JP2019129884A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of appropriately and promptly displaying a setting operation history.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: setting means for setting a setting value representing a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a game state advantageous to a player to be changeable on the basis of a setting change operation; setting confirmation means for displaying the setting value which is set by the setting means on the basis of a setting confirmation operation in a confirmation-enabled manner; history information storage means for storing setting operation history information as a history of operations related to the setting in the memory when at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation is performed; and history display means for displaying the setting operation history on a display medium on the basis of the setting operation history information stored by the history information storage means in response to satisfaction of a predetermined display condition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 45

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a ball game machine or a revolving gaming machine, and in particular, a set value representing a stage regarding a probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to a player is operated. The present invention relates to a technical field related to a gaming machine that can be set based on the above.

For example, various game machines such as a ball and ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine and a revolving game machine such as a slot machine are widely known.
Some gaming machines, such as slot machines, can be set based on an operation to set a value representing a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player.

  In addition, about the related prior art, the following patent document 1 can be mentioned.

Japanese Patent No. 5966529

In a gaming machine in which setting values can be changed and set, it is conceivable to present a history of operations related to the setting values (hereinafter referred to as “setting operation history”) to the user. For example, a list of setting operation histories may be displayed on a liquid crystal display device.
When the setting operation history is displayed, history information is accumulated in a predetermined memory every time a target operation is performed, and a history list or the like is displayed based on the accumulated information.
At this time, it is desirable to use a RAM used as a work memory as a storage destination of history information from the viewpoint of reading speed.
However, the RAM provided in the microcomputer is often a memory that cannot keep stored information when the power is cut off, such as not having a backup power source. The setting operation history is assumed to display a history over a relatively long period such as several weeks or one month, for example. If the history information is stored, the history information is lost every time the power is cut off, and the history display cannot be performed properly.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to realize a gaming machine capable of appropriately and promptly displaying a setting operation history.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention is based on a setting means for setting a setting value representing a stage regarding a probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to a player based on a setting change operation, and a setting confirmation operation. Setting confirmation means for displaying the setting value set by the setting means in a confirmable manner, and setting as an operation history related to the setting when at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation is performed History information storage means for storing operation history information in a memory, and history for displaying a setting operation history on a display medium based on the setting operation history information stored by the history information storage means in response to establishment of a predetermined display condition In a gaming machine having a display means, the first memory, which is unable to retain stored information when the gaming machine is powered off, and the stored information even when the gaming machine is powered off. And the history information storage means is configured to perform at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation. Storing the setting operation history information in the first memory, and transferring the setting operation history information stored in the first memory to the second memory at a predetermined timing, the history display means Is to display the setting operation history on the display medium based on the setting operation history information stored in the first memory.

  According to the above configuration, the setting operation history information stored in the first memory is transferred to and stored in the second memory that can store the stored information even when the power is shut off, for example, with a backup power source. It is possible to continue to hold the setting operation history information properly even through the. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, the setting operation history information stored in the second memory can be written back to the first memory, so that the display of the setting operation history is an appropriate one stored in the first memory. The setting operation history information can be used.

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention described above, the transfer means determines whether or not the setting operation history information stored in the second memory is abnormal, and when it is determined that there is no abnormality, The setting operation history information transferred to the first memory can be used for displaying the setting operation history.

  As a result, the setting operation history is not displayed for the setting value in which an abnormality is recognized, and the appropriate history display can be performed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of appropriately and promptly displaying the setting operation history.

It is a perspective view of the front side which shows the external appearance of the game machine as embodiment which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the game board of the game machine as embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the control structure of the game machine as embodiment. It is explanatory drawing about the example of the prefetch notice effect in embodiment. It is the flowchart which showed the main control side main process of embodiment. It is the flowchart which showed the initial setting process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the power supply abnormality check process of embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between each determination condition on the operation surface and a value of a W register when shifting to a setting change process, a RAM clear process, a setting confirmation process, and a backup restoration process. It is the flowchart which showed the process at the time of RAM clear in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the main loop pre-processing in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the main loop process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the setting change process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the setting confirmation process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the main control side timer interruption processing of the execution form. It is the flowchart which showed the power supply check backup process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the setting abnormality check process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the special symbol management process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the special figure 1 start port check process in FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the special symbol change start process in FIG. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing variation management processing in FIG. 19. FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the big hit random number determination process in FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the jackpot random number determination method of embodiment. It is the flowchart which showed the fluctuation pattern creation process in FIG. It is the figure which showed the example of the deviation fluctuation | variation pattern table of embodiment. It is the figure which showed the example of the hit fluctuation pattern table of embodiment. It is the figure which showed the other example of the hit fluctuation pattern table of embodiment. It is the figure which showed the example of the common fluctuation pattern table at the time of the setting error of embodiment. It is the figure which showed the other example of the common fluctuation pattern table at the time of the setting error of embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the scenario registration information, lamp data registration information, and motor data registration information of embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the sound data registration information of embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the main scenario table of embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the sub scenario table of embodiment. It is a flowchart of the production control main process of the embodiment. It is a flowchart of the command analysis process in the presentation control of the embodiment. It is a flowchart of the command corresponding | compatible process in the presentation control of embodiment. It is a flowchart of an effect control timer interrupt process of the embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the display control timing of embodiment. It is the figure which illustrated one display mode of setting operation history. It is the figure which showed the example of the screen during setting confirmation. It is the figure which showed the example of the information for log | history display in embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the backup operation example of the information for log | history display as embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of addition processing of individual history information in history display information. It is a flowchart of the power-on history information initial setting process of the embodiment. It is the flowchart which showed the process for updating log | history information according to generation | occurrence | production of the target event of log | history display. It is a flowchart of the history information update process of the embodiment. It is a flowchart of the history display process of the embodiment. It is a flow chart of history information screen creation processing of an embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the control structure of the game machine as a modification. It is a flowchart of the presentation control main process in a modification. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of the frame end in a modification.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in the following order with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<1. Structure of gaming machine>
<2. Control configuration of gaming machine>
[2-1. Main control unit]
(About setting value change operation)
(About performance display)
(Direction control command)
[2-2. Production control unit]
<3. Outline of operation>
[3-1. Design variation display game]
(Special symbol variation display game)
(Decoration pattern change display game)
(Normal symbol fluctuation display game)
(About hold)
[3-2. Game state]
[3-3. About winning]
[3-4. About production]
(Direction mode)
(Notice production)
(Direction means)
<4. Processing of main control unit>
[4-1. Main control side main processing]
(Initial setting process)
(Process after initial setting)
(Main loop processing)
(Setting change processing)
(Setting confirmation process)
[4-2. Main control timer interrupt processing]
(Power check / backup processing)
(Processing for error management and game progression, etc.)
[4-3. Processing related to special symbol variation display game]
(Special symbol management process)
(Special Figure 1 Start-up check process)
(Special symbol variation start processing)
(Variation management processing)
(Big hit random number judgment process)
(Variation pattern lottery process)
<5. Processing of production control unit>
[5-1. Outline of processing]
[5-2. Display of setting history confirmation screen]
<6. Modification>
<7. Summary of Embodiment>
<8. Other variations

<1. Structure of gaming machine>

With reference to FIG.1 and FIG.2, the structure of the pachinko game machine 1 as embodiment which concerns on this invention is demonstrated. FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing the appearance of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the front side of the game board 3 of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  A pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter may be abbreviated as “gaming machine 1”) is attached to a front surface of a wooden outer frame 4 so that a frame-shaped front frame 2 can be opened and closed. A structure in which a game board 3 (see FIG. 2) is mounted in an attached game board storage frame (not shown), and a game area 3a formed on the surface of the game board 3 faces the opening of the front frame 2. Have. A glass door 6 supporting a transparent glass is provided on the front side of the game area 3a. Various control boards (see FIG. 3) for controlling game operations are arranged on the back side of the game board 3.

  A key cylinder (not shown) for unlocking the door is provided on the front side of the glass door 6. When the key is inserted into this key cylinder and operated on one side, the glass door 6 is locked to the front frame 2. When operated to the other side, the locked state of the front frame 2 with respect to the outer frame 4 can be released and opened to the front side.

  A front operation panel 7 pivotally supported on the front frame 2 by a hinge (not shown) is disposed below the glass door 6. The front operation panel 7 is provided with an upper tray unit 8, and the upper tray unit 8 is formed with an upper tray 9 for storing discharged game balls.

Further, the upper tray unit 8 pays out the game balls to a ball removal button 14 for pulling out the game balls stored in the upper tray 9 below the gaming machine 1 and a game ball lending device (not shown). A ball lending button 11 for requesting and a card return button 12 for requesting the return of the valuable value medium inserted in the game ball lending device are provided. The upper tray unit 8 is provided with an effect button 13 (operation means) configured to be operable by the player. The effect button 13 can be operated (input can be accepted) when the built-in lamp (button LED 75) is lit during a predetermined input acceptance period, and predetermined operations (pressing, continuous hitting, long pressing, etc.) while the built-in lamp is lit. It is possible to change the production by doing.
Although not shown in FIG. 1, the front operation panel 7 is provided with a cross key 16 for a user such as a player or hall staff to select various items or give directions. Yes.

  A firing operation handle 15 for operating the firing device 32 (see FIG. 3) is provided on the right end side of the front operation panel 7.

  In addition, speakers 46 are provided on both sides of the upper part of the front frame 2 and on the upper side of the firing operation handle 15 to produce a sound effect (sound effect) by sound. In addition, a plurality of decorative lamps 45 (for example, light effect LEDs using full-color LEDs) that provide a light effect by decorating light are provided at appropriate positions on the glass door 6. A plurality of full-color LEDs (light effect LEDs) as the decorative lamp 45 are provided in the circumferential direction around the pachinko gaming machine, that is, at the periphery of the front frame of the glass door 6.

  The configuration of the game board 3 will be described with reference to FIG. In the illustrated game board 3, a ball guide rail 5 for guiding the launched game ball is annularly mounted as a board surface partition member, and a substantially circular area surrounded by the ball guide rail 5 is a game area 3a, The four corners are non-game areas.

  In the substantially central portion of the game area 3a, for example, in three (left, middle, right) display areas (design variation display areas), a plurality of types of decorative symbols (for example, numbers, characters, symbols, etc.) A liquid crystal display (LCD) 36 capable of variable display operation (variable display and stop display) of the left symbol (corresponding to the left display area), middle symbol (corresponding to the middle display area), right symbol (corresponding to the right display area)) Is provided. The liquid crystal display device 36 displays various effects as images in addition to the decorative symbol change display operation under the control of the effect control unit 24 described later.

  Further, a center decoration 48 is provided in the game area 3a so as to surround the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 in a distant manner. The center decoration 48 is provided along the front side of the game board 3 and protects the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 from the surrounding game balls, and the flow of the game balls depends on the strength or stroke length of the game balls. It functions as a flow path distribution means that makes it possible to distribute the path to the left and right. In the present embodiment, the center ornament 48 is disposed substantially at the center of the game area 3a so that the flow path of the game ball is formed on both upper sides (left side and right side) of the game area 3a due to the presence of the center ornament 48. ing. The game balls thrown into the upper side of the game area 3a by the launching device 32 are distributed to the left and right on the upper side of the armor frame portion 48b, and the left down flow path 3b on the left side of the center decoration 48 and the right down flow path 3c on the right side. Flow down either.

  In addition, the non-game area near the upper right edge (upper right corner) of the game board 3 is a function display section, and a 7-segment display (with dots) is started with the upper start port 34 (for the first special symbol) and the lower start. A special symbol display device 38a (first special symbol display means) and a special symbol display device 38b (second special symbol display means) which are arranged side by side in correspondence with the mouth 35 (for the second special symbol). Is provided. In the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, a special symbol variation display game is executed by a variation display operation of the “special symbol” expressed by the 7-segment display. In the liquid crystal display device 36 described above, the decorative symbols are variably displayed in synchronism with the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and the decorative symbols are displayed together with various notice effects (effect images). The symbol variation display game is executed (details of these symbol variation display games will be described later).

  In addition, in the various function display units, a composite display device (LED display for holding composite display) 38c including a 7-segment display (with dots) is disposed next to the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b. The compound is called five symbols, special symbols 1 and 2, the display of the number of suspended balls of normal symbols, the status notification during the variable time reduction function operation (short time) and high probability state (high accuracy) This is because the display is a holding / short-time / high-accuracy composite display device (hereinafter simply referred to as “composite display device”).

  The various function display units are provided with a normal symbol display device 39a (normal symbol display means) in which a plurality of (two in this embodiment) LEDs are arranged next to the composite display device 38c. In the normal symbol display device 39a, a normal symbol variation display game is executed by a normal symbol variation display operation represented by two LEDs. For example, as a variable display operation, a normal symbol by LED repeatedly turns on and off alternately in a seesaw manner, and stops when either side is lit, thereby determining whether or not a normal symbol variable display game is successful. Yes. In addition, a round number display device 39b in which three LEDs (first to third round display LEDs) are arranged adjacent to the normal symbol display device 39a is provided. This round number display device 39b notifies the specified round number (maximum round number) related to the jackpot by the combination of the lighting and extinguishing states of the three LEDs.

  Below the center decoration 48, an upper start port 34 (first special symbol start port: first starter) and a lower start port 35 (second special symbol starter: second starter) are provided. The normal variation winning device 41 is provided at the top and bottom, and detection sensors 34a and 35a (upper start opening sensor 34a and lower start opening sensor 35a: see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball are formed inside each. ing.

  The upper start port 34, which is the first special symbol start port, is the first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "special symbol 1" in the special symbol display device 38a). The award opening relating to the starting condition of the variable display operation (abbreviated as “)” is configured as a winning rate fixed-type winning device that does not have a starting opening / closing means (means for opening or expanding the starting opening). In the present embodiment, a game ball dropping direction changing member (for example, a game nail (not shown), a windmill 44, a center decoration 48, etc.) in the game area 3a is operated to the upper start port 34 to the left-down flow path 3b. The game balls that have flowed down are easy to enter (win), whereas the game balls that have flowed down the right flow path 3c are difficult to enter or cannot enter.

  The normal variation winning device 41 is configured as a winning rate variation type winning device capable of changing the winning rate of the game ball at the starting port by the starting port opening / closing means. In the present embodiment, a so-called “electric tulip” including a pair of left and right movable wing pieces (movable members) 47 that can open or expand the lower start opening 35 that is the second special symbol start opening as the start opening opening / closing means. "Type" configured as a winning device.

  The lower start opening 35 of the normal variable winning device 41 is a second special symbol (hereinafter, the second special symbol is referred to as “special symbol 2”, and sometimes referred to as “special symbol 2”) in the special symbol display device 38b. ) Of the variable display operation according to the starting condition, and the winning area of the lower starting port 35 is an open state (e.g., an open state (e.g., operating or non-operating) of the movable wing piece 47 that facilitates winning). (A winning easy state) and a closed state (a winning difficult state) that makes it difficult or impossible to win than the open state. In the present embodiment, when the movable blade piece 47 is inactive, a closed state (a state in which a prize cannot be awarded) in which a prize cannot be awarded to the lower start port 35 is maintained.

  Further, on both sides of the normal variable winning device 41, there are four general winning openings 43 on the left side and one on the right side, four in total. A mouth sensor 43a (see FIG. 3) is formed. In the area of the game board, a movable body accessory (not shown) that provides a visual effect is disposed at a position that does not obstruct the flow of the game ball.

  Also, a normal symbol start port 37 (third start) formed by a pass gate (specific pass region) through which a game ball can pass is located obliquely above and to the right of the normal variation winning device 41, that is, above the middle portion of the right flow path 3c. Means). The normal symbol start port 37 is a winning port related to the normal symbol variation display operation in the normal symbol display device 39a, and a normal symbol start port sensor 37a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a passing game ball is provided therein. Is formed. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol start port 37 is formed only on the right flow path 3c side, and is not formed on the left flow path 3b side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be formed only in the left flow path 3b, or may be formed in both flow paths.

  In the middle of the path from the normal symbol starting port 37 to the normal variable winning device 41 in the right flow path 3c, a special variable winning that is configured such that the big winning port 50 can be opened or expanded by the retractable opening door 52b. A device 52 (special electric accessory) is provided, and a special winning opening sensor 52a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball that has entered the special winning opening 50 is formed therein.

  Around the big prize opening 50 is a bulging portion (decorative member) 55 bulging from the surface of the game board 3, and the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55 forms the downstream guide portion of the right flow path 3c. Yes. And if the big prize opening 50 is closed by the open door 52b (the big prize opening closed state), by forming a surface continuous with the upper side 55a of the bulging part 55, the downstream guide part ( A part of the upper side 55a) is formed. In the downstream area of the right flow path 3c, in the area above the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55, more precisely in the game area above the big winning opening 50, the flow path correction plate is substantially parallel to the flow direction of the game ball. 51d is provided so as to move the flowing game balls toward the big prize opening 50.

The process of entering a game ball into the big prize opening 50 is as follows.
The game ball that has passed through the play area between the upper surface of the center ornament 48 and the ball guide rail 5 projects on the top surface (upper side) 55a of the bulging portion 55 that protrudes from the game board 3 and functions as a guide for the game ball. Come down along. Then, the game ball comes into contact with the right end of the flow path correcting plate 51d protruding from the surface of the game board 3, and thereby the flow direction of the game ball is corrected to the direction of the big prize opening 50 (downward direction). At this time, if the special winning opening 50 is covered by the retractable open door 52b (the special winning opening is closed), the game ball rolls on the special winning opening in a predetermined arrangement (not shown). By the game nail, it is led in the direction of the tulip-type normal variation winning device 41 (lower start opening 35). At this time, if the lower start opening 35 is in a winning state (start opening open state), a game ball can win the lower start opening 35. On the other hand, if the open door 52b is retracted into the game board surface and the special winning opening 50 is open (large winning opening opened state), the game ball is guided into the special winning opening 50.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the player aims the launch position on the special variation prize winning device 52 side (when the game ball is aimed so as to pass the right flow down path 3c), the upper start port On the 34th side, the game ball is difficult to be guided or is not guided. Therefore, in the “large winning opening closed state”, it is difficult or impossible to win the starting openings 34 and 35 unless the movable blade 47 of the normal variation winning apparatus 41 is operated. The movable wing piece 47 operates in an opening / closing pattern that is more advantageous than the normal state when it enters a gaming state with an electric support state described later.

  In the case of the present embodiment, how the player makes an advantageous situation changes according to the gaming state. Specifically, if the game state is accompanied by a “non-electric support state” to be described later, “left-handed” for aiming the game ball so as to pass through the leftward flow path 3b is advantageous. If the gaming state is accompanied by a “present state”, “right-handed” for setting the aim so that the game ball passes through the right flow down path 3c is advantageous.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when there is a winning in a winning port other than the normal symbol starting port 37 among the various winning ports provided in the gaming area 3a, it is promised for each winning port. The number of winning balls per winning ball (for example, the upper starting port 34 or the lower starting port 35 is 3, the large winning port 50 is 13, and the general winning port 43 is 10) is the game ball payout device 19 (FIG. 3). (See below). The game balls that have not won the winning holes are discharged from the game area 3a through the out port 49.
Here, “winning” means that the winning opening takes a game ball inside, or the winning opening is not a structure that takes the gaming ball inside, but is a winning opening made up of a passing gate (for example, a normal symbol start opening 37). If it is, it means that the game ball passes through the gate. Actually, if a game ball is detected by each winning detection switch formed for each winning opening, a "winning" occurs at that winning opening It is treated as. The game ball related to the winning is also referred to as “winning ball”. If a game ball enters the winning opening, the game ball is detected by the winning detection switch. Unless otherwise specified in this specification, whether or not the gaming ball is detected by the winning detection switch. Regardless of the case, it may be referred to as “winning” including a case where a game ball enters the winning opening.

<2. Control configuration of gaming machine>

With reference to the block diagram of FIG. 3, a configuration (control configuration) for realizing gaming operation control of the gaming machine 1 will be described.
The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment includes a main control board (main control means) 20 (hereinafter referred to as “main control unit 20”) that comprehensively manages control (game operation control) related to overall game operations, and a main control unit. An effect control board (effect control means) 24 (hereinafter referred to as “effect control section 24”) that receives an effect control command from 20 and performs overall execution control (appearance control) of the effect by the effect means, and a prize ball A payout control board (payout control means) 29 for performing payout control of the power supply, and a power supply board (power supply control means (not shown)) for generating and supplying power necessary for the gaming machine 1 from an external power supply (not shown), It is comprised.
The effect control unit 24 is connected to a liquid crystal control unit 40 that performs display driving for a liquid crystal display device 36 as an image display device. The liquid crystal control unit 40 is, for example, a micro-chip mounted on a substrate different from various substrates such as the main control substrate (main control unit) 20, the effect control substrate (effect control unit) 24, the payout control substrate 29, and the power supply substrate. It has a computer.
In FIG. 3, the power supply route to each part is omitted.

[2-1. Main control unit]

The main control unit 20 is equipped with a microprocessor incorporating a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 (main control CPU), and in addition to a control program describing a game operation control procedure, various data necessary for game operation control are also stored. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 202 (main control ROM) for storing and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203 (main control RAM) functioning as a work area and a buffer memory are mounted, and a microcomputer is configured as a whole. .

  Although not shown in the figure, the main control unit 20 has a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) for realizing a periodic interrupt, a pulse output generation function (bit rate generator) having a fixed period and a time measurement function, and a CPU 201. Interrupt controller circuit that demonstrates interrupt enable / disable function such as timer interrupt that gives interrupt signal, and can reset CPU201 by detecting system power-on, power-off, power failure, etc. and outputting system reset signal Reset circuit, a watchdog timer (WDT) circuit for monitoring an abnormal operation of the control program, and an out-of-designated area prohibition (IAT) circuit for monitoring whether the program is correctly executed within a preset address range And a counter circuit for generating a certain range of random numbers in hardware.

  The counter circuit includes a random number generation circuit that generates a random number and a sampling circuit that samples a random value from the random number generation circuit at a predetermined timing, and functions as a 16-bit counter as a whole. The CPU 201 sends an instruction to the sampling circuit according to the processing state to acquire the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit as an internal lottery random number value (a random number for jackpot determination (random number size: 65536)). The random value is used for the big hit lottery. The internal lottery random number is obtained by adding a soft random number value generated by an appropriate software process and a hard random number value in order to prevent a go-to action such as hitting a hit.

  The main control unit 20 includes an upper start sensor 34a for detecting a winning (winning ball) at the upper start opening 34, a lower start opening sensor 35a for detecting a win at the lower start opening 35, and a normal symbol start opening 37. A normal symbol start port sensor 37 a for detecting the passage of the player, a large winning port sensor 52 a for detecting a winning to the big winning port 50, a general winning port sensor 43 a for detecting a winning to the general winning port 43, and an out port 49. An OUT monitoring switch 49a that detects a game ball (out ball) discharged from the main control unit 20 is connected, and the main control unit 20 can receive detection signals output from these. Based on the detection signals from the sensors, the main control unit 20 can determine which winning ball has entered the game ball.

  Further, the main control unit 20 includes a normal electric accessory solenoid 41c for controlling opening and closing of the movable wing piece 47 of the lower start opening 35 and a large winning opening solenoid 52c for controlling opening and closing of the open door 52b of the large winning opening 50. And the main control unit 20 can transmit control signals for controlling them.

  Further, a special symbol display device 38a and a special symbol display device 38b are connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for display control of the special symbols 1 and 2. . Furthermore, a normal symbol display device 39a is connected to the main control unit 20 so that a control signal for controlling display of the normal symbols can be transmitted.

  The main control unit 20 is connected to a composite display device 38c and a round number display device 39b. The main control unit 20 controls the display of various information displayed on the composite display device 38c, and rounds. It is possible to transmit a control signal for display control of the specified number of rounds by jackpot displayed on the number display device 39b.

Further, a frame external concentrated terminal board 21 is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 is connected to the hall computer HC provided outside the gaming machine via the frame external concentrated terminal board 21 with a predetermined value. Game information (for example, jackpot information, prize ball number information, symbol variation execution information, etc.) can be transmitted.
The hall computer HC is an information processing device (computer device) for monitoring game information from the main control unit 20 and managing the operating status of pachinko hall gaming machines in an integrated manner.

  Furthermore, a payout control board (payout control part) 29 is connected to the main control unit 20, and when it is necessary to pay out a prize ball, a control command (number of prize balls) relating to the payout control board 29 is given. Can be transmitted.

  Connected to the payout control board 29 are a launch control board (launch control unit) 28 for controlling the launch device 32 and a game ball payout device (game ball payout means) 19 for paying out game balls. The main role of the payout control board 29 is to receive a payout control command from the main control unit 20, to control the payout of the game ball payout device 19 based on the payout control command, and to transmit a status signal to the main control unit 20. It is.

  The game ball payout device 19 is provided with a replenishment detection sensor 19a for detecting insufficient supply of game balls and a ball counting sensor 19b for detecting game balls to be paid out (prize balls). Each of the detection signals can be received. The game ball payout device 19 is provided with a payout motor 19c for driving a ball payout mechanism (not shown) for paying out game balls. The payout control board 29 controls the payout motor 19c. The control signal can be transmitted.

  Further, the payout control board 29 has a full detection sensor 60 (in this embodiment, a detection sensor for detecting the storage state of the game balls stored in the upper tray 9) that detects that the upper tray 9 is full of game balls. The front door opening sensor 61 (in this embodiment, a detection sensor for detecting at least the open state of the front frame 2) is connected.

  The payout control board 29 can transmit various status signals to the main controller 20 based on detection signals from the full detection sensor 60, the front door opening sensor 61, the replenishment detection sensor 19a, and the ball counting sensor 19b. It has become. This state signal includes a ball clogging signal indicating a full state, a door opening signal indicating that at least the front frame 2 is opened, a replenishment out signal indicating insufficient supply of game balls from the game ball dispensing device 19, and a prize ball Are included, and a count error signal indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the ball counting sensor 19b, a payout completion signal indicating that the payout operation has been completed, and the like, and various status signals can be transmitted. Based on these state signals, the main control unit 20 determines whether the front frame 2 is open (door open error), whether the game ball payout device 19 is normally discharged (replenishment error), Monitor for fullness (ball clogging error), etc.

Furthermore, a discharge control board 28 is connected to the payout control board 29 so that a permission signal for permitting the launch control board 28 can be transmitted. The launch control board 28 controls the energization of a launch solenoid (not shown) provided in the launch device 32 based on the output of the permission signal from the payout control board 29, and operates the launch operation handle 15. The game ball launching action by is realized. Specifically, a firing permission signal is output from the payout control board 29 (launch permission signal ON state), and the player touches the handle with a touch sensor (not shown) provided on the firing operation handle 15. The game ball is permitted to be fired on the condition that it is detected that the fire is detected and that a fire stop switch (not shown) provided on the fire operation handle 15 is not operated. Therefore, when the firing permission signal is not output (launch permission signal OFF state), even if the firing operation handle 15 is operated, the firing operation is not executed and the game ball is not fired. Further, the strength of launching the game ball can be changed according to the operation amount of the firing operation handle 15.
When the payout control board 29 detects the clogging error, it sends a ball clogging signal to the main control unit 20 and stops outputting the firing permission signal to the firing control board 28 (launching permission signal OFF). Control is performed to stop the launching operation until the full state is resolved.
Also, the payout control board 29 outputs a firing permission signal to the firing control board 28 on the condition that the firing control is instructed from the main control unit 20.

  Here, the main controller 20 is connected to a setting key switch 94 and a RAM clear switch 98, and can receive detection signals from these switches.

The RAM clear switch 98 is, for example, a push button type switch for inputting an instruction to initialize a predetermined area of the RAM 203.
The setting key switch 94 is a key switch for switching to the setting change mode (at the time of ON operation) by inserting a setting key possessed by the hall staff when the power is turned on and performing an ON / OFF operation. Here, the setting change mode is a mode in which the setting value Ve can be changed. The set value Ve is a value representing a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The RAM clear switch 98 is turned on / off in response to an operation of a RAM clear button provided so that it can be operated with the front frame 2 opened. The setting key switch 98 is provided with a corresponding key cylinder in which the setting key can be inserted and removed. The setting key switch 98 is turned on when the setting key inserted in the key cylinder is rotated in the forward direction. It is turned OFF by rotating in the reverse direction from the ON state. The key cylinder is provided so that an operation by inserting a setting key can be performed with the front frame 2 opened. The key cylinder functions as an operator that can be operated by inserting a setting key.

  In this example, the RAM clear button is also used for changing the set value Ve. Specifically, the RAM clear button also functions as an operator for sequentially feeding the set value Ve.

  The RAM clear switch 98 and the setting key switch 94 are provided at appropriate positions inside the gaming machine 1. For example, it is disposed on the main control board 20.

The main controller 20 is connected to a setting / performance indicator 97.
The setting / performance indicator 97 has, for example, a 7-segment indicator, and functions as a display unit that can display the setting value Ve and performance information (described later). The setting / performance indicator 97 is mounted, for example, at a position on the main control unit (main control board) 20 that is easily visible.
The main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for displaying the set value Ve and performance information to the setting / performance indicator 97.

Here, the set value Ve mainly defines lottery probabilities (winning probabilities) of at least big hits (hit types for which a condition device to be described later will operate) by stage (for example, six stages of settings 1 to 6). However, the higher the set value Ve is, the higher the winning probability is (the setting 1 is the lowest winning probability, and the winning probability is increased in the ascending order of the setting value), and the player has an advantageous effect. Yes. In other words, the higher the set value Ve, the higher the so-called “mechanical discount (ball payout rate, PAYOUT rate)”, which is advantageous for the player.
As described above, the set value Ve is a value that prescribes a jackpot winning probability, a machine discount, and the like, and means a value for a grade related to the likelihood of occurrence of a specific event such as a profit state acting on a player. In the present embodiment, the advantage relating to the game is defined according to each set value Ve.

The set value Ve is set by a hall staff such as a hall clerk based solely on the sales strategy of the hall (amusement store). In addition, when there are a plurality of types of jackpots, the type of jackpot to be targeted can be determined as appropriate to determine which jackpot winning probability is changed according to the set value Ve. For example, if there are three types of big hits, 1 to 3, the higher the set value Ve, the higher the probability of winning all of the big hits 1 to 3, The combined winning probability may be increased. In addition, the probability of winning some jackpots may be increased. For example, only the winning probabilities 1 to 2 of the big hits may be increased, and the big winning 3 may be set to a constant winning probability with all the set values Ve.

(About setting value change operation)

In order to change the set value Ve, in this example, in a state where the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned off and the front frame 2 is released, the setting key switch 94 is turned on (operated to the setting change mode side) and The power to the gaming machine 1 is turned on while the RAM clear button is pressed (the RAM clear switch 98 is ON). Then, the current set value Ve is displayed on the setting / performance indicator 97, and the mode is shifted to the “setting change mode” in which the setting value Ve (for example, 1 to 6) can be changed.

  In this example, the determination as to whether or not to shift to the setting change mode is performed in the main process on the main control side described later (see step S104 in FIG. 5). When the above operating conditions for shifting to the setting change mode are satisfied, processing for changing the setting is executed accordingly.

After the transition to the setting change mode, if the RAM clear button that functions as a setting value Ve changing operator is turned ON, the current display value of the setting / performance indicator 97 becomes “1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 1 → 2 → 3 →... ”In the range of 1 to 6 and so on. When the setting key switch 94 is turned off when the desired setting value Ve is reached, the setting value Ve is determined, and information on the determined setting value Ve is stored (stored) in a predetermined area of the RAM 203.
When the setting key switch 94 is turned off, the setting change mode is terminated and the display of the setting / performance indicator 97 is cleared.
When the setting change mode ends, the state is shifted to a state in which game progress is allowed.

(About performance display)

The main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for causing the setting / performance indicator 97 to display predetermined performance information.
The performance information is information that the pachinko hall and related agencies want to confirm, such as information regarding the presence or absence of illegal prize balls such as excess prize balls for the gaming machine 1 and the original playing performance of the gaming machine 1. It is. Therefore, the performance information itself is information that is not directly related to the progress of the game itself when the player is engaged in the game, unlike the notice effect.

  For this reason, the setting / performance indicator 97 is provided inside the gaming machine 1, for example, the main control unit (main control board) 20, the payout control board 29, the launch control board 28, the relay board, the effect control unit (effect control board (liquid crystal (Including the control board) 24) and the board case (protective cover for protecting the board), etc., are provided at positions where the display information can be visually recognized when the front frame 2 is opened.

  Here, the following information can be specifically adopted as the performance information.

(1) The total number of payouts (specific total total number of winning balls: α) paid out by winning in a specific state is the total number of out balls discharged from the outlet 49 during the specific state (out of specific Information (specific ratio information) based on a value (α / β) divided by (number: β) can be adopted as performance information.
The “total number of payouts” is the total value of game balls (prize balls) paid out when winning a prize opening (upper start opening 34, lower start opening 35, general winning opening 43, large winning opening 50). It is. In the case of the present embodiment, there are three upper start openings 34 or lower start openings 35, 13 large winning openings 50, and 10 general winning openings 43.
Further, as to which state is adopted as the specific state, it can be determined as appropriate depending on the desired state of performance information. In the case of the present embodiment, any of the normal state, the latent state, the short time state, the probability variation state, and the big hit game can be employed. A plurality of types of states may be measured. For example, there are a normal state and a probable change state, and all the game states except the hit game, and the types to be measured can be determined as appropriate.
Moreover, as a period in a specific state, you may employ | adopt the period in which a jackpot lottery probability is a low probability state or a high probability state.
Alternatively, the total number of payouts may be determined by excluding one or a plurality of specific payouts from the measurement target (specific payout-excluded total payout number). For example, out of each winning opening, the one that excludes the large winning opening 50 from the measurement target may be used as the total payout number.

  (2) In addition, any one of the total payout number, the specific payout excluded total payout number, and the total number of out balls may be measured, and the measurement result may be used as performance information.

In this embodiment, the total payout number in the normal state (the normal payout number) and the total out ball number in the normal state (the normal out number) are measured in real time, and the normal payout number is determined as the normal out number. A value obtained by multiplying the value divided by 100 (value calculated as normal payout number ÷ normal time out number × 100) is displayed as performance information (hereinafter referred to as “normal time ratio information”). The displayed value at this time is a value obtained by rounding off the first decimal place.
Therefore, the normal payout number, normal out number, and normal ratio information are respectively stored in the corresponding areas of the RAM 203 (specific middle total winning ball number storage area, specific middle out number storage area, specific ratio information storage area). Stored (stored). However, instead of simply measuring permanently and displaying the performance information, when the total number of out balls reaches a predetermined specified number (for example, 60000), the measurement is temporarily terminated. The prescribed number is not the total number of out balls in the normal state but the total number of out balls (hereinafter referred to as “the number of all state outs”) in all game states (including hit games). The total number of out-states is also measured in real time, and stored in a corresponding area of the RAM 203 (all-state out number storage area). Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, the specific medium total award ball number storage area, the specific medium out number storage area, the specific ratio information storage area, and the all state out number storage area are abbreviated as “measurement information storage area”.

  Then, the normal time ratio information at the end time is stored in a predetermined area (performance display storage area) of the RAM 203 (this time normal time ratio information is stored), and then the measurement information storage area (normal payout number, normal out number) And the measurement is started again (measurement of normal payout number, normal out number, normal ratio information, and all state out ball count). The setting / performance indicator 97 displays the previous normal ratio information (measurement history information) and the normal ratio information currently being measured. It should be noted that not only the previous information but also a history such as two times before or three times before may be displayed, and how many times the information is displayed can be appropriately determined.

Here, in the case of this example, the setting / performance indicator 97 alternatively displays the setting value Ve and performance information. Specifically, in this example, setting change and setting confirmation are performed only at startup when the power is turned on. After the setting value Ve is displayed on the performance indicator 97 and the setting change or setting confirmation is completed, the performance information is displayed.
In addition, it is not limited to the structure which displays setting value Ve and performance information with a common display, The structure which displays with a separate display can also be taken. In that case, the set value Ve and the performance information may be displayed in parallel.

(Direction control command)

The main control unit 20 can transmit various effect control commands including information regarding the special symbol variation display game, information regarding errors, and the like to the effect control unit 24 according to the processing state. However, in order to prevent fraud such as a goto action, the main control unit 20 only transmits a signal to the effect control unit 24 and cannot receive a signal from the effect control unit 24. It has become.

Here, the production control command defines a function by a 2-byte structure consisting of a 1-byte length mode (MODE) and an event (EVENT) of the same 1-byte length, and in order to distinguish between MODE and EVENT, Bit7 is ON, and EVENT Bit7 is OFF. When these pieces of information are transmitted as valid, a strobe signal is output corresponding to each of the mode (MODE) and the event (EVENT). That is, when there is a command to be transmitted, the CPU 201 (main control CPU) sets and outputs mode (MODE) information for transmitting the command to the effect control unit 24, and the first time after a predetermined time elapses from this setting. The strobe signal is transmitted. Further, event (EVENT) information is set and output after a predetermined time elapses from the transmission of the strobe signal, and the second time strobe signal is transmitted after the elapse of the predetermined time from this setting. The strobe signal is controlled to be in an active state by the CPU 201 for a predetermined period during which the CPU 241 (production control CPU) can reliably receive the command.

[2-2. Production control unit]

The effect control unit 24 includes a microprocessor incorporating a CPU 241 (effect control CPU), a ROM 242 (effect control ROM) that stores effect data required for the effect control process, and a RAM 243 (function memory or buffer memory). In addition, it is composed mainly of a microcomputer equipped with a production control RAM), and also includes an acoustic control unit (sound source IC), RTC (Real Time Clock) function unit, counter circuit, interrupt controller circuit, reset circuit, WDT circuit, etc. And control the overall production operation.
The effect control unit 24 of this example includes a memory 244 in addition to the RAM 243 as a memory capable of reading and writing information. The memory 244 is composed of, for example, an SRAM, and information reading speed by the CPU 241 is slower than that of the RAM 243. The RAM 243 is not connected to a backup power source and cannot store stored information when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned off, whereas the memory 244 is connected to a backup power source and the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned off. The stored information can be held even if it is done.
The use of the memory 244 will be described later.

  The main role of the effect control unit 24 is to receive an effect control command from the main control unit 20, to determine an effect selection based on the effect control command, and to control the liquid crystal control unit 40 to cause the liquid crystal display device 36 to display an image. , Sound control of the speaker 46, light emission control of the decorative lamp 45 and various LEDs (button LED 75, other effect LED (not shown)), operation control of the movable object, and the like.

The liquid crystal control unit 40 is configured as a computer device including a CPU and various memory devices, and controls display of the liquid crystal display device 36. The liquid crystal control unit 40 stores an image storing VDP (Video Display Processor) that controls overall video output processing such as image expansion processing and image drawing, and image data (effect image data) on which the VDP performs image expansion processing. ROM, VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores image data developed by the VDP, and a CPU that controls the operation of the VDP based on various instructions (such as “liquid crystal control command” described later) from the effect control unit 24 ( A liquid crystal control CPU), a ROM (liquid crystal control ROM) that stores a program describing the display control operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU, and various data necessary for the display control, and a RAM (liquid crystal control) that functions as a work area and a buffer memory Control RAM).
The liquid crystal control CPU controls the VDP operation (display driving operation of the liquid crystal display device 36) based on the instruction from the effect control unit 24, so that the liquid crystal display device 36 displays an image corresponding to the instruction of the effect control unit 24. Is done.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 3 has a liquid crystal display CPU (a CPU of the liquid crystal control unit 40) on a separate substrate from the CPU 241 of the effect control unit 24. Such a configuration is generally referred to as a “2CPU” configuration. On the other hand, for a configuration in which a CPU that performs the same function as the CPU of the liquid crystal control unit 40 is mounted in the effect control unit 24, that is, a configuration in which the effect control unit 24 also functions as the liquid crystal control unit 40, the configuration of “1 CPU” It is called.

  The effect control unit 24 also provides a light display control unit for the light display device 45a including the decorative lamp 45 and various LEDs in order to display various effects (light effects, sound effects, and movable object effects by the movable body accessory). And an acoustic control unit for the sound generator 46a including the speaker 46, a drive control unit (motor drive circuit: driver) for the movable body accessory motor 80c for operating the movable body accessory (not shown), and the like.

  The effect control unit 24 is connected to a position detection sensor 82a for monitoring the operation of the movable body accessory, and the effect control unit 24 is based on the detection information from the position detection sensor 82a, and the current operation position of the movable body accessory. The operation mode is controlled while monitoring (for example, the amount of movement from the origin position). Further, based on the detection information from the position detection sensor 82a, the malfunction of the movable body accessory is monitored, and if a malfunction occurs, this is detected as an error.

  Further, the effect control unit 24 is connected to the switch of the effect button 13 and the cross key 16, that is, the operation detection switch of the effect button 13 and the cross key 16, and the effect control unit 24 operates from the effect button 13 and the cross key 16. Each of the detection signals can be received.

  The effect control unit 24 selects (determines) an effect pattern by lottery or uniquely from a plurality of types of effect patterns prepared in advance based on the effect control command sent from the main control unit 20 and is necessary. Various production means are controlled at the timing to produce the desired production. Thereby, display of the effect image by the liquid crystal display device 36 corresponding to the effect pattern, reproduction of the sound from the speaker 46, and lighting and blinking driving of the decoration lamp 45 and the LED are realized, and various effect patterns (decorative symbol variation display operation and The “draft scenario” in a broad sense is realized by developing the notice effect etc. in time series.

Here, with respect to the effect control command, the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) generates an interrupt process based on the input of the above-described strobe signal transmitted by the main control unit 20 (CPU 201), and performs reception / analysis thereof. Specifically, the CPU 241 executes a control program for command reception interrupt processing based on the input of the strobe signal described above, acquires an effect control command in the interrupt processing realized thereby, and analyzes the command content. Do.
At this time, if an interrupt is generated based on the input of the strobe signal, the CPU 241 performs the process even if an interrupt process based on another interrupt (a timer interrupt process periodically executed) is being executed. The command reception interrupt processing is performed by interrupting the command, and the command reception interrupt processing is preferentially performed even if other interrupts occur simultaneously.

<3. Outline of operation>
[3-1. Design variation display game]

Next, an outline of the gaming operation of the gaming machine 1 realized by the above control configuration (FIG. 3) will be described.
First, the symbol variation display game will be described.

(Special symbol variation display game)

In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, based on a predetermined start condition, specifically, the game ball enters (wins) the game ball into the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35, the main control unit 20 A “big hit lottery” is performed by random number lottery. Based on the lottery result, the main control unit 20 displays the special symbol 1 and the special symbol 2 on the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, starts the special symbol variation display game, and specially displays the result after a predetermined time. Derived and displayed on the symbol display device, thereby ending the special symbol variation display game.

  Here, in this embodiment, the big hit lottery based on the winning to the upper start opening 34 and the big hit lottery based on the winning to the lower start opening 35 are performed separately and independently. For this reason, the big hit lottery result regarding the upper start port 34 is derived on the special symbol display device 38a side, and the big hit lottery result regarding the lower start port 35 is derived on the special symbol display device 38b side. Specifically, on the side of the special symbol display device 38a, on the condition that a game ball has entered the upper start opening 34, the special symbol 1 is variably displayed and the first special symbol variation display game is started. On the other hand, on the special symbol display device 38b side, on the condition that a game ball has entered the lower start opening 35, the special symbol 2 is displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol variation display game is started. ing. Then, when the special symbol variation display game in the special symbol display device 38a or the special symbol display device 38b is started, a predetermined “big hit” is obtained when the big win lottery result is “big hit” after a predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed. In this mode, in other cases, the special symbol that is being displayed in a variable manner is stopped and displayed in a predetermined “offset” mode, whereby the game result (big hit lottery result) is derived.

In this specification, for convenience of explanation, the first special symbol variation display game on the special symbol display device 38a side is referred to as "special symbol variation display game 1", and the second special symbol on the special symbol display device 38b side. The variation display game is referred to as “special symbol variation display game 2”. Unless otherwise required, “special symbol 1” and “special symbol 2” are simply referred to as “special symbol” (sometimes abbreviated as “special symbol”), and “special symbol variation display game 1” and “ The “special symbol variation display game 2” is simply referred to as “special symbol variation display game”.

(Decoration pattern change display game)

In addition, when the above-described special symbol variation display game is started, the decorative symbol variation display game is started by variably displaying the decorative symbol (proactive game symbol) on the liquid crystal display device 36. Accompanying this, various effects are developed. When the special symbol variation display game ends, the decorative symbol variation display game also ends, the special symbol display device reflects a predetermined special symbol indicating the jackpot lottery result, and the liquid crystal display device 36 reflects the jackpot lottery result. Decorative symbols are derived and displayed. In other words, the result of the special symbol variation display game is reflected and displayed by the stunning ornamental symbol variation display game including the decorative symbol variation display operation.

  Therefore, for example, when the result of the special symbol variation display game is “big hit” (when the big hit lottery result is “hit”), the decorative symbol variation display game develops an effect reflecting the result. In the special symbol display device, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a display mode in which the special symbol is a big hit (for example, the 7-segment display state is “7”), the “left”, “middle”, “right” In each display area of “”, the display pattern in which the decorative symbol reflects “big hit” (for example, in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” display areas, the three decorative symbols are “7”, “7”, “7”. ”Is displayed).

  When this “big hit” is reached, specifically, the special symbol variation display game is terminated, and the decorative symbol variation display game is terminated accordingly. As a result, the symbol pattern of “hit” is derived and displayed. Thereafter, the special prize opening solenoid 52c of the special variable prize-winning device 52 is operated to open and close the open door 52b in a predetermined pattern, thereby opening and closing the special prize opening 50, which is more advantageous to the player than in the normal gaming state. A special gaming state (big hit game) occurs. In this jackpot game, the number of game balls won by the open door 52b until a predetermined time (maximum opening time: 29.8 seconds, for example) elapses or the number of game balls won in the big prize opening is reached. 50 (the number of winning balls) is a predetermined number (maximum number of winnings: the maximum number of winning balls allowed for an opened winning opening is increased or reduced by one operation of an accessory: for example, 9) Until the value of the game is reached, the winning area is opened or expanded, and when either of these conditions is met, the “round game” is closed, for example, a predetermined number of rounds (for example, a maximum of 16 rounds). Round) repeated.

  When the jackpot game is started, an opening effect for informing that the jackpot is started is performed first, and after the opening effect is ended, the round game is performed a plurality of times with a predetermined number of rounds as an upper limit. Then, after the specified number of rounds is finished, an ending effect for notifying that the jackpot is finished is performed, and thereby the jackpot game is finished.

Regarding the information necessary for the execution of the above-described decorative symbol variation display game, first, the main control unit 20 is based on the fact that a game ball has entered (wins) the upper start opening 34 or the lower start opening 35. Whether the game is detected by the upper start sensor 34a or the lower start sensor 35a and the start condition (the start condition related to the special symbol) is satisfied, whether the game is “big hit” or “out of” 'Lottery lottery (win / fail type lottery)' and if it is a 'big hit', the big hit type is drawn, and if it is 'out of the game', the wrong type is drawn. ) 'And a lottery lottery (If there is only one type, the lottery may be omitted because there is no need to perform a type lottery for the loss), and based on the lottery result information, the variation pattern of the special symbol And winning A special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special stop symbol”) to be finally stopped and displayed is determined according to the type.
The main control unit 20 then includes a “variation pattern designation command” including at least a special symbol variation pattern information (for example, information on the jackpot lottery result and the variation time of the special symbol) as an effect control command for specifying the processing state. It transmits to the production control unit 24 side. Thereby, basic information required for the decorative symbol variation display game is sent to the effect control unit 24. In the present embodiment, in order to enrich the production variations, a “decorative design designation command” including special stop symbol information (design lottery result information (information related to the hit type)) is also transmitted to the production control unit 24. It is like that.

  The special symbol variation pattern information may include information designating whether or not a specific notice effect (for example, “reach effect” or “pseudo-continuous effect” described below) is generated. In detail, the variation pattern of the special symbol is roughly classified into a “hit variation pattern” in the case of winning and a “outlier variation pattern” in the case of loss depending on the result of the big hit lottery. These fluctuation patterns include, for example, a “reach fluctuation pattern” that specifies the occurrence of a reach effect, which will be described later, a “normal fluctuation pattern” that does not specify the occurrence of a reach effect, and the occurrence (duplication occurrence) of a pseudo-continuous effect and a reach effect. A plurality of types of variation patterns are included, such as “reach variation pattern with pseudo-continuous” to be designated, and “normal variation pattern with pseudo-continuous” which designates the occurrence of pseudo-continuous production and does not designate the occurrence of reach production. Note that, in order to ensure the reach time of the reach effect or the pseudo-continuous effect, the change pattern that specifies the reach effect or the pseudo-continuous effect is usually set longer than the normal change pattern.

  The effect control unit 24 performs time series during the decorative symbol variation display game based on the information included in the effect control command (here, the variation pattern designation command and the decorative symbol designation command) sent from the main control unit 20. Decide the content of the production (draft scenario such as the notice effect) and the decoration pattern (decoration stop pattern) to be stopped and displayed in the end, and display the decoration pattern variably according to the time schedule based on the variation pattern of the special design. The symbol variation display game is executed. As a result, the decorative symbols by the liquid crystal display device 36 are variably displayed in synchronism with the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and the period of the special symbol variation display game and the decorative symbol variation display game are in progress. Are substantially the same time width. In addition, the effect control unit 24 controls the liquid crystal display device 36, the light display device 45a, or the sound generation device 46a so as to correspond to the effect scenario, and develops various effects in the decorative symbol variation display game. Thereby, the reproduction of the image (image effect), the reproduction of the sound effect (sound effect), and the lighting and blinking drive (light effect) of the decoration lamp 45 and the LED, etc. are realized on the liquid crystal display device 36.

In this way, the special symbol variation display game and the decorative symbol variation display game have an inseparable relationship, and the display reflecting the display result of the special symbol variation display game is expressed in the decoration symbol variation display game. These two symbol variation display games may be regarded as equivalent symbol games. In the present specification, the above two symbol variation display games may be simply referred to as “symbol variation display games” unless otherwise required.

(Normal symbol fluctuation display game)

Further, in the gaming machine 1, based on the fact that the game ball has passed (winned) through the normal symbol start opening 37, “main lottery lottery” by random number lottery is performed in the main control unit 20. Based on the lottery result, the normal symbol displayed on the LED is displayed in a normal symbol display device 39a in a variable manner to start a normal symbol variation display game. After a certain period of time, the result is converted into a combination of lighting and non-lighting of the LED. And stop display. For example, when the result of the normal symbol variation display game is “per assist”, the display unit of the normal symbol display device 39a is turned on in a specific lighting state (for example, all the two LEDs 39 are in a lighting state, or “O” and “ The display is stopped when the “○” side LED among the LEDs representing “x” is in a lighting state).

When this "subsidiary hit" is reached, the normal electric accessory solenoid 41c (see FIG. 3) is actuated, thereby opening the movable blade 47 in a reverse "C" shape and opening the lower start port 35. Alternatively, the game ball is expanded to enter a state in which the game ball is likely to flow in (opening opening state), and an auxiliary game state (hereinafter referred to as “general power open game”) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state occurs. In this ordinary open game, the game that won the lower start port 35 by the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 until the lower start port 35 has been opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.2 seconds) or has passed. Until the number of balls reaches a predetermined number (for example, 4), the winning area is opened or expanded, and when one of these conditions is satisfied, the lower start opening 35 is closed a predetermined number of times (for example, maximum 2) repeated.

(About hold)

Here, in the present embodiment, during the special / decorative symbol variation display game, during the normal symbol variation display game, during the big hit game, or during the open-circuit game, the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35 or the normal symbol start port 37 When a winning occurs, that is, when a detection signal is input from the upper start port sensor 34a, the lower start port sensor 35a or the normal symbol start port sensor 37a, and the corresponding start condition (symbol game start condition) is satisfied, As data relating to the right to start the variable display game, except for data related to the variable display game, the data is reserved and stored up to a maximum reserved storage number (for example, a maximum of four) which is a predetermined upper limit value. The on-hold hold data that has not been subjected to the symbol variation display operation, or a game ball related to the hold data is also referred to as an “operation hold ball”. In order to clarify to the player the number of the operation holding balls, a dedicated holding display (not shown) provided at an appropriate position of the gaming machine 1 or a holding display provided as an icon image on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 Turn on the indicator.

Further, in the present embodiment, up to four operation holding balls relating to the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol are each stored in the corresponding storage area of the RAM 203, and are held as the number of times that the special symbol or the normal symbol is changed. In addition, the maximum memory number (maximum reserved memory number) of each operation reservation ball number regarding the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol is not particularly limited. In addition, all or a part of the maximum reserved storage number of each symbol may be different, and the number can be appropriately determined according to game play.

[3-2. Game state]

The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to be capable of generating a plurality of types of gaming states in addition to the jackpot that is a special gaming state. In order to facilitate understanding of the present embodiment, first, various gaming states will be described.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to execute and control at least four types of gaming states: a normal state, a short time state, a latent probability state, and a probability variation state. These gaming states are distinguished by whether or not a big hit lottery probability state (low probability state, high probability state) or an electric chew support state (privilege game) is generated (with electric support, without electric support).

The “electric chew support state” means that the opening operation period of the movable wing piece 47 (at least one of the opening time of the movable wing piece 47 and the number of times of opening thereof) of the normal variation winning device 41 in the ordinary electric open game is the normal state. It refers to the "open extended state" that is extended more than. When the open extension state occurs, the opening operation period of the movable wing piece 47 is extended from, for example, 0.2 seconds in the normal state (under the non-open extension state) to 1.7 seconds. The normal time is extended to 2-3 times.
In the case of the present embodiment, the lottery probability per assistance varies from a low probability (for example, 1/256) of a predetermined probability (normal probability) to a high probability (for example, 255/256) under the electric chew support state. The figure probability variation state) occurs, and an 'ordinary symbol short-time state' that shortens the average time required for one normal symbol variation display game (ordinary symbol variation display operation time) occurs (for example, from 10 seconds) Shortened to 1 second). Therefore, when the electric chew support state occurs, the ordinary electric open game frequently occurs, and the operating rate improvement state (high base state) in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved as compared with the normal state. Hereinafter, the electric support state is abbreviated as “electric support”, and the other case is referred to as “no electric support”.

  In the present embodiment, the “normal state” is a low probability (for example, 1/399) that the jackpot lottery probability is a predetermined probability (normal probability), and a gaming state without electric support (low probability + no electric support). say.

  “Time-short state” means that the probability of winning a lottery is the same as in the normal state, but the average time required for one special symbol variation display game (special symbol variation display operation time)) is higher than the normal state. This means a game state in which a special symbol short-time state is generated, and an electric chew support state occurs. That is, during the time-short state, “low probability + electric support” + special symbol time-short state.

  The “latent probability state” is a “special symbol probability changing state” in which the probability of winning a big hit lottery is higher than the low probability (for example, 1/3 of 19.9), and a gaming state without electric support (high Probability + no power support).

  The “probability changing state” refers to a gaming state in which a big win lottery probability is as high as the latent probability state, but a special symbol short-time state and an electric chew support state occur. In other words, during the probability variation state, “high probability + electric support / plus special symbol time-short state”.

Focusing on the big win lottery probability regarding the gaming state, if the gaming state is “normal state” or “short-time state”, at least the big hit lottery probability is “low probability state”, and the gaming state is “latency probability state” “probability change”. In the case of “state”, at least the jackpot lottery probability is “high probability state”. Note that, during the big hit, a big hit game in which the big winning opening is opened and closed occurs, but the big win lottery probability and the presence / absence of electric support are placed under the same low probability / no electric support game state as in the normal state.

[3-3. About winning]

Next, “winning” in the gaming machine 1 will be described.
In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a big hit lottery (win lottery) is performed for a plurality of types of hits. In this example, the hit type includes, for example, each of the big hits of “normal 4R”, “normal 6R”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R” belonging to the big hit type.
The notation “R” means a specified number of rounds (maximum number of rounds).

  The jackpot type is a hit that triggers the operation of the condition device. Here, the “condition device” is a device whose operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device for performing a round game, in which a combination of specific special symbols is displayed or a game ball is displayed. The one that operates when passing through a specific area in the big prize opening.

In the above probability variation state, when the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game is over a predetermined number of times (for example, 70 times: the number of specified STs) without winning the jackpot type, the high probability state is terminated and a low probability is entered. This is a so-called “number cutting probability change machine (ST machine)”, and when the specified number of STs is completed, the game is shifted to the normal state from the next game. However, it may be a “general probability change machine” of the type that is continued until the next big hit is won.
The number of executions of the special symbol variation display game may be the total number of executions of the special symbol variation display game 1 and the special symbol variation display game 2 (total variation number of the special symbol 1 and the special diagram 2). Any one of the number of times of execution (for example, the number of times of execution of the special symbol variation display game 2) may be used. Further, the number of times of the short-time state is not limited to 60 times or 100 times, and can be appropriately determined according to game play. Moreover, there is no restriction | limiting in particular about what kind of contact | win, and it can determine suitably.

Here, in the present example, a plurality of types are provided for “out” as well as the jackpot type. Specifically, there are three types of detachment types: “displacement 1”, “detachment 2”, and “displacement 3”.
As described above, if the result of the winning lottery is “missing”, the lottery of the losing type is performed in the symbol lottery.

[3-4. About production]
(Direction mode)

Next, an effect mode (effect state) will be described. The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of types of effect modes for causing an effect related to the gaming state to appear, and is configured to be able to go back and forth between the effect modes. Specifically, a normal performance mode, a time reduction performance mode, a latent performance mode, and a probability variation performance mode corresponding to the normal state, the short time state, the latent state, and the probability change state are provided. In each effect mode, the background display as the background of the variation display screen of decorative symbols is displayed with different background effects so that the player can grasp what game state they are currently staying in. It has become.

The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) includes a function unit (effect state transition control means) that controls transition between a plurality of types of effect modes. The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) receives a specific effect control command sent from the main control unit 20 (CPU 201), specifically, an effect control command including game state information managed on the main control unit 20 side. Based on the game state managed on the main control unit 20 side, the current game state is grasped and transition control between a plurality of types of effect modes is possible. Examples of the specific effect control command as described above include a variation pattern designation command, a decoration symbol designation command, and a game state designation command sent when a change occurs in the game state.

(Notice production)

Next, the notice effect will be described. The effect control unit 24 is based on the contents of the effect control command from the main control unit 20, specifically, based on at least the change pattern information included in the change pattern designation command, and various effects related to the current effect mode and the jackpot lottery result. "Preliminary effects" can be controlled. Such a notice effect suggests (predicts) the degree of expectation of whether or not the winning type has been won (hereinafter referred to as “winning expectation degree”), and serves as a “drilling effect” for encouraging the player's winning expectation. work. Typical examples of the notice effect include “reach effect”, “pseudo-continuous effect”, and “prefetching notice effect”. The effect control unit 24 functions as a notice effect control means capable of executing (appearing) these effects.

  The “reach effect” refers to an effect mode with a reach state (variable display mode with a reach state: reach change pattern). Specifically, the final game result is derived and displayed via the reach state. Say the direction. The reach production includes a plurality of types of reach production associated with the winning expectation. For example, there is a case where the winning expectation degree is relatively higher than the case where a normal reach production appears. Such reach production is called 'super reach production'. Many of these “Super Reach” have a relatively longer stage time (variation time) than normal reach in order to win the winning expectation. Normal reach and super reach include multiple types of reach production. In this example, the super reach includes a plurality of types of reach productions of super reach 1, 2, 3, 4 and the winning expectation of these super reach 1 to 4 is “super reach 1 <super reach 2 <super. Reach 3 <super reach 4 ”.

  “Pseudo-continuous effect” refers to an effect that involves a pseudo continuous variation display state (pseudo-continuous variation) of a decorative symbol. “Pseudo continuous variation” refers to one of the decorative symbols in a decorative symbol variation display game. This refers to a variable display mode in which a display operation is repeated once or a plurality of times such that a part or the whole is temporarily stopped and a decorative symbol re-variable display operation is executed from the temporary stop state. This is different from a “prefetching notice effect (continuous notice effect)” described later, which is developed over a plurality of symbol variation display games. The occurrence rate (appearance rate) of such “pseudo trains” is basically determined so that the winning expectation degree increases as the number of pseudo fluctuations increases. It is easy to select an effect for raising expectations such as reach.

  The “pre-reading notice effect” is mainly used for the operation holding ball (undigested operation holding ball) that has not been provided for the execution of the symbol change display game (the change display operation of the special symbol). This is an effect mode in which the expected degree of winning can be notified in advance before the operation holding ball is used for the symbol variation display game by using the background effect of the symbol variation display game executed at the same time. In addition, in the symbol variation display game, in addition to the “reach effect”, various effects such as a so-called “SU (step-up) notice effect”, “timer notice effect”, “resurrection effect”, and “premier notice effect” are provided. Occurs and excites the game content.

Here, with reference to FIG. 4, the “holding change notice effect” as an example of the prefetch notice effect will be described.
In the case of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the display area on the upper side of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 displays a display area for displaying a decorative symbol variation display game (a decorative symbol variation display effect or a notice effect is displayed. Display area) and a lower display area in the screen has a holding display area 76 (holding display portions a1 to d1) for displaying the number of reserved balls on the special symbol 1 side and a special symbol. A holding display area 77 (holding display portions a2 to d2) for displaying the number of operation holding balls on the second side is provided. As for the presence / absence of the operation hold ball, this is notified by a predetermined hold display mode. In FIG. 4, the presence or absence of the operation holding ball is turned on (with the operation holding ball: “◯ (white circle mark)” in the figure)) or turned off (without the operation holding ball: the broken line circle shown in the figure). The example which alert | reports the information regarding the number of operation suspension balls is shown.

  The display (holding display) regarding the presence or absence of the operation holding ball is sequentially displayed in the order of occurrence (winning order). In each holding display area 76, 77, the leftmost operation holding ball is all the operations in the holding display. It is displayed as the operation holding ball that occurs first (that is, the oldest) on the time axis among the holding balls. Further, on the left side of the hold display areas 76 and 77, a changing display area 78 is provided to indicate an operating hold ball currently used for the special symbol change display game. In the case of the present embodiment, the changing display area 78 is configured such that an image of a form in which an icon of the game execution hold K currently provided for the game appears on the icon of the seat J appears. That is, when the change display of the special symbol 1 or the special symbol 2 is started, the icon (icon image) of the oldest hold a1 or a2 displayed in the hold display areas 76 and 77 is the game running hold K. The icon moves to the icon of the seat J in the changing display area 78, and the state is maintained for a predetermined display time.

When an operation holding ball is generated, from the main control unit 20, the pre-reading determination information related to the big hit lottery result and the number of operation holding balls at the time of the pre-reading determination (the number of existing operation holding balls including the operation holding ball generated this time) Is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (see steps S1309 to S1312 in FIG. 18).
In the case of the present embodiment, the hold addition command is composed of 2 bytes, and the hold addition command makes it possible to specify the data on the upper byte side that makes it possible to specify the number of suspended balls at the time of prefetch determination, and prefetch determination information. It consists of lower byte data.

Here, as can be understood from the above description, in the present embodiment, the pre-reading of the reserved ball is based on the fact that a winning ball is generated at the upper starting port 34 or the lower starting port 35 and a new holding ball is generated. As a determination, a big hit lottery is performed for the symbol variation display game related to the reserved ball. As will be described later, the main control unit 20 suspends and stores information representing the result of the big hit lottery performed as such a prefetch determination in the corresponding storage area of the RAM 203.
The information of the jackpot lottery result obtained at the time of prefetching determination is used for selecting (lottery) a symbol variation pattern in the symbol variation display game, and can be said to be “variation pattern selection information”. Therefore, it can be said that the main control unit 20 makes a prefetch determination and holds the “variation pattern selection information” obtained as a result in a predetermined area of the RAM 203.

  When receiving the above hold addition command transmitted from the main control unit 20, the effect control unit 24, based on the prefetch determination information included therein, as a part of the display control process related to the hold display, “prefetching notice effect” The effect control process is performed. Specifically, a “prefetching notice lottery” for drawing whether or not to execute the prefetching notice effect is performed, and if this is won, the prefetching notice effect is displayed.

Here, the pre-reading determination information specifically refers to a big hit lottery result (a big hit lottery result at the start of fluctuation) executed when the main control unit 20 is used for the action holding ball in the symbol fluctuation display game, This is game information obtained by prefetching the variation pattern at the start of variation. In other words, this information includes at least pre-determined winning lottery results at the start of fluctuation (pre-read winning information), other information that pre-determined symbol lottery results (pre-read symbol information), and fluctuations at the start of fluctuation. Information (prefetch variation pattern information) obtained by prefetching a pattern can be included. What information is included in the hold addition command to be sent to the effect control unit 24 can be appropriately determined according to the content to be notified in the prefetch notice.
In this example, it is assumed that the pending addition command includes prefetch failure information, prefetch symbol information, and prefetch variation pattern information.

  Note that the “look-ahead variation pattern” obtained by the pre-reading determination at the time of the operation holding ball occurrence is not necessarily the “variation pattern at the start of the variation” itself obtained when the operation holding ball is actually subjected to the variation display operation. There is no. For example, a case in which the variation pattern at the start of the variation is a variation pattern designating “super reach 1” will be representatively described. In this case, the content designated by the prefetch variation pattern is “super reach 1”. It is possible to specify that it is not the type of reach production itself but the “super reach type” that is the main point.

In the case of the present embodiment, when the pre-reading notice lottery is won, among the holding icons of the holding display parts a1 to d1 and a2 to d2, the holding icon that is the target of the prefetching notice is, for example, a normal holding display. “Normal hold display mode” can be changed from the white color of the normal display to the hold display (special hold display mode) with the blue, green, red, or danger pattern (or a special color or pattern such as rainbow color) of the notice display. System "pre-reading notice effect (also referred to as" pending change notice ") is performed.
FIG. 4 shows an example in which the operation hold ball of the hatched hold display portion b1 is changed to a special hold display. Here, the blue, green, red, and danger pattern display of the hold icon means that the winning expectation degree is high in this order. Especially, the display of the hold icon of the danger pattern has a very high win expectation expectation degree. It is a premium hold icon that is displayed.

(Direction means)

Various effects in the gaming machine 1 are displayed by effecting means arranged in the gaming machine 1. The effecting means may be any stimulus transmitting means that can exert the effect by appealing to human perception such as vision, hearing, and touch, and light generation means (light display device 45a: LED lamp device, etc.). Light producing means), a sound generating device such as a speaker 46 (sound producing device 46a: sound producing means), an effect displaying device (display means) such as a liquid crystal display device 36, a pressurizing device for transmitting contact pressure to the operator's body, Typical examples are a wind pressure device that applies wind pressure to a player's body, a movable body accessory that exhibits a visual effect by its operation, and the like. Here, the effect display device is a display device that appeals to the eye like the image display device, but differs from the image display device in that it also includes a display device that does not depend on an image (for example, a 7-segment display). The term “image display device” refers mainly to a type that produces an effect by displaying an image, and a device that produces an effect other than an image, such as a 7-segment display, is included in the concept of the effect display device.

<4. Processing of main control unit>

Subsequently, processing performed by the main control unit 20 of the present embodiment will be described. The process of the main control unit 20 is mainly a predetermined main process (main control side main process: FIG. 5) and a timer interrupt process (main control side timer interrupt process: FIG. 14) activated by a scheduled interrupt from the CTC. It is comprised including.

[4-1. Main control side main processing]

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the main process on the main control side.
The main process on the main control side is started when a system reset occurs due to a system reset signal from the power supply board when recovering from a power failure or power failure, or when the control program runs out of control. In some cases, the CPU 201 is forcibly reset (WDT reset) by exerting (WDT). In any case, when the main process is started, the main control unit 20 (CPU 201) first executes an initial setting process necessary for starting a game operation such as initial setting of register values of each unit including the CPU 201. (Step S101).

(Initial setting process)

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the initial setting process in step S101.
In FIG. 6, when the above system reset or WDT reset occurs, the CPU 201 sets itself to an interrupt disabled state in step S201, and then sets the stack pointer value in the RAM 203 as the stack area as stack pointer setting processing in step S202. Execute processing for setting corresponding to the last address of. In the subsequent step S203, processing for invalidating the RAM protection and invalidating the prohibited area in the out-of-designated area running prohibition function of the RAM 203 is performed.

Next, in step S204, the CPU 201 executes processing for setting the security signal OFF, the set value display OFF, and the firing permission signal OFF. Here, the security signal is a signal output to the hall computer HC through the frame external concentration terminal board 21 and functions as a signal for notifying the hall computer HC of a status such as a setting change. The setting value display OFF means that the display of the setting value Ve on the setting / performance indicator 97 is turned off.
The firing permission signal is a signal output from the dispensing control board 29 to the firing control board 28 as described above, and the CPU 201 instructs the dispensing control board 29 to turn off the firing permission signal.
Here, the security signal OFF and the set value display OFF are countermeasures for turning on / off the power during the setting change. That is, since there is a possibility that the power is turned off while the setting value Ve is being displayed in the setting change process, the setting value display and the security signal are temporarily turned off.

In step S205 following step S204, the CPU 201 executes a power supply abnormality check process.
As shown in FIG. 7, in the power failure check process, the WDT timer is cleared (step S301), and it is determined whether or not the power failure signal is ON (step S302). The power supply abnormality signal is a signal output from the power supply board, indicating that the power supply abnormality signal OFF is at a normal level, and indicating that the power supply abnormality signal ON is not at a normal level (that is, abnormal). If the power supply abnormality signal is ON, the CPU 201 returns to step S101 shown in FIG. That is, when an abnormality is recognized in the power source, the main process on the main control side is reset.
If the power supply abnormality signal is not ON, no abnormality is recognized in the power supply, and the CPU 201 ends the power supply abnormality check process.

  Returning to FIG. 6, in response to the completion of the power supply abnormality check process in step S205, the CPU 201 performs various setting processes at startup in step S206. In the setting process in step S206, for example, an interrupt mode setting process for setting a predetermined interrupt mode, an internal hard random number setting process for starting an internal hard random number circuit, and the like are executed.

  In step S207 following step S206, the CPU 201 sets the activation waiting time of the sub control board (effect control unit 24). And it waits for the set waiting time to elapse by the process of step S208-S210. Specifically, 1 is subtracted from the set activation waiting time (step S208), and after executing the power supply abnormality check process (step S209), the activation waiting time is not zero (step S210: ≠ 0). Return to the process. The start-up of the effect control unit 24 is completed by such standby processing based on the start-up waiting time.

In step S210, when the activation waiting time has elapsed (waiting time = 0), the CPU 201 proceeds to step S211 and transmits a standby screen display command to the effect control unit 24.
In response to this standby screen display command, the effect control unit 24 displays on the liquid crystal display device 36 a predetermined screen display determined in response to activation, such as a screen on which characters such as “Please Wait...” Are arranged. Control to make it run.

In response to the execution of the transmission process of step S211, the CPU 201 advances the process to step S212, and performs the power supply abnormality check process (S212: see FIG. 7) by the process of step S212 and step S213, while performing the payout control. It waits for a power-on signal from the substrate 29 to be sent. This power-on signal is a signal that is output when the payout control board 29 starts up normally, and the CPU 201 waits until the payout control board 29 starts up normally. As a result, if the payout control board 29 is not functioning normally due to some trouble, only the processes of steps S212 and S213 are repeated, and the gaming operation is not started. Therefore, for example, a payout abnormality such as a prize ball not being paid out does not occur, and it is possible to prevent the player from feeling distrust.
When the power-on signal is sent (step S213: ON), the CPU 201 ends the initial setting process in step S101.

(Process after initial setting)

The CPU 201 proceeds to step S102 shown in FIG. 5 in response to finishing the initial setting process.
In step S102, the CPU 201 acquires information on the input port n (that is, a predetermined input port) and copies it to the W register.
Here, the input port n is a 1-byte (8-bit) port, and the following signals are input in this example. Note that “b0” to “b7” shown below represent bit positions.

b0: Setting key (input signal from setting key switch 94)
b1: Replenishment detection signal b2: Count error signal b3: Disconnection detection signal 1
b4: Disconnection detection signal 2
b5: Door open signal (detection signal of front door open sensor 61)
b6: RAM clear button (input signal from the RAM clear switch 98)
b7: Power-on signal and payout communication confirmation signal

Here, regarding the setting key of b0, “0” means the setting key switch 94 = OFF, and “1” means the setting key switch 94 = ON. As for the door opening signal of b5, “0” means door closing (the front frame 2 is closed), and “1” means door opening. Further, regarding the RAM clear button b6, “0” means the RAM clear switch 98 = OFF (button non-operation state), and “1” means the RAM clear switch 98 = ON (button operation state).

In step S103 following step S102, the CPU 201 masks the value of the W register. Specifically, values required for performing transition determination of setting change processing (S115), RAM clear processing (at least S117 and S118), setting confirmation processing (S109), and backup restoration processing (S111) described below. A process for masking values other than the setting key (b0), the RAM clear button (b6), and the door opening signal (b5) is performed.
As can be understood from the above description, the transition condition to the setting change process is that both the setting key and the RAM clear button are in the operating state with the front frame 2 opened at the time of startup. ing.
In this example, the transition condition to the RAM clear process is that, in terms of operation, the setting key is in a non-operation state and the RAM clear button is in an operation state at the time of activation.
In terms of operation, the transition condition to the setting confirmation process is that the setting key is in the operating state and the RAM clear button is in the non-operating state when the front frame 2 is opened.
Further, the condition for shifting to the backup restoration process is that, in terms of operation, both the setting key and the RAM clear button are not operated at the time of activation.

FIG. 8 shows a correspondence relationship between each determination condition on the operation surface and the value of the W register when shifting to the setting change process, the RAM clear process, the setting confirmation process, and the backup restoration process.
FIG. 8 shows the order of transition to setting change processing, RAM clear processing, setting confirmation processing, and backup restoration processing.
As shown in the figure, the determination condition for the transition to the first setting change process is that the determination condition is set key: ON (setting key switch 94: ON), door opening: ON (front door opening sensor 61: ON), RAM clear switch 98. : ON, therefore, the value of the W register is 0 bit: 1, 5th bit: 1, 6th bit: 1.
In determining whether to shift to the second RAM clear process, it is determined whether the determination condition is the RAM clear switch 98: ON and the value of the W register is the sixth bit: 1. Here, in this example, the transition determination to the RAM clear process is executed when the transition condition for the setting change process is not satisfied. In addition, it is a condition that the RAM clear switch 98 is OFF in the transition to the setting confirmation process and the backup restoration process. From these points, if the transition condition to the setting change process is not satisfied and the RAM clear switch 98 is ON, it can be estimated that the transition operation to the RAM clear process is being performed. Therefore, in this example, as described above, in the determination of the transition to the RAM clear process, in terms of operation, it is determined only whether or not the RAM clear switch 98 is ON (the 6th bit is 1 or not). It is said.

In the determination to shift to the third setting confirmation process, the determination condition is set key: ON, door open: ON, RAM clear switch 98: OFF. : 1st, 6th bit: 0 is a condition.
Further, the determination of the transition to the fourth backup restoration process is performed with the determination condition set key: OFF and RAM clear switch 98: OFF. It is a condition.

  Here, regarding the backup restoration process, the transition condition for performing only the backup restoration process without going through the setting confirmation process is expressed as “setting key: OFF, RAM clear switch 98: OFF” on the operation surface as described above. However, a condition for determining whether or not to simply shift to the state where the backup restoration process is performed regardless of whether or not the setting confirmation process is executed is that a backup flag described later is ON (step S106). (See Judgment process).

Returning to FIG.
In response to performing the masking process in step S103, the CPU 201 executes a setting change condition establishment determination process in step S104. Specifically, in order to determine whether or not to shift to the setting change mode, it is determined whether or not the value (3 bits) after masking in step S103 is “111”.
If the value after masking is “111” and a positive result is obtained that the setting change condition is satisfied, the CPU 201 executes the setting change process in step S115. That is, processing for newly setting the setting value Ve is performed in accordance with the operation of the RAM clear button or the setting key.
Details of the setting change process in step S115 will be described later.

Here, as described above, in the present embodiment, the detection signals from the setting key switch 94, the front door opening sensor 61, and the RAM clear switch 98, in other words, the respective detections used for determining the transition to the setting change mode. A signal is input to the same input port of the main control unit 20, and it is collectively determined whether or not the value of each input detection signal is a value that satisfies a predetermined condition.
Accordingly, the number of determination processes can be reduced as compared with the case of individually determining whether or not the value of each detection signal satisfies a predetermined condition for the determination of transition to the setting change mode.

In response to the execution of the setting change process in step S115, the CPU 201 executes a command transmission process at the time of RAM clear in step S116, performs an in-area RAM initialization process in the subsequent step S117, and then clears the RAM in step S118. Execute time processing.
The command transmission process in step S116 is a process of transmitting an effect control command (such as a RAM clear command (BA02H)) for notifying the effect control unit 24 that RAM clear is to be performed, details of which will be described later.
The initialization process in step S117 is a process for initializing (clearing) values in a predetermined area (use area) including a work area in the RAM 203. However, in the initialization process of step S117, the storage area for the set value Ve in the work area is not subject to initialization.
In the RAM clearing process in step S118, as shown in FIG. 9, a RAM clear notification timer setting process (S401) is performed, and then a partial RAM initial value setting process (S402) is performed. The RAM clear notification timer is a process of setting a RAM clear notification time that is executed by the effect control unit 24 in accordance with the command transmitted in step S116, and in this example, 30s is set. In the partial initial value setting process in step S402, for example, initial values are set in a partial area excluding the work area of the RAM 203.
CPU201 advances processing to Step S119 according to having performed processing at the time of RAM clear of Step S118.

Note that the above-described performance information is stored in an area outside the use area in the RAM 203, and therefore is not cleared by the RAM clear process in steps S117 and S118.
What is to be cleared in the RAM clearing process is data of various flags necessary for normal game progress, and data in a RAM area (normal data storage area) such as a timer and a counter. Examples of these data include the following. That is, data relating to the game state designation (a game state flag for specifying a current game state such as a normal state, a probability change state, a short time state, a latent state, etc.), and a flag (condition device) for designating whether or not a winning game is being played Operation flag), various data related to the execution of the winning game (current number of rounds, maximum number of rounds, etc.), data related to the big hit lottery result (big hit judgment flag: winning lottery result information, special symbol judgment data: symbol lottery result information) , Hold data related to the active hold ball (actual hold ball number, various random numbers used for big hit lottery, various random values used for lottery per auxiliary, random number for variation pattern), special symbol operation status, managing game progress Timer (special symbol accessory operation timer), input / output data related to switches and sensors, various winning counters for counting the number of winning balls in the winning opening, electric support Flags that specify the presence or absence of an electric signal (open extension flag), electric support count counter that counts the remaining number of electric supports, counters that count the remaining number of times in a high probability state (special figure variable number counter, universal figure variable number counter), various An error flag (excluding a RAM error flag), payout-related data, and the like. In any case, when the RAM clear process is executed, all data other than the specific data (set value Ve and performance information) are set to the initial state.

Here, when the setting change process is executed at the time of startup as described above, the process proceeds to step S116 and the RAM clear process (S117, S118) is executed.
In the setting change process, the setting value Ve can be changed. When the set value Ve is changed, there is a possibility that the stored values other than the set value Ve in the work area of the RAM 203 are not consistent with the changed set value Ve. For this reason, when the setting change process is performed, an area other than the set value Ve in the work area is cleared (initialized) by executing a RAM clear process.

Subsequently, in the previous step S104, if the value after masking in step S103 is not “111” and a negative result that the setting change condition is not satisfied is obtained, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S105 and the RAM abnormality occurs. It is determined whether or not. Specifically, whether or not the set value Ve stored in the work area of the RAM 203 is a value outside the normal range (in this example, the set value Ve corresponding to the settings 1 to 6 is outside the range of 0 to 5). Determine at least.
Here, the setting value Ve actually handled by the CPU 201 is, for example, a 1-byte value, and values 00H (0) to 05H (5) are defined as values corresponding to the settings 1 to 6. “H” means a hexadecimal number (hereinafter the same). In the determination processing in step S105, it is determined whether or not the set value Ve stored in the work area is a value in the range of 00H to 05H.

In step S105, when it is determined that the set value Ve is out of the normal range and the RAM is abnormal, the CPU 201 proceeds to a process for waiting for power-on after step S112.
Specifically, in step S112, the CPU 201 performs an effect control command (setting) for instructing notification to prompt the power-on and setting change of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as command transmission processing upon power-on again. The process of transmitting the change waiting command) to the effect control unit 24 is performed. When a RAM abnormality is detected at the time of startup, the mode is forcibly shifted to the setting change mode and a change (setting) of the setting value Ve is accepted. For this reason, first, in step S112, the CPU 201 notifies the effect control unit 24 of the transition to the setting change mode by a setting change waiting command.
Upon receiving the setting change waiting command, the production control unit 24 executes a screen display for prompting a setting change operation on the liquid crystal display device 36 such as a screen including characters such as “Please open the door to change the setting”. Let At this time, the effect control unit 24 may perform control for causing a corresponding light effect (for example, lighting of all LEDs in the light display device 45a) and sound effect to appear together with the screen display.

  In step S113 following step S112, the CPU 201 sets the backup flag to 00H (that is, OFF), and then repeats the power supply abnormality check process in step S114 (see FIG. 7). The power abnormality check process in step S114 is repeated until the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is cut off. When the power is turned on again, the processes after step S101 are executed again as the main control side main process. At this time, if the transition operation to the setting change mode is performed according to the above-described screen display or the like, the transition to the setting change mode is performed, and the RAM abnormal state is resolved.

If it is determined in step S105 that the setting value Ve is not outside the normal range and the RAM is not abnormal, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S106 and determines whether or not the backup flag is in the ON state (in this example, backup flag = 5AH). Is ON).
In the gaming machine 1, when the power is cut off, the stored information in the RAM 203 is backed up by power check / backup processing (step S901, see FIG. 24) described later in the main control timer interrupt processing. If the backup process is properly performed when the power is shut off, the backup flag is turned on (see step S1010 in FIG. 25). Therefore, in the above step S106, the backup flag is checked to determine whether or not the backup can be restored. Specifically, in step S106, it is determined whether or not the backup flag stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 203 is in an ON state (5AH).

  If it is determined in step S106 that the backup flag is not ON, the CPU 201 advances the process to step S112 described above. As a result, when the backup restoration condition is not satisfied, the transition to the setting change mode is forcibly performed as in the case where the RAM abnormality described above is recognized.

  Here, as described above, the determination process of step S106 corresponds to a process of determining whether or not to shift to a state in which the backup restoration process is performed regardless of whether the setting confirmation process is executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S106 that the backup flag is ON, the CPU 201 determines in step S107 whether or not a RAM clear condition (a condition for shifting to the RAM clear process) is satisfied. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the sixth bit of the W register is “1”.
If the value of the sixth bit of the W register is “1” and a positive result is obtained that the RAM clear condition is satisfied, the CPU 201 advances the process to step S116 described above. Thereby, the RAM clear process described above is executed.

  Here, as can be seen with reference to the route from step S107 to S116 described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to clear the RAM without changing the setting. Thus, it is possible to deal with cases where it is desired to clear data other than the data related to the set value Ve, such as payout-related data in the RAM 203.

In step S107, if the value of the sixth bit of the W register is not “1” and a negative result is obtained that the RAM clear condition is not satisfied, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S108 and proceeds to step S108. It is determined whether or not a condition for shifting to setting confirmation processing is satisfied. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the W register after masking in step S103 is “110”.
If the value of the W register after masking is “110” and a positive result is obtained that the setting confirmation condition is satisfied, the CPU 201 executes the setting confirmation processing in step S109 and advances the processing to step S110. In other words, the processing shifts to backup restoration.
The details of the setting confirmation process in step S109 will be described again.

  On the other hand, if the W register value after masking is not “110” and a negative result is obtained that the setting confirmation condition is not satisfied, the CPU 201 passes the setting confirmation processing in step S109 and proceeds to step S110. .

  In step S110, the CPU 201 performs a process of transmitting a predetermined effect control command corresponding to the time of backup recovery to the effect control unit 24 as a command transmission process at the time of backup recovery.

In step S111 following step S110, the CPU 201 performs backup restoration processing.
The backup recovery process is a process for returning to the operation before power-off after power-on based on the storage contents of the RAM 203 backed up at the time of power-off. Specifically, the CPU 201 restores the stack pointer before the power is shut off, and performs a process for starting a gaming operation from the processing state at the time of power shut-off.

  When the backup recovery process of step S111 is executed, or when the above-described RAM clear process of step S118 is executed (that is, when both the setting change process and the RAM clear process are executed, or when only the RAM clear process is executed) ) The CPU 201 advances the process to step S119.

In step S119, the CPU 201 sets a CTC for periodically generating a timer interrupt every predetermined time such as 4 ms.
By performing the setting process in step S119, an interrupt request signal to the interrupt controller is periodically output, and the main control timer interrupt process is executed.

In subsequent step S <b> 120, the CPU 201 turns on a firing permission signal for the payout control board 29. In response to this, the payout control board 29 determines that it is in a launch permission state, outputs the permission signal to the launch control board 28, and allows the launching device 32 to launch a game ball. As a result, the game ball can be launched by the launch operation handle 15.
Here, the discharge control board 29 receives the launch permission signal from the main control unit 20 and permits the launch operation, that is, the launch permission instruction information from the main control unit 20 is indirectly transmitted through the payout control board 29. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a configuration in which a firing permission signal from the main control unit 20 is directly output to the firing control board 28 may be employed. .

In step S121 following step S120, the CPU 201 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command for instructing the start of the game to the effect control unit 24, and then proceeds to step S121 to perform the main loop pre-processing shown in FIG. After execution, the main loop process of step S123 is executed.
As shown in FIG. 10, in the main loop pre-processing, first, in step S501, the value of all registers is saved in a predetermined area such as the stack area of the RAM 203, and then the operation confirmation flag is turned ON in step S502. In step S503, the operation confirmation timer is set to a predetermined value (in this example, a value corresponding to 5s). Then, in step S504, the CPU 201 performs a process of restoring all the saved register values to the corresponding registers, and the main loop preprocessing in step S121 is completed.

(Main loop processing)

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the main loop process of step S123.
In the main loop process of FIG. 11, the CPU 201 sets itself to an interrupt disabled state in step S601, and executes a random number update process in subsequent step S602. In this random number update process, various random numbers used in the special symbol variation display game and the normal symbol variation display game (random numbers related to the big hit lottery circulating through a predetermined numerical range by the increment process (special symbol determination used in the symbol lottery) Random numbers) and random numbers used for lottery per assistance (random numbers for judgment per assistance used for winning lottery per assistance)) (random numbers used for special symbol judgment) , An initial value random number for determining per assistance) and a random number for variation pattern used to select a variation pattern.

  In the RAM 203 of the present embodiment, as various random number counters used for symbol lottery related to jackpot lottery, supplementary lottery, or variation pattern lottery, a counter for generating a random symbol initial value for special symbol determination, a special symbol determination There are provided a random number counter for use, a counter for generating a random number for initial determination for auxiliary per unit, a random number counter for determining auxiliary per unit, a random number counter for variation pattern, and the like. These counters serve as random number generation means for generating random numbers in software. In the random number update process in step S302, the above-described special symbol determination random number counter, two initial value generation counters for generating initial values of the auxiliary hit determination random number counter, the fluctuation pattern random number counter, and the like are updated to Generate a soft random number of. For example, if the numerical value range that can be taken as the variation pattern random number counter is “0 to 238”, the value is acquired from the count value storage area for generating the variation pattern random number value in the RAM 203, and the acquired value is After adding “1”, it is stored in the original count value storage area. At this time, if the result of adding “1” to the acquired value is “239”, “0” is stored in the original random number counter storage area. Other initial value generation random number counters are updated in the same manner.

When the random number update processing in step S602 is completed, the CPU 201 performs processing for saving the values of all registers in step S603, and then performs performance display monitor aggregation division processing in step S604.
This performance display monitor totaling division process is a process of calculating a value as the above-described performance information (here, for example, a value as the above-mentioned “normal time ratio information”). As described above, the value of the normal time ratio information is calculated using the total number of payouts and the total number of out balls. However, the CPU 201 determines the winning prize (upper start port 34, Calculated based on the result of counting the number of game balls won in the lower start opening 35, the general winning opening 43, the big winning opening 50), and the total number of out balls is the number of game balls discharged from the out opening 49 Find by counting.
The counting of the number of winning balls and the counting of the number of out balls are performed in an input management process (see step S904 in FIG. 14) described later in the main control timer interrupt process. The CPU 201 calculates a value as normal time ratio information in step S604 based on the count values of the number of winning balls and the number of out balls that are performed on the timer interrupt processing side in this way. As described above, the calculated value as the normal time ratio information is stored in a predetermined area (measurement information storage area) of the RAM 203.
The value of the normal time ratio information calculated in this way is displayed on the setting / performance indicator 97 by a performance display monitor display process (see step S916 in FIG. 14) described later in the main control timer interrupt process.

  In step S605 following step S604, the CPU 201 performs all register return processing, sets itself to an interrupt enabled state in step S606, and then returns to step S601.

Thus, in the main loop process of step S123, the processes of steps S601 to S606 are repeated in an infinite loop. The CPU 201 repeatedly executes the processes in steps S601 to S606 except during the timer interrupt process that is intermittently performed.

(Setting change processing)

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the setting change process in step S115.
In this setting change process, a process for setting the set value Ve based on the operation, and an effect control command for notifying that the setting is being changed or a newly set value Ve is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The process for doing is performed.

In FIG. 12, the CPU 201 first executes a process of transmitting a setting changing command (BA5AH) to the effect control unit 24 in step S701.
Upon receiving this setting change command, the effect control unit 24 displays on the liquid crystal display device 36 a screen display for notifying that the setting is being changed, such as a screen on which characters such as “setting is being changed”. A process for executing the sound or outputting a corresponding sound while changing the setting from the speaker 46 is performed. Further, at this time, the effect control unit 24 may light a predetermined LED (for example, all LEDs) in the above-described light generation means (light display device 45a) with a predetermined lighting pattern.

In subsequent step S702, the CPU 201 sets the backup flag to 00H (that is, in the OFF state), and executes input data creation processing in step S703.
This input data creation processing is executed by calling the same processing in step S902 in the main control timer interrupt processing (FIG. 14). As will be described later, the input data created by the input data creation processing includes input data of the RAM clear switch 98 that indicates whether or not the setting value Ve is sequentially forwarded, and setting key switches that indicate whether or not the setting change is completed. 94 input data are included.
As will be described later, the data created in the input data creation process in step S711 is used to determine whether or not there is a forward operation for the set value Ve (S712) and whether or not to perform a completion operation (S718). The significance of executing the input data creation process in step S703 prior to the input data creation process in step S711 will be described later.

  In response to the execution of the creation process in step S703, the CPU 201 determines in step S704 whether or not the set value Ve is within a normal range (in this example, a range of 0 (00H) to 5 (05H)). To do. If the set value Ve is not within the normal range, the CPU 201 rewrites the set value Ve to “0” in step S705. The set value Ve to be rewritten here is not the set value Ve stored in the work area of the RAM 203 but the register set value Ve copied from the work area (the set value Ve set in the register for creating display data). )

  Here, in this example, since the setting change condition determination (S104) is executed prior to the RAM abnormality determination (S105), the setting value Ve of the RAM 203 is not within the normal range when the setting change mode is entered. Can occur. Therefore, the determination process in step S704 is performed, and when the set value Ve is an abnormal value, the set value Ve is rewritten to a predetermined value (“0” in this example). Thereby, it is possible to prevent generation of data indicating an abnormal set value Ve as display data for the set value Ve described later, and the set value Ve displayed on the setting / performance indicator 97 when the setting is changed. It is possible to prevent occurrence of a display bug (a value outside the normal range is erroneously displayed).

  In step S704, if the set value Ve is within the normal range, the CPU 201 passes step S705 and executes a power supply abnormality check process (see FIG. 7) in step S706, and then in step S707, a security signal Execute output processing. Specifically, processing is performed so that a security signal is output to the hall computer HC through the frame external concentration terminal board 21.

  In step S708 following step S707, the CPU 201 sets a chattering prevention waiting time, and then waits until the set chattering prevention waiting time elapses by the processing of steps S709 and S710. That is, while waiting for the chattering prevention waiting time to be −1 in step S709, the process waits until the chattering prevention waiting time becomes “0” in step S710.

If it is determined in step S710 that the chattering prevention waiting time is “0” and the chattering prevention waiting time has elapsed, the CPU 201 executes input data creation processing in step S711, and the RAM clear switch 98 is ON in the subsequent step S712. It is determined whether or not.
If the RAM clear switch 98 is not ON, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S717 to output setting value display data, that is, sets display data indicating a value corresponding to the setting value Ve currently stored in the register. Processing to output to the performance indicator 97 is performed.
As can be understood from the flow of the processing so far, when the transition to the setting change mode is performed, the RAM 203 (at that point in time until the forward operation of the setting value Ve by the RAM clear button is performed. And the setting value Ve stored in the register) (“1” corresponding to “0” when it is determined that the setting is abnormal in step S704) is displayed on the setting / performance display 97. In other words, the display allows the hall staff to check the current set value Ve.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S712 that the RAM clear switch 98 is ON, the CPU 201 determines in step S713 whether the RAM clear switch 98 is continuously ON. That is, input data creation processing for the latest two times including the input data creation processing in step S711 executed immediately after step S713 (the input data creation processing in step S703 is the target in the first step S713). It is determined whether or not the input data of the obtained RAM clear switch 98 are both ON.
If it is determined that the RAM clear switch 98 is continuously ON, the CPU 201 does not execute the sequential process of the setting value Ve (steps S714 to S715 described later), and proceeds to the display data output process of step S717.

Here, when the setting change process is started while the RAM clear button is pressed, an operator such as a hall staff member is pressing the RAM clear button for shifting to the setting change mode. However, on the gaming machine 1 side, there is a possibility that pressing of the RAM clear button may be detected as a forward operation of the set value Ve. In that case, the setting value Ve displayed immediately after the transition of the setting change process is “2” (01H) where the setting value should be “1” (00H) when the setting value is abnormal (step S704: N). When the set value is normal (in the case of step S704: Y), the set value Ve immediately before the transition to the setting change mode is erroneously displayed as a value that has been forwarded one order.
Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to prevent such erroneous display, an input data creation process in step S703 and a continuous ON determination process in step S711 are provided. With these processes, even if the setting change process is started while the RAM clear button is pressed, when the RAM clear switch 98 is continuously turned on, the forward process of the set value Ve is not executed and the set value Ve is not changed. Since the display data output is performed, that is, until the RAM clear switch 98 is once turned off and then turned on again, the forward feed process of the set value Ve is not executed, and thus the erroneous display of the set value Ve as described above is prevented. Can be planned.

In response to determining that the RAM clear switch 98 is not continuously turned on in step S713, the CPU 201 increments the set value Ve by 1 (register set value Ve is incremented by 1) in step S714, and then continues in step S715. It is determined whether or not Ve is a value within a specified range, specifically, in this example, whether or not it is within a range of “0 to 5”. In step S715, if the set value Ve is not within the specified range, the CPU 201 rewrites the set value Ve to “0” (00H) in step S716, and proceeds to the display data output process in step S717. As a result, the set value Ve can be changed to the value “00H” corresponding to the setting 1 in accordance with the forward operation performed in the state where the set value Ve is “05H” corresponding to the setting 6, and the setting value Ve is cyclically changed. Changes are realized.
On the other hand, if the set value Ve is within the specified range, the CPU 201 passes step S716 and proceeds to the display data output process in step S717. In other words, in this case, the register setting value Ve is updated by a value obtained by incrementing the original setting value Ve before the forward operation, and a value corresponding to the updated setting value Ve is displayed on the setting / performance display 97. .

In response to the execution of the display data output process in step S717, the CPU 201 determines in step S718 whether or not the setting key switch 94 is OFF.
If the setting key switch 94 is not OFF (that is, if the setting completion operation has not been performed), the CPU 201 returns to the power supply abnormality check process in step S706.
From this processing flow, the determination of the RAM clear switch 98 in step S712 and the determination of the setting key switch 94 in step S718 are executed each time the chattering prevention waiting time set in step S708 elapses.

  On the other hand, if the setting key switch 94 is OFF, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S719 and stores the setting value Ve in the setting value work. That is, the setting value Ve currently stored in the register is stored in the storage area of the setting value Ve in the work area of the RAM 203.

In step S720, the CPU 201 clears the setting value display data, and then performs processing for turning off the security signal in step S721, and then executes transmission processing of the setting completion command (BA09H) in step S722. The setting change process in step S115 is finished.
The transmission process of step S722 is a process of transmitting an effect control command as a setting completion command to the effect control unit 24. This setting completion command is a command transmitted when the setting change operation is completed and the setting value Ve is confirmed, and is also used as a command indicating that the setting change is completed (setting value Ve is confirmed). Is done.

(Setting confirmation process)

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the setting confirmation processing in step S109.
The setting confirmation process is a process for confirming and displaying the setting value Ve being set.
In FIG. 13, first, in step S <b> 801, the CPU 201 executes a setting confirmation command transmission process.

In response to the execution of the transmission process in step S801, the CPU 201 acquires the value of the set value work in step S802, and then executes the power supply abnormality check process (see FIG. 7) in step S803, and then sets the key in step S804. It is determined whether or not the switch 94 is OFF (that is, whether or not a setting confirmation display end instruction operation has been performed).
If the setting key switch 94 is not OFF, the CPU 201 executes a security signal output process in step S805, creates setting value display data in step S806, and outputs a setting value display data in step S807. By doing so, the current set value Ve is displayed on the setting / performance indicator 97.
CPU201 returns to the power supply abnormality check process of step S803 according to having performed the output process of step S807. Thereby, the display state of the current set value Ve is maintained until the setting key switch 94 is turned off.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S804 that the setting key switch 94 is OFF, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S808 to clear the setting value display data, and then executes the security signal OFF process in step S809, and then proceeds to step S810. The setting confirmation end command (E022H) is transmitted, and the setting confirmation process in step S109 is completed.

[4-2. Main control timer interrupt processing]

The main control timer interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The main control side timer interrupt process is started by interruption every predetermined time (about 4 ms) from the CTC, and interrupted and executed during execution of the main control side main process.

In FIG. 14, when a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 201 first executes a power check / backup process in step S901. This power check / backup process mainly monitors the power supply level supplied from the power supply board, and if an abnormality such as a power interruption occurs, the power interruption is performed so that the game can be restored without any trouble when the power is restored. A backup process for storing predetermined game information at the time in the RAM 203 is performed.

(Power check / backup processing)

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the power check / backup processing in step S901.
In the power check / backup process, the CPU 201 reads the power supply abnormality signal output from the power supply board twice in step S1001, and determines in step S1002 whether both read values match. If the two values do not match, the process returns to step S1001 to read the power supply abnormality signal twice again.

If both values match in step S1002, the CPU 201 determines in step S1003 whether the power supply abnormality signal is at a normal level (power supply abnormality signal is OFF = normal level, ON = not normal level).
If the power supply abnormality signal is at a normal level (step S1003: OFF), the CPU 201 turns off the backup flag in step S1004, clears the power supply abnormality confirmation counter in step S1005, and ends the power supply abnormality check process in step S901. That is, when it is confirmed that the power supply abnormality signal is at a normal level, the backup process described below is not performed and the timer interrupt process is continued.

On the other hand, if the power supply abnormality signal is not a normal level in step S1003 (step S1003: ON), the CPU 201 increments the value of the power supply abnormality confirmation counter by 1 in step S1006, and then the value of the power supply abnormality confirmation counter is increased in step S1007. It is determined whether or not the threshold value is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (threshold value = 2 or more natural number: for example, “2”).
If the value of the power supply abnormality confirmation counter is not greater than or equal to the threshold value, the CPU 201 ends the power supply abnormality check process in step S901. That is, when a state where the power supply abnormality signal is not at a normal level is detected but not continuously detected, the backup process is not performed and the timer interrupt process is continued.

On the other hand, if the value of the power supply abnormality confirmation counter is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the CPU 201 performs backup processing shown as steps S1008 to S1011.
Specifically, the CPU 201 first clears the value of the power supply abnormality confirmation counter (S1108), sets the firing permission signal to OFF (S1009), and sets the backup flag to ON (S1010).
Further, the CPU 201 transmits a power-off command to the effect control unit 24 (S1011), and the process proceeds to step S1012.

In step S1012, the CPU 201 performs processing for enabling RAM protection and setting the prohibited area to invalid.
The RAM protection is a function for preventing rewriting of the RAM 203 due to malfunction or erroneous operation. When the RAM protection is set to be valid, only data reading from the RAM 203 is possible, and data cannot be written.
The prohibited area is an area corresponding to a designated area in the IAT (prohibition of running outside designated area) function. By setting the prohibited area to be invalid, an IAT reset does not occur thereafter.

In step S1013 following step S1012, the CPU 201 clears the value of the output port. In step S1014, the CPU 201 stops timer interrupt processing, sets itself to an interrupt disabled state, and shifts to infinite loop processing.
In this infinite loop, the CPU 201 is reset by WDT, and shifts to an operation stop state due to loss of operation power.

Returning to FIG.
In FIG. 14, when the power check / backup processing in step S901 is completed, the CPU 201 executes input data creation processing in step S902. Specifically, input data is generated from various sensors and switches based on input information (ON / OFF signal and rising state (ON edge, OFF edge)).
Here, the input information is, for example, from a winning detection switch such as an upper starting sensor 34a, a lower starting sensor 35a, a normal symbol starting sensor 37a, a large winning opening sensor 52a, a general winning opening sensor 43a, and an OUT monitoring switch 49a. ON / OFF information (winning detection information) of the output switch signal and ON / OFF information (operation of the switch signal output from the switch related to the setting operation of the setting value Ve such as the setting key switch 94 and the RAM clear switch 98 Information), status signals from the dispensing control board 29 (ON / OFF information of the front door opening sensor 61 and the full detection sensor 60), and the like. Thereby, it is monitored for every interruption whether or not a game ball is detected at the out-port or each winning port.

  When the input data creation process in step S902 is completed, the CPU 201 executes a timer management process for managing a timer used for game operation control in step S903. Here, updating (subtraction processing) is performed on the values of various timers used for gaming operation control of the gaming machine 1.

Next, in step S904, the CPU 201 performs input management processing. In this input management process, based on the input data created in the input data creation process (S902), the value of the winning counter or the OUT ball monitoring counter is updated. The “winning counter” is a counter that is provided corresponding to each winning opening and counts the number of game balls won (number of winning balls). The OUT ball monitoring counter is a counter that counts game balls (out balls) discharged from the out port 49.
The input management process in step S904 functions as an input management unit that manages input signals (detection signals) from various winning a prize sensor.

  In step S905 subsequent to step S904, the CPU 201 executes setting abnormality check processing.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the setting abnormality check process in step S905.
In FIG. 16, the CPU 201 confirms the set value error flag in step S1101. The set value error flag is a flag that is set (turned on) by the process of step S1103 described below when an abnormality of the set value Ve is recognized. In this example, “5AH” means the ON state. .

  In step S1101, if the set value error flag is “5AH” (ON state), the CPU 201 ends the setting abnormality check process in step S905. That is, when the setting value error flag is determined to be ON in step S1101, transmission of a setting value abnormality command (a command for instructing the effect control unit 24 to execute setting error notification) is already executed in step S1104 described later. Therefore, the setting abnormality check process is terminated without transmitting the setting value error flag again.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S1101 that the set value error flag is not “5AH” (OFF), the CPU 201 determines in step S1102 whether the set value Ve is within the normal range (in the range of 0 to 5). Determine whether or not. Specifically, the setting value Ve stored in the work area of the RAM 203 is acquired, and it is determined whether or not the value is in the range of “00H” to “05H”.

If the setting value Ve is a value within the normal range, the CPU 201 ends the setting abnormality check process in step S905.
If the set value Ve is not within the normal range, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1103 to set the set value error flag (ON state), and in the subsequent step S1104, a setting for indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the set value Ve The value abnormality command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the setting abnormality check process is finished.
Here, the set value error flag includes step S1308 in FIG. 18 (setting error determination at the time of winning) described later, step S1501 in FIG. 20 (setting error determination in performing big hit random number determination at the start of variation, It is used in step S1701 (setting error determination when performing variation pattern lottery at the start of variation) in FIG.

Here, upon receiving the set value abnormality command, the effect control unit 24 performs a process for notifying the data abnormality of the set value Ve. For example, the liquid crystal display device 36 performs a process of displaying an image including a display such as “RAM is abnormal.
In the gaming machine 1, a setting error (setting value error) can be canceled by performing a setting change operation.

Returning to FIG.
When the CPU 201 finishes the setting abnormality check process in step S905, the CPU 201 executes an error management process in step S906. In this error management process, whether or not an error has occurred is monitored based on input data relating to various sensors and a status signal from the payout control board 29.
When an error occurs, the CPU 201 transmits the relevant command to the effect control unit 24 as an error process if the error type requires an error command to be transmitted. When the production control unit 24 receives this error command, it performs error notification according to the error type. Further, the CPU 201 transmits an error cancel command to the effect control unit 24 when the error that has occurred is resolved. When the production control unit 24 receives this error release command, the error notification being executed is terminated.

  Next, in step S907, the CPU 201 executes a timer interrupt random number management process for periodically updating the random numbers related to each variable display game. Here, in order to make the count value of the random number counter random, the random number is updated (added +1 for each interrupt) and the random number counter makes one round with respect to the random number for special symbol determination, the random number for determination per auxiliary, etc. Then, a process of changing the start value of the random number counter is performed. The internal lottery random number (big hit determination random number) is generated by the random number generation circuit and is not updated here.

  In step S908 following step S907, the CPU 201 executes prize ball management processing. In this winning ball management process, the winning counter is checked, and if there is a winning, a payout control command for designating the number of winning balls is transmitted to the payout control board 29. When the payout control board 29 receives a payout control command, the payout control board 29 controls the game ball payout device 19 based on the prize ball number information included therein to execute a payout operation for the designated number of prize balls.

  Next, in step S909, the CPU 201 executes normal symbol management processing. In this normal symbol management process, processing necessary to execute the normal symbol variation display game is performed. Here, it is monitored whether or not a game ball is detected by the normal symbol start port sensor 37a, and when a game ball is detected, predetermined game information (such as a random number for determination of auxiliary hit) necessary for lottery per auxiliary is detected. It is acquired (random number acquisition process), and the game information is stored as hold data (actuation hold ball related to normal symbols), and the maximum hold ball number is held and stored up to an upper limit (hold storage process). Then, when a predetermined variation display start condition for the normal drawing is satisfied, a lottery per assistance based on the operation holding ball is performed, a variation pattern selection of the normal symbol based on the lottery result per assistance and a stop display mode of the normal symbol (ordinary Determine the stop pattern). Further, here, in order to perform a variable display operation of the normal symbol, the LED display data for variable display is created if it is changing, and the LED display data for stop display is generated if it is not changing.

  Further, in step S910, the CPU 201 executes normal electric accessory management processing. In this ordinary electric utility management process, a process necessary for executing the ordinary open game is performed. Specifically, when the lottery result of the assist per lottery is a win, setting processing of solenoid control data for the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c is performed. On the basis of the solenoid control data set here, an excitation signal is output to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c, whereby the opening / closing operation pattern of the movable blade piece 47 is controlled.

Next, in step S911, the CPU 201 executes special symbol management processing. In this special symbol management process, a big hit lottery in the special symbol variation display game is mainly performed, and based on the lottery result, the variation pattern of the special symbol (the look-ahead variation pattern and the variation pattern at the start of variation) and the special stop symbol The processing necessary for the special symbol variation display game, such as determination of, is executed.
Details of the special symbol management process in step S911 will be described again.

Next, in step S912, the CPU 201 executes a special electric accessory management process. In this special electric accessory management process, a setting process necessary to control the execution of the winning game is performed. Specifically, when the big hit lottery result is a big hit, the winning game (big hit game) corresponding to the hit type is executed and controlled.
Specifically, setting of solenoid control data for the big prize opening solenoid 52c, counting of the number of rounds (in the case of big hit), monitoring of the maximum number of winning prizes to the big prize opening 50 and the opening time are performed. In addition, when the winning game is completed, the game state transition setting based on the winning gaming state and the winning type is performed.

  Here, a plurality of effect control commands are transmitted according to the progress of the winning game. The jackpot start command, round start command, round end command, jackpot winning command, and jackpot end command have arrived at the time of jackpot start, round game start, round game end, maximum number of rounds, etc. Send according to. The jackpot start command includes the current hit type information, and is used when determining a series of hit effect scenarios developed during the hit game on the effect control unit 24 side. The jackpot end command includes information related to the current hit type and the gaming state at the time of winning, that is, information that can specify the gaming state after the winning game ends. It is used when determining the post-game effect mode. Therefore, since the “big hit end command” can specify the gaming state after the winning game ends, it plays a role as a gaming state designation command for designating the gaming state.

  When the processing for progressing the game up to step S912 is completed, the CPU 201 performs external terminal management processing in step S913. In this external terminal management process, the operating state information of the gaming machine 1 is output to an external device such as a hall computer HC or an island lamp through the frame external concentrated terminal board 21. The operation state information includes, for example, game information such as winning game occurrence information, symbol variation display game execution start information, winning / award winning ball number information, and error information.

  Next, in step S914, the CPU 201 executes LED management processing. In this LED management process, output control of control signals (dynamic lighting data) to LED displays such as the normal symbol display device 39a, the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and the setting / performance indicator 97 is performed. The control signal based on the display data created by the normal symbol management process (step S909), the special symbol management process (step S911), etc. is output to the corresponding display device or display device by this LED management process, and the display control is performed. Done. Thereby, a series of variable display operations (variable display and stop display) of the special symbols in the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b and the normal symbols in the normal symbol display device 39a are realized.

In step S915 following step S914, the CPU 201 performs the performance display monitor display process in step S916 after saving all register values. That is, this is a process for causing the setting / performance display 97 to display the value as the normal time ratio information described above.
As mentioned above, in the case of this example, the value of the normal time ratio information is recalculated every time the number of all-out balls reaches a predetermined specified value, and the setting / performance indicator 97 It is possible to display the time ratio information and the previous normal time ratio information (normal time ratio information that has been calculated at the latest recalculation timing). For this reason, in the display process of step S916 in this case, the setting / performance display 97 displays a value as these two types of normal time ratio information.
Note that the current normal ratio information value is the value calculated in step S604 in the main loop process (FIG. 11), and the previous normal ratio information value is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 203. Then, the CPU 201 reads the stored value and displays it on the setting / performance display 97.

  Next, the CPU 201 returns the values of all the registers in step S917, clears the WDT count value in step S918, and ends the main control timer interrupt processing.

When the above timer interrupt process is completed, the CPU 201 executes the main loop process (S123) until the next timer interrupt occurs.

[4-3. Processing related to special symbol variation display game]
(Special symbol management process)

Next, processing of the main control unit 20 related to the special symbol variation display game will be described.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol management process (step S911) described above. As described above, the special symbol management process is executed as a part of the main control side timer interruption process shown in FIG. 14, and is mainly based on the big win lottery and the lottery result in the special symbol fluctuation display game. A special symbol variation pattern (prefetch variation pattern and variation pattern at the start of variation), a special stop symbol, and the like are determined.

In FIG. 17, the CPU 201 first performs a special figure 1 start port check process for the special symbol 1 side (upper start port 34 side) in step S1201, and in a subsequent step S1202 for the special symbol 2 side (lower start port 35 side). The special figure 2 starting port check process is performed.
The details of the starting port check process will be described again with reference to FIG.

  When the start opening check process in steps S1201 and S1202 is completed, the CPU 201 determines the state of the condition device operation flag in step S1203. The “conditional device operation flag” is a flag for designating whether or not a big hit game is being played. When the flag is in an ON state (for example, 5AH), it indicates that a big hit game is being played, When the flag is in an OFF state (for example, 00H), it indicates that the big hit game is not being played.

  When the condition device operation flag is in the OFF state (≠ 5AH), that is, when the big hit game is not being played, the CPU 201 proceeds to the special symbol operation status branching process of step S1204, and the special symbol operation status (00H to 03H) Processing related to the variable display operation is performed (steps S1205, S1206, and S1207).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1203 that the game is a big hit game (= 5 AH), the CPU 201 proceeds to the special symbol display data update processing in step S1208 without performing the processing related to the special symbol variation display operation in steps S1205 to S1207. That is, when the big hit game is in progress, the special symbol variation display operation is not performed (the special symbol display state of the special symbol display device is kept in the state of being confirmed and displayed after the big hit). The “special symbol operation status” is a status value indicating the behavior of the special symbol. The status value is changed according to the processing state and stored in the special symbol operation status storage area of the RAM 203.

  In the special symbol operation status branching process of step S1204, depending on which status value the special symbol operation status is “waiting (00H, 01H)”, “changing (02H)”, or “confirming (03H)”. , Each corresponding process is executed.

  Specifically, the CPU 201 performs special symbol variation start processing (step S1205) when the special symbol operation status is “standby (00H, 01H)”, and special when the special symbol operation status is “variable (02H)”. The symbol changing process (step S1206) is executed, and if it is “confirming (03H)”, the special symbol checking time process (step S1207) is executed. Here, the above “waiting” means that the behavior of the special symbol is in a standby state for the next fluctuation, and the above “changing” means that the behavior of the special symbol is fluctuating (variation display). The above-mentioned “under confirmation” means that the change of the special symbol is finished and the stop (determined) display is in progress (during the special symbol confirmation time).

  In the special symbol changing process of step S1206, it is monitored whether or not the special symbol is changing, that is, whether or not the special symbol change time has elapsed. As described above, the process of transmitting the “variation stop command” to the effect control unit 24, the fixed display time (for example, 500 ms) is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer, and the special symbol operation status is switched to “confirming (03H)”. Processing (stores 03H in the special symbol operation status) is performed. The “variation stop command” is a command indicating that the variation of the special symbol has ended. With this variation stop command, the effect control unit 24 ends the special symbol variation display game after the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed. (End) and stop displaying the decorative symbol currently being displayed in a variable manner. As a result, the decorative symbol variation display game is also terminated along with the termination of the special symbol variation display game. The “determined display time” is a time (stop display time) for holding the stop display when the special symbol change display is finished and the special symbol is stopped.

Further, in the special symbol confirmation time processing in step S1207, it is monitored whether or not the above-described fixed display time has passed. If the fixed display time has passed, it is determined that the special symbol fluctuation display game has ended, The symbol action status is switched to “standby (01H)” (01H is stored in the special symbol action status), and if this special symbol variation display game is a big hit, the processing required to start the big hit game (stop big hit symbol) Various setting processing). In the various setting processing at the time of big hit symbol stop, as the big hit game transition pre-processing, various settings such as clearing the big hit determination flag and turning on the condition device operation flag to set the gaming state to the gaming state similar to the normal state Process.
Further, in the special symbol confirmation time process in step S1207, when the gaming state is updated, a process of transmitting a “gaming state designation command” including the gaming state transition information to the effect control unit 24 is performed. The effect control unit 24 can grasp that the gaming state has shifted by the gaming state designation command.

By the processing of the above steps S1205, S1206, and S1207, a change display operation for setting the change start and stop of the special symbol as one set is realized.
Details of the special symbol variation start process in step S1205 will be described again with reference to FIG.

  When the process in any of steps S1205 to S1207 is completed, the CPU 201 executes a special symbol display data update process in step S1208. In this special symbol display data update process, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is fluctuating, and if it is fluctuating, the 7-segment display data for the special symbol fluctuating is created and the special symbol must be fluctuating. For example, data for 7-segment display during special symbol stop display is created. The special symbol display data created here is output to the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b by the LED management process (step S914) of FIG.

The CPU 201 finishes the special symbol management process of step S911 in response to the execution of the update process of step S1208, and proceeds to the special electric accessory management process of step S912 shown in FIG.

(Special Figure 1 Start-up check process)

With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 18, the special figure 1 starting port check process (step S1201) will be described.
This special figure 1 start opening check process serves as a winning process executed based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition. In the special figure 1 start opening check process in this example, as a pre-start process (special figure 1 winning process) for executing the special symbol variation display game 1 on the special figure 1 side, a prize is generated at the upper start opening 34. The processing for adding the number of suspended balls on the special figure 1 side caused by the above, the processing for storing various random numbers (holding storage processing), the processing for transmitting the holding addition command, and the like are executed.
Note that the special figure 2 starting port check process (step S1202) also serves as a winning time process executed based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition, as in the special figure 1 starting port check process. As a pre-start process for executing the special symbol variation display game 2 (special figure 2 side winning time process), an addition process of the number of reserved balls on the special figure 2 side resulting from the winning of the lower start opening 35, Various random number storage processing, pending addition command transmission processing, and the like are executed. Therefore, the special figure 1 start opening check process and the special figure 2 start opening check process have substantially the same processing contents. Below, it demonstrates centering on the special figure 1 start opening check process, and the detail about the special figure 2 start opening check process is abbreviate | omitted in order to avoid duplication description.

In FIG. 18, the CPU 201 first determines in step S1301 whether or not a winning (winning ball) for the upper start opening 34 has been detected.
When the winning to the upper start opening 34 is detected, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1302 and determines whether or not the number of the operation reservation balls of the special symbol 1 (hereinafter referred to as “special operation 1 operation reservation balls”) is 4 or more. judge. That is, it is determined whether or not the number of special figure 1 operation holding balls is equal to or greater than the maximum holding memory number (here, the upper limit is 4). However, if no winning detection is detected at the upper start opening 34 (step S1301: N), the special figure 1 start opening check process at step S1201 is terminated without doing anything.

  If it is determined in step S1302 that the number of special figure 1 suspension balls is 4 or more, that is, if the winning of the upper start opening 34 is detected but the number of special figure 1 suspension balls is 4 or more, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1311 described later. On the other hand, when the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number is not 4 or more (less than 4), 1 is added to the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number (step S1303), and the process proceeds to step S1304.

  In step S1304, the CPU 201 obtains various random numbers used for the special symbol variation display game 1 related to the special symbol 1 operation holding ball generated this time. Specifically, the current values of the jackpot determination random number, special symbol determination random number, and variation pattern random number are acquired from various random number counters, and the acquired random number values are stored in the reserved storage area of the RAM 203. This reserved storage area is an area for storing predetermined game information related to the symbol variation display game as an operation reserved ball (holding data). In the reserved storage area, the various random numbers as the reserved data are stored in a special area. Until the symbol 1 variable display operation is performed (until the execution of the special symbol variable display game 1), it is held and stored in the starting condition establishment order (winning order). The reserved storage area is provided with reserved storage areas corresponding to the special symbol 1 side and the special symbol 2 side, that is, the special figure 1 reserved storage area and the special figure 2 reserved storage area. These reserved storage areas are provided with a reserved 1 storage area to a reserved n storage area (n is the maximum number of reserved memories: n = 4 in this embodiment), and each of the reserved data for the maximum number of reserved memories can be stored. It has become.

In step S1305 following step S1304, the CPU 201 determines prefetch prohibition data (EVENT: prohibiting prefetch determination) as winning command data (data corresponding to the lower byte side (EVENT) of the hold addition command) for creating a pending addition command. “01H”).
Next, in step S1306, the CPU 201 determines whether or not the “Special Figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition” is satisfied. The special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is a condition for prohibiting the prefetch determination for the special figure 1 operation holding ball.

  When the special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1311 without executing the prefetch determination processing (step S1309) regarding the prefetch determination. In this case, the hold addition command having the prefetch prohibition data (EVENT: “01H”) designates the prefetch prohibition, and the prefetch determination for the special FIG. The production will not be executed. In other words, it can be said that the prefetch prohibition data specifies that the prefetch determination processing (step S1309) is not executed.

In this example, the prefetch determination in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is not performed regardless of the gaming state, but it is determined whether or not prefetching is prohibited based on the current gaming state. The reason is as follows.
In the case of a game state with “Electric support” that is advantageous to the right (short-time state, probability variation state), winning to the lower start opening 35 frequently occurs, but left-handed advantage is advantageous. When the game state is accompanied by “no electric support” (normal state, latent state), the lower start opening 35 is hardly generated and the upper start opening 34 is frequently won. In consideration of the game state, the pre-reading determination of the special figure 1 and the special figure 2 is not performed in the dark clouds regardless of the gaming state. Is prohibited, and prefetch determination on the special figure 2 side is allowed, and in the normal state or the latent state of “no electric support”, the prefetch determination on the special figure 2 side is prohibited and the prefetch determination on the special figure 1 side is prohibited. Is to be tolerated.

In step S1306, when the special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is not satisfied, the CPU 201 refers to the setting value error flag (flag set in the setting abnormality check process in step S905) in step S1307, and in the subsequent step S1308, the setting error. (The setting value error flag is in the ON state: 5AH).
If it is a setting error, the CPU 201 determines that an abnormality (setting value data abnormality) has occurred, and proceeds to step S1311 without executing the prefetch determination processing (step S1309). Although details will be described later, if an abnormality in the set value Ve is recognized in the winning process, a pending addition command including the prefetch prohibition data (01H) is transmitted without causing a RAM error, and a start opening check in step S1201 is performed. The process will be exited.

  On the other hand, if it is not a setting error, the CPU 201 executes a prefetch determination process in step S1309. In this prefetch determination process, the big hit lottery result executed at the start of variation is prefetched. Therefore, a series of “prefetch winning judgment” for prefetching the winning lottery result, “prefetching symbol judgment” for prefetching the symbol lottery result, and “prefetching variation pattern judgment” for prefetching the variation pattern at the start of the variation. Processing is included.

  Specifically, in step S1309, the CPU 201 first obtains a jackpot determination random number value stored in the RAM 203 (determination random number storage area), and determines the jackpot determination random number value and a “hit random number determination table” (not shown). Based on the above, the winning lottery (at least a big hit and a pre-fetch winning determination for determining whether to miss) is performed for the current operation holding ball, and the result (referred to as “pre-read winning result”) is acquired.

  In the present embodiment, the set value Ve is used for the winning determination (winning lottery). A specific method for determining the winning as the present embodiment based on such a setting value Ve will be described later. Since the winning determination is performed in the same way in the process at the start of variation of the special symbol (FIG. 19), the specific method for determining the winning determination will be described again when the processing at the start of the variation is described.

  In this embodiment, the prefetch failure result is not stored in the RAM 203 while being stored in a predetermined general-purpose register built in the CPU 201. This is because the prefetch failure determination result is immediately used in the subsequent prefetch symbol determination processing, and this data is not required and need not be stored in the RAM 203.

Also, in step S1309, the CPU 201 performs a pre-read symbol determination process as described above by generating a symbol table (not shown) corresponding to the pre-read winning result (at least a hit or a miss) and a special symbol type (special diagrams 1 and 2). The used symbol lottery is performed. Specifically, the CPU 201 performs a symbol lottery (lottery of hit type) for the current action holding ball based on the special symbol determination random value and the symbol table acquired in the previous step S1304, and the result (“ (Referred to as “prefetched symbol result”). In the “symbol table” of the present embodiment, a determination value (winning area) for determining a symbol type is determined, and is displayed as a stop symbol depending on which determination value the random number value for special symbol determination belongs to. The type of special symbol to be determined is determined.
If there are a plurality of types of deviation as in this example, a loss symbol table for determining the loss type is provided. If there is only one type of loss, the loss symbol table is not necessary.
Here, in this example, in response to the fact that there are a plurality of types of “outage 1”, “outside 2”, and “outside 3”, in the symbol determination, an outlier symbol table is used for lottery selection. To do.
Further, in this example, as described above, there are at least four types of “normal 4R”, “normal 6R”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R”, which are provided separately from the above-described outlier symbol table. Based on the winning symbol table, the special symbol type corresponding to the winning symbol corresponding to the random symbol value for special symbol determination among these four types of winning symbols is determined.

  Here, for some or all of the above-described symbol tables, a symbol table in which different symbol selection rates are set according to the set value Ve may be provided. For example, for the jackpot symbol table, tables having different selection rates for the jackpot type for each of the settings 1 to 6 (for example, six types of jackpot symbol tables corresponding to the six setting levels) can be provided. For example, it is conceivable that the table contents are determined so that the appearance performance becomes more advantageous to the player as the setting becomes higher. Of course, a common jackpot symbol table may be used for each setting. Further, the symbol table used in step S1309 is also used for processing at the start of fluctuation (FIG. 19).

  The CPU 201 does not store the prefetched symbol result in the RAM 203 while fetching the prefetched symbol result in a predetermined general-purpose register built in the CPU 201 as in the above-described prefetch failure determination. This is because the pre-reading symbol result is immediately used in the subsequent pre-reading variation pattern determination, and this data is not required and need not be stored in the RAM 203.

  When the prefetch symbol determination is finished, the CPU 201 executes prefetch variation pattern determination. In this look-ahead variation pattern determination, the above-mentioned look-ahead symbol result (in this example, represents either “normal 4R”, “normal 6R”, “probability variation 6R”, “probability variation 10R”, “displacement 1”, “displacement 2”, or “displacement 3”). Then, the variation pattern table for selecting the variation pattern according to the prefetched symbol result and the variation pattern random number obtained in step S1304 are lottery to determine the prefetch variation pattern. In other words, the variation pattern (the variation pattern at the start of variation) that is executed when the current operation holding ball is subjected to the variation display operation is determined in advance.

In this example, the above variation pattern table is also used in variation pattern lottery performed in the processing at the start of variation (FIG. 19).
A specific example of the above variation pattern table and the variation pattern lottery processing using the table will be described again when explaining the processing at the start of variation.

  Note that the prefetch fluctuation pattern determination result (winning command data (EVENT)) is immediately used in the pending addition command creation process in step S1310 described below, and this data is not required thereafter. Accordingly, the CPU 201 finishes the process of step S1309 while storing the result of the prefetch fluctuation pattern determination in the register without storing it in the RAM 203.

In response to the execution of the prefetch determination process in step S1309, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1310, and creates data on the lower byte side of the pending addition command corresponding to the prefetch determination result. Specifically, data representing the type of the prefetch variation pattern is created as winning command data (EVENT) on the lower byte side of the pending addition command.
For EVENT data, “01H” set in step S1305 is updated to a value corresponding to the prefetch fluctuation pattern (value obtained by the prefetch fluctuation pattern determination process) in this process.

When the creation process in step S1310 is completed, the CPU 201 creates data on the upper byte side of the hold addition command corresponding to the number of held balls in step S1311. That is, data representing the current number of active balls to be held and the above-described prefetched symbol result (special symbol type) is created as winning command data (MODE) on the upper byte side of the pending addition command.
The MODE data is set so that one hold in FIG. 1 to four holds in FIG. 1 and one hold in FIG. 2 to four holds in FIG. 2 can be identified.

  In response to the execution of the creation process in step S1311, the CPU 201 performs a hold addition command transmission process in step S1312. That is, a pending addition command including the winning command data created in steps S1310 and S1311 as EVENT and MODE, respectively, is created and transmitted to the effect control unit 24.

Here, when the prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied (Y in S1306) or when the abnormality of the set value Ve is recognized in the determination processing of the previous step S1308, the CPU 201 determines that the prefetch prohibition data (lower byte = 01H) described above. Is maintained without being updated, and a pending addition command having prefetch prohibition data is transmitted.
In addition, when overflow occurs (when a new winning occurs when the maximum number of reserved memories is reached), an overflow designation pending addition command is transmitted (see processing route Y in step S1302). ).

  Note that after the hold addition command is sent from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24, it is used when the “prefetching notice effect” related to the current operation hold ball appears on the effect control unit 24 side. However, it is not particularly utilized in the special symbol variation start process shown in FIG. Therefore, the CPU 201 does not store the hold addition command in the RAM 203, and exits the special figure 1 start opening check process in step S1301, and then performs the special figure 2 start opening check process in step S1302.

Here, as described above, in this example, even when a failure occurs in the data of the set value Ve at the time of winning (when the operation holding ball is generated), the hold addition command is transmitted. Since the command has prefetch prohibition data, even if the prefetching notice effect based on the setting value Ve or the prefetching notice effect not based on the setting value Ve is configured to appear, the effect related to the prefetching notice Since the control itself is prohibited, there is no particular problem because a pre-reading notice due to a malfunction does not appear and there is no disadvantage to the player. If the pre-reading notice effect is not prohibited, the RAM error processing after that is performed when a high-expected hold display appears in the pre-reading notice effect of the hold display system, even though the set value Ve is abnormal. If the progress of the game is stopped due to (error processing due to an abnormality in the set value), the winning expectation that the player has had disappears all at once, causing a great distrust of the gaming machine. However, in the case of this example, as described above, the pre-reading notice itself is prohibited, so that such a problem is not caused and the player can be prevented from feeling distrust.

(Special symbol variation start processing)

Next, the special symbol fluctuation start process (step S1205), which is a process at the start of fluctuation, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In FIG. 19, the CPU 201 first determines in step S1401 whether or not the special figure 2 operation holding ball number is zero. If the special figure 2 operation holding ball number is not zero, the process proceeds to step S1403. The process at the time of the fluctuation | variation start (step S1403-S1412) for the special figure 2 action holding ball used for fluctuation | variation display is performed.
On the other hand, if the special figure 2 operation reservation ball number is zero, the CPU 201 determines whether or not the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number is zero in step S1402. If the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number is not zero, Proceeding to the process of step S1403, a process (steps S1403 to S1412) relating to the start of fluctuation of the special symbol for the special figure 1 operation holding ball used for the present fluctuation display is performed.
Which of the special FIG. 1 operation holding sphere and the special figure 2 operation holding sphere is preferentially used for the variable display operation by the processing of the above-described steps S1401 and S1402 (which operation holding sphere is preferentially digested? ) Is determined. In this embodiment, when there is an operation holding ball in both the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball, the special figure 2 operation holding ball is preferentially digested. That is, the special symbol variation display game 2 is executed with priority over the special symbol variation display game 1. In addition, it is good also as a structure which digests an operation | movement reservation ball | bowl not only in the above-mentioned priority variation type but according to the order which won.

  In addition, when the number of the operation reservation balls of both the special figure 2 operation reservation balls number and the special figure 1 operation reservation balls number is zero, it becomes the state of “no operation reservation balls”. This “no operation hold ball” state is when the special symbol is in a standby state and there is no hold storage state, and the effect control unit 24 side is informed that it has entered this state, and the liquid crystal display The device 36 is controlled to switch to a demo screen display for waiting for a customer (customer waiting demo screen). Therefore, when “no operation hold ball” is reached, the process proceeds to step S1413, and it is determined whether or not the special symbol operation status is “waiting (00H)” indicating the state of “no operation hold ball”. .

In step S1413, when the special symbol operation status is “standby (01H)”, the special symbol operation status is switched to “standby (00H)” (00H is stored in the special symbol operation status). Then, a “demo display command” for displaying the customer waiting demo screen is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command (step S1415), and the special symbol variation start process in step S1205 is completed.
Thereafter, if “waiting (00H)” when the determination process of step S1413 is executed, the special symbol variation start process is finished again without transmitting the demo display command. The reason for this is that if the demonstration display command is sent without condition when the number of pending balls for operation is zero, the transmission of the demonstration display command is repeated at a period of 4 ms while the number of special figure action pending balls is zero. This is for the purpose of preventing the occurrence of unnecessary transmissions and increasing the control burden.

  If the production control unit 24 does not receive any production control command (for example, a hold addition command) related to the symbol variation display game even after a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the demonstration display command, the variation display operation is performed. It is assumed that a state in which no operation is performed for a certain period of time (a waiting state for waiting for customers) has occurred, and a waiting screen for waiting for a customer is displayed.

In step S1401, the special figure 2 operation holding ball number is not zero, and in step S1402, the special figure 1 operation holding ball number is not zero (the special figure 2 operation holding ball number is zero, while the special figure 1 operation holding ball number is zero. In each case (when the number is not zero), the CPU 201 performs processing (steps S1403 to S1412) related to the start of the variation of the special symbol for the operation holding ball used for the present variation display.
Here, regarding the processing of steps S1403 to S1412 described below, if “NO” in the determination of step S1401, the processing for the special figure 2 operation holding ball is performed, and the determination of step S1402 above. If it is 'NO', it will be the process for the special figure 1 action holding ball, but since the process is the same, unless special action is necessary to avoid duplicate description, the action on the special symbol 1 side The description will be made without distinguishing whether the process is a process for the holding ball or a process for the operation holding ball on the special symbol 2 side.

  In step S1403, the CPU 201 subtracts 1 from the number of reserved balls for operation (the number of reserved balls for operation on the special symbol side used for the current variable display operation-1), and includes the number of reserved balls for operation after subtraction in step S1404. A “hold subtraction command” is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. By this hold subtraction command, the production control unit 24 side grasps the number of remaining operation hold balls after digestion of the current operation hold ball number, and shift-displays the hold display currently being displayed.

  Next, the CPU 201 sets special symbol operation confirmation data in step S1405. This special symbol operation confirmation data is information for designating the special symbol type of the current variation start side. For example, if the special symbol 1 is the variation start side, “00H (special symbol 1 variation start designation)” If the special symbol 2 is on the variation start side, “01H (special symbol 2 variation start designation)” is stored in a predetermined area (special symbol operation confirmation data storage area) of the RAM 203.

  Next, in step S1406, the CPU 201 shifts the hold data stored in the hold storage area of the RAM 203, and in the subsequent step S1407, clears the hold 4 storage area. In the processing of steps S1406 to S1407, the hold data (the big hit determination random number, the special symbol determination random number, and the fluctuation pattern use) stored in the hold storage area (hold 1 storage area) corresponding to the hold storage number n = 1. Random number) is read out and stored in the random number storage area for determination of the RAM 203, and the reserved storage areas (hold 2 storage area, hold 3 storage area, hold 4 storage) corresponding to the hold n storage area (n = 2, 3, 4) are stored. The hold data stored in the area) is stored in the hold storage area corresponding to 'n-1' (step S1406), and the hold 4 storage area is cleared to provide a free area (step S1407). As a result, the start order of the special symbol variation display game coincides with the order of the number n of the operation reservation balls (n = 1, 2, 3, 4), and the operation reservation balls acquired at the time of the start opening winning are stored. Whether the area corresponds to the area is specified, and a new operation holding ball can be stored.

Next, in step S1408, the CPU 201 performs a process of transmitting a change count remaining designation command and a gaming state command. In this step S1408, it is determined whether or not the “electric support number counter” that counts the remaining number of times in the electric support state is zero. If there is a remaining short time number, the “variation including the remaining short time number information” is included. The “remaining number of times designation command” is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. By this “variable number remaining designation command”, the production control unit 24 side can execute a process of grasping the remaining number of short times and informing the remaining number of short times information.
In step S1408, processing for transmitting a game state command designating the current game state to the effect control unit 24 is also performed.

Next, the CPU 201 executes variation management processing in step S1409.
In this variation management process, a jackpot lottery corresponding to the start of variation, a symbol lottery for a stopped symbol, and a variation pattern lottery are performed. In the variation management process, an abnormality determination of the set value Ve is performed, and when an abnormality is recognized in the data of the set value Ve, an effect control command (RAM abnormality command) for notifying the effect control unit 24 of the setting error. ) Is transmitted.
Details of the change management process in step S1409 will be described again with reference to FIGS.

When the fluctuation management process in step S1409 is completed, the CPU 201 stores 5AH (ON state) in a special symbol N changing flag (N = 1, 2) for designating that the fluctuation is being displayed in step S1410. The “special symbol N changing flag” is a flag indicating whether one of the special symbols 1 and 2 is changing, and when the flag is in an ON state (= 5 AH). Indicates that the target special symbol is changing. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the target special symbol is stopped.
The special symbol 1 changing flag (N = 1) corresponds to the special symbol 1 side, and the special symbol 2 changing flag (N = 2) corresponds to the special symbol 2 side.

Next, in step S1411, the CPU 201 executes command transmission processing at the start of fluctuation. In this command transmission process, in order to inform the effect control unit 24 of the contents of the change pattern selected in the change management process in step S1409, the change control information including change pattern information that can specify the change pattern contents is provided as the effect control command. A “pattern designation command” is created and transmitted to the effect control unit 24.
In the command transmission process, a decorative symbol designation command is created based on the symbol lottery result in step S1409 and transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The decorative symbol designation command is composed of two bytes, an upper byte (MODE) for designating the special symbol type on the variable side and a lower byte (EVENT) for designating the winning category. Therefore, the decorative symbol designation command includes information on the special symbol type on the variable side and the winning category (symbol lottery result). Since this decoration designating command includes information related to the winning type, on the production control unit 24 side, mainly a combination of decorative symbols (design type having a reach design as a constituent element) when forming a reach state, This is used when determining a combination of decoration symbols (decoration stop symbols) to be finally stopped and a notice effect corresponding to the winning type in the symbol variation display game.
Further, in the command transmission process, a setting value command for notifying the present setting value Ve to the effect control unit 24 is also transmitted. With this set value command, the production control unit 24 side can produce different types of production according to the current set value Ve or change the appearance rate of the predetermined production.

  In subsequent step S1412, the CPU 201 switches to the special symbol operation status “changed (02H)” (stores 02H in the special symbol operation status) as the variation start setting process, and determines the random number storage area for determination and the random number for variation pattern. Performs processing to clear the storage area.

In response to the execution of the change start time setting process in step S1412, the CPU 201 ends the special symbol change start process in step S1205. When the CPU 201 completes the special symbol variation start process, the CPU 201 performs the special symbol display data update process (step S1208) in FIG. 17, thereby starting the variation display of the special symbol.

(Variation management processing)

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the change management process in step S1409.
In FIG. 20, the CPU 201 first determines in step S1501 whether there is a setting error. That is, it is determined whether or not the set value error flag is in the ON state (5AH).

If it is determined in step S1501 that the setting error flag is OFF and there is no setting error, the CPU 201 executes the big hit random number determination process in step S1502, and then proceeds to the symbol lottery process in step S1503.
The big hit random number determination processing in step S1502 selects (determines) the big hit / out of winning type by lottery based on the big hit determination random number (internal lottery random number), the big hit determination table, and the set value Ve.
The details of the big hit random number determination process as an embodiment will be described again with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22.

  If the CPU 201 determines that there is a setting error in step S1501, it passes the big hit random number determination process in step S1502, and proceeds to the symbol lottery process in step S1503.

Here, in this embodiment, when a setting error occurs (when a determination result of Y is obtained in step S1501), the big hit random number determination process is not performed unless the setting error is resolved.
As described above, the setting error can be canceled by performing a setting change operation. That is, when a setting error state occurs, a setting change operation is performed to cancel the setting error state, thereby returning to a state in which the big hit random number determination process is performed.
As described above, a set value abnormality command for performing a setting change operation is transmitted in the setting abnormality check process (FIG. 16).

In the symbol lottery process in step S1503, the CPU 201 performs a process of determining the type of winning / losing (stop symbol type) based on at least the winning lottery result (big hit determination flag), the special symbol determination random number, and the symbol table. Do. Then, the result (special symbol determination data) is stored in a predetermined area (special symbol determination data storage area) of the RAM 203. As a result, the winning type (win / fail type) related to the current special symbol variation display game is determined.
Note that, in the same manner as the symbol lottery process at the time of prefetch determination, the symbol lottery can be performed according to the set value Ve.

In step S1504 following step S1503, the CPU 201 provides the present variation display operation based on at least the symbol lottery result (the above-described special symbol determination data), the variation pattern random number, and the variation pattern table as the variation pattern lottery process. A process of determining a variation pattern at the start of variation for the operation holding ball by lottery is performed.
Specifically, in the variation pattern lottery process according to the present embodiment, a variation pattern lottery is also performed using the set value Ve and the number of operation suspension balls (the number of operation suspension balls obtained by subtracting the current digestion amount).
The details of the variation pattern lottery process in the present embodiment will be described again with reference to FIGS.

  In response to the execution of the variation pattern lottery process in step S1504, the CPU 201 ends the variation management process in step S1409. That is, thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1410 shown in FIG.

Here, as described above, in this example, the lottery result of the winning lottery or the symbol lottery at the start of variation is stored in the RAM 203. The reason is that these lottery results are stored in the variation management process in step S1409. Is not used only in the special symbol management process (step S911: see FIG. 14 and FIG. 17) to which it belongs, but is also used in later special electric equipment management process (step S912: see FIG. 14), etc. It is.
This is different from the pre-reading determination process in which the lottery result is not stored in the RAM 203.

Although illustration explanation is omitted, in the variation management process of step S1409, when the winning lottery result is a win, as a setting process for shifting the game state, a game state after winning a game is designated. Necessary setting processing is performed (game state transition preparation processing).

(Big hit random number judgment process)

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the jackpot random number determination process in step S1502, and FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of the jackpot random number determination method of the embodiment.
Prior to detailed description of the jackpot random number determination process in FIG. 21, the jackpot random number determination method employed in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as a premise, in the present embodiment, the big hit determination random number can take 65536 values from 0 to 65535. In the big hit random number determination in the present embodiment, the determination reference value TH is determined within a range of values that can be taken by such a big hit determination random number, and based on the result of comparing the magnitude relationship between the big hit determination random number and the determination reference value TH, Judgment of big hit / loss. As an example, in this example, a technique for obtaining a jackpot determination result when the value of the jackpot determination random number is within a range of “0 to a determination reference value TH” and obtaining a determination result of deviation in other cases is adopted. Yes.

In the present embodiment, the determination corresponding to a low probability (when normal state: hereinafter abbreviated as “low probability”) and a high probability (when probability variation state: hereinafter abbreviated as “high probability”) as the big hit random number determination. Two types of determinations corresponding to are performed. For this reason, as the determination reference value TH, two types of determination reference value TH1 used for determination at low accuracy and determination reference value TH2 used for determination at high accuracy are set.
As illustrated in FIG. 22, the determination reference value TH2 at the time of high accuracy is made larger than the determination reference value TH1 at the time of low accuracy, thereby increasing the probability of winning a big hit in the determination at high accuracy. ing.

  Here, in this example, in order to make a big hit random number determination according to the set value Ve, a different value is set as the determination reference value TH according to the set value Ve. At this time, in this example, the determination reference value TH for each set value Ve is not simply prepared, but a basic single determination reference value TH (hereinafter referred to as “basic determination reference value THr”). A method of preparing a different determination reference value TH for each set value Ve by preparing an offset value determined for each set value Ve and offsetting the basic determination reference value THr by an offset value corresponding to the set value Ve Take.

As a specific example, in this example, the basic determination reference value THr for each of the low accuracy time and the high accuracy time (hereinafter referred to as “THr1” and “THr2”, respectively) and the offset value for each set value Ve are as follows: It is stipulated in.
Basic judgment reference value THr1 = 00842
-Basic judgment reference value THr2 = 08429
・ Setting 1
Offset value at low accuracy = 000 (TH1 = 00842)
Offset value at high accuracy = 000 (TH2 = 08429)
・ Setting 2
Offset value at low accuracy = 001 (TH1 = 00843)
Offset value at high accuracy = 010 (TH2 = 08439)
・ Setting 3
Offset value at low accuracy = 002 (TH1 = 00844)
Offset value at high accuracy = 020 (TH2 = 08449)
・ Setting 4
Offset value at low accuracy = 003 (TH1 = 00845)
Offset value at high accuracy = 030 (TH2 = 084559)
・ Setting 5
Offset value at low accuracy = 004 (TH1 = 00846)
Offset value at high accuracy = 040 (TH2 = 08469)
・ Setting 6
Offset value at low accuracy = 005 (TH1 = 00847)
Offset value at high accuracy = 050 (TH2 = 08479)

  Here, in the present embodiment, the basic determination reference values THr1 and THr2 are each 2-byte data, and the offset value is 1-byte data.

  In the above example, the big hit determination lower limit in the big hit random number determination is “0”, that is, if the big hit determination random number is within the range of “0” to “judgment reference value TH”, the big hit determination result is Although the case of obtaining is illustrated, the determination lower limit value may be a numerical value larger than “0”.

Based on the above assumptions, the jackpot random number determination process shown in FIG. 21 will be described.
In FIG. 21, the CPU 201 determines in step S1601 whether or not the big hit determination random number is less than a determination lower limit value. The determination lower limit value is a jackpot determination lower limit value (lower limit value of a numerical range in which a determination result of jackpot is obtained) as described above, and is “0” in this example.
If the big hit determination random number is less than the determination lower limit value, it is determined that it is already out of order, so the processing of steps S1602 to S1606 described below is passed and the big hit random number determination processing of step S1502 is finished.
Note that when the determination lower limit value = 0 as in this example, it is not normally possible for the jackpot determination random number to take a value less than 0, and therefore it is not essential to provide the processing in step S1601. The process in step S1601 is effective when the determination lower limit value is set to a value larger than zero.

Here, when it is determined in step S1601 that the random number is less than the determination lower limit value or the like, a determination result of a loss is obtained, the big hit determination flag is not a big hit (= 5 AH), specifically, a loss (= 00H). However, in the big hit random number determination process in step S1502, the big hit determination flag is not updated to 00H indicating that it is off.
In the gaming machine 1 of the present example, the big hit determination flag is updated to 00H corresponding to the case where the determination of the loss is obtained, because the big hit determination flag = 5 AH is confirmed. When starting, the CPU 201 clears the jackpot determination flag (= 00H) (see the description of the special symbol confirmation time process in step S1207).
That is, since the big hit determination flag = 00H at the start of the big hit game in this way, the big hit determination flag is set to 00H unless it is updated to the big hit determination flag = 5AH in step S1606 shown in FIG. Thus, the process of updating to the big hit determination flag = 00H in accordance with the determination result of the deviation is unnecessary.

  If the random number is not less than the determination lower limit value in step S1601, the CPU 201 determines in step S1602 whether or not the probability change is in progress. This determination is made based on the result of referring to the gaming state flag described above.

If the probability change is not in progress (in the normal state), the CPU 201 adds an offset value corresponding to the setting to the low-accuracy basic determination reference value THr1 in step S1603. That is, by this, the determination reference value TH1 corresponding to the current gaming state (normal state) and the set value Ve is calculated.
On the other hand, if the probability change is in progress, the CPU 201 adds an offset value corresponding to the setting to the highly accurate basic determination reference value THr2 in step S1604. Thereby, the determination reference value TH2 corresponding to the current gaming state (probability changing state) and the set value Ve is calculated.

In response to calculating the determination reference value TH1 in step S1603 or the determination reference value TH2 in step S1604, the CPU 201 is less than the determination reference value TH calculated in step S1605 (random number <determination reference value TH). It is determined whether or not.
If the random number <the determination reference value TH, the CPU 201 updates the big hit determination flag to 5AH in step S1606, and then finishes the big hit random number determination process in step S1502. The big hit random number determination process in step S1502 ends.

  In the above example, the upper limit value side of the jackpot determination is offset by the offset value. However, it is of course possible to offset the determination lower limit value side.

  In the above description, an example in which different offset values are set for each set value Ve has been described. However, a common offset value may be used between some set values Ve, and the basic determination reference value THr is partially set. Different values may be used between the set values Ve. Even if a common offset value is used for some set values Ve, if different basic judgment reference values THr are set for some set values Ve, different judgment reference values are set for each set value Ve. It is possible to set TH.

  As described above, in the big hit random number determination of the present embodiment, the basic determination reference values (THr1, THr2) defined in common between different set values Ve and the basic determination defined in different values between different set values Ve. Based on the offset value for the reference value, a determination reference value (TH1, TH2) corresponding to the set value Ve is calculated, and a winning determination is performed based on the calculated determination reference value. At this time, the basic determination reference value is composed of 2-byte data and the offset value is composed of 1-byte data.

With such a configuration, it is not necessary to store different determination reference values for each set value Ve in the storage means (memory) of the gaming machine 1 in order to realize the winning determination according to the set value Ve. That is, the memory may store a basic determination reference value that is common between different set values Ve and an offset value having a data capacity smaller than the basic determination reference value.
Accordingly, the memory capacity can be reduced.

(Variation pattern lottery process)

The variation pattern lottery process will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern lottery process in step S1508.
First, in step S1701, the CPU 201 determines whether or not there is a setting error based on a setting error flag. That is, based on the big hit determination flag, it is determined whether or not the big hit (= 5 AH).

If it is determined in step S1702 that it is not a hit (displacement), the CPU 201 selects a deviation variation pattern table in step S1703, and then proceeds to a variation pattern selection process in step S1706. That is, it is a process of selecting a variation pattern based on the table and the random number for variation pattern.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the winning is determined in step S1702, the CPU 201 selects the winning variation pattern table in step S1704, and then proceeds to the variation pattern selection processing in step S1706.

FIG. 24 shows an example of the deviation fluctuation pattern table, and FIG. 25 shows an example of the hit fluctuation pattern table.
First, as a premise, a fluctuation pattern table for special figure 1 and a fluctuation pattern table for special figure 2 are prepared as the deviation fluctuation pattern table and the hit fluctuation pattern table, respectively.

In the fluctuation pattern lottery performed at the time of the deviation performed using the deviation fluctuation pattern table shown in FIG. 24, the fluctuation patterns of the lottery candidates (variation patterns that can be selected by lottery) are “normal fluctuation 4 s”, “normal fluctuation 6 s”, and “normal fluctuation”. There are nine types: “8s”, “normal fluctuation 12s”, “normal reach”, “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, and “super reach 4”.
In addition, in the variation pattern lottery at the time of hit performed using the hit variation pattern table shown in FIG. 25, the variation patterns of the lottery candidates are “per normal variation”, “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”. There are five types of “Super Reach 4”.
As for “normal fluctuation”, the numerical value written together represents the fluctuation time, and “s” after the numerical value means “second”.

  Here, among the above-described variation patterns, in particular, “normal variation 4 s”, “normal variation 6 s”, “normal variation 8 s”, and “normal variation 12 s” belong to variation patterns corresponding to “out-of-range” that is not selected at the time of hitting (hereinafter, “ It may also be referred to as “displacement variation pattern”).

In the present embodiment, the variation pattern lottery at the time of losing is performed using a variation pattern table that is different for each detachment type (lack 1, 2, 3) regardless of whether the special drawings 1 and 2 are different (see FIG. 24).
Here, in the present embodiment, for each of the types of “out of 1”, “out of 2”, and “out of 3”, the selection rate by the symbol lottery (the rate at which the corresponding type is selected) is different. "Is the highest in the selection rate, and" selection 2 "and" exclusion 3 "have lower selection rates than" selection 1 ". Specifically, in this example, the selection rate of “out of 1” is “190/200”, the selection rates of “out of 2” and “out of 3” are “5/200”, respectively. In this case, if the big hit determination result is “missing”, in most cases, “missing 1” will be selected as the losing type.

  As the variation pattern lottery for the special figure 1, the variation pattern lottery when the loss type is “outage 1” is not a lottery according to the set value Ve but a lottery according to the number of reserved balls. For this reason, among the fluctuation pattern tables for special figure 1, the fluctuation pattern table used when the deviation type is “outage 1” is common among the set values Ve, but is different for each number of reserved balls. Is prepared.

Note that FIG. 24 shows a table structure on the assumption that the range of the set value Ve is set to a range of settings 1 to 3 for convenience of illustration.
This also applies to the hit variation pattern table shown in FIG.

In the variation pattern lottery of FIG. 1 in the case of “out of 1”, the variation patterns of the lottery candidates are “normal variation 4 s”, “normal variation 6 s”, “normal variation 8 s”, “normal variation 12 s”, and “normal reach”. In this example, the variation pattern subject to the lottery is varied according to the number of reserved balls.
Specifically, when the number of reserved balls = 0, “normal fluctuation 12 s” and “normal reach”, when the number of reserved balls = 1, “normal fluctuation 8 s” and “normal reach”, and when the number of held balls = 2, “normal” Fluctuation 6 s ”and“ normal reach ”are used, and when the number of reserved balls is 3,“ normal fluctuation 4 s ”and“ normal reach ”are used as the variation patterns to be drawn.

Here, in the variation pattern table, the numerical value stored for each variation pattern subject to lottery distribution of winning probabilities on the assumption that the random number for variation pattern determination can take 200 numerical values from 0 to 199. A value (a value indicating sorting) is represented. For example, in the variation pattern table for special figure 1, in the table of “out of 1” and “number of reserved balls = 0”, the stored value for “normal variation 12 s” = “160”, the stored value for “normal reach” = “40” However, this means that the winning probability of “normal fluctuation 12s” is “160/200” and the winning probability of “normal reach” is “40/200”.
The above distribution values are shown as stored values in the table for the convenience of explanation, and the actual variation pattern table stores the determination reference values as used in the above jackpot random number determination. become. For example, in the case of the table of “out of 1” and “number of reserved balls = 0”, for example, “159” is stored as the actual stored value (judgment reference value), and in this case, the random number for variation pattern is 159 or less. If so, “normal fluctuation 12 s” is selected, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is larger than 159, “normal reach” is selected.

As can be seen by referring to the distribution value shown in FIG. 24, in the fluctuation pattern lottery of FIG. (The appearance rate is high).
In addition, in the fluctuation pattern lottery of FIG. 1 corresponding to the case of “displacement 1”, a normal fluctuation pattern having a shorter fluctuation time is selected as the number of reserved balls increases.

  Subsequently, as the variation pattern lottery in FIG. 1, the variation pattern lottery in the case where the loss type is “outage 2” or “outage 3”, respectively, is a lottery according to the set value Ve, while depending on the number of reserved balls. It is not a lottery. For this reason, as the fluctuation pattern table for the special figure 1 used in each case of “displacement 2” and “displacement 3”, it is common among the number of reserved balls, but a different table is prepared for each set value Ve. Yes.

In the fluctuation pattern lottery of FIG. 1 corresponding to the cases of “out of 2” and “out of 3”, the variation patterns of the lottery candidates are 4 of “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, and “super reach 4”. It is a seed.
In this example, with respect to the variation pattern lottery in FIG. 1 corresponding to the case of “out of 3”, the variation pattern to be selected for the lottery varies depending on the set value Ve.
Specifically, in the variation pattern lottery of FIG. 1, the variation patterns targeted for lottery for each combination of “out of 2”, “out of 3” and settings 1 to 3 are as follows.
Setting 1 and “Outgoing 2” = Super Reach 1, 2, 3, 4
Setting 1 and “out of 3” = Super Reach 1
Setting 2 and “Outgoing 2” = Super Reach 1, 2, 3, 4
Setting 2 and “offset 3” = super reach 2, 3
Setting 3 and “Outgoing 2” = Super Reach 1, 2, 3, 4
Setting 3 and “offset 3” = super reach 4

Based on the distribution values illustrated in the figure, in this example, as the variation pattern lottery of the special figure 1 corresponding to the case of “out of 2”, in the case of setting 1, the variation is in the order of super reach 4, 3, 2, 1. The pattern is easy to select. In the case of setting 2, the variation pattern is selected in the order of super reach 1, 2, 3, 4 and in the case of setting 3, the variation pattern is selected in the order of super reach 1, 3, 2, 4. It is easy.
Further, in this example, regarding the fluctuation pattern lottery in FIG. 1 corresponding to the case of “offset 3”, the higher the setting (the larger the set value Ve), the higher the super-reach with a high expectation of winning will tend to be selected. I am doing so.

  In addition, as in the variation pattern lottery corresponding to the case of “displacement 2”, the variation pattern table used for the lottery in which the variation patterns of the lottery candidates are three or more types has a plurality of values ( “Value represented by“ the number of variation patterns of lottery candidates−1 ”” is stored. For example, in the table corresponding to the case of setting 1 and “displacement 2” in the figure, for example, the first value = 9, the second value = 39, and the third value = 99, respectively, as the determination reference values. In this case, if the random number for the variation pattern is equal to or smaller than the first value, “super reach 1” is greater than the first value and equal to or smaller than the second value, and “super reach 2” is equal to the second value. If it is greater than the value and less than or equal to the third value, “Super Reach 3” is selected, and if it is greater than the third value, “Super Reach 4” is selected.

Subsequently, as the fluctuation pattern lottery of special figure 2, the fluctuation pattern lottery in the case where the loss type is “outage 1” is different from the case of special figure 1, and the fluctuation pattern of the lottery candidate is only “normal fluctuation 12s”. Yes. For this reason, in the variation pattern table for the special figure 2, “out of 1” and “number of held balls = 0”, “out of 1” and “number of held balls = 1”, “out of 1” and “number of held balls = In each table used in the case of “2”, “out of 1” and “number of reserved balls = 3”, all of the distribution values corresponding to “normal fluctuation 12 s” are “200”.
In this case, since the lottery results are the same even if the number of reserved balls is different, the variation pattern table can be a common table among the numbers of reserved balls.

  Further, as the variation pattern lottery in FIG. 2, the variation pattern lottery in the case where the outage type is “outage 2” or “outage 3” is a lottery according to the set value Ve as in the case of FIG. It is not a lottery according to the number of balls held. For this reason, the variation pattern table for special figure 2 is common to the number of reserved balls as the variation pattern table used in each of “out of 2” and “out of 3”, but differs for each set value Ve. A table is provided.

In the variation pattern lottery of FIG. 2 corresponding to the cases of “out of 2” and “out of 3”, the variation patterns of the lottery candidates are two types of “normal variation 12 s” and “super reach 4”. Any one of these “normal variation 12 s” and “super reach 4” variation patterns is selected.
Specifically, in the fluctuation pattern lottery of the special figure 2 corresponding to the cases of “out of 2” and “out of 3” in this example, “normal fluctuation 12s” is always selected when either of the settings 1 and 2 is selected. In the case of setting 3, “super reach 4” is selected.

Next, the hit variation pattern table shown in FIG. 25 will be described.
In the present embodiment, in the variation pattern lottery at the time of hitting, both different figures 1 and 2 use different tables for each hit type.
In the present embodiment, the variation pattern for the lottery is set as follows for each hit type. That is, when the hit type is “normal 4R”, the variation patterns of the lottery objects are “per normal change”, “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, “super reach 4”. ”.
In addition, when the hit type is “normal 6R”, in FIG. 1, the variation pattern of the lottery object is “normal change per”, “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, “super reach 4”. In FIG. 2, there are four types of “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, and “super reach 4” excluding “per normal fluctuation”.
In addition, when the winning type is “probability variation 6R” or “probability variation 10R”, the variation patterns of the lottery objects are “super reach 1”, “super reach 2”, “super reach 3”, and “super reach 4”. There are four types.

  In the variation pattern lottery at the time of hit in the present embodiment, the variation pattern lottery corresponding to the set value Ve is performed only for a specific hit type. Specifically, for the fluctuation pattern lottery of the special figure 1, the fluctuation pattern lottery corresponding to the set value Ve is performed only for the hit types of “normal 4R” and “probability change 10R”, and the fluctuation pattern lottery of the special figure 2 is “normal”. The variation pattern lottery corresponding to the set value Ve is performed only for the hit types “4R”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R”.

With respect to the variation pattern lottery in the case of “normal 4R”, the variation pattern to be selected is made different depending on the set value Ve in both FIGS. Specifically, in the variation pattern lottery corresponding to “normal 4R” in this example, five types of “per normal variation” to “super reach 4” are set for setting 1, and “super” is set for setting 2 or setting 3. Four types of “reach 1” to “super reach 4” are used as the lottery variation patterns.
Regarding the variation pattern lottery in the case of “normal R6”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R” other than “normal 4R”, the variation pattern of the lottery object is set to the set value Ve in both FIGS. Regardless.

In the present embodiment, in the variation pattern lottery at the time of hitting in FIG. 1, the variation pattern lottery corresponding to the set value Ve is performed only for “normal 4R” and “probability variation 10R”. For this reason, in the hit variation pattern table of FIG. 1, different tables are prepared for each set value Ve as the variation pattern table used in the case of “normal 4R” and “probability variation 10R”.
As can be seen with reference to FIG. 25, in this example, in the variation pattern table of FIG. It is getting bigger. Thereby, at the time of hitting each of “normal 4R” and “probability variation 10R”, the higher the current setting is, the easier it is to select the variation pattern with the highest expected value as the variation pattern of FIG.

  Further, in this example, in the fluctuation pattern lottery at the time of hitting in FIG. 2, the fluctuation pattern lottery corresponding to the set value Ve is also performed for “normal 4R”, “probability variation 10R” and “probability variation 6R”. For this reason, in the hit variation pattern table of FIG. 2, different tables are prepared for each set value Ve as the variation pattern table used in the case of “normal 4R”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R”. In this example, in the variation pattern table of FIG. 2, in all of these “normal 4R”, “probability variation 6R”, and “probability variation 10R”, the distribution value for “super reach 4” is increased as the set value Ve increases. .

  Here, as can be seen with reference to the distribution value in the figure, in this example, the distribution value for “super reach 4” is maximized in each table regardless of the type of hit or the set value Ve. That is, in this example, in the variation pattern lottery when it is determined that it is a big hit, the variation pattern with the highest expectation degree of winning is most easily selected.

Returning to FIG.
In the selection process in step S1706 described above, the variation pattern is selected based on the above-described deviation or hit variation pattern table.
Specifically, when the deviation variation pattern table is selected corresponding to the case where the deviation is determined in step S1702, the CPU 201 selects a table corresponding to the deviation type, the number of reserved balls, and the set value Ve from the variation pattern table. Then, the variation pattern is selected based on the selected table and the variation pattern random number. If the hit variation pattern table is selected corresponding to the case where it is determined to be a win in step S1702, the CPU 201 selects a table corresponding to the hit type and the set value Ve from the corresponding change pattern table, and the selected The variation pattern is selected based on the table and the random number for variation pattern. In this case, it goes without saying that the tables for special figure 1 and special figure 2 are selected and divided according to whether the symbol to be processed is special figure 1 or 2.
As understood from the above description, in each variation pattern table of winning / losing, one or a plurality of determination reference values (number of variation patterns of lottery candidates-1) corresponding to the variation pattern to be selected are determined. In the selection process in step S 1706, the variation pattern is selected based on the result of comparing the magnitude relationship between the determination reference value stored in the table selected as described above and the variation pattern random number value.

In the above description, the variation pattern table for selecting the variation pattern has been described by dividing the table for each set value Ve. However, a common table may be used for some set values Ve.
FIG. 26 shows an example.
Here, a modified example of the hit variation pattern table in the case where it is assumed that the set value Ve can take six values corresponding to the settings 1 to 6 is shown.
In the example of FIG. 26, a table corresponding to “normal 4R” “probability variation 10R” for special figure 1 and a table corresponding to “normal 4R” “probability variation 6R” “probability variation 10R” for special figure 2 are set. The example which divided | segmented the table for every group of 1-3, and the group of setting 4-6 is shown.
As shown in the example of FIG. 26, the variation pattern lottery according to the set value Ve is not limited to dividing the table individually for each set value Ve, but is common to some set values Ve. The table may be used.

Next, processing when a setting error is detected during the variation pattern lottery will be described.
If it is determined in step S1701 of FIG. 23 that a setting error has occurred, the CPU 201 proceeds to step S1705, selects a setting error common variation pattern table, and executes the selection process of step S1706.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram of a common variation pattern table at the time of setting error.
In the present embodiment, in the variation pattern lottery at the time of setting error that is performed using the common variation pattern table at the time of setting error, the deviation variation pattern is forcibly selected regardless of whether it is a hit or miss in both special figures 1 and 2. So that That is, in this example, the deviation variation pattern of “normal variation 4 s”, “normal variation 6 s”, “normal variation 8 s”, or “normal variation 12 s” is forcibly selected.

In the variation pattern lottery at the time of setting error in this example, a different variation pattern is selected according to the number of reserved balls for the special figure 1 side, and a specific variation pattern is selected for the special figure 2 side regardless of the number of reserved balls. Specifically, only “normal fluctuation 12 s” is selected.
For the special figure 1 side, a normal variation pattern with a long variation time is selected as the number of reserved balls increases.

In FIG. 27, for convenience of explanation, a table structure is shown in which a distribution value corresponding to a case where the random number for variation pattern lottery can take a value of 0 to 199 is stored. As a table for each number (0 to 3), a structure in which a determination reference value is associated with at least a variation pattern of a lottery candidate is adopted.
If the specific variation pattern is selected on the special figure 2 side regardless of the number of reserved balls as in this example, there is no need to divide the table for each number of reserved balls (0 to 3). Needless to say.

  In FIG. 23, in the selection process of step S1706, when the common variation pattern table at the time of setting error is selected in step S1705, the variation pattern is selected based on the table and the random number for variation pattern. Specifically, in this example, a table corresponding to the current number of reserved balls in the common variation pattern table at the time of setting error is selected, and the magnitude relationship between the determination reference value stored in the selected table and the random number for variation pattern is expressed. A variation pattern is selected based on the comparison result.

The CPU 201 ends the variation pattern lottery process in step S1508 in response to the execution of the selection process in step S1706. When the lottery process in step S1504 is completed, the change management process in step S1409 shown in FIG. 20 is ended. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1410 (changed flag ON process) shown in FIG.
As described above, in the command transmission process of step S1411 subsequent to step S1410, the “variation pattern designation command” representing the variation pattern lottery result and the “decorative symbol designation command” representing the symbol lottery result are transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The
On the side of the production control unit 24, based on these commands, a combination of decorative symbols (design symbol having the reach symbol as a constituent element) at the time of forming the reach state, or a decorative symbol (decoration stop symbol) that is finally displayed in a stopped state. And a lottery of a notice effect corresponding to the winning type is performed in the symbol variation display game.

Here, as described above, in the present embodiment, when a setting error is recognized at the time of starting the variation of the special figure, the deviation variation pattern (normal variation) is forcibly selected. In this example, a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time, such as the normal fluctuation 4 s to the normal fluctuation 12 s, is selected as described above in order to confuse the player when the intense heat fluctuation is selected as the side fluctuation. Yes.
And in this embodiment, the effect control part 24 side is also devised not to perform a notice effect at the time of a setting error. Specifically, the effect control unit 24 is configured not to perform the lottery of the notice effect when the set value abnormality command (see step S1104 in FIG. 16) for notifying the setting error is received from the main control unit 20 side. The

  Here, in the present embodiment, when the setting control is recognized based on the above set value abnormality command, the production control unit 24 displays a message such as “Call RAM for abnormal RAM” on the liquid crystal display device 36. Annunciation of abnormality is performed, such as displaying an image including The notification is not limited to notification by image display using the liquid crystal display device 36. For example, notification by sound or lighting (and / or blinking) of an LED, or a combination of a plurality of types of effect means such as an image, sound, or LED. It is also possible to make a notification by combination.

In the above, in the common variation pattern table at the time of setting error on the special figure 1 side, the normal variation pattern having a longer variation time is selected as the number of retained balls is larger. However, this is an example. It is also possible to select a normal variation pattern having a long variation time as the number decreases.
Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 28, the same variation pattern may be selected for each number of reserved balls as in the special figure 2 side. In the example of FIG. 28, “normal fluctuation 12s” is selected in common for each number of reserved balls.
Thus, in the common variation pattern table at the time of setting error, the relationship between the number of reserved balls and the variation pattern to be selected can be considered in various ways, and is not limited to a specific relationship.
It should be noted that the variation pattern selected on the special figure 2 side can also be made different depending on the number of reserved balls as in the special figure 1 side.

<5. Processing of production control unit>
[5-1. Outline of processing]

Subsequently, processing of the effect control unit 24 will be described. First, an example structure of scenario data for effect control will be described.
The structure of scenario registration information will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 29A shows the structure of scenario registration information as a main scenario and a sub-scenario. This scenario registration information is set using a work area provided in the RAM 243 (for example, a built-in CPU work memory) of the effect control unit 24.
In this embodiment, the scenario registration information has 64 channels of scenario channels sCH0 to sCH63. Scenarios registered in each scenario channel sCH can be executed simultaneously.

  As shown in the figure, information that can be registered in each scenario channel sCH includes a sub-scenario execution line indicating a sub-scenario timer (scTm) used in the sub-scenario update process, a previous time (scPrevTm), and a sound / motor sub-scenario table execution line. (ScIx), a sub-scenario execution line lmp (lmpIx) indicating an execution line of the ramp sub-scenario table, a main scenario timer (msTm) used for scenario update processing, a main scenario execution line (mcIx) indicating an execution line of the main scenario table, There are a main scenario number (mcNo), a main scenario option (mcOpt) that is optional data that can be added to the main scenario, a user option (userFn), a waiting time (delay), and a checksum (checkSum).

When the sound output by the speaker 46, the light emission by the optical display device 45a, and the production by driving the movable body accessory by the movable body accessory motor 80c are started, the standby time (delay) and the main scenario number (mcNo) are set to the scenario channel sCH0. Register to a free scenario channel of ~ sCH63.
The waiting time (delay) indicates the time from registration to the scenario channel sCH until the scenario is started. This waiting time (delay) is decremented by 1 at a predetermined processing timing (for example, step S2004 in FIG. 33 described later). When the waiting time (delay) is 0, processing corresponding to the registered data is executed.

FIG. 31 shows examples of scenario numbers 1, 2, and 3 as a part of the main scenario table. As the scenario of each scenario number, the main scenario timer (msTm) value is described as time data in each line (row) of the scenario, and the sub-scenario number (scNo) and option (OPT) can be described. . That is, in the main scenario table, a sub-scenario (and optional in some cases) to be executed is designated as the time by the main scenario timer (msTm). In the last line of the scenario, a scenario data end code D_SEEND or a scenario data loop code D_SELOP is described.
The value of the main scenario timer (msTm) is incremented by 1 at a predetermined processing timing (for example, step S2004 in FIG. 33 described later) from the start of the main scenario.
The scenario table of each scenario number advances to the next line when the time of the main scenario timer (msTm) in a certain line has elapsed. The time data of each line indicates the timing when the line ends.
For example, in the case of scenario number 2, the operation of sub-scenario number 2 is designated as the time of timer value “1500”, the operation of sub-scenario number 20 is designated as the time of next timer value “500”, and the next timer value “ The operation of the sub-scenario number 21 is designated as a time of 2000 ”. The next line is the scenario data end code D_SEEND. In the case of scenario data end code D_SEEND, this scenario is deleted from the scenario registration information (work).

Next, the structure of the lamp data registration information will be described with reference to FIG. 29B. As the lamp data registration information, a scenario selected from the lamp sub-scenario table, that is, information indicating a rendering operation (lighting pattern) by the light display device 45a is registered. This ramp data registration information is also set using the work area of the RAM 243.
In the present embodiment, the lamp data registration information has 16 channels of lamp channels dwCH0 to dwCH15. Priorities are set for each of the ramp channels dwCH0 to dwCH15, and the priority increases in order from the ramp channels dwCH0 to dwCH15. Therefore, the scenario (lamp sub-scenario) registered in the ramp channel dwCH15 is executed with the highest priority. For example, if a scenario is registered in the ramp channels dwCH3 and dwCH10, the scenario registered in the ramp channel dwCH10 is preferentially executed.
The ramp channel dwCH0 is mainly used for a lamp effect associated with BGM (Back Ground Music), the lamp channel dwCH15 is used for an error-related lamp effect, and the lamp channels dwCH1 to dwCH14 are used for a normal effect.

  As shown in the figure, information that can be registered in each lamp channel dwCH includes a registered lighting number (lmpNew) indicating the number of the registered lighting pattern, an execution lighting number (lmpNo) indicating the number of the lighting pattern to be executed, and a lamp sub-scenario. There are an offset indicating an execution line (offset), an execution time (time), and a checksum (checkSum).

  FIG. 32A shows examples of lamp sub-scenario numbers 1, 2, and 3 as part of the lamp sub-scenario table. For each number of lamp sub-scenarios, time data (time) values are described in each line (row) of the scenario, and lamp channels and lamp numbers indicating various lighting patterns are described. In the last line, a lamp scenario data end code D_LSEND is described.

In this ramp sub-scenario table, the time data (time) of each line indicates the time at which the line is started after the sub-scenario is started.
When the above-mentioned main scenario timer (msTm) is compared with the time data in the table and the two match, the lamp number of that line is registered in the lamp data registration information of FIG. 29B. The registered ramp channel dwCH is the channel indicated in the line.
For example, assume that scenario number 2 shown in FIG. 31 is registered and sub-scenario number 2 is referred to in a certain scenario channel sCH described above. In the lamp sub-scenario number 2 shown in FIG. 32A, the lamp channel 5 (dwCH5) and the lamp number 5 are described as time data (time) = 0 on the first line. In this case, when the main scenario timer (msTm) = 0, the information on the first line is first registered in the lamp channel dwCH5 of the lamp data registration information in FIG. 29B as the registered lighting number (lmpNew) = 5. The value of the sub-scenario execution line lmp (lmpIx) in the scenario registration information is updated to the value of the next line (second line). This is a registration for performing the lighting pattern operation of the lighting number 5 with a relatively low priority of the lamp channel dwCH5.
For the second line, the same processing is performed when the main scenario timer (msTm) reaches “500”. That is, the registered lighting number (lmpNew) = 6 (that is, the lighting pattern 6 lighting instruction) is registered in the lamp channel dwCH5 of the lamp data registration information.
If the time data (time) has the same value for two consecutive lines, the processing for each line is started simultaneously.
In the lamp drive data creation process described later, lamp drive data is created based on the lamp data registration information updated in this way.

Next, the structure of the motor data registration information will be described with reference to FIG. 29C. As the motor data registration information, information indicating a scenario selected from the motor sub-scenario table is registered. This motor data registration information is also set using the work area of the RAM 243.
In the present embodiment, the motor data registration information includes, for example, eight channels of motor channels mCH0 to mCH7 corresponding to eight motors.
Information that can be registered in each motor channel mCH includes execution operation number (no), registration operation number (noNew), operation count (lcnt), excitation counter (tcnt), execution step (step), operation line as shown in the figure. (Offset), parent (migration source) / child (migration destination) attribute (attribute), parent number (retNo), return address (retAddr), loop start point (roopAddr), loop count (roopCnt), error counter (errCnt) ), Current input information (currentSw), software switch information (softSw), and software count (softCnt).

  FIG. 32C shows an example of the motor sub scenario number 1 as a part of the motor sub scenario table. As the motor sub-scenario of each number, the value of time data (time) is described in each line (row) of the scenario, and information on the motor and solenoid / user option is described. In the last line, a scenario data end code D_MSEND is described.

For this motor sub-scenario table, when the sub-scenario timer (scTm) reaches 0 (initially 0), the time data (time) value of this motor sub-scenario table is set in the sub-scenario timer (scTm). To do. The time data (time) of each line indicates the timing when the line ends. The sub-scenario timer (scTm) describes the absolute time. Therefore, the time data value to be set is a value of (time data of the relevant line) − (time data of the previous line).
The motor data (motors 0 to 3, 4 to 7) is configured to indicate a motor operation pattern number (a motor operation table number to be described later) in 1 byte per motor. The operation pattern number is set in the registration operation number (noNew) and execution operation number (no) of the motor channel corresponding to the motor number.
In step S2202 of FIG. 36 described later, the motor data registration information is updated. In step S2203, motor drive data is created based on the update of the motor data registration information.

FIG. 30 shows sound data registration information. As the sound data registration information, information indicating a scenario selected from the sound sub-scenario table is registered. This sound data registration information is also set using the work area of the RAM 243.
In the present embodiment, the sound data registration information has 16 channels of sound channels aCH0 to aCH15.
Information that can be registered in each sound channel aCH includes volume transition amount (frzVq), volume (frzVl), transition amount change (rsv2), volume change (rsv1), phrase change (rsv0), stereo (frzSt, as shown) ), Loop (frzLp), phrase number hi (frzHi), and phrase number low (frzLo).

FIG. 32B shows an example of sound subscenario numbers 1 and 2 as part of the sound subscenario table. As the sound / motor sub-scenario of each number, the value of time data (time) is described in each line (row) of the scenario, and information of BGM, warning sound, error sound, and sound control is described. In the last line, a scenario data end code D_SEEND is described.
For this sound sub-scenario table, when the sub-scenario timer (scTm) becomes 0 (initially 0), the time data (time) value of this sound sub-scenario table is set in the sub-scenario timer (scTm). To do. The time data (time) of each line indicates the timing when the line ends. The sub-scenario timer (scTm) describes the absolute time. Therefore, the time data value to be set is a value of (time data of the relevant line) − (time data of the previous line).
The BGM data of the line is composed of information registered in the sound data registration information such as the BGM phrase number and volume value, and is set in the sound channel aCH0 (aCH1 in the case of stereo) in the sound data registration information. .
The notice sound data of the line is composed of information registered in the sound data registration information such as the phrase number and volume value of the notice sound, and is set in the space where the sound channels aCH2 to aCH14 are vacant.
The error sound data of the line includes information registered in sound data registration information such as the error sound phrase number and volume value, and is set in the sound channel aCH15.
The sound control data is channel information in the lower 6 bytes and control information in the upper 2 bytes.
In step S2033 of FIG. 33 described later, reproduction output control is performed based on the scenario update process and the updated sound data registration information.

  Note that the sound sub-scenario table and the motor sub-scenario table may have a table structure integrated with respect to each line of time.

An example of the process of the effect control unit 24 that performs the effect control using the scenario data structure as described above, in particular, the process of the CPU 241 will be described with reference to FIG.
The CPU 241 starts the process of FIG. 33 when the power is turned on to the main body of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

First, in step S2000, the CPU 241 performs necessary initial setting processing before starting the gaming operation. For example, initialization processing includes interface initialization, interrupt setting, external memory initialization, WDT initialization, movable body starting point return processing and control initialization, sound source control initialization, serial output controller initialization Initialization, scheduler initialization (scenario scheduler, device scheduler, lamp scheduler, sound scheduler), system timer initialization, liquid crystal control initialization, and the like.
Each scheduler refers to the above-described scenario registration information, motor data registration information, lamp data registration information, sound data registration information, or the progress of scenario control based on these. As an initialization process, a work area for storing the scenario registration information and the like is initialized.

When the initial setting process in step S2000 is completed, the CPU 241 executes a power-on history information initial setting process in step S2001. The initial setting process is a process for holding, in the RAM 243, information necessary for displaying a later-described setting history confirmation screen Gs, which is performed using the liquid crystal display device 36. Although details will be described later, predetermined history information such as change history information of the setting value Ve is displayed on the setting history confirmation screen Gs (see FIG. 38).
Note that processing as an embodiment executed by the CPU 241 when displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs starting with the power-on history information initial setting processing in step S2001 will be described again.

CPU241 repeats the process after step S2002 according to having performed the process of step S2001.
In particular, in the present embodiment, the CPU 241 executes the processes after step S2002 while monitoring the frame timing of the liquid crystal display device 36. In this example, control based on a V blank signal which is a synchronization signal used for display control is performed.
In the present embodiment, the V blank signal is generated twice during 1/30 seconds (33.3 ms), which is one frame period of the display image in the liquid crystal display device 36. Since the CPU 241 counts up the V blank interrupt counter according to the V blank signal, the V blank interrupt counter is counted up every 1/60 seconds (16.6 ms).
Naturally, each processing of the CPU 241 is performed based on a processing clock having a frequency extremely higher than the frequency of the V blank signal. Each process of FIG. 33 is performed while grasping the period from the start to the end of the frame according to the V blank signal. Steps S2021 to S2043 are repeated until the end of one frame period is confirmed by the value of the interrupt counter. When the end of one frame period is detected, the processing of steps S2050 to S2052 is performed.

In step S2002, the CPU 241 performs clear control on the WDT circuit included in the effect control unit 24.
In subsequent step S2003, the CPU 241 checks the frame update flag. The frame update flag is a flag for managing scheduler updates and the like in the frame period.
The frame update flag is turned off at the start of a certain frame of display data (to turn it off in step S2052 described later at the end of the frame).
Therefore, at the frame start timing, the CPU 241 proceeds from step S2003 to S2004.

In step S2004, the CPU 241 updates the scenario scheduler frame. Specifically, this is a process of updating the standby time (delay), main scenario timer (msTm), and sub-scenario timer (scTm) of the scenario registration information in FIG. 29A. That is, it can be said that the timer of the effect scenario is advanced by one timing at the frame start time.
In step S2005, the CPU 241 turns on the frame update flag. This is information indicating that the timer of the scenario has progressed in the current frame.
In step S2006, the CPU 241 turns off the scheduler update flag. This is information indicating that the scheduler has been updated, that is, the scenario contents (scenario registration information, lamp data registration information, sound data registration information) have not yet been updated as the timer progresses.
Then, the process returns to step S2002. After clearing the WDT circuit, the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2020 because the frame update flag is ON in step S2003. Here, the WDT circuit is sequentially reset if the CPU 241 is in a normal processing state.

  As described above, steps S2004 to S2006 are performed only once for the first time after the frame start timing. In step S2004, the timer of scenario registration information is updated. The scenario for production proceeds every 33.3 ms, which is one frame period. For example, the main scenario timer (msTm) advances every 33.3 ms. The time of the main scenario timer (msTm) of one line in the main scenario table of FIG. 31 corresponds to the time of notation value × 33.3 ms. Also, the time of one line indicated by time in the sub-scenario table in FIG. 32 corresponds to the time of expressed value × 33.3 ms.

In step S2020, the CPU 241 branches the process depending on the value of the V blank interrupt counter. If the V blank interrupt counter has not reached “2” (that is, if it is “0” or “1”), the process proceeds to step S2021.
The V blank interrupt counter is cleared at the end of the frame in step S2051 and incremented twice in one frame. Therefore, V blank interrupt counter = 0 indicates the first half period of the frame, and V blank interrupt counter = 1 indicates the second half period of the frame. The V blank interrupt counter = 2 at the V blank signal at the end of the frame.
The CPU 241 proceeds from step S2020 to S2021 so as to repeat steps S2021 to S2043 as many times as possible during the frame period in which the V blank interrupt counter is “0” or “1”.

In step S2021, the CPU 241 branches the process depending on whether the V blank interrupt counter is “0” or “1”. That is, whether the present is the first half or the second half of a certain frame period.
If V blank interrupt counter = 0, that is, the first half of the frame, the process proceeds to step S2022, and the received command from the main control unit 20 is confirmed. That is, it is confirmed whether or not one or more reception commands are stored in the command reception buffer. If there is no reception command, the process proceeds to step S2030.
If there is one or more received commands, the CPU 241 performs command analysis processing in step S2023.

  In step S2024, the CPU 241 turns off the scheduler update flag. Note that turning off the scheduler update flag in step S2024 means that if a command is received even after the scheduler update flag is once turned on in step S2031 during the current frame period, Means to turn off.

An example of command analysis processing in step S2023 will be described with reference to FIGS.
As described above, in step S2022 of FIG. 33, the CPU 241 checks whether or not the effect control command supplied from the main control unit 20 is stored in the command reception buffer, and if the effect control command is stored, the command Is read out by the processing of FIG.

In the effect control unit 24, a command reception buffer for taking in the effect control command transmitted from the main control unit 20 is prepared in the RAM 243.
First, in step S2101 in FIG. 34, the CPU 241 checks the read pointer indicating the read address of the command reception buffer and the write pointer indicating the write address.
The light pointer is updated in response to the command reception, and the received effect control command is stored in the address indicated by the light pointer accordingly. The read pointer is updated when reading from the command reception buffer is performed (step S2102). Therefore, if the read pointer is not the write pointer, the effect control command that has not been read is stored in the command reception buffer. If the read pointer is not the write pointer, the process advances to step S2102, and the CPU 241 loads 1-byte command data from the address indicated by the read pointer in the command reception buffer. In this case, the read pointer is incremented for the next reading (loading).

  Actually, the determination of the presence or absence of the received command in step S2022 of FIG. 33 can also be made based on whether or not the read pointer = write pointer. As an actual program, if the read pointer is equal to the write pointer at the time of first proceeding to the command check process, it may be determined that there is no received command in step S2022 of FIG.

As described above, one production control command is formed of two bytes, one byte as a mode and one byte as an event. In step S2103 of FIG. 34, the CPU 241 checks whether the loaded 1-byte command data is a mode or an event. This confirmation is performed by the value of Bit 7 out of 8 bits (Bit 0 to Bit 7).
If it is the mode, the process proceeds to step S2104 as the process of receiving the upper data of the command, and the read command data is saved in the register “command HI byte”. Also clear the “command LO byte” register. Then, the process returns to step S2101.
Subsequently, if the read pointer is not the write pointer, an effect control command that has not been read yet is stored in the command reception buffer. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S2102, and the CPU 241 is indicated by the read pointer in the command reception buffer. Load 1 byte command data from address. In addition, the read pointer is incremented.
If the read command is an event, the process proceeds from step S2103 to S2105 as processing for receiving lower-order data of the command, and the read command data is saved in the register “command LO byte”.

The command data of the mode and the event is saved in the registers “command HI byte” and “command LO byte”, so that the CPU 241 fetches one command.
In step S2106, the CPU 241 performs processing according to the fetched command. A specific example will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The read pointer = write pointer is when there is no presentation control command in the command reception buffer that has not yet been captured by the CPU 241. When the read pointer = write pointer is confirmed in step S2101, the command analysis processing as step S2023 in FIG. 33 is terminated.

An example of the command response process in step S2106 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 35A shows basic processing as command response processing. In response to the reception of the 2-byte effect control command, the CPU 241 first checks in step S2121 in FIG. 35A whether or not it is currently in the test mode. If it is during the test mode, all the production scenarios are cleared, the sound output is stopped, and the LEDs of the light display device 45a are turned off in step S2122. In step S2123, the test mode ends.
These processes are not performed unless in the test mode.
In step S2130, CPU 241 performs processing for the captured effect control command.

  Examples of the effect control command include a special symbol variation pattern designation command, a decorative symbol designation command, a pending addition command, a gaming state designation command, a power-on command, a RAM clear command, a setting changing command, a setting completion command, and a setting confirmation command. , Setting confirmation end command, setting value command (command for notification of setting value transmitted by the main control unit 20 each time symbol variation starts), error command (notification command for various errors), etc. . In step S2130, the CPU 241 performs processing defined by the program in response to the received command. Here, specific processing is illustrated by giving four effect control commands to FIGS. 35B to 35E.

FIG. 35B shows a process S2130a when a variation pattern designation command is fetched as the command process in step S2130.
In this case, the CPU 241 performs a process of setting a decoration symbol designation command waiting state in step S2131. This is because the CPU 241 controls the variation display of symbols by sequentially receiving the variation pattern designation command and the decorative symbol designation command.

FIG. 35C shows a process S2130b in the case where a symbol designation command is fetched as the command process in step S2130.
In this case, the CPU 241 first checks in step S2132 whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received. If it has not been received, the process ends.
If the variation pattern designation command has already been received when the decoration symbol designation command is received, the process proceeds to step S2133, and first, scenario registration for the operation of correcting the accessory origin is performed. In step S2134, a symbol variation flag is set. The symbol variation flag is provided corresponding to each of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the normal symbol, and each flag represents a variation state. For example, a 2-bit first special symbol variation flag FZ1, a second special symbol variation flag FZ2, and a normal symbol variation flag FZ3 are prepared, and each indicates whether it is varying, stopped (winning), or stopped (disconnected). Here, as the fluctuation starts, the corresponding symbol fluctuation flag (any one of FZ1, FZ2, and FZ3) is set to a value indicating “in fluctuation”.
In the case of winning, the symbol variation flag is set to a value indicating “stopping (hit)” for a predetermined time at the end of symbol variation, and thereafter indicating “stopping (out)” until symbol variation starts. Set to
In step S2135, the CPU 241 performs a change start process. Thereafter, the change pattern designation command is deleted in step S2136 in response to the start of change.

FIG. 35D shows a process S2130c when a power-on command is fetched as the command process in step S2130.
In this case, the CPU 241 clears the RAM 243 in step S2137. For example, the storage areas such as the contents of the command reception / transmission buffer and various operation input information buffers are cleared.
Then, in step S2138, an error release command is transmitted, in step S2139, the object error information is cleared, in step S2140, the operation of the accessory is stopped, in step S2141, the power-on scenario is registered, and in step 2142, the power is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40. Perform a set of commands sequentially.

FIG. 35E shows a process S2130d when the RAM clear command is fetched as the command process in step S2130.
In this case, the CPU 241 clears the RAM 243 in step S2143. For example, the storage areas such as the contents of the command reception / transmission buffer and various operation input information buffers are cleared.
In step S2144, an error cancel command is transmitted, and in step S2145, a RAM clear error set and an error notification timer are set. In step S2146, information related to the lottery process in the RAM 243 is cleared. In step S2147, information related to the scenario is cleared. In step S2148, a power initial on display (RAM clear) command to be transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 is set.

The example of processing according to command reception has been described above.
The processing of steps 2022 to S2024 in FIG. 33 as processing in response to the above command reception is started only in the period of V blank interrupt counter = 0 in this example.

Subsequently, the CPU 241 branches the process after confirming the scheduler update flag in step S2030 of FIG. Here, only when the scheduler update flag is off, the processing of steps S2031 to S2034 is performed.
In step S2031, the frame update flag is turned on.
Since the scheduler update flag is turned off in step S2006 immediately after the start of the frame, the processing in steps S2031 to S2034 is performed when the processing proceeds to step S2030 for the first time in the current frame period. In addition, since the scheduler update flag is turned off in step S2024, the processes in steps S2031 to S2034 are performed even when a command is received.

In step S2032, the CPU 241 performs processing as scenario scheduler execution. This is a scenario registration information update process. For example, for the information registered in the scenario channel sCH, the processing corresponding to the registered data is executed for the information whose waiting time (delay) is 0. That is, processing corresponding to the scenario number designated in the main scenario table is performed. The main scenario execution line (mcIx), sub-scenario execution line (scIx), sub-scenario execution line lmp (lmpIx), etc. are also updated.
In step S2033, the CPU 241 performs sound scheduler execution and output processing. This is update processing of sound data registration information corresponding to the sound sub-scenario specified in the scenario table, and output processing of a sound control signal based on the sound data registration information. The CPU 241 causes the sound controller of the effect control unit 24 to execute sound output according to the current scenario progress.

In step S2034, the CPU 241 performs lamp scheduler execution processing.
This is update processing of lamp data registration information corresponding to the lamp sub-scenario specified in the scenario table.
For example, the CPU 241 performs the following process for each of the lamp channels dwCH0 to dwCH15. First, the main scenario timer (msTm) and the time data (time) in the lamp sub-scenario table are compared. The time data (time) of the lamp sub-scenario table indicates the time when the line (the line indicated by the sub-scenario execution line lmp (lmpIx)) is started. Therefore, if the time of the main scenario timer is equal to or greater than the time data (time), the process for that line is performed.
For example, first, it is determined whether or not the current line is a line in which the lamp scenario data end code D_LSEND is described. If it is not the line in which the lamp scenario data end code D_LSEND is described, the CPU 241 acquires the lamp channel dwCH and the lamp number described in the line, and registers the lighting pattern number in the acquired lamp channel dwCH.
Also, a registration lighting number (lmpNew) and an execution lighting number (lmpNo) are set in an area corresponding to the lamp channel dwCH. That is, the lamp number acquired from the relevant line of the lamp sub-scenario table is set to the registered lighting number (lmpNew), and “0” is set to the execution lighting number (lmpNo). Also, the value of the sub-scenario execution line lmp (lmpIx) is incremented by one. As described above, the lamp data registration information is updated to a state in which the lamp effect operation to be executed is registered.

  In step S2034, the lamp data registration information is updated as described above. The lamp drive data generation and the lamp drive data output based on the updated lamp data registration information are performed in later steps S2041 and S2042.

In step S2040, the CPU 241 branches the process depending on the value of the V blank interrupt counter. If the V blank interrupt counter is “0”, the processes of steps S2041 to S2043 are executed, and if “1”, these processes are not executed.
In step S2041, the CPU 241 creates lamp drive data. That is, based on information registered in each lamp channel dwCH of the lamp data registration information, lamp drive data to be output to a driver that actually drives various LEDs is generated.
In step S2042, control is performed so that the generated lamp driving data is output to the driver.
In step S2043, the CPU 241 performs key event processing. Then, the process returns to step S2002.
The process of creating and outputting the lamp driving data in steps S2041 and S2042 starts only when V blank interrupt counter = 0. That is, these processes are started only in the first half of the frame.

  After the V blank interrupt counter = 2, that is, when the end of the frame period is detected (S2020: = 2), the CPU 241 performs processing corresponding to the end of the frame after step S2050.

  First, in step S2050, the CPU 241 executes history display processing. This history display process is a process for causing the liquid crystal display device 36 to display the setting history confirmation screen Gs described above. Details will be described later.

  In response to the execution of the display process in step S2050, the CPU 241 clears the V blank interrupt counter in step S2051, then turns off the frame update flag in step S2052, and returns to step S2002. Then, as described above, processing for a new frame period is performed.

The CPU 241 executes the process of FIG. 36 as an interrupt process every 1 ms, for example, together with the process of FIG. That is, the process of FIG. 36 is a process executed every 1 ms regardless of the frame timing of the display data.
In FIG. 36, the CPU 241 performs WDT pulse generation processing in step S2200. The WDT circuit counts every 1 ms by this WDT pulse.
In step S2201, the CPU 241 performs a sensor update process for the motor. This is a process for detecting the information of the position detection sensor 82a described above.

In step S2202, the CPU 241 performs device scheduler execution processing. Specifically, the motor data registration information is updated. In step S2203, output processing of motor drive data to the driver of the movable body accessory motor 80c is performed as device scheduler output processing.
That is, the CPU 241 performs motor operation control every 1 ms, which is about 1/30 time interval compared to the frame period.

In step S2204, the CPU 241 performs key input processing. That is, a signal corresponding to the operation of various operators such as the effect button 13 is confirmed.
The CPU 241 finishes the interrupt process shown in FIG. 36 in response to the execution of the process of step S2204.

The processing examples of the CPU 241 have been described so far. In the above processing examples, the CPU 241 performs various processes according to the display data frame.
FIG. 37 shows various timings for each frame period of the display data.
Each frame of the display data is referred to as frames FR0, FR1, FR2,. For example, the frame FR0 is displayed at time points T0 to T1, and the frame FR1 is displayed at time points T1 to T2.
Since the value of the V blank interrupt counter is cleared in step S2051 in FIG. 33, it becomes “0” at the frame start time and “1” at the frame intermediate time (time T0m, T1m, etc.) Cleared immediately after 2 ”.

  In the figure, “SL” represents the frame period, and “SLs” represents the start timing of the frame period (hereinafter referred to as “frame start timing SLs”). “CA” means the first half period of the frame.

First, as a premise, a drawing process of display data (frame image data) to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 is performed by the liquid crystal control unit 40 based on a liquid crystal control command from the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241). This drawing process is executed for display data of the next frame within the frame period SL. For example, the drawing of the display data of the frame FR1 is executed within the time point T0 to T1, which is the display period of the frame FR0.
The liquid crystal control unit 40 preloads data used for drawing. This preload is executed in a period one frame before the drawing process as preparation for drawing. For example, preloading for rendering the display data of the frame FR2 is executed within a time point T0 to T1 that is a display period of the frame FR0.
The drawing processing and preload start timings are synchronized with the frame start timing SLs as shown in the figure.

On the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) side, the processes of steps S2021 to S2043 are repeated during the frame period indicated by SL.
However, the reception command processing (S2022 to S2024) is executed only during the first half frame period CA. This is because these are executed only when the V blank interrupt counter = 0.
The received command analysis process is as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, which is a process with a relatively heavy processing load and also requires more processes depending on the number of received commands. Depending on the type of command, it may be necessary to perform a lottery or the like for production. In the present embodiment, such processing is performed only during the first half of the frame.
For this reason, with respect to the command signal, for example, for the command signal received in the period indicated by the broken line as time points T0m to T1m, the command analysis is performed in the period of time points T1 to T1m.

The ramp data creation / output process (S2241 to S2243) is also executed only during the first frame period CA. This is because these are also executed only when the V blank interrupt counter = 0.

[5-2. Display of setting history confirmation screen]

The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a function of displaying a history relating to an operation relating to the set value Ve as a setting operation history. Specifically, as the setting operation history, a history relating to the change of the setting value Ve and a history relating to the confirmation of the setting value Ve (setting confirmation processing) are displayed.

FIG. 38 shows an example of a setting history confirmation screen Gs as one display mode of the setting operation history.
The setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 based on the control of the effect control unit 24. In this example, as shown in FIG. Information indicating the contents and the time of occurrence (in this example, date and time: date and time according to hour and minute) is included.
The “content” of the target event is the numerical value of the name information of the type of the target event (that is, “setting change”) and the setting value Ve after the change (the setting value Ve that has been set by the setting change process). Information. The setting confirmation includes name information of the type of the target event (that is, “setting confirmation”) and numerical information of the setting value Ve at the time of setting confirmation (that is, the setting value Ve confirmed by the user).

The setting history confirmation screen Gs of this example includes a plurality of pages, and specifically, 5 pages can be displayed. The number of history information that can be displayed on one page is 10 in this example, and accordingly, it is possible to display a maximum of 50 (10 × 5) history information.
In this example, the page switching operation on the setting history confirmation screen Gs is the operation of the cross key 16 (see FIG. 3). For example, each time the direction instruction key of the cross key 16 is pressed once, page feed for one page is performed.

In the setting history confirmation screen Gs, a display number is assigned to each history information. In this example, “1” is assigned to the latest history as the display number, and numbers are assigned in ascending order from the latest to the past.
Further, the current page number is also displayed on the setting history confirmation screen Gs (the maximum number of pages is also indicated in the drawing such as “1/5”).

  Although not shown in FIG. 38, the history display target events in this example include a setting value error and other errors in addition to the setting change and setting confirmation described above. The set value error here means a state in which the set values held on the main control unit 20 side and the production control unit 24 side are inconsistent (the set value Ve is outside the proper range). Does not mean). Other errors include various errors other than the set value error, such as a door opening error, a replenishment error, and a ball clogging error.

  The setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed in response to a predetermined operation performed in a predetermined state. Specifically, the setting history confirmation screen Gs in this example is displayed in response to the operation of the effect button 13 during the setting confirmation (during the execution of the setting confirmation processing in step S109). Here, as can be understood from the above description, the setting confirmation process is executed in response to the operation of the setting key when the front frame 2 is opened when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, and accordingly the setting history is set. The display of the confirmation screen Gs is assumed to be performed in such a state that the front frame 2 is open at the time of activation.

FIG. 39 shows an example of a setting confirmation screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 during setting confirmation. This setting confirmation screen is displayed in response to the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) receiving a setting confirmation command (see S801) from the main control unit 20 side.
In the setting confirmation screen of this example, the setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed together with information for informing the user such as hall staff that the setting is being confirmed (in the figure, “setting confirmation”). The operation guidance information required for the operation (characters “setting history list”, icon of effect button 13 and “determined”) are displayed in the figure.

Here, in this example, the operation guidance for displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed on the setting confirmation screen, that is, the notification screen during the setting confirmation as described above, and the user follows the operation guidance. In response to performing a predetermined operation (in this example, the operation of the effect button 13), the screen transits to the setting history confirmation screen Gs shown in FIG.
In other words, the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) accepts an instruction to display the setting history confirmation screen Gs in a state where the operation guidance is displayed on the notification screen during setting confirmation.
Thereby, only by the process of displaying the setting confirmation screen, it is possible to allow the user to grasp the two information of the timing at which the setting history confirmation screen Gs can be displayed and the operation necessary for displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs. it can. That is, it is possible to reduce the processing burden when presenting information that requires notification to the user in displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs.

In addition, the setting history confirmation screen Gs of this example can be shifted to all pages regardless of the number of history information stored. For example, even if the number of history information stored as shown in FIG. 38 is “8”, all pages from the second page to the fifth page can be displayed according to the page switching operation. In other words, it is possible to display all pages including no empty history information, that is, empty pages.
As a result, the user can intuitively grasp how many histories can be held and displayed at maximum by the pachinko gaming machine 1.

FIG. 40 shows an example of history display information required for displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs.
The history display information is information that is constructed by the CPU 241 of the effect control unit 24 accumulating history information corresponding to each occurrence of a target event for history display in a predetermined area of the RAM 243.

In the work area of the RAM 243, an area for storing history display information (hereinafter referred to as “history storage area”) is defined, and the CPU 241 executes processing described later (see FIGS. 44 and 45). Thus, each time the target event occurs, the corresponding history information is added to the history storage area.
Hereinafter, history information that is added one by one for each occurrence of a target event is referred to as “individual history information”. In this example, since a maximum of 50 histories can be displayed, the history storage area in the RAM 243 is set as an area capable of storing 50 individual history information of history 0 to history 49. .

  As individual history information, as shown in the figure, the information of “Year”, “Month”, “Hour”, “Minute” and the type of history (setting change, setting confirmation, or error) required for displaying the date and time information of the history are shown. Information of “type” to be expressed and information of “data” are included. As for the information of “data”, when “type” is a setting change and setting confirmation, information indicating the setting value Ve after the setting change and the setting value Ve confirmed by the setting change are stored. In the case of “error”, information indicating the error type is stored.

As the history display information, for example, a checksum area and a storage area for the latest history position information are provided in the head area, and an area following these areas is a storage area for individual history information.
The checksum area is an area for storing the sum value calculated from the storage information in the entire storage area of the individual history information. The role of the thumb value will be described later.
The latest history position information is information indicating the storage position of the last added individual history information on the RAM 243.

Here, since the RAM 243 has a relatively high information reading speed, it is desirable to use the history display information held in the work area as described above for prompt display of the setting history confirmation screen Gs.
However, the RAM 243 is not connected to a backup power source and cannot keep stored information when the power is shut off. The setting operation history displayed on the setting history confirmation screen Gs is assumed to be a history over a relatively long period such as several weeks or about one month. Therefore, only the RAM 243 is used as the history display information. If the storage destination memory is used, history information is lost every time the power is cut off, and history display cannot be performed properly.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the memory 244 shown in FIG. 3 (that is, a memory capable of holding stored information even when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered off) is provided as a memory accessible by the CPU 243, and the memory 244 The history display information stored in the work area of the RAM 243 is backed up and stored.

FIG. 41 is a diagram for explaining a backup operation example of history display information as an embodiment.
In this example, the memory 244 is provided with a plurality of areas as areas for storing history display information as a backup. Specifically, two areas, a first history storage area and a second history storage area in the figure, are set.
The CPU 241 copies the history display information stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243 to each of the first and second history storage areas in the memory 244.

As described above, the setting history confirmation screen Gs can be displayed during the setting confirmation (that is, the state immediately after the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on again). In other words, the power history of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned off. After. Since the history display information in the RAM 243 is cleared (cannot be retained) by power-off, the CPU 241 displays the history backed up in the first history storage area or the second history storage area of the memory 244 at its startup. Information is written back to the history storage area of the RAM 243. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain a state in which appropriate history display information is stored in the RAM 243 before the setting history confirmation screen Gs is to be displayed.
The CPU 241 then causes the liquid crystal display device 36 to display the setting history confirmation screen Gs based on the history display information stored in the RAM 243.
Thereby, a gaming machine capable of appropriately and promptly displaying the setting operation history can be realized.

In this example, on the premise that the history display information in the RAM 243 is backed up in the memory 244 as described above, a plurality of history storage areas such as the first and second history storage areas described above are provided and a plurality of backups are taken. It is said.
Thus, by taking a plurality of backups for the history display information, it is possible to improve the display tolerance of the setting history confirmation screen Gs against the stored data corruption in the memory 244. That is, even if data corruption occurs in a certain history storage area, the setting history confirmation screen Gs can be displayed using the history display information in other history storage areas. This can reduce the possibility of occurrence of a situation in which proper history information display becomes impossible.

  Here, in this example, copying (backup) of the history display information to the memory 244 is performed each time new history information (individual history information) is added to the history display information in the RAM 243. That is, in response to the addition of new individual history information to the history display information in the RAM 243 according to the occurrence of the target event, the added history display information is stored in the first and second history storage areas in the memory 244. Copy to each.

For example, the history display information may be copied to the memory 244 at regular intervals. In this case, the power is accidentally shut down immediately after the latest individual history information is added (the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is shut down). If this happens, the latest history is disconnected without being reflected in the history display information in the memory 244, and when the setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed at the next startup, the latest history may not be displayed. obtain.
On the other hand, if copying is performed for each history addition as described above, it is possible to prevent occurrence of a situation in which the storage contents of the history do not match between the RAM 243 and the memory 244 due to an unexpected power interruption. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of history information display problems.

  Note that copying to the memory 244 every time individual history information is added is merely an example. For example, copying may be performed at other timings such as copying every time the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered off. is there.

FIG. 42 shows an example of processing for adding individual history information in history display information.
In this example, the storage area of the individual history information in the RAM 243 is a ring buffer area capable of holding 50 pieces of individual history information.
Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 42A, in a state where 50 pieces of the history t0 to the history t49 are stored as the individual history information, the individual history information as the history t50 should be newly added. Suppose.
In this state, the latest history position indicated by the latest history position information is the storage position of the individual history information as the history t49 as illustrated.

In adding the individual history information as the history t50, first, as shown in FIG. 42B, the CPU 241 updates the latest history position to the next position, that is, the storage position of the history t0. Then, as shown in FIG. 42C, the individual history information of the history t50 to be added is stored in the storage position of the individual history information represented by the latest history position (that is, the history t0 is overwritten).
As a result, when adding new individual history information while the individual history information is held at the maximum, the latest individual history information is overwritten by the latest individual history information, and as a result, the history display data In the storage area of the individual history information, the past 50 pieces of individual history information are held from the latest. That is, the number of pieces of individual history information held is designed not to exceed the upper limit (necessary for display) 50.

In this example, the setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed based on the history display information in which the individual history information is stored in the ring buffer mode.
When the individual history information is stored in the form of a ring buffer, the latest history position is managed, and the newest order or the oldest order of each history information is naturally grasped by the storage position of each history information based on the latest history position. Will be. Therefore, when the history list is displayed in the new order or the oldest order as the setting history confirmation screen Gs, it is not necessary to specify the new order and the oldest order of each history information with reference to the time information included in each history information. . That is, it is possible to reduce the processing load when displaying the history in a new or oldest list.

Here, in this example, the display of the setting history confirmation screen Gs is executed only on the condition that the setting is being confirmed, and the setting history confirmation is being performed while the setting is being changed (during the setting changing process in step S115). The screen Gs is not displayed.
Since the setting value Ve can be changed during the setting change, displaying the history related to the setting change during the setting change may cause a user's confusion and is not desirable.
By not displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs during the setting change, it is possible to prevent the user from being confused about the history display of the setting value Ve.

Next, processing for realizing the operation related to the display of the setting history confirmation screen Gs as the embodiment described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 43 to 47.
FIG. 43 is a flowchart of the power-on history information initial setting process (S2001). This process is a process executed by the CPU 241 as part of the effect control main process described with reference to FIG. 33. Specifically, the CPU 241 performs the step according to the completion of the various initial setting processes in step S2000 upon activation. The process of S2001 is executed. As described above, the process of step S2001 is a process for holding information necessary for displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs in the RAM 243.

  43, in step S2301, the CPU 241 performs processing for transferring history display information in the first history storage area in the memory 244 to the internal work (RAM 243). Here, if a target event for history display has occurred before the current activation, the history information update processing in step S2160 described later is performed on the memory 244 (FIG. 45: In particular, in step S2406), history display information is stored in each of the first and second history storage areas. In the process of step S2301, the history display information in the first history storage area among the history display information stored in the memory 244 is transferred to the RAM 243 and stored in the history storage area.

In subsequent step S2302, the CPU 241 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the sum value for the first history storage area (checksum processing). That is, as for the history display information (hereinafter referred to as “first history display information”) stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243 from the first history storage area as described above, the stored value of the entire storage area of the individual history information Then, it is determined whether or not the calculated sum value matches the sum value stored in the checksum area in the first history display information.
The sum value in the checksum area is calculated from the stored value in the storage area of the individual history information by the process in step S2405 in the history information update process (FIG. 45) in step S2160 when the history display information is backed up in the memory 244. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not the stored value in the entire storage area of the individual history information is the same as that at the time of backup by determining whether the sum value matches or does not match in the checksum processing in step S2302 above. It is. In other words, it is possible to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the backed up history information (for example, the presence or absence of unauthorized rewriting).

  If it is determined in step S2302 that the sum values match, that is, the sum value is normal, the CPU 241 ends the initial setting process in step S2001. That is, if the history information backed up in the first history storage area of the memory 244 is normal, the state where the history information in the first history storage area is held in the RAM 243 is continued. That is, in the history display process (FIG. 46) in step 2050 described later, it is executed based on the history information of the first history storage area held in the RAM 243 in this way.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step 2302 that the sum values do not match, that is, the sum value is abnormal, the CPU 241 performs processing for transferring the history display information in the second history storage area in the memory 244 to the internal work in step S2303. . That is, the history display information in the second history storage area is transferred to the RAM 243 and stored in the history storage area (that is, the history display information in the first history storage area stored in step S2301 is overwritten).

  Next, in step S2304, the CPU 241 determines whether there is an abnormality in the sum value for the second history storage area. That is, for the history display information in the second history storage area stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243 as described above (hereinafter referred to as “second history display information”), the stored value of the entire storage area of the individual history information Then, it is determined whether or not the calculated sum value matches the sum value stored in the checksum area in the second history display information. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the history information backed up in the second history storage area.

  If it is determined in step S2304 that the sum values match, that is, the sum value is normal, the CPU 241 ends the initial setting process in step S2001. That is, if the history information of the second history storage area stored in the RAM 243 is normal, the state where the history information of the second history storage area is stored in the RAM 243 is continued. In this case, the second history storage area A history display process (FIG. 46) based on the history information is executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step 2304 that the sum values do not match, that is, the sum value is abnormal, the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2305, clears the history display information, and ends the initial setting process in step S2001. In the clear process in step S2305, the history display information stored in the first and second history storage areas of the memory 244 is cleared together with the history display information stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing processing for updating history information in response to occurrence of a target event for history display.
The target events in this example are setting changes, setting confirmations, setting value errors, and occurrences of errors other than setting value errors, and the CPU 241 generates these events based on the presentation control command from the main control unit 20 side. The history information update process is executed in response to the request. Specifically, for setting change and setting confirmation, history information is updated in response to reception of a setting completion command and a setting confirmation command from the main control unit 20 side (see FIG. 44A). For errors other than the set value error, the history information is updated in response to reception of various error commands from the main control unit 20 side (see FIG. 44B), and for set value errors, the main control unit 20 side receives the error. History when an abnormality is recognized in the setting value Ve of the RAM 243 of the effect control unit 24 based on the setting value command (a command for notifying the setting value transmitted by the main control unit 20 each time the symbol change starts as described above) Information is updated (see FIG. 44C).
In this example, each of the processes in FIGS. 44A to 44C is executed as the command process (see FIG. 35) in step S2130 described above.

FIG. 44A shows processing executed in response to reception of a setting completion command and a setting confirmation command as processing S2130e corresponding to setting change and setting confirmation.
Note that the flow of processing executed in response to the reception of the setting completion command and the setting confirmation command can be made common, and therefore will be described only with reference to FIG. 44A. In the following, the processing according to the reception of the setting completion command will be described, but the processing according to the reception of the setting confirmation command is a processing in which “setting completion” is replaced with “setting confirmation” in the following description. .

First, in step S2150, the CPU 241 executes setting completion notification. That is, control is performed so that a predetermined effect for notifying that the setting of the setting value Ve is completed is executed by predetermined effect means such as the liquid crystal display device 36.
Next, in step S2151, the CPU 241 sets a history type. Specifically, for the individual history information to be newly added, the value indicating “setting change” is set as the value of “type” described above, and the current setting value Ve (setting value having been set) is set as the value of “data”. Each value representing Ve) is set.

In response to the execution of the set process in step S2151, the CPU 241 executes the history information update process in step S2160 and ends the process in step S2130e.
The history information update process in step S2160 will be described again.

Here, the trigger for creating new setting change history information is not limited to the reception timing of the setting completion command exemplified above, but can also be the reception timing of the command being changed. The timing for creating new setting confirmation history information is not limited to the reception timing of the setting confirmation command exemplified above, but can be the reception timing of the setting confirmation end command.
As for the information of the setting confirmation history, it is also possible to set the generation timing as the reception timing of the setting confirmation command, and the timing of storage in the RAM 243 as the reception timing of the setting confirmation end command.

FIG. 44B shows processing executed in response to receiving an error command as processing S2130f in response to occurrence of an error (other than a set value error).
First, in step S2152, the CPU 241 executes error notification. That is, a notification process (notification process using a predetermined rendering means) corresponding to the error type specified from the received error command is executed.

  Next, as the history type setting process in step S2153, the CPU 241 sets the value of “type” to a value representing “error” and the value of “data” to an error number (value representing an error type) for newly added individual history information. ), The history information update process of step S2160 is executed, and the process of step S2130f is completed.

FIG. 44C shows a process executed in response to the reception of the set value command as the process S2130g corresponding to the set value error.
In step S2154, the CPU 241 determines the presence / absence of history information. That is, it is determined whether or not the individual history information related to the set value Ve is stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243. Specifically, it is determined whether or not individual history information in which “type” is “setting change” or “setting confirmation” is stored.

  If the individual history information related to the setting value Ve is stored and it is determined that there is history information, the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2155, compares the setting value Ve of the latest history information with the setting value Ve of the received command, In a succeeding step S2156, it is determined whether or not the set values Ve coincide with each other. That is, the setting value Ve stored as “data” in the latest individual history information among the individual history information related to the setting value Ve stored in the history storage area of the RAM 243 is the setting value Ve represented by the received setting value command. It is determined whether or not they match.

  If it is determined in step S2156 that the set value Ve matches, the CPU 241 ends the process of step S2130g. That is, in this case, no error has occurred in the setting value Ve of the RAM 243, and thus the history information is not updated assuming that no target event has occurred.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2156 that the set values Ve do not match, the CPU 241 executes a predetermined notification process using predetermined rendering means as the set value error notification in step S2157, and then sets the history type set in step S2158. As processing, the value of “type” is set to a value representing “error” and the value of “data” is set to an error number (a value representing a set value error) for the individual history information to be newly added. Then, after executing the history information update process of step S2160, the process of step S2130g is ended.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2154 that the individual history information related to the set value Ve is not stored and there is no history information, the CPU 241 ends the process of step S2130g. That is, in this case, since the set value error (that is, the set value mismatch between the main control side and the effect control side) cannot be determined, it is handled as no set value error has occurred.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart of the history information update process in step S2160. The update process is a process of updating the history display information in the RAM 243 so that the individual history information is added according to the newly generated target event.
First, in step S2401, the CPU 241 determines whether or not the latest history position information is a value within a specified range (that is, whether or not it is within a range of 0 to 49 in this example). If the latest history position information is not a value within the specified range (that is, 50 or more), the CPU 241 ends the update process in step S2160. That is, in this case, since the latest history position information is abnormal, the history display information is not updated.

  If the latest history position information is a value within the specified range, the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2402, and updates the latest history position information to the value of the next position. Here, the value of the latest history position information is updated within the range of 0 to 49. As understood from the description of FIG. 42, when the value is “49”, the next position is updated. Is set to “0” (that is, the value is cyclically incremented within a range of 0 to 49).

  Next, in step S2403, the CPU 241 acquires time information (year / month / day / hour / minute) of the RTC function unit, and in step S2404, performs processing for storing history information in an area indicated by the latest history position information. That is, the latest history position information indicates individual history information including the acquired time information and the information of “type” and “data” set in the corresponding processing in steps S2151, S2153, and S2158 described in FIG. The data is stored in a storage area on the RAM 243.

  In addition, it is also possible to save (display) the energization time from power-on instead of the time information by RTC as the individual history information. Thereby, in a gaming machine that does not have an RTC function unit, it is possible to display information that can specify the occurrence time of the target event as history information.

  In step S2405 following step S2404, the CPU 241 performs a process of calculating the sum value of the history information of the internal work and storing it in the checksum area. That is, for the history display information in the RAM 243, a sum value is calculated from the stored value of the entire storage area of the individual history information including the individual history information newly added in step S2404, and the sum value is calculated as the history display information. Is stored in the checksum area.

Further, in the subsequent step S2406, the CPU 241 performs processing for transferring the internal work history display information to the first and second history storage areas of the memory 244, and ends the update processing in step S2160.
As a result, new individual history information is added and history display information including the sum value reflecting the addition of the individual history information is stored in the first and second history storage areas of the memory 244, respectively.

As understood from the above description, in this example, when the history information stored in the RAM 243 is backed up to the memory 244, a sum value is calculated from the history information stored in the RAM 243, and the sum value is calculated. The history information stored in the RAM 243 is stored in the memory 244.
As a method for calculating the sum value for determining abnormality of the backup information and storing it in the memory 244, first, only the history information stored in the RAM 243 is copied to the memory 244, and then the copy is stored in the memory 244. It is also conceivable to calculate the sum value from the history information and store the sum value in the memory 244. However, in this case, if the copy of the history information from the RAM 243 to the memory 244 partially fails, the sum value itself becomes a correct value, that is, it is determined that there is no abnormality in the checksum processing (S2302 or S2304). Actually, inaccurate history information is backed up, and there is a risk of inducing display failure of the history information.
With the above history information and sum value copying method, if part of the history information copy to the memory 244 fails, the history information is determined to be abnormal in the checksum process, so the memory Since the history information stored in 244 can be prevented from being used for displaying the setting history confirmation screen Gs, it is possible to prevent display of inaccurate history information.

Subsequently, processing for displaying history information based on history display information stored in the RAM 243 will be described with reference to flowcharts of FIGS. 46 and 47.
FIG. 46 is a flowchart of the history display process (S2050). As can be understood from the description of FIG. 33, the history display process is executed once per frame period in this example.

In FIG. 46, the CPU 241 determines in step S2501 whether the setting is being confirmed. Whether the setting is being confirmed can be determined based on whether or not the above-described setting confirmation command is received.
If the setting is not being confirmed, the CPU 241 ends the history display process in step S2050. As described above, in this example, the setting history confirmation screen Gs should be displayed only during setting confirmation.

On the other hand, if the setting is being confirmed, the CPU 241 checks the history display flag in step S2502. This history display flag is an identifier (initial value is OFF) that is set to ON in step S2504, which will be described later. ON indicates that history is being displayed, and OFF indicates that history is not being displayed.
At the stage where the display start condition of the setting history confirmation screen Gs is not satisfied, the history display flag is off, and therefore the CPU 241 advances the process from step S2502 to step S2503.

  In step S2503, the CPU 241 determines whether a display instruction operation is being performed. As described above, in this example, the display instruction operation on the setting history confirmation screen Gs is the operation of the effect button 13, and the CPU 241 determines whether or not the effect button 13 is operated in step S2503.

  As can be understood from the description of steps S2501 to S2503 so far, the CPU 241 accepts a display instruction operation for the setting history confirmation screen Gs on the condition that the setting is being confirmed.

In step S2503, if there is no display instruction operation, the CPU 241 ends the history display process in step S2050.
On the other hand, if there is a display instruction operation, the CPU 241 sets a history display flag (turned on) in step S2504, and sets the display page identifier P to “0” in subsequent step S2505. The display page identifier P is a value for identifying the display page of the setting history confirmation screen Gs.

In response to the execution of the process in step S2505, the CPU 241 executes a history information screen creation process in step S2508. Then, the history display process in step S2050 ends.
The history information screen creation processing in step S2508 is processing for transmitting information necessary for screen display of the page indicated by the display page identifier P to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side. That is, when step S2508 is executed following step S2505, information necessary for screen display for the first page (P = 0) is transmitted.
Details of the history information screen creation processing will be described again with reference to FIG.

If it is determined in the previous step S2502 that the history display flag is on (that is, the state after the first page has already been displayed), the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2506, and whether or not there is a page switching operation. Determine. That is, in this example, it is determined whether or not an operation has been performed on any of the direction instruction keys of the cross key 16.
If there is a page switching operation, the CPU 241 proceeds to a history information screen creation process in step S2508.

Here, the history information screen creation processing in step S2508 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In FIG. 47, first, in step S2601, the CPU 241 calculates the head position Idx of the history display. That is, the position of the storage area of the individual history information to be displayed at the head position of the page to be displayed (the position on the RAM 243) is calculated as the head position Idx. Specifically, the head position Idx is calculated by “latest history position−P × α” (where α is the number of individual history information displayed per page: “10” in this example). For example, when the first page (P = 0) is displayed, the head position Idx is obtained as “latest history position” from “latest history position−0 × α”. Alternatively, when the third page (P = 2) is displayed, the head position Idx is obtained as “latest history position−2α”.

  In step S2602, following step S2601, the CPU 241 transmits a page number command. That is, the information of the page number specified from the page identifier P (that is, the page number of the display target page) is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 by the liquid crystal control command.

Next, the CPU 241 sets the display number to “1” in step S2603, and then performs the processes in steps S2604 to S2610 to obtain information necessary for screen display of the display target page (specifically, individual history information and its display number). Is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40.
First, in step S2604 following step S2603, the CPU 241 refers to the history information of the area indicated by the head position Idx. That is, the storage information of the area indicated by the head position Idx in the history storage area (history display information) of the RAM 243 is referred to.

Next, in step S2605, the CPU 241 determines whether there is history information, that is, whether individual history information is stored in the area indicated by the head position Idx.
If the individual history information is stored and it is determined that there is history information, the CPU 241 executes the command number transmission process of the display number in step S2606, and then executes the command transmission process of history information in step S2607. That is, the individual history information acquired from the area indicated by the display number and the head position Idx is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 by the liquid crystal control command.

  In step S2608 following step S2607, the CPU 241 updates the head position Idx to a value corresponding to the storage area of the past individual history information (Idx ← Idx−1). This update process is executed so that the value of the head position Idx is cyclically updated within the range of 0 to 49 (that is, when the head position Idx is “0”, it is updated to “49”).

  In step S2609, the CPU 241 increments the display number by 1. In step S2610, the CPU 241 determines whether transmission processing for one page (transmission of individual history information and display number) has been completed. This determination can be realized, for example, as a determination as to whether or not the value of the display number is greater than or equal to α.

  If the transmission process for one page has not been completed, the CPU 241 executes the processes of steps S2604 to S2610 again. Thereby, when the individual history information for one page is stored, the transmission process of the individual history information and its display number is repeated until the transmission process for one page is completed. If the stored individual history information is less than one page, the individual history information is transmitted and the display number thereof is transmitted only for the stored individual history information (see S2605).

Even if the individual history information is not stored in the area indicated by the head position Idx (that is, even if the stored value is “0”), the individual history information based on “0” is liquid crystal controlled to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side as it is. It can also be sent by command. In that case, on the liquid crystal control unit 40 side, the individual history information that has received the liquid crystal control command of “0” is displayed on the setting history confirmation screen Gs indicating no history (for example, “− illustrated in FIG. 38”). Display control is performed so that “---” is displayed.
According to this method, the determination process in step S2605 can be made unnecessary.

In response to determining that the transmission process for one page has been completed in step S2610, the CPU 241 ends the history information screen creation process in step S2508.
When the transmission process for one page is completed, a liquid crystal control command indicating that fact can be transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side.

  Here, in response to receiving the various liquid crystal control commands transmitted by the above processing, the liquid crystal control unit 40 corresponds to one page of the setting history confirmation screen Gs according to the aspect illustrated in FIG. The image display operation by the liquid crystal display device 36 is controlled so that the screen display is performed.

The description returns to FIG.
If the CPU 241 determines in step S2506 that the page switching operation has not been performed, the CPU 241 determines in step S2509 whether or not there is an end instruction operation, that is, whether or not there is an operation instructing the display history confirmation screen Gs to be displayed. In this example, the end instruction operation is an operation of the effect button 13, and therefore the CPU 241 determines whether or not the effect button 13 is operated in step S2509.

  When determining that the effect button 13 has not been operated and the end instruction operation has not been performed, the CPU 241 ends the history display process of step S2050. As described above, the history display process in step S2050 is performed once per frame period, and the processes after step S2501 are executed again in the next frame period.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2509 that the end instruction operation has been performed, the CPU 241 clears the history display flag (turns it off) in step S2510, sets the demo screen display command in step S2511, and then sets the history in step S2050. Finish the display process.
The process of step S2511 is a process of setting a liquid crystal control command for instructing the liquid crystal control unit 40 to execute the demonstration screen display for waiting for customers described above in the command buffer.

Here, according to the above processing, when there is no individual history information for a certain page, only the page number is notified to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side (S2602), and the individual history information and its display number are displayed. Is not sent.
When the page number is transmitted in this way but the individual history information or the display number is not transmitted on the liquid crystal control unit 40 side, the page number information of the page and each display number are displayed as the screen of the corresponding page. A screen representing information indicating that there is no individual history information (for example, “----” in FIG. 38) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36.
As a result, it is possible to display all pages including history pages that have no history information. That is, it is possible to transition to all pages regardless of the number of history information stored.

  It should be noted that a page having no individual history information may not be displayed. In this case, the CPU 241 does not cause the liquid crystal control unit 40 to perform screen display for the current display page P in response to determining that there is no history information in step S2605 (FIG. 47) when the display number = 1. An instruction may be given.

As understood from the processing of FIGS. 46 and 47 described above, in this example, when the individual history information to be displayed is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side, the individual history information is individually transmitted one by one. Yes.
Thereby, individual history information can be transmitted by a command.
Therefore, the program design on the liquid crystal control unit 40 side can be facilitated.

In the above example, the history information of the corresponding page is transmitted every time the page is switched. However, first, history information for all pages is transmitted to the liquid crystal control unit 40 side, and the liquid crystal control unit 40 is switched when the page is switched. A page switching command may be transmitted to the side to instruct switching of the display page.

<6. Modification>

In the above, the case where the above-described 2-CPU configuration is adopted for the image display control of the liquid crystal display device 36 is illustrated, but the setting history confirmation screen Gs can also be displayed when the 1-CPU configuration is applied.

FIG. 48 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1A as a modified example adopting a 1CPU configuration.
In the following description, parts that are the same as the parts that have already been described are assigned the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

As shown in the figure, the pachinko gaming machine 1A is different from the pachinko gaming machine 1 in that the liquid crystal control unit 40 is omitted and an effect control unit 24A as 1 CPU is provided instead of the effect control unit 24.
In the effect control unit 24 </ b> A, the CPU 241 assumes the function that the liquid crystal control unit 40 is responsible for the image display control of the liquid crystal display device 36.

FIG. 49 is a flowchart of the effect control main process executed by the CPU 241 in the effect control unit 24A.
The main difference from the case of 2 CPUs is that the CPU 241 performs the drawing process for the display image. Specifically, in this case, the rendering control main process is the same as the rendering control main process shown in FIG. 33, except that the drawing update process in step S2701 is added, and the frame end process in step S2702 is replaced with step S2051. It is executed differently.

The drawing update process in step S2701 is executed when it is determined in step S2003 that the frame update flag is off. That is, it is executed at the beginning of one frame period.
In this drawing update process, display list creation and preload execution start control are performed. The display list is a collection of drawing commands, and is composed of a group of drawing commands described in the drawing order. The drawing command includes a command that defines what image is to be drawn at which position in one frame, and the storage position (source address) of the image to be drawn on the ROM is also specified. That is, the display list is a group of information necessary for performing drawing.
Preloading means that image data used for drawing is loaded from ROM to RAM (for example, VRAM (video RAM)). Specifically, the display list is analyzed, and the image material referred to in the display list, that is, image data is read from the ROM and transferred to a designated area of a predetermined RAM such as a VRAM. In preloading, a display list is created by rewriting the reference destination of image data to the address after transfer. The CPU 241 executes drawing processing using the display list rewritten in this way (drawing is started in step S2702).

  In response to finishing the drawing update process in step S2701, the CPU 241 advances the process to step S2004. As a result, as in the case of FIG. 33, the timer update of the scenario registration information (S2004) and the update of the frame update flag and scheduler update flag (S2005, S2006) are executed at the start timing of one frame period.

  In this case, the CPU 241 executes the process at the end of the frame in step S2702 in response to the fact that the V blank interrupt counter = 2 in step S2020. In this example, the process at the end of the frame is executed as a process following the history display process in step S2050. In this frame end processing, the CPU 241 performs processing such as drawing completion waiting processing, V blank interrupt counter clearing, display screen switching, preload completion waiting, drawing start, and the like.

A specific example of the frame end process in step S2702 is shown in FIG.
In FIG. 50, in step S2771, the CPU 241 waits for completion of drawing. This waits for completion of drawing of an image to be displayed in the next frame period.
In this example, it is assumed that two buffers are prepared as frame buffers in the VRAM. During the frame period in which the CPU 241 reads and displays the display data from one frame buffer, the display data of the next frame is drawn in the other frame buffer.
In step S2702, it is confirmed that this drawing is completed.

Normally, it is designed so that the drawing of the display data of the next frame is completed at the end of the frame period. The fact that the drawing has not been completed at this point is assumed to be a case where there is some trouble in the drawing process. Therefore, when drawing completion waiting occurs, the waiting time may be counted, and depending on the waiting time, changes such as reducing the number of drawing accessed in one frame period may be performed.
If the drawing does not end after a long time, the processing of the CPU 241 is reset by WDT.

After confirming the completion of drawing, the CPU 241 clears the V blank interrupt counter in step S2772.
In step S2773, the display screen is swapped. That is, for the two frame buffers of the VRAM, the frame buffer for reading display data is switched.
Although it is conceivable that the swap (frame buffer switching) is unconditionally performed when the V blank interrupt counter = 2, in the present embodiment, the swap is performed after the drawing completion is confirmed in step S2771. Is called. For this reason, the display data is display data that has been correctly drawn. That is, the display data of the frame buffer in the middle of drawing will not be displayed.

In step S2774, the CPU 241 confirms completion of preloading.
The preload is normally designed to end within one frame period, but this is confirmed in step S2774.
Even if the preload is somewhat delayed, since the output of the display data of the next frame is already started in step S2773, it does not cause a big problem.
Thereafter, a process of writing the display list preloaded in step S2775 into the frame buffer opposite to the frame buffer switched to the display data reading target in step S2773 is performed.

  After performing the above frame end processing, the CPU 241 proceeds to step S2052 in FIG. 49 to turn off the frame update flag, and returns to step S2002. As a result, processing corresponding to the frame head period (S2701 → S2004 to S2006) is executed.

In the case of the one-CPU configuration as described above, the CPU 241 does not need to transmit the individual history information and the display number thereof to the liquid crystal control unit 40 as described with reference to FIG. 47. For example, the CPU 241 Based on the information, the storage area of the individual history information of the display target page is specified, and rendering processing is performed in units of pages based on the individual history information read from the storage area.

<7. Summary of Embodiment>

As described above, the pachinko gaming machine (1 or 1A) according to the embodiment can change the setting value (Ve) indicating the stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win the gaming state advantageous to the player based on the setting change operation. Setting means (setting change processing in step S115), setting confirmation means (setting confirmation processing in step S109) for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on the setting confirmation operation so as to be confirmed, and setting A history information storage unit (history information update process in step S2160) for storing setting operation history information as a history of an operation related to setting when at least one of a change operation and a setting confirmation operation is performed; In response to the establishment of the display condition, history display means (step for displaying the set operation history on the display medium based on the set operation history information stored in the history information storage means. In the gaming machine having the history display processing of the game S2050, etc., the first memory (RAM 243) that cannot retain the stored information when the gaming machine is powered off, and the memory even when the gaming machine is powered off. A second memory (memory 244) capable of holding information and reading information at a slower speed than the first memory, and the history information storage means performs at least one of a setting change operation and a setting confirmation operation. Including a transfer means (transfer process in step S2406) for storing the set operation history information in the first memory and transferring the set operation history information stored in the first memory to the second memory at a predetermined timing. The history display means displays the setting operation history on the display medium based on the setting operation history information stored in the first memory.

According to the above configuration, the setting operation history information stored in the first memory is transferred to and stored in the second memory that can store the stored information even when the power is shut off, for example, with a backup power source. It is possible to continue to hold the setting operation history information properly even through the. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, the setting operation history information stored in the second memory can be written back to the first memory, so that the display of the setting operation history is an appropriate one stored in the first memory. The setting operation history information can be used.
Therefore, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of appropriately and promptly displaying the setting operation history.

  In the gaming machine according to the embodiment, the transfer unit determines whether there is an abnormality in the setting operation history information stored in the second memory (steps S2302 and S2304). The setting operation history information transferred to the first memory is used for displaying the setting operation history.

  As a result, the setting operation history is not displayed for the setting value in which an abnormality is recognized, and the appropriate history display can be performed.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine (1 or 1A) according to the embodiment can set a set value (Ve) that represents a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player based on a setting change operation. Setting means (setting change processing in step S115), setting confirmation means (setting confirmation processing in step S109) for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on the setting confirmation operation in a checkable manner, and setting change operation A history information storage unit (history information update process in step S2160) for storing in a memory setting operation history information as a history of an operation related to the setting when at least one of setting confirmation operations is performed, and a predetermined display condition The history display means (step S) displays the set operation history on the display medium based on the set operation history information stored in the history information storage means in response to the establishment of 050 history display process), and the history display means displays the setting operation history during the setting change process (step S115), which is a process for setting the setting value to be changeable based on the setting change operation. It is not displayed on the display medium.

Since the setting value can be changed during the setting change, displaying the history related to the setting value during the setting changing is not desirable because it may cause confusion for the user. Therefore, the setting operation history is not displayed during the setting change.
As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from confusion regarding the display of the setting operation history.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine (1 or 1A) according to the embodiment can set a set value (Ve) that represents a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player based on a setting change operation. Setting means (setting change processing in step S115), setting confirmation means (setting confirmation processing in step S109) for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on the setting confirmation operation in a checkable manner, and setting change operation A history information storage unit (history information update process in step S2160) for storing setting operation history information as a history of an operation related to the setting when at least one of the setting confirmation operations is performed, and a predetermined display History display means for displaying the setting operation history on the display medium based on the setting operation history information stored by the history information storage means in accordance with the establishment of the condition (step The history information storage means manages the history of the target operation that is at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation as individual history information, and each time the target operation is performed. In addition, the individual history information is stored in the storage medium in the form of a ring buffer, and the history display means displays the setting operation history on the display medium based on the individual history information stored in the storage medium in the form of a ring buffer. It is.

Since the ring buffer manages the latest history position (the position of the most recently stored individual history information) and the history storage order, when displaying the history list in the new or oldest order, the time information in each history information is displayed. It becomes unnecessary to specify the new order and the old order of each history by referring.
Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load when displaying the history list in the new order or the old order.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine (1 or 1A) according to the embodiment can set a set value (Ve) that represents a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player based on a setting change operation. Setting means (setting change processing in step S115), setting confirmation means (setting confirmation processing in step S109) for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on the setting confirmation operation in a checkable manner, and setting change operation A history information storage unit (history information update process in step S2160) for storing in a memory setting operation history information as a history of an operation related to the setting when at least one of setting confirmation operations is performed, and a predetermined display condition The history display means (step S) displays the set operation history on the display medium based on the set operation history information stored in the history information storage means in response to the establishment of 050 history display processing) and the like, the first memory (RAM 243) that is unable to retain stored information when the gaming machine is powered off, and the stored information even when the gaming machine is powered off. 2 and a second memory (memory 244) whose information reading speed is slower than that of the first memory, and the history information storage means is a target operation that is at least one of a setting change operation and a setting confirmation operation. Are managed as individual history information, and each time a target operation is performed, the individual history information is added to the first memory, and the setting operation stored in the first memory includes the added individual history information. There is a copy means (transfer processing in step S2406) for copying history information to the second memory, and the history display means is a setting operation history written back from the second memory to the first memory. Broadcast is intended to be displayed on the display medium setting operation history based on (see initialization process of step S2001).

For example, as a copy of the setting operation history information from the first memory to the second memory, it is possible to make a copy at regular intervals. In that case, immediately after the latest history addition (addition of individual history information) If an unexpected power failure occurs, the latest history is disconnected without being copied to the second memory, and when the setting operation history is displayed after startup after the power failure, the latest history may not be displayed. . On the other hand, if the setting operation history information is copied for each history addition as described above, it is possible to prevent the history storage contents from being inconsistent between the first memory and the second memory due to an unexpected power interruption. It is possible to plan.
Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of display defects in the display of the setting operation history.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine (1 or 1A) according to the embodiment can set a set value (Ve) that represents a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player based on a setting change operation. Setting means (setting change processing in step S115), setting confirmation means (setting confirmation processing in step S109) for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on the setting confirmation operation in a checkable manner, and setting change operation A history information storage unit (history information update process in step S2160) for storing in a memory setting operation history information as a history of an operation related to the setting when at least one of setting confirmation operations is performed, and a predetermined display condition The history display means (step S) displays the set operation history on the display medium based on the set operation history information stored in the history information storage means in response to the establishment of 050 history display processing) and the like, the first memory (RAM 243) that is unable to retain stored information when the gaming machine is powered off, and the stored information even when the gaming machine is powered off. And a second memory (memory 244) whose information reading speed is slower than that of the first memory, and the history information storage means performs at least one of a setting change operation and a setting confirmation operation. In this case, the setting operation history information is stored in the first memory, and the setting operation history information stored in the first memory is copied to the second memory at a predetermined timing (transfer processing in step S2406). Further, the history information storage means shares a specific value (sum value) obtained by a predetermined calculation using the set operation history information stored in the first memory with the set operation history information. Copying to the second memory (step S2405), the history display means to the setting operation history information copied by the calculation processing (steps S2302, S2304) based on the setting operation history information copied to the second memory and the specific value. On the condition that it is determined that there is no abnormality, the setting operation history is displayed on the display medium based on the setting operation history information written back from the second memory to the first memory.

About the specific value for judging the presence or absence of abnormality of the history information in the second memory, it is possible to calculate based on the history information after being copied to the second memory and store the value in the second memory. . However, in that case, if partial data copy of the history information from the first memory to the second memory has failed, it is determined that there is no abnormality in the arithmetic processing using the specific value, but actually the history information is inaccurate. Is stored, and there is a risk of causing display failure of history information.
With the above history information and specific value copy method, if data copy to the second memory partially fails, it will not be determined that there is no abnormality in the arithmetic processing using the specific value. It is possible to prevent the history information from being displayed.
Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of display defects in the display of the setting operation history.

<8. Other variations>

In the description so far, a pachinko gaming machine using a game ball as a game medium has been exemplified, but the game machine is not particularly limited as long as it can achieve the object of the present invention. For example, a gaming machine that uses a gaming medium having a shape other than a spherical shape as a gaming medium, a revolving gaming machine, or the like may be used.

  Further, the information displayed on the setting history screen Gs is not limited to the information illustrated in FIG. For example, a certain set value may indicate how long a game has been played. Specifically, the date and time from when a certain set value is set until it is changed next may be displayed. Further, the date and time from when the power is turned on to when the game is played with a certain set value and the power is turned off next time may be displayed. When the set value is determined to be an abnormal value, the date and time from when the set value is determined to be abnormal until the normal set value is set may be displayed. In addition, the set value is not changed during the game, or the set value does not change from the normal value to the abnormal value, but when the set value is changed despite the game due to noise or goto action. May store the date and time and display it as a history display. Further, the number of times the RAM clear process and the backup restoration process are performed and the date / time information may be displayed in the same manner. In addition to the time during which the setting confirmation process is being performed, the timing for displaying the history display can be, for example, during the time when the setting change process is being performed. Furthermore, it may be configured to display a history when there is a predetermined operation input even during a game.

  Further, in the above, an example is given in which history information is saved in an internal work (work area of the RAM 243) in response to the occurrence of a target event for history display, and the history information saved in the internal work is immediately stored in the memory 244. However, the timing for storing the history information of the internal work in the memory 244 is to refer to the elapsed time stored in the internal work and store (copy) it in the memory 244 when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed. Is also possible.

In addition, regarding the setting history confirmation screen Gs, even after the display is ended in response to the end instruction operation, if a predetermined display condition such as setting confirmation (or setting change) is satisfied, a display instruction is displayed again. It can be displayed any number of times according to the operation. Alternatively, when the setting history confirmation screen Gs has already been displayed a predetermined number of times, such as once, under a condition that satisfies the predetermined display condition, the setting history confirmation screen Gs is displayed even if the display instruction operation is performed again. Can also be disabled.
In addition, during the display of history information, it is desirable to hide the performance display monitor that displays the base value. Further, even when the history information is being displayed, the volume / light quantity adjustment may be effective. At this time, although the adjustment is effective, it is desirable not to display the adjustment content on the display means.
In addition, the contents and state of the performance display monitor may be displayed on the liquid crystal, and in that case, it is desirable to display at a position that does not overlap with the history information. Further, the volume / light quantity may be configured so as not to be adjustable. In this case, there is no possibility that the history information and the display overlap, and the degree of freedom in designing the screen configuration is increased.

  Further, it is desirable that at least the initialization operation of the movable body on the panel side is not executed during the display of the history information. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the movable body on the panel side from moving to the front side of the display means and hindering the visibility of the display screen. Similarly, the initialization operation may not be performed on the movable body on the frame side. However, the frame-side movable body may be initialized when there is no possibility of hindering the display screen. In this case, for example, the initialization operation of the vibration means mounted on the operation means or the air ejection means for ejecting air may be performed. As a result, the initialization operation can be finished first for the movable body on the frame side. Therefore, after the display of the history information is finished, that is, after the setting confirmation process (or setting change process) is finished, It is efficient because it only needs to initialize the body. Further, the present invention is not limited to this, and the initialization operation may be performed for all the movable bodies after the display of the history information.

In addition, when a setting value changing operation is performed in a state where the harness connecting the main control unit 20 and the effect control unit 24 (or 24A) is cut, the main control unit 20 changes the set value. On the other hand, since the production control unit 24 cannot know the information, it cannot be stored and displayed as history information. Therefore, after changing the setting value with the harness disconnected, turning off the power once and then turning the power on again with the harness connected again, the setting change can be made without leaving a trace of the setting value being changed. Can be done. In order to prevent this, when the power is turned on, the main control unit 20 transmits information on the set value to the effect control unit 24, and the effect control unit 24 transmits the stored set value information and the main control unit 20. When there is a contradiction by comparing the set value information, an error notification may be performed using a lamp, a speaker, a liquid crystal, or the like.
In this case, the effect control unit 24 may be in a game stop state, and even if a command related to a game is transmitted from the main control unit 20, a process based on the command is not performed. May be. In addition, when the production control unit 24 receives various commands transmitted when executing the setting change process or the RAM clear process, the main control unit 20 side has again performed the normal setting change process again. Judgment and memorizing newly determined setting value, and interrupting / stopping error notification (Contradiction ⇒ Error notification ⇒ Power off ⇒ Setting changing (non-error notification) ⇒ Setting change completed (non-error notification)) You may make it do. In addition, when the power is turned on for the first time, there is no information about the set value on the side of the effect control unit 24. In such a case, when the set value information is transmitted from the main control unit 20 It is desirable to configure so that error notification is not performed.

1, 1A Pachinko machine 13 Production buttons 16 Cross keys 20 Main control board (main control unit)
201 CPU
202 ROM
203 RAM
24 production control board (production control unit)
24A Production control unit 241 CPU
242 ROM
243 RAM
36 Liquid crystal display device 38a, 38b Special symbol display device 40 Liquid crystal control unit 45 Decoration lamp 45a Light display device 46 Speaker 46a Sound generator 61 Front door open sensor 94 Setting key switch 97 Setting / performance indicator 98 RAM clear switch Gs Setting history Confirmation screen Ve setting value

Claims (2)

A setting means for setting a setting value representing a stage regarding the probability of whether or not to win a gaming state advantageous to the player based on a setting change operation;
Setting confirmation means for displaying the setting value set by the setting means based on a setting confirmation operation so as to be confirmed;
History information storage means for storing setting operation history information as a history of operations related to settings when at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation is performed;
In a gaming machine having history display means for displaying a setting operation history on a display medium based on the setting operation history information stored by the history information storage means according to establishment of a predetermined display condition,
A first memory incapable of retaining stored information when the gaming machine is powered off;
A second memory that is capable of retaining stored information even when the gaming machine is powered off and whose information reading speed is slower than the first memory;
The history information storage means includes
The setting operation history information is stored in the first memory when at least one of the setting change operation and the setting confirmation operation is performed, and the setting operation history is stored in the first memory at a predetermined timing. Transfer means for transferring information to the second memory;
The history display means includes
A gaming machine that displays the setting operation history on the display medium based on the setting operation history information stored in the first memory. The transfer means includes
It is determined whether or not the setting operation history information stored in the second memory is abnormal. When it is determined that there is no abnormality, the setting operation history information transferred from the second memory to the first memory is the setting operation. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is used for displaying a history.

Images