JP5284900B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a pachinko gaming machine that continues over a plurality of symbol variations, and performs a series of effects that end after reaching a reach effect.

  Conventionally, for example, a game in which a game ball is won at a predetermined starting point on a game board and a lottery is selected, and three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) are variably displayed on a variable display device. There was a chance. When such a gaming machine is won in the jackpot lottery, the three rows of symbols that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed in a specific combination (for example, “7, 7, 7”), and the game is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. In this jackpot game state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls.

  In addition, in such a gaming machine, when a big hit is caused by a symbol change after several times, there is a known one that performs an effect (hereinafter referred to as a “continuous effect”) that is continued over a plurality of times until the big hit. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1 below.) For example, in this case, the value of the jackpot determination random number acquired when the game ball is won at the start winning opening is compared with the predetermined performance determination value, and if these two values match, the holding ball at that time A continuous effect is executed based on the number (hereinafter referred to as “the number of holdings”).

JP 2003-275410 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technology, the player's sense of expectation may be reduced during the continuous performance. For example, in general, the continuous production is ended by the reach production, but the reach production performed at the end of the continuous production is a reach production (so-called special reach) in which the reliability for the jackpot is set high.

  However, during the continuous production, a low-reliability reach production (so-called normal reach) was performed due to a hold different from the hold that triggered the start of the continuous production (that is, the hold for performing the special reach production). Even in this case, the player may think that the continuous production has ended due to the low-reliability reach production, and as a result, the expectation for the jackpot in the current continuous production may be reduced. .

  An object of the present invention is to provide a pachinko gaming machine that can prevent a decrease in the expectation of a player during a continuous performance and can improve the interest of the player in order to eliminate the problems caused by the above-described conventional technology. .

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention is a pachinko gaming machine that performs a series of effects (hereinafter referred to as “continuous effects”) that continues over a plurality of symbol fluctuations and performs a reach effect. Deciding means for determining the number of continuations of the continuous production so that the reliability with respect to the jackpot is higher as the number is less than or equal to the upper limit of the prescribed number of times, and the continuous production of the number of continuations determined by the deciding means First performing means for performing, and determining means for determining whether or not the first reach effect is performed before the lapse of the number of continuations determined by the determining means in the continuous effect being executed by the first executing means. When the determination means determines that the first reach effect has been performed, the second reaching the last of the continuous effects from the first reach effect. Second execution means for performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as “suggested effect”) that suggests to the player that the continuous effect will continue in the fluctuation of the non-reach effect until the reach effect. The execution means, when reaching the number of continuations determined by the determination means, performs a reach effect with a higher degree of reliability to the jackpot than the reach effect performed before the continuation count has elapsed, and ends the continuous effect It is characterized by.

  Further, the second execution means is characterized in that the suggestion effect is performed with the next symbol variation after the reach effect before the continuation count has elapsed.

  In addition, the second execution means performs the suggestion effect immediately after the start of the next symbol variation.

  According to the present invention, when the reach effect is performed before the predetermined number of continuations is reached, the player performs the suggestion effect suggesting that the continuous effect continues after the reach effect. It is possible to know that the continuous production continues after the production, and it is possible to prevent the player's expectation during the continuous production from being lowered and to improve the interest of the pachinko gaming machine.

It is a front view which shows an example of the pachinko game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the pachinko game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the pachinko gaming machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the production which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a prior determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a jackpot lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of effect timer interruption processing. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of command reception processing. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a fluctuation production | presentation selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of an effect pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a continuous production start process. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the production pattern table. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the production pattern table. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the content of the production pattern table. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific production example which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs.

  Exemplary embodiments of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiment described below is an example in which the pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to an old first kind pachinko gaming machine (so-called “digital patch”).

(Basic configuration of pachinko machine)
First, the basic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a game board 101. A launcher (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 2) is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101.

  A game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls fall in an unspecified direction by the nails. In the game area 103, a windmill and various winning openings (such as a start opening and a big winning opening) that change the falling direction of the gaming balls are arranged at positions in the middle of the falling of the gaming balls.

  An image display unit 104 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. As the image display unit 104, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is used. A first start port 105 and a second start port 106 are disposed below the image display unit 104. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports for starting and winning.

  In the vicinity of the second starting port 106, an electric tulip 107 is provided as an ordinary electric accessory (an accessory that moves based on a lottery result of an ordinary symbol lottery described later). The electric tulip 107 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second starting port 106 and an open state (opened state) that makes it easier to win a prize than the closed state. Control of these states is performed by a solenoid (see reference numeral 231 in FIG. 2) provided in the electric tulip 107.

  The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 arranged on the left side of the image display unit 104. The gate 108 is not limited to the left side (the illustrated position) of the image display unit 104, and may be disposed at an arbitrary position in the game area 103.

  A big prize opening 109 is provided below the second start opening 106. The big winning opening 109 is a winning opening that is opened when a big hit state is reached and for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls by winning a game ball.

  A normal winning opening 110 is provided on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. The normal winning opening 110 is a winning opening for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls by winning a game ball. The normal winning opening 110 is not limited to the position shown in the figure, and may be arranged at an arbitrary position in the game area 103. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In the lower right part of the game board 101, a special symbol display unit 112 for displaying special symbols is arranged. The special symbol display unit 112 includes a first special symbol display unit (see reference numeral 112a in FIG. 2) on which a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special diagram 1”) is displayed, and a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special diagram 2”). ”) Is displayed. (See reference numeral 112b in FIG. 2).

  Here, the special figure 1 is a symbol representing the lottery result of the first jackpot lottery performed when the game ball wins the first starting port 105. The special figure 2 is a symbol representing the lottery result of the second big hit lottery performed when the game ball wins the second starting port 106. The first jackpot lottery and the second jackpot lottery are lotteries for determining whether or not the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a jackpot gaming state.

  In addition, a normal symbol display portion 113 for displaying normal symbols is arranged in the lower right portion of the game board 101. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol representing the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 107 as described above. For example, a 7-segment display is used as the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113.

  On the left side of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, a reservation number display unit 114 for displaying the number of reservations for the special symbol or the normal symbol is arranged. For example, an LED is used as the hold number display unit 114. A plurality of LEDs serving as the number-of-holds display section 114 are arranged, and the number of the holds is indicated by turning on / off. For example, when two upper LEDs among the LEDs constituting the number-of-holds display unit 114 are lit, this indicates that the number of holds for the normal symbol is two.

  A frame member 115 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 115 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The frame member 115 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side.

  On the two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103 in the frame member 115, an effect light part (frame lamp) 116 is provided. Each effect light unit 116 includes a plurality of lamps and a motor (not shown). Each lamp irradiates a player who is in front of the pachinko gaming machine 100. Moreover, each lamp can change the irradiation direction of light into the up-down direction and the left-right direction by driving the motor. In addition, each lamp can irradiate the periphery of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and the light irradiation direction can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the pachinko gaming machine 100.

  An operation handle 117 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 115. The operation handle 117 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 115 described above, the operation handle 117 has a shape that protrudes from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 117 includes a firing instruction member 118 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 118 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 117 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 117 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 118. Thereby, the launching unit launches the game ball when the firing instruction member 118 is directly operated by the player.

  In the frame member 115, an effect button (chance button) 119 and a cross key 120 are provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The effect buttons 119 and the cross key 120 constitute an operation accepting unit that accepts an operation from a player in the pachinko gaming machine 100. The frame member 115 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 254 in FIG. 2) that outputs sound.

  Although illustration is omitted, an effect for the effect (hereinafter referred to as an “effect effect” (see reference numeral 265 in FIG. 2)) is provided at a predetermined position in the game area 103 (for example, around the image display unit 104). ing. This performance agent includes a solenoid and a motor (not shown), and is driven by driving the solenoid and the motor.

(Internal configuration of pachinko machine)
Next, the internal configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201 that controls the progress of the game, an effect control unit 202 that controls the contents of the effect, and a prize ball control that controls the payout of prize balls. Part 203. Each control unit will be described in detail below.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The

  The CPU 211 executes various programs relating to the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100, such as a main control process (not shown) and a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 5). The ROM 212 stores programs necessary for the CPU 211 to execute the above processing. The RAM 213 functions as a work area for the CPU 211. The data set in the RAM 213 by the CPU 211 executing the above program is transmitted to each component connected to the main control unit 201 at a predetermined timing.

  That is, the main control unit 201 functions to control the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 212 while the CPU 211 uses the RAM 213 as a work area. For example, the main control unit 201 is realized by a main control board (detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique).

  The main control unit 201 includes various switches (SW) that function as detection means for detecting a game ball, a solenoid for opening and closing an electric accessory such as the big prize opening 109, the first special figure display unit 112a, A second special symbol display unit 112b, a normal symbol display unit 113, a reserved number display unit 114, and the like are connected.

  Specifically, the various SWs described above include a first start port SW221 that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and a second start port SW222 that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. , A gate SW 223 that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a big winning opening SW 224 that detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning opening 109, and a normal winning opening SW 225 that detects a gaming ball that has won a winning prize 110 Is connected to the main control unit 201.

  The detection results by the respective SWs (221 to 225) are input to the main control unit 201. A proximity switch or the like can be used for these SWs. It should be noted that a plurality of the normal winning opening SW225 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 110.

  As the solenoid, an electric tulip solenoid 231 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a big prize opening solenoid 232 that opens and closes the big prize opening 109 are connected to the main control unit 201. The main control unit 201 controls driving of the solenoids (231 and 232). For example, the main control unit 201 controls the driving of the electric tulip solenoid 231 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The main control unit 201 controls the driving of the big prize opening solenoid 232 based on the lottery result of the big hit lottery.

  Further, the main control unit 201 determines the first special symbol display unit 112a, the second special symbol display unit 112b, the normal symbol based on the lottery results of the big jackpot lottery (the first jackpot lottery, the second big jackpot lottery) and the normal symbol lottery. The display content of the display unit 113 is controlled. For example, when the first big hit lottery is performed, the main control unit 201 displays the special figure 1 of the first special figure display unit 112a in a variable manner. Then, after a predetermined period, the special figure 1 is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the first jackpot lottery.

  Similarly, the main control unit 201 displays the special symbol 2 of the second special symbol display unit 112b when the second big hit lottery is performed, and the normal symbol of the normal symbol display unit 113 when the normal symbol lottery is performed. .

  Furthermore, the main control unit 201 is also connected to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203, and transmits various commands to each. For example, when the main control unit 201 performs a lottery lottery, the main control unit 201 transmits a change start command to the effect control unit 202. Here, in the variation start command, the lottery result of the jackpot lottery (the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed), the game state, and the time for the special symbol to be variably displayed before showing the lottery result of the jackpot lottery (hereinafter “variable time”) Etc.) is included.

  In addition, when the main control unit 201 detects a game ball that has won a winning ball (starting ports 105 and 106, a big winning port 109, and a normal winning port 110), the main control unit 201 transmits a winning ball command to the winning ball control unit 203. To do. Here, the prize ball command includes information indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 202 includes an effect control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c, and has a function of controlling the effect contents of the pachinko gaming machine 100. Here, the effect control unit 202a has a function of controlling the entire effect control unit 202 based on a command (for example, a change start command) received from the main control unit 201. The image / sound control unit 202b has a function of controlling images and sounds based on instructions from the production control unit 202a. The lamp control unit 202c has a function of controlling lighting of lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the configuration of the production control unit 202a will be described. The production control unit 202a includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, a real-time clock (hereinafter referred to as "RTC") 244, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 241 executes various programs for controlling the entire effect control unit 202, such as an effect timer interrupt process (see FIG. 10). The ROM 242 stores programs necessary for the CPU 241 to execute the above processing. The RAM 243 functions as a work area for the CPU 241. The data set in the RAM 243 by the CPU 241 executing the program is transmitted to the image / sound controller 202b and the lamp controller 202c at a predetermined timing.

  In other words, the effect control unit 202a functions to control the entire effect control unit 202 by executing a program stored in the ROM 242 while the CPU 241 uses the RAM 243 as a work area. For example, the effect supervising unit 202a determines an effect to be executed in accordance with the change display of the special symbol based on the change start command, and executes predetermined processing on the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. The instruction is output to control the entire production control unit 202.

  The RTC 244 functions as a time measuring means for measuring and outputting real time. The RTC 244 continues timing operation by a backup power source (not shown) even when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is cut off. Note that the RTC 244 is not limited to being placed in the production control unit 202 such as the production control unit 202a, but may be arranged in the main control unit 201. Further, the RTC 244 may be arranged alone and may output the actual time to the effect control unit 202 or the main control unit 201.

  In addition, an effect button 119 is connected to the effect control unit 202a. For example, when the effect button 119 is pressed by the player, a corresponding input signal is input to the effect control unit 202a. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the cross key 120 is also connected to the production control unit 202a. The cross key 120 inputs an input signal corresponding to the key selected by the player to the effect control unit 202a.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the configuration of the image / sound controller 202b will be described. The image / sound control unit 202b includes a CPU 251, a ROM 252, a RAM 253, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 251 executes image / sound generation processing and output processing. The ROM 252 stores various image data such as a program for executing image / sound generation processing and output processing, background images / designs for presentation (hereinafter referred to as “production designs”) / character images necessary for the processing, Various audio data and the like are stored. The RAM 253 functions as a work area for the CPU 251 and temporarily stores image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 and audio data to be output from the speaker 254. For example, the RAM 253 includes a VRAM (Video RAM) in which image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 is temporarily stored.

  That is, the image / sound control unit 202b causes the image display unit 104 to display based on an instruction from the production control unit 202a by executing the program stored in the ROM 252 while the CPU 251 uses the RAM 253 as a work area. It functions to control images and sound output from the speaker 254.

  For example, the CPU 251 controls the display control process (not shown) for controlling the display content displayed on the image display unit 104 and the audio content output from the speaker 254 based on the instruction content instructed from the production control unit 202a. Voice control processing (not shown) is executed. At this time, the CPU 251 reads image data and audio data necessary for processing from the ROM 252 and writes them in the RAM 253.

  Image data such as background images and effect designs written in the RAM 253 is output to the image display unit 104 connected to the image / sound control unit 202b, and is superimposed on the display screen of the image display unit 104. That is, the effect design is displayed so that it can be seen in front of the background image. In the case where the background image and the effect symbol overlap at the same position, the Z symbol of each image data is referred to the Z value of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method, and the effect design is given priority in the RAM 253. Remember.

  The audio data written in the RAM 253 is output to the speaker 254 connected to the image / audio control unit 202b, and audio based on the audio data is output from the speaker 254.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the configuration of the lamp control unit 202c will be described. The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261, a ROM 262, a RAM 263, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 261 executes processing for turning on the lamp and the like. The ROM 262 stores various programs necessary for executing the above processing, control data used for lamp lighting necessary for the processing, and the like. The RAM 263 functions as a work area for the CPU 261.

  The lamp control unit 202c is connected to the effect light unit (frame lamp) 116, the panel lamp 264, and the effect agent 265, and outputs data for lighting control and data for operation control. Thereby, the lamp control unit 202c functions to control the lighting of the lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like, and the operation of the effect actor 265.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 202 is provided with a production control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c as different board functions, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the configuration of the winning ball control unit 203 will be described. The prize ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 281 executes a prize ball control process for controlling a prize ball to be paid out. The ROM 282 stores programs necessary for the processing. The RAM 283 functions as a work area for the CPU 281.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to a payout unit (payout drive motor) 291, a launch unit 292, a fixed position detection SW 293, a payout ball detection SW 294, a ball presence detection SW 295, and a full tank detection SW 296. .

  The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit 291 to pay out the number of prize balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. Specifically, the winning ball control unit 203 receives the winning game balls that have won the winning units 291 (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109, the normal winning port 110) with respect to the payout unit 291. Control to pay out the corresponding number of prize balls.

  In addition, the prize ball control unit 203 detects the operation of launching the game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 292 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 203 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 292, the prize ball control unit 203 intermittently fires a game ball by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to various detection units for detecting the state of the game ball to be paid out, and detects the payout state for the prize ball. These detection units include a fixed position detection SW293, a payout ball detection SW294, a ball presence detection SW295, a full tank detection SW296, and the like. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 realizes its function by a prize ball control board.

  The main control unit 201, the effect control unit 202, and the prize ball control unit 203 configured as described above are provided on different printed boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball control board). For example, the prize ball control unit 203 can be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 201.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 297 is connected to the main control unit 201, and various information executed by the main control unit 201 can be output to the outside. The prize ball control unit 203 is also connected to the frame external information terminal board 298, and can output various information executed by the prize ball control unit 203 to the outside.

(The gaming state of pachinko machines)
Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. The main control unit 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a winning game state that opens and closes the big winning opening 109 when winning a variety of hits such as a big win and a small win, and a high-probability game flag and a short-time game flag. Depending on the combination of ON / OFF setting of two flags, four gaming states can be taken.

  First, the normal game state is a game state when both the high probability game flag and the short-time game flag are set to OFF. In this normal gaming state, the main control unit 201 performs a hit determination using a low-probability gaming state hit determination table (not shown) by setting the high-probability game flag to OFF, for example, a jackpot with a probability of 1/300. To win. Further, in the normal game state, the main control unit 201 does not give a game support function (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew support function”) by opening and closing the electric tulip 107 by setting the time-saving game flag to OFF.

  The specific contents of the electric chew support function will not be described in detail because it is a well-known technique. For example, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened and the winning probability per normal symbol is increased (the electric tulip opening frequency is Increase) and lengthening the opening time of electric tulips. That is, in a normal gaming state where the electric chew support function is not given, it is difficult to win a game ball to the second starting port 106.

  The short-time gaming state is a gaming state when the high-probability gaming flag is OFF and the short-time gaming flag is set to ON. At this time, in the short game state, the main control unit 201 performs a hit determination using the hit determination table for the low probability game state by setting the high-probability game flag to OFF. In the short-time game state, the main control unit 201 provides an electric chew support function by setting the short-time game flag to ON. For this reason, in the short time gaming state in which the electric chew support function is provided, it is easier to win a game ball to the second starting port 106 than in the case where the electric chew support function is not provided.

  The probability-changing gaming state is a gaming state when both the high-probability gaming flag and the hourly gaming flag are set to ON. In this probability-changing gaming state, the main control unit 201 performs a hit determination using a high-probability gaming state hit determination table (not shown) by setting the high-probability gaming flag ON, for example, a jackpot with a probability of 1/30 To win. Further, in the probability variation gaming state, the main control unit 201 provides an electric chew support function by setting the time-saving gaming flag to ON.

  The latent game state is a game state when the high probability game flag is ON and the short-time game flag is set OFF. In the latent game state, the main control unit 201 performs a hit determination using the hit determination table for the high probability game state according to the ON setting of the high probability game flag. In the latent game state, the main control unit 201 does not provide the electric chew support function.

  For example, the main control unit 201 switches the high-probability game flag and the short-time game flag ON / OFF at the end of the winning game state when a big win is won. That is, the main control unit 201 shifts the gaming state in response to the jackpot. At this time, the game state of the transfer destination is determined by the content of the winning jackpot. For example, if you win a winning jackpot, you will be placed in a probability changing gaming state after this jackpot game state.If you win a normal jackpot, you will be in a short-time gaming state after this jackpot gaming state. After the state, enter the latent game state.

  Further, the main control unit 201 may perform the transition of the next gaming state when the specified number of jackpot lotteries has been performed after the transition of the previous gaming state. At this time, the game state of the transfer destination is set in advance by the manufacturer of the pachinko gaming machine 100. For example, the main control unit 201 shifts to the normal gaming state when 100 jackpot lotteries are performed after shifting to the short-time gaming state.

(Basic operation of pachinko machines)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 100, when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, performs a big hit lottery according to the winning starting port. For example, when a game ball wins the first start opening 105, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs a first big hit lottery. At this time, the pachinko gaming machine 100 variably displays the special figure 1 of the first special figure display unit 112a. Then, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the variable display, the special figure 1 is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the first jackpot lottery.

  Further, when the game ball wins the second start opening 106, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs the second big hit lottery. At this time, the pachinko gaming machine 100 variably displays the special figure 2 of the second special figure display unit 112b. Then, after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the variable display, the special figure 2 is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the second big hit lottery.

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 variably displays the special symbol (Special Fig. 1 or Special Fig. 2), the effect symbol (for example, three columns of numbers) of the image display unit 104 is variably displayed. When the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol indicating a jackpot (the jackpot was won in the first jackpot lottery or the second jackpot lottery), the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a combination that indicates a jackpot (for example, “ 7. 7. 7 ”) stop the effect design.

  When the effect symbol is stopped and displayed with the combination indicating the big hit, the pachinko gaming machine 100 sets the gaming state to the big hit gaming state, and opens the big winning opening 109 for the round corresponding to the winning big hit (for example, 15 rounds). If the game ball wins the big winning opening 109 during the opening, the pachinko gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls.

  The jackpot game state ends when the jackpot end condition is satisfied, and shifts to another game state. For example, in the case of winning a winning jackpot game, the pachinko gaming machine 100 transitions to a winning game state when the jackpot gaming state ends. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the short-time gaming state when the jackpot gaming state ends when the normal jackpot is won.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs a normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 108. At this time, the normal symbol on the normal symbol display unit 113 is displayed in a variable manner. Then, after a predetermined period from the start of the fluctuation, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the symbol indicating the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. In the case of winning the normal symbol per lot (hereinafter referred to as “per normal symbol”) in the normal symbol lottery, the pachinko gaming machine 100 stops displaying the normal symbol at a predetermined symbol indicating the per symbol. Thereafter, the electric tulip 107 is opened for a predetermined period.

(Functional configuration of pachinko machine)
Next, a functional configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201 and an effect control unit 202. First, the main control unit 201 will be described.

(Main control unit)
As described above, the main control unit 201 has a function of controlling the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100. For example, examples of the control performed by the main control unit 201 include prior determination and jackpot lottery. Here, the preliminary determination is a process performed by the main control unit 201 immediately after a game ball wins the start opening 105, 106, and is a process for determining whether or not a big hit is obtained by the winning. The detailed processing contents of the pre-determination will be described later with reference to FIG.

  By this preliminary determination, the main control unit 201 can determine whether or not there is a big hit in the current hold. When the main control unit 201 performs a pre-determination or a big hit lottery, the main control unit 201 outputs a command indicating the pre-determination result or the big win lottery result to the effect control unit 202.

(About the production control unit)
The effect control unit 202 has a function of receiving a command indicating a pre-determination result or a big win lottery result from the main control unit 201 and controlling an effect performed by the pachinko gaming machine 100. For example, a continuous effect may be mentioned as an effect that the effect control unit 202 causes the pachinko gaming machine 100 to perform. As described above, the continuous effect is a series of effects that continue over a plurality of symbol variations, and reach and end with a reach effect.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the effect control unit 202 includes a determination unit 301, a first execution unit 302, a determination unit 303, and a second execution unit 304. The determination unit 301 has a function of determining the number of times of continuous production. The determination unit 301 determines the number of continuations based on the number of hold until the hold that becomes a big hit based on the prior determination result.

  For example, the determination unit 301 determines that the number of continuations is “4 times” when the big hit is a hold four ahead. The determination unit 301 performs not only a big hit but also a continuation effect until a hold that becomes a losing that performs a reach effect, that is, a losing that is determined to be “reached” by the reach determination (see step S707 in FIG. 7) (hereinafter referred to as “reach loss”) You may do.

  The 1st execution part 302 has a function which performs the continuous production | presentation of the continuation number determined by the determination part 301. FIG. In addition, when the number of continuations determined by the determination unit 301 is reached, the first execution unit 302 performs a reach effect and ends the continuous effect. Here, performing an effect means, for example, displaying an image corresponding to the effect to be executed on the display screen of the image display unit 104 or outputting sound from the speaker 254. Further, the effect light unit 116 and the panel lamp 264 may be turned on with a lighting pattern corresponding to the effect that is the execution target.

  The determination unit 303 determines whether or not a reach effect was performed (a specific effect pattern was selected) before the lapse of the number of continuations determined by the determination unit 301 in the continuous effect being executed by the first execution unit 302. Has a function to judge. For example, the determination unit 303 determines whether or not a reach effect has been performed between the first and third times in a continuous effect of four times.

  When the determination unit 303 determines that the reach effect has been performed, the second execution unit 304 indicates an effect (hereinafter referred to as “suggest effect”) that suggests to the player that the continuous effect will continue after the reach effect. Has a function to perform. For example, the second execution unit 304 performs the suggestion effect with the next symbol variation in which the reach effect before the continuation count has elapsed. Further, the second execution unit 304 may perform a suggestion effect immediately after the start of the next symbol variation.

  Further, the second execution unit 304 may perform the suggestion effect by moving the effect agent 265 provided on the game board 101 of the pachinko gaming machine 100. In addition, before performing the suggestion effect, the second execution unit 304 may perform an effect that predicts that the suggestion effect will be performed by moving the effect actor 265 smaller than the suggestion effect.

  By this suggestion effect, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can indicate to the player that the continuous effect continues after the reach effect, so the player still has a chance (this time continuous) There is still a possibility of winning the jackpot in the production), and the player's expectation can be maintained.

  For example, the function units of the determination unit 301, the first execution unit 302, the determination unit 303, and the second execution unit 304 execute various programs stored in the ROM 242 while the CPU 241 uses the RAM 243 as a work area. The function can be realized.

(Outline of production performed by pachinko machines)
Next, an outline of effects produced by the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of effects performed by the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the number of holdings immediately before the time t0 is 4, and the prior determination result of each of these four holdings is represented by the first “normal lose (losing not performing reach production)”, the second “ Reach Loss (Leach for Reach Production), 3rd “Normal Loss”, 4th “Big Bonus”. Then, a continuous production is performed four times until the fourth “big hit” is held.

  First, the pachinko gaming machine 100 starts displaying special symbols on the special symbol display unit 112 and the effect symbols on the display screen of the image display unit 104 at time t0 based on the first suspension, The start is notified to the player (continuous production first change). Then, at the time t1 when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the variable display, the special symbol and the effect symbol that are being variable displayed are stopped and displayed.

  As described above, since the first hold is “Normal Loss”, the appearance of the special symbol and the production symbol that are stopped and displayed at this time represents a loss. Further, the appearance of the effect symbol that is stopped and displayed at this time may be a characteristic loss appearance (for example, “1 · 2 · 3”) called a so-called “chance eye”.

  Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the second change of the continuous effect based on the second hold, and starts the change display of the special symbol and the effect symbol in the same manner as described above. At this time, the player may be notified of the transition to the second change of the continuous performance. As described above, since the second hold is “Leach Loss”, several (for example, two) effect symbols are displayed at the time t11 when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the variable display. The stop state is displayed and a reach state is formed (for example, “1 · ↓ · 1”. “↓” indicates that a variable display is being displayed).

  After the reach state is formed, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs a reach effect (reach effect A in the illustrated example). For example, the reach effect A is a reach effect (normal reach) in which the reliability to the jackpot is set low. When the reach effect A is performed, the pachinko gaming machine 100 displays an image corresponding to the reach effect A on the display screen of the image display unit 104. Then, when the time t2 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the time t11 when the reach effect A is started, the special symbols and the effect symbols that are also variably displayed during the reach effect A are stopped. The special symbol that is stopped and displayed at this time represents a loss, and the production symbol represents a reach loss (for example, “1 · 2 · 1”).

  Thereafter, based on the third hold, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the third change of the continuous effect and starts the special symbol and the change display of the effect symbol as above, and also performs the suggestion effect, It suggests to the player that the continuous performance continues. Thereby, it is possible to notify the player that the continuous production continues after the reach production A.

  Then, at a time t3 when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the variable display, the special symbol and the effect symbol during the variable display are stopped and displayed. As described above, since the third hold is “Normal Loss”, the appearance of the special symbol and the production symbol that are stopped and displayed at this time represents a loss.

  Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the fourth change of the continuous effect based on the fourth hold, and starts to display the change of the special symbol and the effect symbol in the same manner as described above. At this time, the player may be informed that the transition has been made to the fourth variation of the continuous performance. As described above, since the fourth hold is a “big hit”, at the time t31 when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the variable display, several effect symbols are stopped and displayed. A state is formed (for example, “3 · ↓ · 3”).

  After the reach state is formed, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs a reach effect (reach effect B in the illustrated example). For example, the reach effect B is a reach effect (special reach) set with high reliability for the jackpot. When the reach effect B is performed, the pachinko gaming machine 100 displays an image corresponding to the reach effect B on the display screen of the image display unit 104. Then, at time t4 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the time t31 when the reach effect B is started, the special symbol and the effect symbol that has been variably displayed during the reach effect B are displayed. The appearance of the special symbol and the production symbol that are stopped and displayed at this time represents a jackpot (for example, “3.3.3”).

  As described above, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 reaches the predetermined number of continuations and performs the reach effect by the hold before the start of the continuous effect, the suggestion effect is subsequently given. To do. By this suggestion effect, it is suggested to the player that the continuous effect continues after the reach effect by another hold.

  As a result, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can give a sense of expectation again to the player who thinks that the continuous production has ended due to the reach production by other hold, so that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is interesting. Can be improved. The suggestion effect may be performed at an arbitrary timing after the reach effect A in the continuous effect, but is desirably performed immediately after the reach effect A. By doing in this way, the period when the player's expectation has fallen can be shortened as much as possible.

(Processing performed by the main control unit 201)
Next, a process performed by the main control unit 201 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 in order to realize each of the above operations will be described. Each process of the main control unit 201 described below is performed by the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 executing a program stored in the ROM 212.

(Timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the timer interrupt processing. When the supply of power is started, the main control unit 201 starts execution of a main control process (not shown) including a startup process and a power-off monitoring process, and the main control process is transferred to the main control unit 201. Executes continuously while power is being supplied. Then, the main control unit 201 interrupts and executes the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 5 at a predetermined cycle (for example, 4 ms) with respect to the main control process.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the timer interrupt process, the main control unit 201 first executes a random number update process for updating random numbers used in various lotteries performed by the main control unit 201 (step S501). In this random number update process, the main control unit 201 updates a winning random number used for hit determination, a symbol random number used for symbol determination, a reach random number used for reach determination, a variation pattern random number used for variation pattern determination, and the like.

  Next, the main control unit 201 executes a switch process related to the detection of the game ball (step S502). In this switch process, the main control unit 201 detects a game ball that has won a prize at the start port (see FIG. 6), a gate switch process (not shown) that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a normal A prize opening switch process (not shown) for detecting a game ball that has passed through the prize opening / big prize opening is performed. Since the gate switch process and the winning opening switch process are known techniques, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the main control unit 201 executes symbol processing relating to special symbols and normal symbols (step S503). Here, the symbol process includes a special symbol process (see FIG. 8) relating to the special symbol and a normal symbol process (not shown) relating to the normal symbol. In the special symbol process, the main control unit 201 performs a jackpot lottery to display the special symbol in a variable / stopped manner. In the normal symbol processing, the main control unit 201 performs the normal symbol lottery and displays the normal symbol in a variable display / stop display.

  When the symbol process is executed, the main control unit 201 executes an electric accessory control process related to operation control of various electric accessories (step S504). Although detailed description and illustration are omitted because of a known technique, the electric accessory control process includes an electric tulip control process for controlling the operation of the electric tulip 107, a big prize opening process for controlling the action of the big prize opening 109, and the like. Is included.

  Next, the main control unit 201 executes a prize ball process related to the prize ball (step S505), and executes an output process for outputting the commands set in the RAM 213 by the above processes to the effect control unit 202 and the like. (Step S506), and the timer interrupt process is terminated. When the timer interrupt process ends, the main control unit 201 returns to the main process.

(Start-up switch processing)
Next, processing contents of the start port switch process will be described. As described above, the start port switch process is one process included in the switch process shown in step S502 of FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the start port switch processing. In the start port switch process, the main control unit 201 first determines whether or not the first start port SW221 is turned on (step S601). If the first start port SW221 is not ON (step S601: No), the process proceeds to step S606 described later.

  If the first start port SW221 is ON (step S601: Yes), it is determined whether the number U1 of retained game balls won at the first start port 105 is less than 4 (U1 <4) (step S602). ). If the holding number U1 is not less than 4 (step S602: No), that is, if the holding number U1 is 4 or more, the process proceeds to step S606.

  If the number of holds U1 is less than 4 (step S602: Yes), a value obtained by adding “1” to the number of holds U1 is set as a new hold number U1 (step S603), and various random numbers for winning game balls are acquired. The data is stored in the RAM 213 (step S604). Here, examples of the acquired random number include a hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, and the like.

  After acquiring and storing various random numbers for the winning game balls, the main control unit 201 performs a pre-determination process for the gaming balls that have won the first starting port 105 based on these random numbers (step S605). Detailed processing contents of the prior determination processing will be described later with reference to FIG. When the prior determination process is performed, the main control unit 201 determines whether the second start port SW222 is turned on (step S606). If the second start port SW222 is not ON (step S606: No), the start port switch process is terminated as it is.

  If the second start port SW222 is ON (step S606: Yes), it is determined whether the number U2 of the game balls that have won the second start port 106 is less than 4 (U2 <4) (step S607). ). If the number of holdings U2 is not less than 4 (step S607: No), that is, if the number of holdings U2 is 4 or more, the start port switch process is terminated as it is.

  If the holding number U2 is less than 4 (step S607: Yes), a value obtained by adding “1” to the holding number U2 is set as a new holding number U2 (step S608), and various random numbers for the winning game ball are acquired. The data is stored in the RAM 213 (step S609). Here, as in the case where the first starting port 105 is won, a winning random number, a design random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, and the like are acquired.

  After acquiring and storing various random numbers for the winning game balls, the main control unit 201 performs a pre-determination process for the winning game balls in the second starting port 106 based on these random numbers (step S610). The switch process ends.

(Preliminary judgment processing)
Next, processing contents of the prior determination processing shown in steps S605 and S610 of FIG. 6 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing content of the prior determination processing. In the pre-determination process, the main control unit 201 first determines whether the current gaming state is a high-probability gaming state (the high-probability gaming flag is ON) (step S701).

  If it is a high probability gaming state (step S701: Yes), the main control unit 201 selects a determination table per high probability (step S702). If it is not the high probability gaming state (step S701: No), the main control unit 201 selects a determination table per low probability (step S703).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 compares the hit determination table selected in step S702 or step S703 with the reserved hit random numbers to be pre-determined, and the hit random numbers correspond to each hit in the hit determination table. A hit determination is performed to determine whether or not the predetermined value matches (step S704).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the determination result of the hit determination in step S704 is a win (step S705). If it is a win (step S705: Yes), a winning variation pattern table is selected (step S706). If it is not a hit (step S705: No), a predetermined reach determination table (not shown) is compared with a reserved reach random number to be determined in advance, and the reach random number is “reach present” in the reach determination table. Reach determination is performed to determine whether or not the value matches the predetermined value (step S707).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the reach determination result in step S707 is “reach present”, that is, reach loss (step S708). If it is reach lose (step S708: Yes), the variation pattern table for reach lose is selected (step S709). If it is not reach loss, that is, if it is normal loss (step S708: No), a variation pattern table for normal loss is selected (step S710).

  After that, the main control unit 201 compares the variation pattern table selected in any one of step S706, step S709, and step S710 with the variation pattern random number that is the target of the preliminary determination, and the variation pattern random number A variation pattern determination is performed to determine which variation pattern corresponds to the table (step S711), and a prior determination result including a hit determination result in step S704 and a variation pattern determination result in step S711 is set in the RAM 213 ( Step S712), the preliminary determination process is terminated. The prior determination result set in step S712 is output to the effect control unit 202 when the output process in step S506 of FIG. 5 is executed.

(Special symbol processing)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the special symbol processing. This special symbol process is a process included in the symbol process in step S503 of FIG. In the special symbol process, the main control unit 201 first determines whether the winning game flag is ON (step S801). Here, the winning game flag is, for example, a flag that is set to ON when various types of winning (big winning, small winning) are won, and a flag indicating that the current gaming state is a winning gaming state (for example, a big winning gaming state). It is.

  If the winning game flag is ON (step S801: Yes), the main control unit 201 ends the special symbol process as it is without variably displaying the special symbol. If the winning game flag is not ON (step S801: No), the main control unit 201 determines whether the special symbol is being variably displayed (step S802). If the special symbol is not being variably displayed (step S802: No), the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the holding number U2 for the game ball won to the second starting port 106 is 1 or more (step S803).

  If the holding number U2 is 1 or more (U2 ≧ 1) (step S803: Yes), the main control unit 201 sets a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the holding number U2 as a new holding number U2 (step S804). The process proceeds to S807. If the holding number U2 is 0 (U2 = 0) (step S803: No), the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the holding number U1 for the game ball won at the first start port 105 is 1 or more ( Step S805).

  If the holding number U1 is 0 (U1 = 0) (step S805: No), the main control unit 201 ends the special symbol process as it is. If the holding number U1 is 1 or more (U1 ≧ 1) (step S805: Yes), the main control unit 201 sets a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the holding number U1 as a new holding number U1 (step S806). The process proceeds to S807.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 performs a jackpot lottery process (step S807). The details of the jackpot lottery process will be described later with reference to FIG. When the jackpot lottery process is performed, the main control unit 201 executes a variation pattern determination process (step S808). Although the detailed processing contents of the variation pattern determination processing are not shown or described in detail, similar to the processing shown in steps S705 to S711 in FIG. 7, based on the lottery result of the big hit lottery and the determination result of the reach determination The variation pattern table is selected, and the variation pattern is determined by comparing the selected variation pattern table with the variation pattern random number.

  When the variation pattern is selected by the variation pattern determination process, the main control unit 201 starts the variation display of the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 112 based on the selected variation pattern (step S809). At this time, when variably displaying based on the lottery result of the second big hit lottery, the special figure 2 of the second special figure display unit 112b is variably displayed. When variably displaying based on the lottery result of the first big hit lottery, the special figure 1 of the first special figure display unit 112a is variably displayed.

  The main control unit 201 sets a change start command in the RAM 213 in synchronization with the start of special symbol change display (step S810). The variation start command set in step S810 includes the lottery result of the jackpot lottery process in step S807, information indicating the variation pattern selected by the variation pattern determination process in step S808, and the like. Further, the change start command set in step S810 is output to the effect control unit 202 when the output process in step S506 of FIG. 5 is executed.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined variation time (a variation time defined by the variation pattern selected immediately before the variation display starts) has elapsed since the time when the variation display of the special symbol was started (step S811). ). If the predetermined fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S811: No), the main control unit 201 ends the special symbol process as it is.

  On the other hand, if the variation time has elapsed (step S811: Yes), the main control unit 201 stops displaying the special symbol that is being subjected to variation display in the special symbol display unit 112 (step S812), and displays a variation stop command in the RAM 213. (Step S813). The change stop command set in step S813 is output to the effect control unit 202 when the output process in step S506 in FIG. 5 is executed.

  After setting the variable stop command in the RAM 213, the main control unit 201 subsequently executes a stop process for setting a flag indicating the gaming state (for example, the above-described hit flag) (step S814), and performs a special symbol process. finish. On the other hand, when the special symbol is being variably displayed in step S802 (step S802: Yes), the main control unit 201 proceeds to step S811, determines whether the variation time has elapsed, and performs the above processing.

(Large lottery processing)
Next, processing contents of the jackpot lottery process shown in step S807 of FIG. 8 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot lottery process. In the jackpot lottery process, the main control unit 201 first determines whether or not the current gaming state is a high-probability gaming state (the high-probability gaming flag is ON) (step S901).

  If it is a high probability gaming state (step S901: Yes), the main control unit 201 selects a determination table per high probability (step S902). If it is not a high probability gaming state (step S901: No), the main control unit 201 selects a determination table per low probability (step S903).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 compares the winning determination table selected in Step S902 or Step S903 with the pending winning random number to be determined for winning determination, and the winning random number corresponds to each hit in the winning determination table. A hit determination is performed to determine whether the predetermined value matches (step S904).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the determination result of the hit determination in step S904 is a big win (step S905). If it is a big hit (step S905: Yes), the reserved symbol random number is compared with a predetermined symbol determination table (not shown), and the symbol random number is determined as to which type of jackpot (for example, probability variation big hit, normal Symbol determination is performed to determine whether the value matches a predetermined value corresponding to the big hit or the latent big hit (step S906). Then, a symbol representing the determination result of the symbol determination is set in the RAM 213 (step S907), and the jackpot lottery process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the determination result of the hit determination in step S904 is not a big win (step S905: No), it is determined whether the determination result of the win determination is a small win (step S908). If it is a small hit (step S908: Yes), the symbol indicating the small hit is set in the RAM 213 (step S909), and the big hit lottery process is terminated. If it is not a small hit (step S908: No), a symbol indicating a loss is set in the RAM 213 (step S910), and the big hit lottery process is terminated.

(Processing performed by the production control unit)
Next, the process performed by the effect control unit 202 will be described in detail. Each process of the effect control unit 202 shown below is performed, for example, when the CPU 241 of the effect control unit 202a executes a program stored in the ROM 242.

(Production timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect timer interrupt process. The production supervision unit 202a continuously performs a predetermined main production control process (not shown) during the activation, and performs the production timer interruption process shown in FIG. For example, an interrupt is executed at 4 ms).

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the production timer interruption process, the production supervision unit 202a first performs a command reception process (step S1001). The command reception process is a process for receiving various commands (for example, a variation start command) transmitted from the main control unit 201 and selecting various effects (for example, a variation effect and a winning effect) based on the received commands. Detailed processing contents will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the command reception process is performed, the effect supervising unit 202a continues to perform the effect button process (step S1002). In the effect button process, when an operation of the effect button 119 from the player is received, an operation command indicating that the operation is received is set in the RAM 243.

  When the effect button process is performed, the effect control unit 202a performs a command transmission process (step S1003). In the command transmission process, a command set in the RAM 243 by the command reception process or the effect button process is output to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c.

(Command reception processing)
Next, the processing content of the command reception processing shown in step S1001 of FIG. 10 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the command reception processing. As shown in FIG. 11, in the command receiving process, the effect supervising unit 202a first determines whether a pre-determination result has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S1101). If the prior determination result has not been received (step S1101: No), the process proceeds to step S1103 to be described later. If the advance determination result has been received (step S1101: Yes), the advance determination result storage area (hereinafter referred to as “predetermination storage area”) provided on the RAM 243 is updated (step S1102).

  Next, the production control unit 202a determines whether a change start command has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S1103). If the change start command has not been received (step S1103: No), the process proceeds to step S1105 described later.

  If the change start command has been received (step S1103: Yes), the effect supervising unit 202a selects the effect to be performed when the effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the display screen (hereinafter referred to as "change effect"). Processing is performed (step S1104). Detailed processing contents of the variation effect selection processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 202a determines whether a change stop command has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S1105). If the fluctuation stop command has not been received (step S1105: No), the process proceeds to step S1107 to be described later.

  If the change stop command has been received (step S1105: Yes), the effect supervising unit 202a performs a change effect end process for ending the change effect (step S1106). Next, the production control unit 202a determines whether an opening command (a command output when the main control unit 201 starts opening) is received from the main control unit 201 (step S1107). If the opening command has not been received (step S1107: NO), the process proceeds to step S1109 described later.

  If the opening command has been received (step S1107: Yes), the production supervision unit 202a performs a hit production selection process for selecting an effect (hereinafter referred to as “winning effect”) to be performed at the time of winning (for example, a big win or a small win). (Step S1108). For example, in the winning effect selection process, the effect supervising unit 202a selects a winning effect for jackpot if winning a jackpot, and wins a winning effect for small hitting (for example, a potential big hit) Select the same hit effect).

  Subsequently, the production control unit 202a determines whether an ending command (a command output when the main control unit 201 starts ending) is received from the main control unit 201 (step S1109). If the ending command has not been received (step S1109: No), the production supervision unit 202a ends the command reception process as it is.

  If an ending command has been received (step S1109: Yes), the production supervision unit 202a performs an ending production selection process for selecting an production to be performed at the end of the winning production (hereinafter referred to as "ending production") (step S1110). The reception process ends.

(Variation effect selection process)
Next, the processing contents of the changing effect selection process shown in step S1102 of FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the variable effect selection processing. As shown in FIG. 12, in the variation effect selection process, the effect supervision unit 202a first analyzes the variation start command received in step S1101 (step S1201), and determines the lottery result of the jackpot lottery, the variation pattern (special symbol (Variation time), information indicating a game state, etc. is acquired.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a performs an effect pattern selection process for selecting the contents of the current variable effect based on the various information acquired in step S1201 (step S1202). The contents of the effect pattern selection process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, the effect supervision unit 202a sets an effect start command including information indicating the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection process in the RAM 243 (step S1203), and ends the variable effect selection process. The effect start command set in step S1203 is transmitted to the image / audio control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c when the command transmission process shown in step S1003 of FIG. 10 is executed.

(Direction pattern selection process)
Next, the contents of the effect pattern selection process shown in step S1202 of FIG. 12 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect pattern selection process. As shown in FIG. 13, in the effect pattern selection process, the effect supervising unit 202a first determines whether or not the continuous effect flag is set to ON (step S1301). As will be described later with reference to FIG. 14, the continuous effect flag is set to ON when it is determined that the continuous effect is started in the continuous effect start process (step S1303). If the continuous effect flag is set to ON (step S1301: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1305.

  If the continuous effect flag is not set to ON (step S1301: No), that is, if the continuous effect flag is set to OFF, it is determined whether there is a big hit or reach loss in the hold (step S1302). If there is no jackpot or reach loss in the hold (step S1302: No), the process proceeds to step S1310 described later.

  If there is a jackpot or reach loss in the hold (step S1302: Yes), a continuous production start process is performed (step S1303). This continuous effect start process is a process for starting a continuous effect, and the processing content will be described later with reference to FIG. When the continuous production start process is performed, it is determined whether the continuous production flag is set to ON by this continuous production start process, that is, whether or not the continuous production is started from the current variation production (step S1304). If the continuous effect flag is set to OFF (step S1304: No), that is, if the continuous effect is not started, the process proceeds to step S1310 described later.

  If the continuous effect flag is set to ON (step S1304: Yes), a value obtained by adding “1” to the continuous effect continuation number counter K is set as a new K (step S1305). Then, referring to the previous effect storage area (for example, RAM 243) in which the effect pattern of the variation effect performed last time is stored (step S1306), whether the previous change effect was the reach effect (a specific effect pattern corresponding to the reach effect) Is selected) (step S1307).

  If the previous variation effect is not a reach effect (step S1307: No), an effect pattern table for continuous effects is selected (step S1308). The contents of the effect pattern table for continuous effects will be described later with reference to FIG. If the previous variation effect is a reach effect (step S1307: Yes), an suggestion effect effect pattern table is selected (step S1309). The contents of the suggestion effect production pattern table will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If there is no big hit or reach loss in the hold in step S1302, or if the continuous effect flag is OFF in step S1304, the normal effect variable effect table is selected (step S1310). The contents of the effect pattern table for normal effects will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Then, using the effect pattern table selected in any one of steps S1308 to S1310 and the effect pattern random number held this time, an effect pattern representing the contents of the variable effect is selected (step S1311). Then, this effect pattern is stored in the previous effect storage area, and the previous effect storage area is updated (step S1312).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the value of the continuation number counter K relating to the number of continuations of the continuous effect has reached a predetermined value Kmax (step S1313). finish. The predetermined value Kmax will be described later with reference to FIG. On the other hand, if the value of the continuation count counter K is Kmax (step S1313: Yes), the continuous effect flag is set to OFF (step S1314), and the effect pattern selection process is terminated.

(Continuous production start processing)
Next, processing contents of the continuous effect start process shown in step S1303 of FIG. 13 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the continuous production start process. As shown in FIG. 14, in the continuous production start process, the production control unit 202a first performs a lottery for starting a continuous production (step S1401). For example, in the start lottery, a random number for the start lottery is acquired, and the random number is compared with the determination table for the start lottery.

  Next, based on the lottery result of the start lottery in step S1401, it is determined whether or not to start the continuous production (step S1402). When the continuous production is not started, that is, when it is lost in the start lottery (step S1402: No), the continuous production start process is finished as it is. When the continuous effect is started, that is, when the start lottery is won (step S1402: Yes), the continuous effect flag is set to ON (step S1403).

  Thereafter, the value of the continuation counter K is reset to “0” (step S1404), and Kmax is determined (step S1405). For example, here, Kmax is determined depending on how many on-holds the on-hold that triggered the continuous production start process is. If the fourth hold is a big hit and the continuous production start process is performed by this hold, Kmax is determined to be “4”. Then, the determined Kmax is set in the RAM 243 (step S1406), and the continuous effect start process is ended.

(Direction pattern table)
Next, an effect pattern table used in the effect pattern selection process will be described. FIG. 15A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of the contents of the effect pattern table. FIG. 15B is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of the contents of the effect pattern table. FIG. 15C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) of the contents of the effect pattern table.

  The effect pattern table Et1 shown in FIG. 15A is an effect pattern table for continuous effects used in step S1308 of FIG. The effect pattern table Et2 shown in FIG. 15-2 is an effect pattern table for suggestion effects used in step S1309 in FIG. The effect pattern table Et3 shown in FIG. 15C is a normal effect effect pattern table used in step S1310 of FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 15-1 to 15-3, each of the effect pattern tables Et1 to Et3 has a plurality of types of effect patterns (EP11 to EP15, EP21 to EP25, EP31 to EP35) representing the contents of the effects of the respective variable effects. ) Is registered. Variation patterns (variation times of special symbols) are associated with these production patterns, and the production supervision unit 202a selects the production pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the received variation start command.

  For example, when using the suggestion effect production pattern table Et2, the production supervision unit 202a selects the production pattern EP21 if the variation pattern of the variation start command is P1, and produces the production if the variation time of the variation start command is P2. The pattern EP22 is selected. Each effect pattern of the suggestion effect production pattern table Et2 is an effect including the suggestion effect, and when the suggestion effect production pattern table Et2 is used, the suggestion effect is selected regardless of which effect pattern is selected. Is supposed to occur.

(Specific production example)
Next, a specific production example performed by the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described. 16-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. 16-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. 16-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs. 16-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect which the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment performs.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 16A to 16D, the number of holds is 4, as in FIG. 4, and the prior determination result of each of these four holds is represented by the first “normal lose”, the second “ Reach lose, 3rd “normal lose”, 4th “big hit”. And it is an example at the time of performing the continuous production | generation of the continuation count 4 times until the 4th "big hit" suspension.

  As shown in FIG. 16A, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 starts the continuous production, the pachinko gaming machine 100 informs the player that the continuous production has started, and displays each production design (left production design 1601, middle production design 1602, right production). The change display of the symbol 1603) is started ((1) in FIG. 16-1 corresponding to the time t0 in FIG. 4).

  After that, the pachinko gaming machine 100 stops and displays each of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 during the variable display, for example, left effect symbol 1601 → right effect symbol 1603 → middle effect symbol 1602. Then, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of fluctuation, all effect symbols 1601 to 1603 are stopped and displayed ((2) in FIG. 16-1; corresponding to time t1 in FIG. 4). At this time, the outcomes of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 represent normal loss. This completes the variation effect of the first variation of the continuous effect.

  Subsequently, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the second change of the continuous effect, and starts the change display of each effect symbol 1601 to 1603 in the same manner as described above ((3) in FIG. 16-1). Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 during the variable display one by one.

  Then, two effect symbols (left effect symbol 1601 and right effect symbol 1603 in the illustrated example) are stopped and displayed to form a reach state. When the reach state is formed, pachinko gaming machine 100 starts a predetermined reach effect (for example, reach effect A described above) ((4) in FIG. 16-2, corresponding to time t11 in FIG. 4).

  When a predetermined period has elapsed after starting the reach effect in FIG. 16-2 (4), the pachinko gaming machine 100 shows reach loses for the effect symbol that has been variably displayed to the end (in the example shown, the medium effect symbol 1602). The stop effect is displayed so as to be an outcome, and the reach effect is terminated ((5) in FIG. 16-2, corresponding to time t2 in FIG. 4). This completes the second variation effect of the continuous effect.

  Subsequently, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the third change of the continuous effect, and starts the change display of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 in the same manner as described above ((6) in FIG. 16-2). At this time, since the reach effect was performed in the previous variation effect, the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs the suggestion effect.

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 performs the suggestion effect, for example, as shown in the drawing, a message such as “Continuous effect continued!” Is displayed on the display screen of the image display unit 104 in FIG. 4) Suggests to the player that the continuous production continues after the reach production performed in (5). Thereby, the player can know that the continuous performance is still continued, and can continue to enjoy this continuous performance with a sense of expectation.

  Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 stops and displays each of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 during the variable display, as described above. Then, after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the fluctuation, all the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 are stopped and displayed ((7) in FIG. 16-3, corresponding to time t3 in FIG. 4). At this time, the outcomes of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 represent normal loss. This completes the third variation effect of the continuous effect.

  Subsequently, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts to the fourth change of the continuous effect, and starts the change display of the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 in the same manner as described above ((8) in FIG. 16-2). Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols 1601 to 1603 during the variable display one by one.

  Then, two effect symbols (left effect symbol 1601 and right effect symbol 1603 in the illustrated example) are stopped and displayed to form a reach state. When the reach state is formed, pachinko gaming machine 100 starts a predetermined reach effect (for example, reach effect B described above) ((9) in FIG. 16-3, corresponding to time t31 in FIG. 4).

  When a predetermined period elapses after the reach effect is started in FIG. 16-3 (9), the pachinko gaming machine 100 represents the jackpot of the effect symbol that has been variably displayed until the end (in the example shown, the medium effect symbol 1602). The stop effect is displayed so as to be an outcome, and the reach effect is ended and the continuous effect is ended ((10) in FIG. 16-4, corresponding to time t4 in FIG. 4).

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment has reached the predetermined number of continuations, and before performing the hold reach effect that triggered the start of the continuous effect (that is, the continuation number counter K). If the reach effect is performed by another hold before the value reaches Kmax), then the suggestion effect is performed. With this suggestion effect, the pachinko gaming machine 100 suggests that the continuous effect continues to the player.

  As a result, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can give a sense of expectation again to the player who thinks that the continuous production has ended due to the reach production by other hold, so that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is interesting. Can be improved.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can perform the suggestion effect immediately after performing the other hold reach effect, so that the period during which the player's expectation is decreasing can be shortened. It is possible to increase the interest of the pachinko gaming machine 100 by extending the period during which a game can be held.

  Then, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can give the player a further impact than the mere liquid crystal display by performing the suggestion effect by moving the effector 265, and the pachinko game The interest of the machine 100 can be improved.

  As described above, according to the pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a player from being expected to be reduced during a continuous performance and to improve interest.

  The rendering method described in the present embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Pachinko machine 101 Game board 104 Image display part 105 1st starting port 106 2nd starting port 201 Main control part 202 Production control part 301 Determination part (determination means)
302 first execution unit (first execution means)
303 Judgment Unit (Judgment Means)
304 2nd execution part (2nd execution means)

Claims (3)

In pachinko machines that perform a series of productions (hereinafter referred to as “continuous productions”) that continue over multiple symbol fluctuations and perform a reach production and then finish,
Deciding means for determining the number of continuations of the continuous production so that the reliability with respect to the jackpot is higher as the number is less than or equal to the upper limit of the prescribed number of times,
First execution means for performing a continuous production of the number of continuations determined by the determination means;
In the continuous performance being executed by the first execution means, a determination means for determining whether or not the first reach performance has been performed before the continuation count determined by the determination means has elapsed;
When it is determined by the determination means that the first reach effect has been performed, in the variation of the non-reach effect from the first reach effect to the second reach effect that is the last of the continuous effects, Second execution means for performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as “suggested effect”) that suggests to the player that the continuous effect will continue,
When the first execution means reaches the number of continuations determined by the determination means, the first execution means performs a reach effect with a higher degree of reliability to the jackpot than the reach effect performed before the continuation count has elapsed, and performs the continuous effect. Pachinko machine characterized by being terminated.   2. The pachinko gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second execution means performs the suggestion effect by the next symbol variation after the reach effect before the continuation count has elapsed.   The pachinko gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the second execution means performs the suggestion effect immediately after the start of the next symbol variation.

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