot machine.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, when a player operates the launch handle, a game ball is launched on the game board, and the game ball launched on the game board collides with a obstacle nail or the like and changes the traveling direction while moving on the game board. It flows down while rolling. When a game ball enters the start opening provided on the game board, an internal lottery is performed to determine whether or not the game is a big hit, and a plurality of special symbols are usually displayed on a display device such as an LCD. The change display of is started. When the internal lottery is won, a plurality of special symbols are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, etc.), and then a special gaming state occurs. When the special game state occurs, the player can acquire many game balls.

  Generally, in a pachinko gaming machine, an effect image is displayed on a display device in order to enhance the interest of the game. For example, when the display mode of a plurality of special symbols is reach, an effect image that enhances the player's expectation for the occurrence of the special gaming state is displayed, and when the special gaming state occurs, the special gaming state The effect image is displayed so as to enhance the joy and excitement of the player with respect to the occurrence of the occurrence. In addition, various effect images for preventing the player from getting bored are displayed even in the normal gaming state in which no reach or special gaming state has occurred. Such an effect image is unilaterally determined according to a gaming state or the like by a computer included in the pachinko gaming apparatus, and does not directly reflect the player's intention.

  As a conventional pachinko gaming apparatus, for example, provided with operation buttons other than the operation of the launch handle, and the player operates the operation buttons etc., the type of effect image displayed on the display device, etc. There are pachinko gaming devices that can be added (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). According to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to omit or shorten the effect image in the normal gaming state by operating the operation button in advance before starting the game.

  In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 2, an operation button is operated in advance before the game is started, and an effect image displayed on the display device during the game is selected from a plurality of types of effect images. You can choose. In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 3, by operating the operation buttons in advance before the game is started, the display mode of the effect image and the special symbol displayed when the reach is reached is selected in advance. Can be set.

  With such a pachinko gaming apparatus, it is possible to change the effect image displayed during the game at the player's will, and therefore motivate to operate the operation button in addition to the operation of the launch handle be able to.

JP 2004-113359 A JP 2004-121509 A JP 2004-154444 A

  However, in the pachinko gaming devices described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, even if the operation content can be set by operating the operation buttons before starting the game, once the game is started, There is a problem that the player cannot operate the operation buttons during the game to change the performance. That is, as described above, during the game, the effects according to the game state are sequentially performed from among a plurality of types of effects, so that the same effects may be repeatedly performed when the game is performed for a long time. However, in the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, in such a case, it is difficult to maintain the interest and interest in the game because it is not possible to change the production with the player's intention. However, even if it is possible to have the willingness to operate the operation buttons before playing the game, there is a problem that it is difficult to have such a willingness during the game.

  Furthermore, according to the pachinko gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the selection of the effect is merely a game environment setting, and the player simply selects the effect by operating the operation button. In order to obtain, for example, there is a possibility that the selection of the production may be performed only for the negative reason that the boredom with respect to the production is eliminated, such as selecting another production when the game is played next time after getting bored with the production. . As long as an effect is selected for such a negative reason, it is difficult to prevent the player from getting bored with the effect even if the types of effects are increased.

  For this reason, in order to produce a performance that does not get bored, it is not simply to increase the types of production, but also to diversify the presentation method of the production, so that the player can make the selection during the game, By adding interest to the selection itself, it is desirable to urge the user to perform an operation for influencing the production for positive reasons.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and its purpose is to allow a player to have a strong willingness to perform an operation for influencing the performance. Further, the pachinko game It is to provide a gaming machine that can increase the interest and interest in games synergistically and enjoy the game for a long time.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) In a game in which identification information fluctuating display and stop display are repeated a plurality of times, when the identification information is in a reach state in a predetermined form, any type of reach effect image among a plurality of types of reach effect images A reach effect image selection screen for allowing the player to select, a display means for displaying the selected type of reach effect image, and in the display means, the reach effect image selection screen and the selected type of reach effect image. Display control means for performing control for displaying the display, and effect operation means for causing the player to perform an operation related to selection of the reach effect image on the reach effect image selection screen, wherein the display control means includes the effect operation means. Performing a control to display a new reach effect image selection screen corresponding to the selected type of reach effect image by the operation of Gaming machine and features.

  According to the invention of (1), on the reach effect image selection screen, one of the types of reach effect images is selected as effect operation means (for example, a cross-shaped control button for selection and determination Button), and a new selection screen based on the selected type of reach effect image is displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to sequentially change the reach effect image having a great sense of expectation for the player by its own operation. For this reason, the display mode of the effect image greatly affects the operation of the effect operation means, and the player can have a strong willingness to operate the effect operation means, thereby providing a sense of satisfaction with the game. A game machine capable of synergistically increasing the interest and interest in the game as a whole by such effects and the game itself, and allowing the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  (2) Determining means for determining whether or not to display the new reach effect image selection screen according to the type of reach effect image selected by the player operating the effect operation means. The gaming machine according to (1), characterized in that:

  According to the invention of (2), whether or not to display a new reach effect image selection screen is determined according to the determination by the determination means. Therefore, depending on the operation of the effect operation means by the player, the reach effect image While the same reach effect image is displayed monotonically, the display contents of the reach effect image can be varied in various ways depending on the operation of the effect operation means. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. A game machine capable of synergistically increasing the interest and interest in the game as a whole by such effects and the game itself, and allowing the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  (3) The display control means displays a plurality of answers to the questions to the player on the reach effect image selection screen, and based on the answers selected by the effect operation means from the plurality of answers. The gaming machine according to (1) or (2), wherein control is performed to display any type of reach effect image among the plurality of types of reach effect images.

  According to the invention of (3), the player's game power is displayed by displaying a reach effect image selection screen in response to an answer in a quiz format in which one of a plurality of answers to a question item is selected. Can be more closely related to changes in the reach effect image. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. A game machine capable of synergistically increasing the interest and interest in the game as a whole by such effects and the game itself, and allowing the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  On the reach effect image selection screen, the player selects one type of reach effect image from among a plurality of types of reach effect images by the effect operating means, and selects a new reach effect image based on the selected type of reach effect image Display the screen. In this way, the reach effect image displayed by the selection operation of the effect operation means can be sequentially changed. Therefore, the display mode of the effect image greatly affects the operation of the effect operation means, and the operation of the effect operation means is performed. The player can have a strong willingness to go and can provide a sense of satisfaction with the game. A game machine capable of synergistically increasing the interest and interest in the game as a whole by such effects and the game itself, and allowing the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12, and a main body frame. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the door 12 so as to be openable and closable. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state. Further, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12.

  Inside the opening 12a of the main body frame 12, as will be described later, a liquid crystal display device 32 as display means for displaying an image, a spacer 31, a game board 14 and the like are disposed. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14, the spacer 31, and the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.

  The game board 14 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) having permeability. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 4 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. In addition, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 of the game board 14. Further, a round number display 51 is provided on the game board 14 near the upper right end of the outer rail 30a.

  The effect image selection screen and the liquid crystal display device 32 as image display means for displaying the effect image are provided behind the game board 14 with the spacer 31 in between. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the transparent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap the whole or a part of the game board 14 from the back side with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as a production effect image and a decoration image are displayed in the display area 32a.

  Further, in the present embodiment, by providing display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the transparent gaming board 14, for example, an area where game members such as an obstacle nail planting area, an accessory, and a decorative member are provided. And the degree of freedom in layout can be further increased.

  The spacer 31 is disposed on the rear side (back side) of the game board 14 and on the front side (front side) of the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the spacer 31 is sandwiched between the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a permeable material, and has a large through hole 31a at the center. An electrical decoration unit 53 is provided in the through hole 31a. As shown in FIG. 3, the illumination unit 53 includes a display case 37 for storing a special symbol display 33 and a normal symbol display 35, special symbol holding lamps 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, and a normal symbol holding lamp 50a, An electrical decoration unit 53 including 50b, 50c, and 50d is provided. The front side of the display case 37 is covered with a transparent lens (not shown) for the purpose of improving visual recognition.

  In FIG. 2, a first warp path 47 provided on the back surface of the game board 14 is illustrated for easy understanding. The first warp path 47 is formed of a permeable material so that a game ball won in the winning opening 24 (see FIG. 4) passes through a second warp path 49 (see FIG. 4) described later. Is provided.

  With reference to FIG. 3, the special symbol display 33, the normal symbol display 35, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d and the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d will be described. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the electrical decoration unit 53.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the special symbol display device 33 accommodated in the display device case 37 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs 41. The 7-segment LED 41 is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. When the 7-segment LED 41 is turned on / off, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols (also referred to as identification information). As a special symbol, when a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed, a big hit gaming state (a specific gaming state) which is advantageous to the player from the normal gaming state ) Will change the gaming state. When this big hit game state is reached, as will be described later, the shutter 40 (see FIG. 4) is controlled to the open state, and the game ball can be received in the big prize opening 39 (see FIG. 4). On the other hand, when a numerical symbol other than a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol other than “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, the normal gaming state is maintained. As described above, a game in which a special symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and the game state is shifted or maintained according to the result is referred to as a “special symbol game”.

  A normal symbol display 35 is provided on the right side of the special symbol display 33. The normal symbol display 35 is composed of two display lamps (not shown). When these display lamps are alternately turned on and off, symbols such as “O” and “X” are displayed. Fluctuated display as a normal symbol.

  On both the left and right sides of the display case 37, special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d display the number of executions of the variable symbol variable display held by turning on or off (so-called “the number of reserved balls”, “the number of reserved balls related to special symbols”). For example, when the execution of the special symbol variation display is held once, the special symbol hold lamp 34a is turned on. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held twice, the special symbol hold In addition to the lamp 34a, the special symbol hold lamp 34b is turned on. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held three times, the special symbol hold lamp 34c is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a and 34b. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held four times, the special symbol hold lamp 34d is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a, 34b, 34c.

  Under the display case 37, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are provided. As will be described later, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d indicate the number of executions of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol held by turning on or off (so-called “the number of held balls”, “the number of held balls related to the normal symbol”). indicate. Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol holding lamp 50a is turned on.

  The description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is continued. A protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the door 11. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  On the lower front side of the protection plate 19 (upper side of the upper plate 20), movement buttons 80a and 80b and determination buttons 81a and 81b operated by the player are provided. The movement buttons 80a and 80b and the determination buttons 81a and 81b are used for inputting predetermined instructions such as selection of an image indicating various information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. In particular, the movement buttons 80a and 80b are used to input an operation for selecting the left direction and the right direction, respectively, and the determination buttons 81a and 81b are used to input a determination as to whether or not to select. . These buttons are operated by the player when answering questions to be described later. The move buttons 80a and 80b and the determination buttons 81a and 81b function as an example of an effect operation unit that causes the player to perform an operation related to the selection of the reach effect image on the reach effect image selection screen.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds.

  In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14, an effect image related to the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 described above is displayed.

  For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, from a number, a symbol or the like for each of a plurality of symbol columns (three columns in this embodiment). The symbol (which is also the identification information for presentation. For example, a number from “0” to “9”) is variably displayed. Further, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed, and the identification information for presentation is also stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Further, when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, an effect image for allowing the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display device 33, a combination of effect identification information displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display. A mode (for example, a mode in which all of “1” to “9” are stopped and displayed in each of a plurality of symbol rows).

  In this way, whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, in other words, a game for determining whether or not to execute a special game described later is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Such a game is called a “variable display game”. In addition, when the combination of the identification information for presentation displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 becomes a specific display mode, the character that is pleased with the character image such as “big hit! An image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Next, an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment. Note that in the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 4, portions that overlap with the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIGS. 1 and 2 are omitted. In FIG. 4, the description of the plurality of obstacle nails 13 driven into the game board 14 is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 4, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), obstacles 55 and 57, passing gates 54a and 54b, a second warp path 49, an obstacle 58, a starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area, and a blade A starting port 44 provided with a member 48, a shutter 40, a big prize winning port 39, and a round number display 51 are provided. In addition, in the upper part of the game board 14, the electrical decoration units 53 such as the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are visible.

  An obstacle 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and an obstacle 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14. A starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area is provided below the obstacle 57. An obstacle 58 is also provided on the right side of the center of the game board 14.

  The two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b that is disposed inside the outer rail 30a. . The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14, moves to the upper part of the game board 14, passes through the electric decoration unit 53, and the plurality of obstacle nails 13 ( 2), due to the collision with the obstacles 55, 57, 58, etc. provided on the game board 14, the downward flow of the game board 14 is made while changing its traveling direction.

  In addition, a winning opening 24 is formed at the left end of the obstacle 55. When a game ball wins the winning opening 24, the game ball moves behind the game board 14 via the first warp path 47 and further along the rail-shaped second warp path 49 and is guided behind the obstacle 57. It is burned. The game ball guided behind the obstacle 57 is discharged to the front side of the game board 14 through a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the obstacle 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

  Furthermore, a start port 44 that forms a predetermined area is provided on the right side of the obstacle 55. The starting port 44 is provided with blade members (so-called ordinary electric accessories) 48 on both the left and right sides.

  When a game ball wins at the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the predetermined special symbol variation display starts), the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display 33 is started. . Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display of the special symbol, the game ball to the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 until the special symbol under the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the special symbol variation display based on the winning of is suspended. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. It should be noted that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variation display is suspended, that is, the number of retained balls, for example, the special symbol variation display is suspended up to four times (pieces).

  In addition, as another condition (start of variable display of a predetermined special symbol), the special symbol is stopped and displayed. In other words, every time a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is started.

  Further, also in the variable display game in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, when a game ball is won in the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the start of variable display of identification information for a predetermined effect). )), The change display of the identification information for effect is started. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display regarding the special symbol, the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 is continued until the identification information for the effect during the variation display is stopped and displayed. Execution (start) of the change display of the identification information for presentation based on the winning of the game ball is suspended. Thereafter, when the identification information for presentation that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variability display of the identification information for presentation that has been suspended is started.

  Further, as another condition (variable display start of identification information for predetermined effect), the identification information for effect is stopped and displayed. In other words, the display of the identification information for the effect is started each time the change display start condition for the identification information for the effect is satisfied.

  In the present embodiment, the fact that a game ball has won a prize at the start openings 25 and 44 is set as a variable display start condition for a predetermined special symbol or a variable display start condition for identification information for a predetermined effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gates 54a and 54b are provided with passing ball sensors 114 and 115 (see FIG. 9) described later. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b. When the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect the passing of the game ball, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 35, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. . As described above, this normal symbol is a symbol such as “◯” or “x”.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) 48 provided on the left and right sides of the start port 44 are changed from the closed state to the open state, It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start port 44. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is closed so that it is difficult for the game ball to enter the start port 44. As described above, a game in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member 48 varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

  Similarly to the special symbol variation display, when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b during the normal symbol variation display, the passing gate is displayed until the normal symbol in the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball to 54a and 54b is suspended. After that, when the normal symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed normal symbol that has been suspended is started.

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). The shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33 and the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 includes a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 9) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 9). There are general areas (not shown) having a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls, or the shutter 40 is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. Driven. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball (second state). It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Therefore, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds, such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 that is driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again operated on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V-count sensor 102. Driven to the open state. In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed the V · count sensor 102. Note that the game from the first round game to the end of the (round) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game, and this game state is called a special game state. That is, the special game state is a game state advantageous for the player.

  During execution of the special game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continuous rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued differs depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in the present embodiment, when the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 3, the maximum number of continuous rounds is two, and the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 7. In this case, the maximum number of continuous rounds is 15 rounds. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by a round number lottery means (a main control circuit 60 including a main CPU 66 described later (see FIG. 9)). It may be.

  In addition, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start ports 25 and 44, the general winning ports 56a to 56d, and the big winning port 39 described above, it is set in advance according to the type of each winning port. A certain number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 (see FIG. 1) or the lower plate 22.

  On the other hand, a round number display 51 is provided in the outer area 16 of the game area on the game board 14. The round number display 51 is composed of at least one 7-segment LED, and can display at least one digit number design (in this embodiment, two digit number). In the present embodiment, the round number display 51 displays a “round number” indicating how many rounds the currently executed round game is.

  Thus, since the round number display means for displaying the number of rounds during execution of the special game is provided separately from the effect display means for displaying the effect image, the number of rounds can be displayed accurately and easily.

  Further, since the round number display means is provided in front of the liquid crystal display device 32 functioning as display means for performing the effect display related to the round number, the number of rounds depends on the positional relationship between the round number display and the effect display. Can be displayed more clearly.

[Description of reach effect image selection screen and reach effect image]
Next, FIGS. 5 to 8 show the reach effect image selection screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 as an example of the display means and the effect by the reach effect image selected by the player's operation in the effect operation means. It explains using.

  5 to 7, for convenience of explanation, only the liquid crystal display device 32 and the display area 32a are shown. The game board 14 and the start ports 25 and 44 provided on the game board 14 and the blades are shown. Description of game members, such as the member 48, the guide rail 30 (30a and 30b), and the obstruction 55, is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 5 shows an image effect as an example of a reach effect image selection screen that allows a player to select one type of reach effect image from among a plurality of types of reach effect images in the reach state. As shown in FIG. 5, the display area 32a includes a character image 92a (for example, a person who raises two fingers), a character image 93a (for example, butterfly), a character image 93b (for example, fireworks ball), Character image 93c (for example, a person who holds both hands), character image 90a (for example, “reach”, etc.), character image 98a (for example, “I will start a quiz! Which one will fly in the sky!”) Is displayed. In the display area 32a, the production identification information 94a and 94c are stopped and displayed, and the production identification information 94b is variably displayed. Specifically, among the production identification information 94a, 94b, and 94c, the production identification information 94a and 94c that are stopped and displayed are all “7” of the numeric symbol, and the third stop string (for example, the middle When the identification information 94b for the production in the column is stopped and displayed with the numeral symbol “7”, the combination of the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for the production has a specific display mode (for example, the identification information 94a for the production) 94b and 94c are all stopped in the numerical symbol “7”), and the combination of the stop-displayed effect identification information 94a and 94c is a reach state that is a predetermined display mode. Yes.

  Further, the area around the character image 93a (for example, a butterfly) is displayed in a light-emitting manner. This indicates that the character image 93a can be selected by the player's operation on the movement buttons 80a and 80b. Then, the character image 93a is selected by the player's operation on the determination buttons 81a and 81b.

  Note that the character image 98a (for example, “I'll start the quiz !!!! Which one will fly in the sky!”) Is an example of questions to the player, and the character image 93a (for example, butterflies), A character image 93b (for example, a fireworks ball) and a character image 93c (for example, a person who holds both hands) are displayed as an example of a plurality of answers to the questions to the player.

  In addition, the character image 93a (for example, butterfly), the character image 93b (for example, fireworks), and the character image 93c (for example, a person who holds both hands) have a plurality of types of reach effects based on the reach effect image pattern described later. Each of the images corresponds to answers a to c for determining whether or not to display any kind of reach effect image. That is, on the reach effect image selection screen, the player is allowed to select any type of reach effect image from among a plurality of types of reach effect images by selecting any one of the character images 93a to 93c.

  FIG. 6 shows an image effect as an example of a reach effect image displayed based on an answer selected by the effect operation means from among a plurality of answers to the question items to the player among the plurality of reach effect images. Show. As shown in FIG. 6, the display area 32a includes a character image 92b (for example, a person to be beaten), a character image 92c (for example, three persons), and a character image 90b (for example, “Sakurabuki Reach”). Etc.) is displayed. In the display area 32a, the production identification information 94a and 94c are stopped and displayed, and the production identification information 94b is variably displayed. That is, the production identification information 94a, 94b, 94c is in a reach state in a predetermined form.

  FIG. 7 shows an image effect as an example of a new reach effect image selection screen corresponding to the reach effect image displayed based on the selected answer. As shown in FIG. 7, the display area 32a includes a character image 92d (for example, a person with a fan), a character image 93a (for example, butterfly), a character image 93b (for example, fireworks ball), and a character image 93c. A character image 98a (for example, “What will fireworks?”) Is displayed (for example, a person who holds both hands). In the display area 32a, the production identification information 94a and 94c are stopped and displayed, and the production identification information 94b is variably displayed. That is, the production identification information 94a, 94b, 94c is in a reach state in a predetermined form.

  Further, the area around the character image 93b (for example, a fireworks ball) is displayed in a light-emitting manner. This indicates that the character image 93d can be selected by the player's operation on the movement buttons 80a and 80b. Then, the character image 93b is selected by the player's operation on the decision buttons 81a and 81b.

  Note that the character image 98a (for example, “Which fireworks will be?”, Etc.) is an example of a question for the player, and a character image 93a (for example, butterfly, etc.) and character image 93b (for example, fireworks ball, etc.). ), A character image 93c (for example, a person holding both hands) is displayed as an example of an image corresponding to a plurality of answers to the questions to the player.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of a reach effect pattern selection table to be referred to when the reach effect image selection screen and the reach effect image display are controlled. The reach effect pattern selection table is stored in the program ROM 208 as will be described later.

  In order to facilitate understanding, character images 93a to 93c (see FIGS. 5 and 7) corresponding to the answers a to c in the present embodiment are shown in parentheses next to the answers a to c, respectively. .

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the reach effect pattern A, the sub CPU 206 (see FIG. 9) controls the display of the reach effect image selection screen A, and the character image 93a (see FIG. 5 or FIG. 7) corresponding to the answer a. ) Is selected, it is determined that the answer is a, display control of the reach effect image A is performed, and then a reach effect image selection screen corresponding to a new reach effect pattern B corresponding to the reach effect image A B display control is performed. In reach effect pattern B, display control of reach effect image selection screen B is performed, and when character image 93b (see FIG. 5 or FIG. 7) corresponding to answer b is selected, it is determined that the answer is b. Then, after performing the display control of the reach effect image B, the display control of the reach effect image selection screen C corresponding to the new reach effect pattern C corresponding to the reach effect image B is performed. In the reach effect pattern C, display control of the reach effect image selection screen C is performed, and when the character image 93c (see FIG. 5 or 7) corresponding to the answer c is selected, it is determined that the answer is c. Then, after performing the display control of the reach effect image C, the display control of the reach effect image selection screen A corresponding to the new reach effect pattern A corresponding to the reach effect image C is performed.

  The sub CPU 206 (see FIG. 9) determines that the answer is other than “a” when a character image 93a (see FIG. 5 or FIG. 7) corresponding to the answer “a” is selected in the reach effect pattern A. Then, the display control of the reach effect image D is performed, and the display control of the new reach effect image selection screen is not performed. When it is determined that the answer is other than b in the reach effect pattern B, the display control of the reach effect image D is similarly performed when the answer is determined to be other than c in the reach effect pattern C. Since a new reach effect pattern corresponding to the above is not set, display control of the reach effect image selection screen is not performed.

  In this way, in the display area 32a, the player is allowed to select any type of reach effect image among the plurality of types of reach effect images by using the move buttons 80a and 80b and the decision buttons 81a and 81b, which are examples of effect operation means. Further, a new selection screen based on the selected type of reach effect image is displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to sequentially change the reach effect image having a great sense of expectation for the player by its own operation. For this reason, the display mode of the effect image greatly affects the operation of the effect operation means, and the player can have a strong willingness to operate the effect operation means, thereby providing a sense of satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  In addition, since whether or not to display a new reach effect image selection screen is determined according to the determination by the determination means, there is no change in the reach effect image depending on the operation of the effect operation means by the player, and the same reach. While the effect image is only displayed monotonously, the display content of the reach effect image can be varied in various ways depending on the operation of the effect operation means. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  Furthermore, by displaying the reach effect image selection screen according to the answer in a quiz format, which is to select one of multiple answers to the question items, the player's gaming power is changed to the reach effect image. Can be more closely related. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 including a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like. Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is shown in the case where it is provided in the approximate center of the front of the game board 14 in the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is a gaming machine. For example, the liquid crystal display device 32 may be provided at any position. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are provided separately from the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the liquid crystal display device 32 is provided with the special symbol and the normal symbol. You may comprise so that a fluctuation | variation display may be carried out. Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 is adopted as the fluctuation display means, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be adopted. For example, a drum, a belt, a leaf, or the like may be adopted as the fluctuation display means.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the main control circuit 60 as game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes in accordance with programs stored in the main ROM 68. Thus, the main CPU 66 functions as various means to be described later, such as functioning as a special game execution means or a lottery means.

  A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table to be referred to at the time, and other tables are also stored.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

  The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, an off symbol determination random number counter, a presentation condition selection random number counter, a big prize opening number counter, a big prize Oral winning counter, round number display counter, round number display effect start counter, waiting time timer, large winning opening time timer, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to special symbols, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to normal symbols, Data for supplying a command to a sub-control circuit 200, which will be described later, a start memory number counter, variables, and the like are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area.

  The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determining random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The random symbol counter for losing symbol determination is for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed when it is not a big hit. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. The round number display effect start counter is for determining whether or not to display on the round number display during the normal game. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened (so-called round number) in the big hit gaming state. The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big prize winning prize during one round and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the special symbol (so-called start memory number counter) is the start of the special symbol game when the game ball is won at the start ports 25 and 44 but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed. Is held, but the number of times the special symbol game is held is shown. That is, the data indicating the number of reserved balls regarding the special symbol indicates the number of stored start memory information (start memory information will be described later). In addition, the data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the normal symbol holds the start of the normal symbol game when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed. It shows the number of hold times of regular symbol games. The round number display counter indicates the number of rounds displayed on the round number display 51.

  In addition, a special symbol storage area and a normal symbol storage area are positioned and stored in the main RAM 70.

  The special symbol storage area stores start memory information including a jackpot determination random number corresponding to one variable display in the special symbol game. The start storage information is stored when a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition (a predetermined display identification information variable display start condition) is not satisfied. Further, such start-up storage information includes a jackpot determination random number value and the like, and is for determining the result of variable display of identification information. Further, among the start memory information, the start memory information including the jackpot determination random number value indicating that the special symbol becomes a specific numeric symbol is referred to as specific start memory information.

  The special symbol storage area includes a special symbol storage area (0) to a special symbol storage area (4). In the special symbol storage area (0), data corresponding to the special symbol game currently being executed is stored. The special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) store data corresponding to the special symbol game to be executed after the currently executed special symbol game is completed. That is, when all the data in the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area (4) is clear data, the special symbol game is not executed, and no hold for performing variable display is performed. It will be. When the special symbol game is over, the data of the special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) is shifted from the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area (3). The clear data is stored in the special symbol storage area (4). As a result, the special symbol storage area is updated. On the other hand, the normal symbol storage area also includes the normal symbol storage area (0) to the normal symbol storage area (4), as in the special symbol storage area. Further, as in the special symbol storage area, update control of the normal symbol storage area is performed.

  Further, the start storage information stored in such a special symbol storage area is read out before the variable display of the identification information based on the start storage information is executed, and it is determined whether or not it is the specific start storage information. (So-called “preliminary determination”) may be performed. For example, when a special symbol game is being played and the number of reserved balls is two, that is, when starting memory information is stored from the special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (2). When the game ball wins at the start port 25 or the start port 44, the start memory information is stored in the special symbol storage area (3). Then, it is determined whether or not the start storage information stored in the special symbol storage area (3) is the specific start storage information.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later.

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage The ball sensors 114 and 115, the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, the big prize opening solenoid 120, the seesaw solenoid 122, and the backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening 39. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening 39.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening 39. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening 39.

  The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, respectively. The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d.

  The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 are provided in the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively.

  Start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 which are game ball detecting means are provided at the start ports 25 and 44, respectively. The start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 detect that a game ball has won (passed) the start openings 25 and 44 and supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60. The variable display game described above is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 in accordance with the detection of the game ball by the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117.

  The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 48 open or closed according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

  The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 4, and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening open or closed.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided in the shutter 40 in the shape of a plate. The seesaw solenoid 122 is displaced in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to tilt the seesaw. change. As a result of tilting the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through the specific region or to pass through the general region.

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power failure or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. Connected to the payout / firing control circuit 126 are a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130.

  In addition, the launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the turning angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid.

  Further, a lamp control circuit 76 for controlling the lamp 74 is connected to the main control circuit 60, and the lamp 74 is connected to the lamp control circuit 76. The lamp control circuit 76 supplies a lamp (LED) control signal to the lamp 74. The lamp 74 includes incandescent bulbs, LEDs, and the like. Specifically, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, the special symbol display device 33 (7-segment LED 41), and the normal symbol display device 35. (Display lamp), round number display 51 (7-segment LED 52) and the like are included.

  On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp 74 and lamp 132, and the like in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Note that the lamp 132 includes an incandescent lamp, an LED, and the like, specifically, a decorative lamp (not shown) that displays light and dark on the game board 14.

  In the present embodiment, the command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 and the signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if it is configured such that a signal can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  The sub control circuit 200 as the effect control means includes a variable display control means, a sub CPU 206 as the sound generation control means, a program ROM 208 as the storage means, a work RAM 210, and a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32. The sound control circuit 230 controls the sound generated from the speaker 46, the board effect lamps 36a and 36b, and the lamp control circuit 240 that controls the decoration lamps 133a and 133b. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

  A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60, as will be described later. The sub CPU 206 functions as various means described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. A specific program will be described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display that is executed in association with the variable symbol display. In addition, the program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of special games. The effect pattern during execution of the special game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the round game in the special game. The program ROM 208 stores a reach effect pattern selection table and a reach time table that defines a display period for reach effects.

  In this embodiment, the main control circuit 60 uses the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 uses the program ROM 208 as storage means for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a computer, a program, a table, and the like are recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM and a DVD-ROM, and a ROM cartridge. May be. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as an alternative to the program ROM 208. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60 and the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200. . Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. For example, various variables are positioned such as a timer variable for controlling the reach effect time, an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern, and the like.

  In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  A display control circuit 250 functioning as a display control means includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, a D / A converter 218 for converting image data as an image signal, a power supply It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when it is turned on.

  The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216, the D / A converter 218, and the initial reset circuit 220.

  The VDP 212 is a device that includes circuits such as a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, and a pallet circuit, and can perform various processes for causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

  In the image data ROM 216, various types of image data such as effect identification information image data, background image data, and effect image data indicating the effect identification information are stored separately. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  The VDP 212 reads various image data such as effect identification information image data, background image data, effect image data, and the like from the image data ROM 216 in response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206 and displays them on the liquid crystal display device 32. The image data to be generated is generated. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores the image data in a buffer, and supplies the data to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that performs control related to audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored. The lamp control circuit 240 is directly controlled by the sub CPU 206 described above. That is, the sub CPU 206 controls various lamps such as the decoration lamps 133a and 133b in accordance with the program stored in the program ROM 208.

  The sub CPU 206 reads one type of lamp decoration pattern from a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns stored in the decoration data ROM 244, and supplies a predetermined light emission signal to the drive circuit 242 based on the lamp decoration pattern. The drive circuit 242 turns on, blinks, and turns off the decoration lamps 133a and 133b based on the received predetermined light emission signal.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown in FIGS. 10 to 16 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 12) performed with the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 10, RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, work area initialization, initial setting processing such as a start memory number counter, etc. are executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 12, a special symbol control process related to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol on the special symbol display 33, and the identification information for presentation displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed ( Step S15). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the process in step S15 is repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. The following system timer interrupt process is executed in response to a clock pulse generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 updates the random numbers so that the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, the round number display effect start counter, etc. are incremented by “1”. Processing is executed (step S42). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 17, an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of game balls such as the start ports 25 and 44 is executed (step S43). A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, etc. Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor, or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demonstration display command, a stop design designation command for effect indicating the type of effect identification information to be stopped and displayed in the left column, the middle column, and the right column, and an identification for effect. A variation pattern designation command indicating a variation pattern of information, a specific effect image display command, and the like are included. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Further, the main CPU 66 supplies to the payout / launch control circuit 126 a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning holes. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is restored to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 12, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S81 indicate control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 as a control means for controlling the execution of the variable display game reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  In steps S72 to S80, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to perform various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main winning prize port 39 read from the main ROM 68 is obtained. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S46 in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 reads data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal for opening the big prize opening 39 to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from the open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts the game ball to the closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts the game ball) is provided a plurality of times. A special game that may be repeated is executed.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened in the control state flag, and sets the upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of special game execution means for executing a special game. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 uses the special game execution time timer in the main RAM 70 to start measuring the execution time of the special game. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

  In step S76, a round number display management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects one round number display pattern from a plurality of types of round number display patterns stored in the main ROM 68 based on the numbers assigned to the round number display counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. And the selected round number display pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the round number display pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is a signal (round number display control signal) for controlling the display of the round number display 51 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Is transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the round number display control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the round number display 51 based on the round number display control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the special winning opening opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (06) indicating the waiting time management before the big winning opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the special ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S79 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

  In step S79, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (05) indicating that the control state flag indicates the supervised ball residual ball monitoring, and the game ball is placed in a specific area in the special payout port 39 when the supervised mouth residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. The special prize opening number counter is “2” (when the specific number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “3”) or “15” (special symbol display) In step 33, it is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the specific number symbol stopped and displayed is “7” or more (the last round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S80 is executed. Further, the main CPU 66 increments the special game number counter in the main RAM 70 by “1”.

  On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the management of the big winning opening reopening waiting time before the big winning opening reopening to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 updates the storage so that “1” is subtracted from the round number display counter stored in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, jackpot end interval processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S81.

  In step S81, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 updates the memory (starting storage information) indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol so as to decrease by “1”. To do. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a start memory number designation command indicating that the start memory information is decreased by “1” in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 70. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the case where it is not the big hit gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, when the main CPU 66 is not in the big hit gaming state and the result of the big hit determination is a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03”, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Furthermore, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The process of step S79 and step S77 is executed at a predetermined timing, and a special game is executed. If the special game (big hit game state) end condition (special game end condition, big hit game end condition) is satisfied, set “04”, “05”, “07”, “08” in this order. Thus, the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the special game is ended. In the present embodiment, the game ball has not passed through the specific area (puncture) until a predetermined time has elapsed, and the maximum number of continuous rounds (in this embodiment, “2” rounds or “15 The end of the “round” round game is also a special game end condition.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, in step S101, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

  In step S102, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”, the process proceeds to step S103. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S104. Transfer.

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demonstration display. As a result, the display of the demonstration screen is executed in the sub control circuit 200. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects a jackpot determination value stored in the jackpot determination table. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to make a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, whether or not to shift from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of lottery means for lottery of whether or not to shift to the special gaming state.

  In step S106, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S105. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S107, and if it determines that it is not a big hit, moves the process to step S108.

  In step S107, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random number value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 based on the jackpot symbol determination random number value, Data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random symbol value for determining a symbol out of the random symbol counter for determining a symbol out of symbol, and based on the random number value for determining a symbol out of symbol, the special symbol display unit 33 stops and displays the special symbol. The data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining the variation pattern of the effect display based on the special symbol determined in step S107 and step S108, that is, based on the lottery result by the processing in step S105. . Here, the variation pattern of the effect display means the variation display pattern of the identification information for the effect, the variation display pattern of the effect image, etc. Based on the variation pattern of the effect display, the variation display and stop of the identification information for the effect A game in which display is repeatedly performed is controlled, and display of the effect image is controlled. Then, the main CPU 66 determines the effect display variation pattern based on the effect condition selection random number extracted from the effect condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To do. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a control unit that controls the progress of a game (variable display game) in which variation display and stop display of identification information (for production) are repeatedly performed. That is, the main CPU 66 is an example of a control unit that controls the execution of the variable display game based on the lottery result indicating whether or not to shift to the special game state.

  In step S109, the data indicating the variation pattern of the effect display stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is transferred from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a fluctuation pattern designation command. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, stores the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and based on the stored effect pattern, Data for displaying the effect pattern is transmitted to the display control circuit 250. The display control circuit 250 controls the effect display on the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the data for displaying the reach effect pattern.

  Further, in step S109, the main CPU 66 has a function as a control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the special symbol which is the identification information is repeatedly displayed and stopped.

  That is, in step S109, based on the data indicating the special symbol stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the processing of step S107 and step S108, the main CPU 66 uses a plurality of types of LED lighting patterns stored in the main ROM 68. One LED lighting pattern is selected, and the selected LED lighting pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the LED lighting pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is used as a signal (special symbol drive control signal) for driving and controlling the special symbol display 33 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Are transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the special symbol drive control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the special symbol display device 33 based on the special symbol drive control signal. With the above processing, the special symbol display unit 33 displays the special symbol in a variably manner, and the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed after a predetermined time. Thus, the lamp control circuit 76 is an example of a round number display control unit.

  In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern for production in a waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the variation time corresponding to the effect variation pattern determined by the process of step S109 from the table, and stores a value indicating the variation time in the waiting time timer. And the process which clears the memory area where the random number for jackpot determination used for the present fluctuation display etc. was memorized is performed (Step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Operation of sub-control circuit]
On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60 and executes the following effects.

[Production control processing]
The effect control process in the liquid crystal display device 32, which is an example of the display means for displaying the reach effect image selection screen and the selected type of reach effect image, will be described below with reference to FIG.

  In step S210, command reception processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 receives the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main CPU 66, selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, and places the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Store. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S220.

  In step S220, a process for determining whether or not reach is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the production identification information is in a predetermined form based on the variation display command received in step S210, and the production identification information is reach. In this case, the process proceeds to step S230, and if the identification information for presentation does not reach, the process proceeds to step S240. As described above, the sub CPU 206 that executes the process of step S220 functions as a reach determination unit that determines whether or not the identification information for presentation is a reach in a predetermined form.

  In step S230, reach effect image processing is executed. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 16, the sub CPU 206 controls the display of the reach effect image selection screen and the selected type of reach effect image, and a new reach corresponding to the selected type of reach effect image. Control to display the effect image selection screen is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S240, a normal effect image display control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 displays data for displaying the effect pattern as the normal effect pattern in the normal gaming state in the effect table set in the predetermined area of the work RAM 210 based on the received variation pattern designation command. Transmit to the control circuit 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Reach production image processing]
The subroutine executed in step S230 in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S310, a timer setting process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 substitutes a value (for example, 30 seconds) stored in the reach time table defining the reach effect display period in the program ROM 208 into a timer variable in the work RAM 210, and sets a timer. . If this process ends, the process moves to a step S320.

  In step S320, an initial reach effect image selection screen display control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 displays data for displaying the reach effect image selection screen based on the reach effect pattern selected from the reach effect pattern selection table (see FIG. 8) stored in the program ROM 208. 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, presentation identification information 94a to 94c is displayed in a reach state that is a predetermined display mode in the display area 32a. In addition, a character image 98a is displayed as a question for the player. Further, character images 93a to 93c corresponding to a plurality of answers to the question items are displayed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S330.

  In step S330, a process is performed to determine whether or not there is an input from the effect operating means. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a predetermined signal output from the determination buttons 81a and 81b is received when the player operates the determination buttons 81a and 81b, and the input by the effect operation means is performed. If there is, the process moves to step S340, and if there is no input by the effect operating means, the process moves to step S380.

  In step S340, processing for determining whether or not the determination by the determination means is correct is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 matches the answer corresponding to the reach effect pattern based on the internal lottery with the answer input by the effect operating means in the reach effect pattern selection table (see FIG. 8) stored in the program ROM 208. It is determined whether or not to do. That is, it is determined whether or not the correct answer has been selected from among a plurality of answers to the questions to the player on the reach effect image selection screen (see FIGS. 5 and 7). If the determination by the determination unit is correct, the process proceeds to step S350. If the determination by the determination unit is incorrect, the process proceeds to step S370.

  That is, the sub CPU 206 in step S340 functions as an example of a determination unit that determines whether to display a new reach effect image selection screen according to the selected type of reach effect image.

  Thus, since it is determined whether or not a new reach effect image selection screen is displayed according to the determination by the determination means, there is no change in the reach effect image depending on the operation of the effect operation means by the player. While the reach effect image is only displayed monotonously, the display contents of the reach effect image can be varied in various ways depending on the operation of the effect operation means. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  In step S350, a correct reach effect image display control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 matches the answer corresponding to the reach effect pattern based on the internal lottery with the answer input by the effect operating means in the reach effect pattern selection table (see FIG. 8) stored in the program ROM 208. Data for displaying the reach effect image associated with the display control circuit 250 is transmitted to the display control circuit 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. Then, the reach effect image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, presentation identification information 94 a to 94 c is displayed in a reach state that is a predetermined display mode in the display area 32 a. Further, the character image 92c and the character image 90b are displayed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S360.

  That is, the sub CPU 206 in step S350 displays a plurality of answers to the questions to the player on the reach effect image selection screen, and a plurality of types of reach based on the answers selected by the effect operating means from the plurality of answers. It functions as an example of display control means for performing control to display any kind of reach effect image among effect images.

  In this way, by displaying the reach effect image selection screen according to the answer in a quiz format, which is to select one of a plurality of answers to the question items, the player's gaming power is displayed in the reach effect image. Can be more closely related to change. For this reason, it becomes possible to give the player a stronger willingness to operate the effect operation means, and to provide greater satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  In step S360, reach effect image selection screen display control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines the reach based on the new reach effect pattern associated with the reach effect image displayed in step S350 in the reach effect pattern selection table (see FIG. 8) stored in the program ROM 208. Data for displaying the effect image selection screen is transmitted to the display control circuit 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, presentation identification information 94 a to 94 c is displayed in a reach state that is a predetermined display mode in the display area 32 a. Further, a character image 98b is displayed as a question to the player. Further, character images 93a, 93c, 93d corresponding to a plurality of answers to the question items are displayed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S380.

  In step S370, an incorrect reach effect image display control process is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 differs in the answer corresponding to the reach effect pattern based on the internal lottery and the answer input by the effect operating means in the reach effect pattern selection table (see FIG. 8) stored in the program ROM 208. Data for displaying the reach effect image associated with the case is transmitted to the display control circuit 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. Then, the reach effect image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S380.

  In other words, the sub CPU 206 in step S360 and step S370 controls the display of the reach effect image selection screen and the selected type of reach effect image, and selects a new reach effect image according to the selected type of reach effect image. It functions as an example of display control means for performing control to display a screen.

  In this way, in the display area 32a, the player is allowed to select any type of reach effect image among the plurality of types of reach effect images by using the move buttons 80a and 80b and the decision buttons 81a and 81b, which are examples of effect operation means. Further, a new selection screen based on the selected type of reach effect image is displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to sequentially change the reach effect image having a great sense of expectation for the player by its own operation. For this reason, the display mode of the effect image greatly affects the operation of the effect operation means, and the player can have a strong willingness to operate the effect operation means, thereby providing a sense of satisfaction with the game. Such an effect and the game itself can synergistically increase the interest and interest in the game as a whole, and provide a gaming machine that allows the player to enjoy the game for a long time.

  In step S380, it is determined whether or not the timer has reached a predetermined value. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210 is a predetermined value (for example, 0). If the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined value has not been reached, it moves the process to step S330. When the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined value has been reached, this sub-routine ends.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine is given as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, but the second type pachinko gaming machine called Hanemono, Hikokimono, and the third type called right mono. It may be a pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine itself such as a pachinko gaming machine. However, the present invention may be applied to a pachislot gaming machine or a game machine.

  In the present embodiment, the 7-segment LED is used as a part for displaying the round number display 51. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a liquid crystal display panel, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) ) Including a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, it has only illustrated the specific example and does not specifically limit this invention. That is, according to the present invention, in a game in which identification information variation display and stop display are repeatedly performed a plurality of times, any one of a plurality of types of reach effect images when the identification information is in a reach state in a predetermined mode. Reach effect image selection screen for allowing the player to select a type of reach effect image, display means for displaying the reach effect image of the selected type, and in the display means, the reach effect image selection screen and the selected Display control means for controlling the display of the type of reach effect image, and effect operation means for causing the player to perform an operation related to selection of the reach effect image on the reach effect image selection screen, the display control means Displays a new reach effect image selection screen corresponding to the type of reach effect image selected by the operation of the effect operation means. Is a gaming machine and performs control that, the display means, display control means, staging operation means, a specific configuration of such determination unit may be suitably designed or modified.

  The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the reach production pattern in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 11 Door 12 Main body frame 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 15 Game area 16 Game area outer area 19 Protective plate 20 Upper plate 22 Lower plate 24 Prize opening 25 Start port 26 Launch handle 30 Guide rail 31 Spacer 32 Liquid crystal display device 33 Special symbol display 35 Display 37 Display case 39 Large prize opening 40 Shutter 44 Start opening 46 Speaker 47 First warp path 48 Blade member 49 Second warp path 51 Round number display 53 Illumination unit 55 Obstacle 57 Obstacle 58 Obstacle 60 Main control circuit 62 Reset clock pulse generation circuit 64 Initial reset circuit 74 Lamp 76 Lamp control circuit 80 Move button 81 Enter button 76 Lamp control circuit 90 Character image 92 Character image 93 Character image 94 Identification information 96 Character image 98 Character image 102 V Count sensor 104 Count sensor 118 Normal electric accessory solenoid 120 Large prize opening solenoid 122 Seesaw solenoid 124 Backup clear switch 126 Dispensing / launching control circuit 128 Discharging device 130 Launching device 133 Decoration lamp 150 Card unit 200 Sub control circuit 218 D / A Converter 220 Initial reset circuit 230 Audio control circuit 236 Amplifier 240 Lamp control circuit 250 Display control circuit

Claims (3)

In a game where the identification information change display and stop display are repeated multiple times,
Reach effect image selection screen for allowing a player to select one type of reach effect image among a plurality of types of reach effect images when the identification information is in a predetermined state, and the selected type of reach Display means for displaying effect images;
In the display means, display control means for performing control to display the reach effect image selection screen and the selected type of reach effect image;
In the reach effect image selection screen, an effect operation means for causing a player to perform an operation related to selection of the reach effect image,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display control means performs control to display a new reach effect image selection screen corresponding to the type of reach effect image selected by the operation of the effect operation means.   And determining means for determining whether or not to display the new reach effect image selection screen according to the type of reach effect image selected by the player operating the effect operation means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is characterized.   The display control means displays a plurality of answers to the questions to the player on the reach effect image selection screen, and the plurality of types based on the answer selected by the effect operation means from the plurality of answers. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein control is performed to display any kind of reach effect image among the reach effect images.

Images