JP5938449B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that changes a predetermined symbol such as a pachinko gaming machine and stops the symbol after the fluctuation.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board enters a specific start winning opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the display unit move from top to bottom. When the same or related symbols are arranged on a certain line (effective line), a big win is opened, a big winning opening is opened, and a gaming machine capable of playing a big win game is widely used.

  In such a gaming machine, there is a game machine that temporarily stops the three rows of symbols with a combination of specific deviations (hereinafter referred to as “chance eyes”), then restarts the fluctuation and executes a predetermined reach effect ( For example, see the following Patent Document 1.)

JP 2005-40534 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technique, when the change of the symbol is resumed, the player can easily predict the subsequent development, resulting in a decrease in game playability. That is, when the fluctuation is resumed, the expectation for the subsequent development becomes limited, and the player loses interest.

  The present invention provides a gaming machine that can maintain the player's expectation and improve the fun of the game even after the change of the pattern is resumed, in order to eliminate the above-mentioned problems caused by the prior art. With the goal.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes a determination unit that performs a determination regarding a special game that is advantageous to the player by establishing a start condition, and the determination unit that includes When it is determined that the first special game is to be performed, the display means causes the first symbol display control means to display the plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then to stop display with the first specific combination symbol, and the determination means to When it is determined that a second special game that is less advantageous to the player than the first special game is to be performed among the special games, the display means displays the first symbols after the plurality of symbols are displayed in a variable manner. A second symbol display control means for stopping display with a second specific combination symbol which is different from the specific combination symbol; 3rd symbol display control means capable of causing the display means to stop display with the second specific combination symbol after the plurality of symbols are variably displayed in the display means, The first special game is executed after the first specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the first symbol display control means, and the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the second symbol display control means. And a special game means for executing the second special game and an effect execution control means for causing the effect means to perform a predetermined effect, wherein the first symbol display control means displays the plurality of symbols in a variable manner. After the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed, the first specific combination symbol can be stopped and displayed again by variably displaying. When the second specific combination symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed by the first symbol display control means, a reach effect is suggested that the first specific combination symbol may be stopped and displayed after that. A first notice effect is given to announce that the second game will be performed, and when the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the second symbol display control means, the second special game is announced after that. When the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the third symbol display control means, one of the first announcement effect and the second announcement effect is performed. It can be selectively performed, and one of the effects is performed halfway.

  According to the present invention, even if the chance is stopped, the player cannot predict later development at that time, so that the expectation can be maintained and the fun of the game is improved.

It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the timer interruption process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows the processing content of a big prize opening process. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows the processing content of a big prize mouth process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a fluctuation pattern selection process. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the production pattern table of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the production pattern table of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the production control process which a production control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of an effect pattern selection process. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the production | presentation by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a notice effect.

  Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine of the present invention. The gaming machine of the present invention 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. The 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. A plurality of nails (not shown) are provided in the game area 103, and a game ball is dropped in various directions, and a windmill or a prize opening that changes the fall direction of the game ball is placed in the middle of the fall. Is arranged.

  An image display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103 of the game board 101. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used as the image display unit 104. Below the image display unit 104, start winning ports 105a and 105b for starting winning are arranged. On the left side of the image display unit 104, a winning gate 106 is provided.

  The winning gate 106 is provided to detect the passing of the game ball and to perform a lottery to open an unillustrated electric accessory (hereinafter referred to as “electric tulip”) provided near the start winning opening 105b for a predetermined time. A normal winning opening 107 is disposed on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. When a game ball wins the normal winning opening 107, the number of winning balls (for example, 10) at the time of the normal winning is paid out. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  The above-described image display unit 104 starts a change in display of a plurality of symbols when a game ball wins a specific winning opening (at the time of starting winning), and the symbols stop after a predetermined time. When specific symbols (for example, “777”) are prepared at the time of the stop, a big hit state is obtained. In the big win state, the predetermined winning opening 109 located below is repeatedly opened for a predetermined period (for example, 15 rounds), and the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning game balls is paid out.

  A normal symbol display part 119 and a special symbol display part 120 are arranged in the lower right part of the game board 101. For example, a 7-segment display is used as the normal symbol display unit 119 and the special symbol display unit 120. The normal symbol display unit 119 and the special symbol display unit 120 display numbers, symbols, alphabets, and the like representing predetermined lottery results.

  The symbols such as numbers (hereinafter referred to as “ordinary symbols”) displayed on the normal symbol display unit 119 start to change when the game ball passes the winning gate 106 and stop after a predetermined time. At this time, when the predetermined normal symbol stops, the electric tulip is opened for a predetermined time. The symbols such as numbers (hereinafter referred to as “special symbols”) displayed on the special symbol display unit 120 start to change when the game ball wins the start winning holes 105a and 105b, and stop after a predetermined time. At this time, when a predetermined special symbol stops, a big hit state is obtained.

  On the left side of the normal symbol display unit 119 and the special symbol display unit 120, a reserved ball display unit 121 for the fluctuation of the normal symbol or the special symbol is arranged. For example, an LED is used as the reserved ball display unit 121. A plurality of LEDs as the reserved ball display unit 121 are arranged, and indicate the number of reserved balls with respect to fluctuations of the normal symbol or the special symbol by turning on / off. For example, when two upper LEDs among the LEDs constituting the reserved ball display unit 121 are lit, it indicates that the number of reserved for the variation of the normal symbol is two.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 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. Further, the frame member 110 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side. Thereby, the gaming machine of the present embodiment can be made more conspicuous than other types of gaming machines that do not include the frame member 110. By making the gaming machine conspicuous, it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machine and to strengthen the deterrent against fraudulent acts on the gaming machine.

  In the frame member 110, effect light portions (frame lamps) 112 are provided on the two sides on the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103. Each effect light unit 112 has a plurality of lamps. Each lamp irradiates a player in front of the gaming machine, and the irradiation direction of light can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves along the abdomen from the top of the player. Each lamp is driven by a motor (not shown) provided in the effect light unit 112 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.

  In addition, each lamp can irradiate the surroundings of the gaming machine, and the light irradiation direction can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the gaming machine. The effect light unit 112 can change the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from the entire effect light unit 112 to three dimensions by rotating the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from each lamp while changing the vertical direction. .

  For example, the light irradiation direction is changed when a big hit state is reached. Accordingly, the player and the surroundings of the gaming machine can be sequentially irradiated to inform the surroundings that the gaming machine is in the big hit state, and the attention of the player who has been in the big hit state can be increased. . Accordingly, it is possible to give the player an uplifting feeling due to the attention, and to continuously or repeatedly use the gaming machine of the present embodiment, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine. Moreover, you may change the irradiation direction of light at the time of the production | presentation etc. which are started when it comes to the alerting time mentioned later. As a result, the production can be further emphasized.

  An operation handle 113 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 110. The operation handle 113 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 110 described above, the operation handle 113 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The launcher causes the game ball to be launched when the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114.

  In the vicinity of the image display unit 104 (for example, on the upper side or the side), there is provided an effect for rendering (hereinafter referred to as “movable accessory”). The movable accessory is driven by a solenoid or motor (not shown).

  In the frame member 110, an effect button (chance button) 117 that receives an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the effect button 117. The effect button 117 and the cross key 118 constitute an operation unit. In addition, the frame member 110 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 277 in FIG. 2) that outputs sound.

(Internal configuration of control unit 1. Main control unit)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine. The control unit 200 includes a plurality of control units. In the example shown in the figure, a main control unit 201, an effect control unit 202, and a prize ball control unit 203 are included. The main control unit 201 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The production control unit 202 controls the production operation during the game. The prize ball control unit 203 controls the number of prize balls to be paid out.

  The main control unit 201 is configured to include a CPU 211 that executes basic processing as the game content progresses, a RAM 213 that functions as a work area for data during arithmetic processing of the CPU 211, and the like, based on a program stored in the ROM 212. . For example, the main control unit 201 realizes its function by the main control board. Various commands set in the RAM 213 are sent to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203 at a predetermined timing.

  The main control unit 201 includes a start winning port detection unit (start port SW) 221a that detects a winning ball won in the start winning port 105a, a start port SW 221b that detects a winning ball won in the start winning port 105b, A gate detection unit (gate SW) 222 that detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106, a normal winning port detection unit (normal winning port SW) 223 that detects a game ball that has won the normal winning port 107, and a big winning port A large winning opening detection unit (large winning opening SW) 224 that detects a winning ball won in 109, a normal symbol display unit 119, and a special symbol display unit 120 are connected. A plurality of the normal winning opening SW223 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 107. These detection units can be configured using proximity switches or the like.

  Detection results from the start winning port detection unit 221, the gate detection unit 222, the normal winning port detection unit 223, and the big winning port detection unit 224 are input to the main control unit 201.

  Further, the main control unit 201 controls driving of the start opening solenoid 225 that opens the electric tulip for a predetermined time, the large winning opening solenoid 231 that opens and closes the large winning opening 109, and lighting of the reserved ball display section 121. . The big prize opening solenoid 231 performs an operation of opening the big prize opening 109 for a certain period at the time of a big hit. This jackpot is programmed in advance to occur with a predetermined probability based on the generated random number.

  Further, the main control unit 201 can change the jackpot probability during the game. Specifically, the main control unit 201 uses two probability states, a low probability state where the probability of jackpot is low and a high probability state where the probability of jackpot is higher than the low probability state. To change. The high probability state is generally called a probability variation state (hereinafter referred to as a “probability variation state”).

  Here, the low probability state is a gaming state in which the generated random number is compared with a predetermined low probability state table to make a jackpot determination or the like. In addition, the probability variation state means that the generated random number is compared with a predetermined high-probability state table to make a jackpot determination, and further, a predetermined electric tulip control process is performed to win the game game start winning opening 105b. The game state is made easier. Each table described above is stored in advance in the ROM 212 or the like.

  Thus, for example, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a jackpot is generated at 1/300 in the low probability state, and a jackpot is generated at 1/30 in the probability variation state. . The low probability state includes a normal low probability state (hereinafter referred to as “normal state”) and a short time state. Here, the short-time state is a gaming state in which jackpot determination is performed in the same manner as in the normal state, but it is easy to win a game ball to the start winning opening 105b. Specifically, in the short-time state, the generated random number is compared with a predetermined table for a low probability state, and a jackpot determination is performed. However, a winning of the game ball to the start winning hole 105b is performed by an electric tulip control process (not shown). It is easy to do.

  Information indicating the game state being executed may be output as a command to the effect control unit 202. In this case, an effect according to the game state being executed (for example, control of symbol variation or movable accessory) is performed. Further, when there is a single winning for the start winning opening 105a (or 105b), the main control unit 201 outputs, to the effect control unit 202, information indicating information indicating a variation time required for one symbol variation.

(2. Production control unit)
The production control unit 202 controls production contents during the game. This effect control unit 202 is based on a command sent from the main control unit 201, and an effect control unit 202a that controls the contents of the effect, and an image / sound control unit that controls the image and sound instructed by the effect control unit 202a. 202b and a lamp control unit 202c that controls lighting of the lamps provided on the game board and the frame.

  The effect supervising unit 202a includes a CPU 241 that executes effect processing, a ROM 242 that stores various programs that execute effects, and a RAM 243 that functions as a data work area when the CPU 241 performs arithmetic processing.

  In addition, a real-time clock (RTC) 247 serving as a time measuring means for measuring and outputting real time is connected to the production control unit 202a. The real-time clock 247 continues timing operation by a backup power source (not shown) even when the power is turned off. Various data set in the RAM 243 is sent to the image / sound controller 202b and the lamp controller 202c at a predetermined timing. The RTC 247 is not limited to being arranged in the effect control unit 202, and the arrangement position is not limited to being arranged in the main control unit 201 or arranged alone.

  The image / sound control unit 202b displays on the CPU 251 that executes image and sound generation and output processing, the ROM 252 that stores various image data such as background images, design images, and character images and various sounds, and the image display unit 104. And a RAM 253 for storing image data and sound to be output via the speaker 277. These CPUs 241 and 251 constitute control means for the image display unit 104 and the like.

  The effect button 117 is connected to the effect control unit 202a of the effect control unit 202, and the operation of the effect button 117 is input to the effect control unit 202a and functions as an operation receiving unit.

  Based on the command sent from the main control unit 201, the production control unit 202a reads the program stored in the ROM 242, determines the content of the production, and outputs an instruction to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. To do. That is, the CPU 241 functions as an effect selection unit that selects an effect to be executed and an effect execution unit that executes the selected effect based on a program stored in the ROM 242.

  The CPU 251 of the image / sound control unit 202b performs various image processing and sound processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing based on the instructed contents of the rendering, and necessary image data. The audio data is read from the ROM 252 and written to the RAM 253. The background image, the design image, and the character image written in the RAM 253 are superimposed and displayed on the image display unit 104 on the display screen. That is, the design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image.

  A plurality of symbol images are registered in advance in the ROM 252 as symbol variation patterns that repeatedly vary and stop on the image display unit 104. Based on the command output from the main control unit 201, at the normal time (low probability state), any one of the plurality of registered patterns is selected. Further, for example, in the probability variation state, a symbol variation pattern different from the normal time is selected. Thereby, the gaming machine can indicate to the player that the game state being executed is a probable change state.

  Further, even if the game state being executed is a probability variation state, the symbol variation pattern may be the same as the normal state (so-called latent probability variation state) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. By doing so, the player can play the game with a sense of expectation constantly without knowing whether the game state is the normal state / probability change state.

  When the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the RAM 253 by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. Remember.

  For the image display unit 104, the effect control unit 202 displays the contents of the effect during the game, for example, variable display of symbols, reach (a state in which two of the three symbols are aligned), and various display information at the time of jackpot Is generated and output. When the game is interrupted for a certain time, a screen waiting for the customer is displayed and output. In addition, the effect control unit 202 outputs data for outputting sound from the speaker 277.

  The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261 that executes processing for lighting the lamp, a ROM 262 that stores control data such as lamp lighting, a RAM 263 as a work area for the CPU 261, an effect light unit (frame lamp) 112, and a panel. A lamp 265 and a movable accessory 267 are provided.

  The lamp control unit 202c is based on a command such as lamp lighting that is output from the production control unit 202a of the production control unit 202, and a production light provided on the board lamp 265 provided on the game board 101 and the frame member 110. Data for controlling lighting of the unit 112 is output. Also, data for controlling the operation of the movable accessory 267 is output.

  For example, the effect control unit 202 realizes its function with an effect control board. As shown in FIG. 2, in the effect control unit 202, the effect control unit 202a, the image / sound control unit 202b, and the lamp control unit 202c are provided as different board functions, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. You may comprise. However, even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board, their functions are independent, and the production control unit 202a is composed of an image / sound control unit 202b, a lamp control unit, and the production control unit 202a. It is configured to send and receive commands to and from 202c.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
The prize ball control unit 203 performs prize ball control based on a program stored in the ROM 282. The prize ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281 that executes prize ball control processing, and a RAM 283 that functions as a data work area when the CPU 281 performs arithmetic processing. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 realizes its function with a prize ball board.

  The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit (payout drive motor) 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. In addition, an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 is detected, and the launch of the game ball is controlled.

  The winning ball control unit 203 pays out to the paying unit 291 the number of winning balls corresponding to the game balls won in each of the winning ports (start winning ports 105a and 105b, the normal winning port 107, and the big winning port 109). Take control. 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.

  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 circuit boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball 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.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the gaming machine configured as described above will be described. Control during the game is performed by the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201, and the winning situation of the game balls for each winning opening is output to the winning ball control unit 203. Then, the winning ball control unit 203 pays out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning situation.

  In addition, every time a game ball wins a winning winning opening 105a, 105b, a corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 202, and the effect control unit 202 displays the symbols on the image display unit 104 in a variable manner and stops them. repeat. When the big hit occurrence has been determined, the corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 202, and the effect control unit 202 is stopped in alignment with a predetermined symbol. At this time, control for opening the special winning opening 109 is further performed.

  The effect control unit 202 performs various effects. For example, the effect control unit 202 displays various effect displays in addition to the symbol variation display on the image display unit 104 during the reach of the jackpot occurrence period and during the reach until the jackpot occurrence, at the time of reach notice, or the like. Do it. In addition, a specific drive is performed with respect to various types of accessories, and effects such as changing the lighting state of the effect light unit 112 and the panel lamp 265 are performed.

  For example, when a big hit (15 round probability change / normal big hit) occurs, the big winning opening 109 is opened a plurality of times. Fifteen rounds are repeatedly executed with one release as one round. The period of one round is set, for example, when 10 game balls are won or for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds).

  At this time, the winning ball control unit 203 pays out with 15 winning balls per winning game ball to the big winning opening 109. After the jackpot is over, the jackpot state is released, and if the round hit probability change jackpot is 15 rounds, the jackpot change state is entered.

(Processing procedure of the main control unit)
Next, the contents of the processing procedure of the main control unit 201 will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the timer interrupt processing executed by the main control unit. The timer interruption process interrupts the main control process executed by the main control unit 201 at a predetermined interval (for example, every 4 ms) during the power supply period. First, random number update processing is performed (step S301), and switch processing at the time of starting opening prize is performed (step S302). Thereafter, an electric accessory control process for controlling operations of various electric accessories (for example, an electric tulip and a special winning opening 109) provided in the gaming machine is performed (step S303), a symbol process is performed (step S304), and a prize ball Processing is performed (step S305), and these output processing is performed (step S306).

  In the switch process of step S302, each time the start opening SW221a, 221b provided in the start winning opening 105a, 105b detects a game ball, a predetermined number of holdings (for example, the holding lamps provided for the above-mentioned normal symbol and special symbol respectively) Random numbers are acquired for each number of holds with an upper limit of 4 balls). In the electric accessory control process of step S303, when the acquired random number is a numerical value corresponding to the jackpot, it is determined to be a jackpot, and a process of opening the jackpot solenoid 231 provided in the jackpot 109 is performed a predetermined number of times.

  The electric accessory control process in step S303 includes an opening / closing process for the special winning opening 109 and an electric tulip control process for opening / closing the start winning opening 105b. The big winning opening 109 is controlled to be opened / closed by each big hit (15 round probability variation / normal big hit), small hit, and the like. In step S304, special symbol processing and normal symbol processing are performed.

  FIG. 4-1 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the processing contents of the special winning a prize opening process. The big prize opening process is a process included in the electric accessory control process shown in step S303 of FIG. In the big prize opening process, first, it is determined whether or not a big hit is made (step S401). The jackpot includes, for example, a 15-round probability change / normal jackpot, a 2-round probability change / normal jackpot, and the like.

  If it is not a big hit in step S401 (step S401: No), the process is terminated as it is. If it is a big hit (step S401: Yes), it is determined whether the opening is in progress (step S402). Here, the opening refers to a predetermined period before the special winning opening is opened.

  If it is not in opening in step S402 (step S402: No), the process proceeds to step S421 shown in FIG. If it is during opening (step S402: Yes), it is determined whether a predetermined opening period has passed (step S403). If the opening period has not elapsed (step S403: No), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the opening period has elapsed (step S403: Yes), a round number setting process is executed (step S404). Here, in the round number setting process, a predetermined number of rounds is set according to the type of winning jackpot. For example, 15 rounds are set when 15 rounds probability change / normal jackpot is won. Also, 15 rounds are set when winning 2 rounds / normal jackpot.

  After executing the round number setting process in step S404, a value obtained by adding 1 to the jackpot value (number of rounds) R is set as a new R (step S405). In step S405, when a new R is obtained, the special prize opening solenoid 231 is controlled to open the special prize opening 109 (step S406).

  After the special winning opening 109 is opened in step S406, it is determined whether or not a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds, hereinafter referred to as “opening time”) has elapsed since the start of the opening (step S407). This opening time is set for each jackpot type. For example, the 15 round probability variation / normal jackpot is set to 30 seconds, and the 2 round probability variation jackpot is set to 1 second. When the opening time has not elapsed (step S407: No), it is determined whether or not the number C of winning game balls to the big winning opening 109 is 9 (step S408). When the winning number C is 9 (step S408: Yes), the special winning opening 109 is closed (step S409). If the winning number C is not 9 (step S408: No), the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the opening time has elapsed in step S407 (step S407: Yes), the process proceeds to step S409, and the special winning opening 109 is closed. That is, the special winning opening 109 is closed when either a predetermined opening time has elapsed or a predetermined number of winnings is satisfied. In particular, since the opening time is set to 1 second in the 2-round probability variation jackpot, it is difficult to win the winning prize opening 109 during this time. For this reason, the 2-round probability variation jackpot is a jackpot with a very small number of winning balls as compared to the 15-round probability variation / normal jackpot.

  In step S409, after closing the special winning opening 109, it is determined whether the final round has been reached (step S410). For example, if the number of rounds set in the round number setting process in step S404 is 15, the final round is obtained when R = 15. If the number of rounds set in the round number setting process is two rounds, the final round is obtained when R = 2.

  If it is not the last round in step S410 (step S410: No), the process is terminated. When it is the final round (step S410: Yes), ending is started (step S411). Here, the ending refers to a predetermined period after the winning prize opening 109 is closed.

  After starting the ending in step S411, the jackpot value R is set to 0 (step S412), and it is determined whether a predetermined ending period has elapsed (step S413). If the ending period has elapsed (step S413: Yes), the jackpot is terminated (step S414), and the process is terminated. If the ending period has not elapsed (step S413: No), the process is terminated as it is.

  FIG. 4-2 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing contents of the special winning a prize opening process. If the opening is not being performed in step S402 shown in FIG. 4A (step S402: No), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 109 is being opened (step S421). If it is open (step S421: Yes), the process proceeds to step S407 shown in FIG. If not open (step S421: No), it is determined whether it is during a predetermined interval (step S422). Here, the interval is a predetermined period from the previous opening (for example, opening of the first round) of the special winning opening 109 to the next opening (for example, opening of the second round).

  If it is not during the interval in step S422 (step S422: No), the process proceeds to step S413 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is during the interval (step S422: Yes), it is determined whether a predetermined interval period has elapsed (step S423). When the interval period has elapsed in step S423 (step S423: Yes), the process proceeds to step S405 shown in FIG. When the interval period has not elapsed (step S423: No), the process ends.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the symbol processing. This is the processing content in step S304 in FIG. If the symbol processing is a big hit (step S501: Yes), the processing is terminated without changing the symbol. If it is not a big hit (step S501: No), it is determined whether the symbol is changing (step S502). If it is not changing (step S502: No), it is determined whether there is at least one holding number U. (Step S503). If there is no pending number (U = 0) (step S503: No), the process is terminated without changing the symbol.

  If the number of holdings is 1 or more (step S503: Yes), a value obtained by subtracting the number of holdings by one is set as a new holding number (step S504), and a variation pattern selection process (separate routine) is performed (step S505). In this variation pattern selection process, a hit type (big hit, small hit, reach, etc.) is selected and a symbol variation time is set. Next, a variation start command is set in the RAM 213 (step S506), and the symbol variation is started (step S507). Then, the measurement is started for the variation period in which the symbol is varied (step S508), and the process is terminated.

  In step S502, if the symbol is changing (step S502: Yes), it is then determined whether the changing time has ended (step S509). If the variation time has not ended (step S509: No), the process is terminated. If the variation time has ended (step S509: Yes), a symbol variation stop command is set (step S510). Is finished (step S511). At this time, the symbol variation time is reset (step S512), a predetermined stop process is performed (step S513), and the process is terminated.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the variation pattern selection processing. This is the processing content in step S505 in FIG. In the variation pattern selection process shown in FIG. 6, first, it is determined whether or not the game state being executed is a probability variation state (step S601). If the probability change is in progress in step S601 (step S601: Yes), the high probability determination value is set in the RAM 213 (step S602). If the probability change is not in progress (step S601: No), the low probability determination value is set in the RAM 213 (step S603).

  After one of the determination values is set in step S602 and step S603, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit (step S604). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is based on the jackpot determination random number acquired at a timing (not shown) and the determination values set in steps S602 and S603.

  If it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot in step S604 (step S604: Yes), it is determined whether the jackpot is a probability variation jackpot (for example, a 15-round probability variation jackpot or a two-round probability variation jackpot) (step S605). If it is determined in step S605 that the probability variation jackpot is true (step S605: Yes), it is determined whether the probability variation jackpot is a two-round probability variation jackpot (step S606).

  If it is a 2-round probability variation jackpot in step S606 (step S606: Yes), a 2-round probability variation jackpot symbol is set in the RAM 213 (step S607), and the process is terminated. If it is not 2 rounds probable big hit (step S606: No), the 15 rounds probable big hit symbol is set in the RAM 213 (step S608), and the process ends. If it is not a probable big hit in step S605 (step S605: No), it is determined that the big hit is a 15-round normal big hit, the 15-round normal big win symbol is set in the RAM 213 (step S609), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S604 that the jackpot is not a big hit (out of step) (step S604: No), it is determined whether the outage is a reach out with a reach effect (eg, “121”) (step S610). If the reach is out in step S610 (step S610: Yes), the reach out symbol is set in the RAM 213 (step S611), and the process ends. If the reach is not out (step S610: No), it is determined as a normal out, and the out-of-sequence symbol is set in the RAM 213 (step S612), and the process is terminated. In steps S607 to S609, step S611, and step S612, when each variation symbol set is set in the RAM 213, a variation pattern according to each symbol, a period for performing variation (variation time), and the like are also set.

(Production control by production control unit)
Next, production control by the production control unit 202 will be described. First, the effect control unit 202 receives a change start command sent from the main control unit 201. This variation start command includes a variation pattern (for example, variation time), information indicating a stop pattern due to this variation (for example, “777” indicating 15 round probability variation big hit), and the like.

  In addition, the change start command includes information indicating the game state being executed (for example, the probability change state). As a result, the effect control unit 202 can perform effects according to each game state (low probability state (normal state, short time state) / probability change state).

  When the effect control unit 202 receives the change start command, the effect control unit 202 determines an effect to be executed. Specifically, the effect control unit 202 selects one effect pattern from a plurality of effect patterns prepared in advance. Here, the effect pattern indicates the effect contents.

  When selecting the effect pattern, the effect control unit 202 first acquires a predetermined random number related to the effect selection. Here, the acquired random number is one integer (for example, 10) within a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 99). When a random number is acquired (one random value is obtained), this random value is compared with a predetermined effect pattern table (see FIGS. 7 and 8), and one effect pattern is selected. For example, if the obtained random number value is “10”, an effect pattern associated with the random value “10” in the effect pattern table is selected.

(Direction pattern table)
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing the contents of the effect pattern table of the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing the contents of the effect pattern table of the present embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, five types of effect pattern tables (reference symbols T1 to T3 in FIG. 7, reference symbols T4 and T5 in FIG. 8) are prepared. A predetermined random number value and an effect pattern are associated with each of the effect pattern tables T1 to T5.

  The effect control unit 202 compares the obtained random number value with the effect pattern table T1 when the information indicating the stop symbol included in the change start command is (1) a specific hit (for example, two rounds probable big hit). Then select a production pattern. (2) In the case of 15 rounds probable big hit, an effect pattern is selected by comparing the obtained random value with the effect pattern table T2. (3) In the case of 15 rounds, the effect pattern is selected by comparing the obtained random number value with the effect pattern table T3. (4) When the reach is out of order, the obtained random number value is compared with the effect pattern table T4 to select an effect pattern. (5) In the case of a normal deviation, the obtained random number value is compared with the effect pattern table T5 to select an effect pattern.

  As shown in the production pattern table T1, when the information indicating the stop symbol is a specific hit (for example, when winning the two rounds probable big hit), any random number from 0 to 99 is acquired. The production pattern P4 is selected. On the other hand, as shown in the production pattern tables T2 to T5, when the information indicating the stop symbol is other than a specific hit, the production pattern P4 is not selected even if any random value of 0 to 99 is acquired. As a result, when the effect represented by the effect pattern P4 is executed, the player can recognize that the player has won a specific hit such as a two-round probability change big hit. Note that the specific hit is not limited to the two-round probable big hit, but may be a two-round normal big hit (so-called sudden hit) or a small hit. Here, the small win is one of the losses, but for example, causes the gaming machine to perform the same behavior (effect) as in the case of winning the two rounds probable big win.

  Further, as shown in the production pattern table T2, when the information indicating the stop symbol is a 15 round probability variation big hit, the production pattern P3 is selected when a random value of 40 to 99 is acquired. That is, the effect pattern P3 is selected with a probability of 60% when the 15-round probability variation big win is won. On the other hand, the effect pattern P3 is selected only with a probability of 20% at the time of winning the 15-round normal jackpot or reach loss (see effect pattern tables T3 and T4). And it is not selected at all in the case of a normal loss winning (see the production pattern table T5).

  Thereby, when the production | presentation which the production | presentation pattern P3 represents is performed, it can be recognized that the player has high possibility of having won the 15th round probable big hit. That is, the effect represented by the effect pattern P3 is an effect that has a high degree of reliability for the 15-round probability variation jackpot. However, since the performance pattern P3 may be selected even at the time of winning the reach, even if the performance represented by the performance pattern P3 is executed, the player cannot have a certainty of winning the 15 rounds probable big win.

  In addition, as shown in the production pattern table T5, when the information indicating the stop symbol is a normal out-of-order (out-of-reach out of reach), the production pattern P5 is obtained even if any random value of 0 to 99 is acquired. Selected. In other words, when the effect represented by the effect pattern P5 is executed, the player can recognize that the player has won the normal offense. It should be noted that in the normal deviation effect represented by the production pattern P5, an effect of stopping the symbol with a combination indicating a deviation is performed. At this time, it is also possible to stop at a combination similar to the chance eye, which is a specific combination indicating a loss.

(Processing contents of production control unit)
Next, processing contents of the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the effect control process performed by the effect control unit. The effect control process is interrupted and executed at a predetermined interval (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the main effect process (not shown) performed by the effect control unit 202a.

  In the production control process, first, it is determined whether the production is being performed (step S901). If the production is not being performed (step S901: No), it is determined whether a change start command has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S902). When the change start command has not been received (step S902: No), the processing is ended as it is.

  When the fluctuation start command is received (step S902: Yes), stop symbol selection processing for selecting a symbol to be stopped is executed (step S903). In the stop symbol selection process, a stop symbol is selected based on information indicating the stop symbol included in the change start command.

  When the stop symbol selection process is executed in step S903, an effect pattern selection process is executed (step S904), an effect represented by the effect pattern selected in the effect pattern selection process is started (step S905), and the process ends. The effect pattern selection process in step S904 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, if the effect is being produced in step S901 (step S901: Yes), it is determined whether a change stop command has been received (step S906). When the fluctuation stop command is received (step S906: Yes), the effect is terminated (step S907), and the process is terminated. When the change stop command is not received (step S906: No), the process is ended as it is.

(Direction pattern selection process)
Next, processing contents in the effect pattern selection process in step S904 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect pattern selection process. In the effect pattern selection process, first, a predetermined random number related to the effect is acquired (step S1001). Then, when one random number value is obtained in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is based on the change start command (step S1002).

  If it is a jackpot in step S1002 (step S1002: Yes), it is determined whether or not the jackpot is a two-round probability variation jackpot determined as a specific hit (step S1003). In addition, when two rounds of ordinary jackpots are included in the specific hit, it may be determined here whether or not it is a big hit of two rounds. If it is 2 rounds probable big hit (step S1003: Yes), the obtained random number value is compared with the production pattern table T1, and the production pattern is selected (step S1004). When an effect pattern is selected in step S1004, the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 243 (step S1005), and the process ends.

  In step S1003, if it is not a two-round probability variation jackpot (step S1003: No), it is determined whether this jackpot is a 15-round probability variation jackpot (step S1006). If 15 rounds probable big hit (step S1006: Yes), the obtained random number value is compared with the effect pattern table T2 to select an effect pattern (step S1007). When an effect pattern is selected in step S1007, the process proceeds to step S1005, the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 243, and the process ends.

  If it is not 15 rounds probable jackpot in step S1006 (step S1006: No), it is judged that this jackpot is a normal jackpot for 15 rounds, and the obtained random number value is compared with the stage pattern table T3 to select the stage pattern. (Step S1008). When an effect pattern is selected in step S1008, the process proceeds to step S1005, the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 243, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1002 that the jackpot is not a big hit (displacement) (step S1002: No), it is determined whether this disconnection is a reach shift (step S1009). If the reach is off (step S1009: Yes), the resulting random number is compared with the effect pattern table T4 to select an effect pattern (step S1010). When an effect pattern is selected in step S1010, the process proceeds to step S1005, the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 243, and the process ends.

  If the reach is not out in step S1009 (step S1009: No), it is determined that this outage is a normal outage, and the obtained random number value is compared with the effect pattern table T5 to select an effect pattern (step S1009). S1011). If an effect pattern is selected in step S1011, it will transfer to step S1005 and will set the selected effect pattern in RAM243, and will complete | finish a process.

(Example of effects by the gaming machine of the present embodiment)
Next, an example of an effect produced by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of an effect produced by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of an effect produced by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. 11 and 12 are examples of display screens displayed on the image display unit 104 during the execution of effects.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 105a, 105b, the main control unit 201 makes a big hit determination (a lottery for determining whether or not a big hit has been made). Then, a change start command including the lottery result is sent to the effect control unit 202. When receiving the change start command, the effect control unit 202 selects an effect pattern and executes the effect. When the effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 11A, first, changes in the symbols 1101 to 1103 displayed on the image display unit 104 are started.

  When a predetermined period elapses from (a), the process proceeds to (b). In (b), symbols 1101 to 1103 changed in (a) are stopped at the chance. In the illustrated example, the chances are “1 (left symbol), 2 (middle symbol), and 3 (right symbol)”. Note that the chance is not limited to this. For example, the chance item can be arbitrarily set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine.

  When the chance stops as shown in (b), the process proceeds to (c), (e) or (g). Specifically, in the effect pattern selection process, when the effect pattern P4 is selected, the process proceeds to (c). That is, in the case of winning such as a two-round probability variation jackpot determined as a specific hit, the process proceeds to (c). When the production pattern P3 is selected, the process proceeds to (e), and when the production pattern P6 is selected, the process proceeds to (g).

  In (c) and (d), a specific hit notice effect for notifying the transition to a specific hit state (for example, a two-round big hit state) is executed. For example, in the specific hit announcement effect, an effect according to the selected win type is made, and the player is notified of the specified win type. Further, in the specific hit notice effect, it may be notified only that a specific hit has been won (not notified until the type). The specific content of the specific hit notice effect will be described later with reference to FIG.

  After (d), when the effect represented by the effect pattern P4 is finished, a specific winning effect is executed. For example, in the case where two rounds probable jackpot is won, a predetermined effect for two rounds probable jackpot is executed. As a result, the player can know that the two-round probability change jackpot has been won.

  In (e), a reach development advance notice effect is announced in which advancement to reach effect A is announced. For example, in the reach advance notice effect, an effect of notifying the player of the advancement to reach effect A using an image or sound is made. The contents of the reach advance notice effect will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the reach advance notice effect is executed in (e), the fluctuations of the symbols 1201 to 1203 that have been stopped at the chance are resumed to reach a reach state (for example, “1 ↓ 1”), and the process proceeds to (f). In (f), reach effect A is executed. Although detailed description is omitted, in the reach effect A, a moving image or the like for the reach effect A is reproduced. Although illustration is omitted after the reach effect A, if the change start command is a big hit, the symbol is stopped with a combination for the big hit (for example, “111”). If the change start command is out of reach, the symbol stops with a combination of out of reach (for example, “121”).

  In (g), a specific hit notice effect or reach advance notice effect is executed. That is, the effect of normal deviation of the effect pattern P5 is an effect of stopping the symbol with a combination indicating a loss, but the symbol is stopped with a combination similar to the chance eye (“123” in the illustrated example), so a specific hit notice is given. Production or reach advance notice production is executed.

  However, when the production pattern P5 is selected, after the specific hit announcement effect or the reach advance notice effect (g), the production does not shift to the specific hit effect or the reach production, and the production ends without resuming the design and fluctuation. To do. If there is a holding ball, the next symbol change is started.

  Further, in (g), an effect representing a specific per-notice effect or a part of reach advance notice effect (for example, the first 10 seconds) may be executed. In other words, in this case, an effect that makes it appear to the player as if the specific per-notice effect or the reach advance notice effect has been terminated is executed. In this way, even if the specific hit notice effect or reach advance notice effect is started, the player can enjoy the effect with a sense of tension that “it may end in the middle”.

(Contents of notice effect)
Next, the contents of the specific hit notice effect and the reach advance notice effect will be described. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a notice effect. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the symbol 1101 includes a main symbol 1301 that represents a predetermined character (for example, a number or a Chinese character), and a decorative symbol 1302 a that represents a pattern that decorates the main symbol.

  In the notice effects such as the specific hit notice effect and the reach advance notice effect, as shown in the drawing, the main symbol 1301 (the image thereof) is not changed, and only the decorative symbol 1302a (the image thereof) is changed to the ornament symbol 1302b (the symbol). 1201). Along with the change of the decorative design, a predetermined sound (for example, a sound suggesting a development destination such as “development to reach production A”) is output from the speaker 277. Although illustration and detailed description are omitted, the symbols 1102 and 1103 also have a main symbol and a decorative symbol in the same manner as the symbol 1101. In the notice effects such as the specific hit notice effect and the reach development notice effect, the main symbols are not changed, and only the decorative symbols are changed.

  Thus, in the production by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, after the specific combination (chance) indicating the discontinuation is stopped (b), the production pattern is changed to the specific hit transition production (c) according to the production pattern P4. According to P3, it develops to reach advance notice effect (e). Further, according to the production pattern P5, it develops into a specific hit transition production or reach advance notice production (g). That is, until (b), the production contents are common to the production pattern P3, the production pattern P4, and the production pattern P5. For this reason, even if the player stops the chance, it is impossible to predict the subsequent development as one.

  With the above configuration, at the time of (b), the player cannot predict the subsequent development, and thus can maintain his expectation. At that time, for example, the player can enjoy the effect while wishing to develop into a specific winning effect that is determined to be won in two rounds, and the fun of the game is improved.

  As described above, in the present invention, since it is configured to have a plurality of variations of the production after the chance stop, it is not possible to narrow down the subsequent development to the player, so that the expectation is maintained and the fun of the game is increased. Can be improved.

  In addition, when the player wins a specific win such as 2 rounds probable big hit, after the chance is stopped, the player can enjoy the performance while expecting this by shifting to the specific win for specific win. This can further enhance the fun of the game.

  Note that the game machine presentation method described in the present embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as an effect control board. 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.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention is suitable for a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that is stopped after a plurality of symbols are changed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Game board 104 Image display part 201 Main control part 202 Production control part 202a Production control part 202b Image / sound control part 203 Prize ball control part 241,251 CPU
242,252 ROM
243,253 RAM
247 Real-time clock (RTC)

Claims (1)

A determination means for making a determination regarding a special game advantageous to the player by establishing the start condition;
When the determination means determines that the first special game of the special games is to be performed, the display means displays a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then stops and displays the first specific combination symbols. Control means;
In the case where it is determined by the determination means that the second special game, which is less advantageous for the player than the first special game, is to be performed among the special games, the display means displays the plurality of symbols in a variable manner. A second symbol display control means, which is a combination symbol different from the first specific combination symbol and stops and displays the second specific combination symbol later;
When it is determined by the determining means that the special game is not to be performed, the display means can display the plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then stop and display the second specific combination symbols. Design display control means;
The first special game is executed after the first specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the first symbol display control means,
Special game means for executing the second special game after the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the second symbol display control means;
Production execution control means for causing the production means to perform a predetermined production;
With
The first symbol display control means includes:
After the plurality of symbols are variably displayed, the second specific combination symbols can be temporarily stopped and then displayed again, and the first specific combination symbols can be stopped and displayed.
The production execution control means includes:
When the second specific combination symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed by the first symbol display control means , a reach effect is suggested that the first specific combination symbol may be stopped and displayed after that. Make a first notice effect to notice what will happen,
When the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the second symbol display control means, a second notice effect for notifying that it will be the second special game is performed thereafter.
When the second specific combination symbol is stopped and displayed by the third symbol display control means, any one of the first notice effect and the second notice effect can be selectively performed. A gaming machine characterized in that one of the productions is performed halfway.

Images