JP6907355B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to game motion control of a gaming machine.

Conventionally, in a gaming machine, for example, a ball-and-ball gaming machine, a lottery for a jackpot that is advantageous to the player is performed when a prize is won at the starting port, a symbol game with a variable display operation of the game symbol is performed, and the lottery is performed during the game. A notice effect that reflects the result is generated, and the game is enjoyed by this (Patent Document 1 below).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-31486

When RAM error processing is performed in a gaming machine, if processing such as stopping the game in the dark clouds is performed, there is a risk of giving the player a sense of disadvantage or distrust.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that appropriately performs RAM error processing.

The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means. The corresponding elements in the embodiments are shown in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

(1) A setting value setting process (S024 in FIG. 6) for setting one of a plurality of types of setting values having different advantages to the player can be executed, and a game operation process related to the progress of the game. (For example, the game control means (main control unit 20) for controlling (S020 to S022 in FIG. 6) and
It is provided with an effect control means (effect control unit 24) that executes and controls an effect by the effect means based on a control command from the game control means.
After the predetermined start condition is satisfied, the variable display operation of the game symbol is started based on the establishment of the predetermined start condition, and after the game symbol becomes a predetermined specific stop display mode, the normal game It is a gaming machine configured to be controllable to a special gaming state that is more advantageous than the state.
In the game operation processing,
The winning process (S301 or S302 in FIG. 13) executed based on the satisfaction of the start condition, and the variable start process (S306 in FIG. 13) executed based on the satisfaction of the start condition. Is included,
The processing at the time of winning is
When the start condition is satisfied, the acquisition process for acquiring predetermined game information (S314 in FIG. 14) and
With the game information acquired by the acquisition process as the hold information, the hold storage process (S314 in FIG. 14) for holding and storing up to the maximum number of hold storages, which is a predetermined upper limit value,
Based on the acquired game information, at least a look-ahead determination process (S319 in FIG. 14) for determining whether or not to control the special game state is performed.
A command transmission process (S322 in FIG. 14) for transmitting a winning control command (hold addition command) including information on the look-ahead determination result to the effect control means is included.
The processing at the start of fluctuation is
When the start condition is satisfied, a lottery process at the start of fluctuation (S413 in FIG. 15) for executing a lottery regarding whether to control the special gaming state based on the hold information, and
The symbol game start process (S416 of FIG. 15) for starting the variation display operation of the game symbol with respect to the hold information used for the change start lottery process is included.
The effect control means
Based on the information included in the winning control command, the look-ahead notice effect control means (effect control unit 24) capable of controlling the appearance of the look-ahead notice effect is included.
In the fluctuation start processing, a process of determining whether or not the set value is within the normal range (S410 in FIG. 15) is performed, and when the set value is not in the normal range (S410: No in FIG. 15), An abnormal stop process (S086: YES in FIG. 11 and S411 (FIG. 9) in FIG. 15) for stopping the progress of the game is executed.
In the winning process, a process of determining whether or not the set value is within the normal range (S318 in FIG. 14) is performed, and when the set value is not within the normal range (S318: No in FIG. 14), the above. It is configured not to execute abnormal stop processing,
A gaming machine characterized by that.
(2) If the set value is not within the normal range in the winning process, the look-ahead determination process is not executed (S318 → S321 (S319 is not executed) in FIG. 14).
The gaming machine according to (1) above.
(3) When the set value is not within the normal range in the winning process, the command transmission process transmits a control command indicating that the look-ahead determination process is not executed as the winning control command. Is composed of,
The gaming machine according to (1) or (2) above.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that appropriately performs RAM error processing.

It is a front side perspective view which shows the appearance of the gaming machine which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the game board and the effect button of the game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the control device of the gaming machine which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which provides the explanation of the game state transition of the gaming machine which concerns on this invention. It is explanatory drawing which provides the explanation of the screen display of the liquid crystal display device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the main control side which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the initial setting process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the backup confirmation process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the RAM error processing in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the setting value change process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt process of the main control side which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the setting value confirmation process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol management process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special figure 1 start opening check process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol variation start processing in FIG.

Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, using a pachinko gaming machine as an example.

<1. Outline of configuration: Fig. 1 and Fig. 2>
An outline of the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing the appearance of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a view showing the front side of the gaming board.

In the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter abbreviated as “gaming machine 1”), a frame-shaped front frame 2 is attached to the front surface of a wooden outer frame 4 so as to be openable and closable, and a gaming board attached to the back surface of the front frame 2. A game board 3 (see FIG. 2) is mounted in a storage frame (not shown), and a game area 3a formed on the surface of the game board 3 faces the opening of the front frame 2. A glass door 6 supporting transparent glass is provided on the front side of the game area 3a. Further, on the back side of the game board 3, various control boards (see FIG. 3) for controlling the game operation are arranged.

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

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

Further, the upper saucer unit 8 has a ball removal button 14 for pulling out the game balls stored in the upper saucer 9 below the game machine 1, and payout of the game balls to the game ball lending device (not shown). A ball lending button 11 for requesting and a card return button 12 for requesting the return of the valuable value medium inserted in the game ball lending device are provided. Further, the upper saucer unit 8 is provided with an effect button 13 (operating means) configured to be operable by the player. The built-in lamp (button LED75) of the effect button 13 is lit during a predetermined input reception period to enable operation (input reception is possible), and a predetermined operation (press, repeated hit, long press, etc.) is performed while the built-in lamp is lit. It is possible to bring about a change in the production by doing.

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

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

(Game board: Fig. 2)
Next, the configuration of the game board 3 will be described with reference to FIG. On the illustrated game board 3, a ball guide rail 5 for guiding the launched game ball is annularly mounted as a board surface partition member, and a substantially circular region surrounded by the ball guide rail 5 is a game area 3a. The four corners are non-gaming areas.

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

Further, in the game area 3a, a center decoration 48 is provided so as to surround the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 in a long-winded manner. The center decoration 48 is provided along the front side of the game board 3 to protect the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 from the surrounding game balls, and the flow of the game balls depends on the launch strength or stroke length of the game balls. It works as a flow path distribution means that enables the road to be distributed to the left and right. In the present embodiment, the center decoration 48 is arranged in the substantially central portion of the game area 3a so that the flow paths of the game balls are formed on both upper sides (left side and right side) in the game area 3a. The game ball driven into the upper side of the game area 3a by the launching device 32 is distributed to the left and right on the upper side of the armor frame portion 48b, and has a left flow path 3b on the left side of the center decoration 48 and a right flow path 3c on the right side. Flow down one.

In addition, the non-game area near the upper right edge (upper right corner) of the game board 3 is a various function display unit, and the 7-segment display (with dots) is started at the upper start port 34 (for the first special symbol) and the lower start. A special symbol display device 38a (first special symbol display means) and a special symbol display device 38b (second special symbol display means) configured side by side corresponding to the mouth 35 (for the second special symbol). Is provided. In the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, a special symbol variation display game is executed by the variation display operation of the "special symbol" represented by the 7-segment display. Then, in the liquid crystal display device 36 described above, the decorative symbol by the image is variablely displayed in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and is decorated with various notice effects (effect images). The symbol variation display games are being executed (details of these symbol variation display games will be described later).

Further, in the various function display units, a composite display device (LED display for holding composite display) 38c composed of a 7-segment display (with dots) is arranged next to the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b. There are five types called compound: special symbols 1 and 2, display of the number of balls on hold for normal symbols, and status notification during the operation of the variable time shortening function (during time reduction) and during the high probability state (during high probability). This is because it is a hold / time saving / high-accuracy composite display device (hereinafter, simply referred to as “composite display device”) having a display function.

Further, the various function display units are provided with a normal symbol display device 39a (normal symbol display means) in which a plurality of (two in this embodiment) LEDs are arranged next to the composite display device 38c. In this ordinary symbol display device 39a, the ordinary symbol variation display game is executed by the variation display operation of the ordinary symbol represented by the two LEDs. For example, as a variable display operation, the normal symbol on the LED repeatedly turns on and off in a seesaw manner, and stops with either side lit, so that the success or failure of the normal symbol fluctuation display game can be determined. There is. Further, a round number display device 39b is provided in which three LEDs (first to third round display LEDs) are arranged adjacent to the normal symbol display device 39a. The round number display device 39b notifies the specified number of rounds (maximum number of rounds) related to the jackpot by combining the lighting and extinguishing states of the three LEDs.

Below the center decoration 48, an upper starting port 34 (first special symbol starting port: first starting means) and a lower starting port 35 (second special symbol starting port: second starting means) are provided. Ordinary variable winning devices 41 are provided above and below, and detection sensors 34a and 35a (upper start port sensor 34a, lower start port sensor 35a: see FIG. 3) are formed inside each of them to detect the passage of a game ball. ing.

The upper starting port 34, which is the first special symbol starting port, is the first special symbol in the special symbol display device 38a (hereinafter, the first special symbol is referred to as "special symbol 1", and in some cases, "special symbol 1". It is a winning opening related to the starting condition of the variable display operation (abbreviated as), and is configured as a winning rate fixed winning device having no starting opening opening / closing means (means for opening or expanding the starting opening). In the present embodiment, due to the action of the game ball falling direction changing member (for example, a game nail (not shown), a windmill 44, a center decoration 48, etc.) in the game area 3a, the left flow path 3b to the upper start port 34 The game ball that has flowed down the ball has a structure that makes it easy to enter (win), while the game ball that has flowed down the right flow path 3c has a structure that makes it difficult or impossible to enter.

The ordinary variable winning device 41 is configured as a winning rate variable winning device in which the winning rate of the game ball at the starting port can be changed by the starting port opening / closing means. In the present embodiment, the so-called "electric tulip" is provided with a pair of left and right movable wing pieces (movable members) 47 that allow the lower starting port 35, which is the second special symbol starting port, to be opened or expanded as the starting port opening / closing means. It is configured as a "type" winning device.

The lower start port 35 of the ordinary variable winning device 41 is a second special symbol in the special symbol display device 38b (hereinafter, the second special symbol is referred to as "special symbol 2" and is abbreviated as "special symbol 2" in some cases). It is a winning opening related to the starting condition of the variable display operation, and the winning area of the lower starting opening 35 is an open state (winning) that facilitates winning according to the operating state (operating or non-operating) of the movable wing piece 47. It is converted into an easy state) and a closed state (difficult to win) that makes it more difficult to win or makes it impossible to win than the open state. In the present embodiment, when the movable wing piece 47 is inactive, it holds a closed state (a winning impossible state) that makes it impossible to win a prize in the lower starting port 35.

Further, on both sides of the normal variable winning device 41, three general winning openings 43 are arranged on the left side and one on the right side, for a total of four, and inside each of them, a general winning hole for detecting the passage of a game ball is provided. A mouth sensor 43a (see FIG. 3) is formed. Further, in the area of the game board, a movable body accessory (not shown) that exerts a visual effect is arranged at a position that does not interfere with the flow of the game ball.

Further, diagonally upward to the right of the normal variable winning device 41, that is, above the middle portion of the right flow path 3c, a normal symbol start port 37 (third start) composed of a passage gate (specific passage area) through which a game ball can pass. Means) are provided. The normal symbol start port 37 is a winning opening related to the fluctuation display operation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display device 39a, and inside the normal symbol start port sensor 37a (see FIG. 3), which detects a passing game ball. Is formed. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol start port 37 is formed only on the right flow path 3c side, and is not formed on the left flow path 3b side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be formed only in the left flow path 3b, or may be formed in each of the two flow paths.

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

Around the grand prize opening 50 is a bulging portion (decorative member) 55 that bulges from the surface of the game board 3, and the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55 forms a downstream guide portion of the right flow path 3c. There is. If the large winning opening 50 is closed by the open door 52b (the large winning opening is closed), the downstream guide portion of the right flow path 3c (by forming a surface continuous with the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55). It is designed to form a part of the upper side 55a). Further, in the downstream region of the right flow path 3c, in the region above the upper side 55a of the bulge portion 55, to be exact, in the game region above the grand prize opening 50, the flow path correction plate is substantially parallel to the flow direction of the game ball. The 51d is projected so as to move the flowing game ball toward the large winning opening 50.

The process of entering the game ball into the grand prize opening 50 is as follows. The game ball that has passed through the floating area between the upper surface of the center decoration 48 and the ball guide rail 5 is placed on the top surface (upper side) 55a of the bulging portion 55 that protrudes from the game board 3 and functions as a guide for the game ball. It flows down along. Then, the game ball comes into contact with the right end of the flow path correction plate 51d protruding from the three surfaces of the game board, whereby the flow direction of the game ball is corrected to the direction (downward direction) of the large winning opening 50. At this time, if the large winning opening 50 is covered by the retractable open door 52b (the large winning opening is closed), the game balls roll on the large winning opening 50, and the game balls are further arranged in a predetermined arrangement (not shown). The game nail guides the player in the direction of the tulip-type normal variable winning device 41 (lower starting port 35). At this time, if the lower start opening 35 is in a winning state (starting opening open state), the game ball can win in the lower starting opening 35. On the other hand, if the open door 52b is retracted into the game board surface and the large winning opening 50 is open (the large winning opening 50 is open), the game ball is guided into the large winning opening 50.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the player aims at the launch position on the special variable winning device 52 side (when the gaming ball is aimed so as to pass through the right flow path 3c), the upper start port The game ball is difficult to be guided or is not guided to the 34 side. Therefore, in the "large winning opening closed state", it is difficult or impossible to win a prize in each of the starting ports 34 and 35 unless the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variable winning device 41 operates. The movable wing piece 47 operates in an opening / closing pattern that is more advantageous than the normal state when it is in a gaming state accompanied by a state with electric support, which will be described later.

In the case of the present embodiment, what kind of striking method the player should take to obtain an advantageous situation changes depending on the gaming state. Specifically, in the game state accompanied by the "state without electric support" described later, the "left-handed" aiming at the game ball to pass the left flow path 3b is considered to be advantageous, and the "electric support" described later is considered to be advantageous. In the game state accompanied by the "presence state", the "right-handed" aiming at the game ball so as to pass through the right flow path 3c is considered to be advantageous.

In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when there is a prize in a winning opening other than the normal symbol start opening 37 among various winning openings provided in the game area 3a, each winning opening is promised. The number of prize balls per winning ball (for example, 3 for the upper starting port 34 or the lower starting port 35, 13 for the large winning opening 50, and 10 for the general winning opening 43) is the game ball payout device 19 (FIG. 3). It is supposed to be paid out from (see). The game balls that do not win in each of the above winning openings are discharged from the gaming area 3a through the out opening 49. Here, the "winning" is not a structure in which the winning opening takes in the game ball inside, or the winning opening takes in the game ball inside, but a winning opening consisting of a passing gate (for example, a normal symbol start opening 37). ), It means that the game ball passes through the gate, and when the game ball is actually detected by each winning detection switch formed for each winning opening, "winning" is made in the winning opening. Is treated as if it occurred. The game ball related to this winning is also referred to as a "winning ball". If a game ball enters the winning opening, the game ball will be detected by the winning detection switch. Therefore, unless otherwise specified in the present specification, has the game ball been detected by the winning detection switch? Regardless of whether or not, it may be referred to as "winning" including the case where a game ball enters the winning opening.

<2. Control device: Fig. 3>
Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the control device that controls the game operation control of the game machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a control block diagram showing an outline of the control device.

The control device of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is referred to as a main control board (main control means) 20 (hereinafter referred to as "main control unit 20") that collectively controls control related to overall gaming operation (game operation control). , The effect control board (effect control means) 24 (hereinafter referred to as "effect control unit 24") that receives the effect control command from the main control unit 20 and controls the execution control (appearance control) of the effect by the effect means. A payout control board (payout control means) 29 that controls the payout of prize balls, and a power supply board (power supply control means (not shown)) that generates and supplies the power required for the gaming machine from an external power source (not shown). ) And. A liquid crystal display device 36 as an image display device is connected to the effect control unit 24. The power supply route is omitted in FIG.

(2-1. Main control unit 20)
The main control unit 20 is equipped with a microprocessor incorporating a CPU 201 (main control CPU), and is a ROM 202 (main control) that stores various data necessary for game operation control in addition to a control program that describes a game operation control procedure. It is equipped with a ROM) and a RAM 203 (main control RAM) that functions as a work area and a buffer memory, and constitutes a microcomputer (Z80 system equivalent) as a whole.

Although not shown, the main control unit 20 applies interrupt signals to the CTC and CPU, which provide the Z80 system with a periodic interrupt, a pulse output creation function (bit rate generator) with a constant cycle, and a time measurement function. An interrupt controller circuit that exerts an interrupt enable / interrupt prohibition function such as a timer interrupt, a reset circuit that can reset the CPU by outputting a system reset signal when the power is turned on or off, or when a power failure is detected, and a control program. Watchdog timer (WDT) circuit that monitors the operation abnormality of, out-of-designated area travel prohibition (IAT) circuit that monitors whether the program is executed correctly within the preset address range, and a certain range of hardware It also has a counter circuit for generating random numbers.

The counter circuit includes a random number generation circuit that generates a random number and a sampling circuit that samples a random number value at a predetermined timing from the random number generation circuit, and acts as a 16-bit counter as a whole. By sending an instruction to the sampling circuit according to the processing state, the CPU 201 acquires the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit as an internal lottery random number value (big hit determination random number (random number size: 65536)). , The random number value is used for the big hit lottery. It should be noted that the random number for the internal lottery is obtained by adding the soft random number value generated by appropriate software processing and the hard random number value in order to prevent the hitting and the like.

The main control unit 20 includes an upper starting port 34a for detecting a winning (ball winning) in the upper starting port 34, a lower starting port sensor 35a for detecting a winning in the lower starting port 35, and a normal symbol starting port 37. From the normal symbol start opening sensor 37a that detects passage, the large winning opening sensor 52a that detects the winning of the large winning opening 50, the general winning opening sensor 43a that detects the winning of the general winning opening 43, and the out opening 49. An OUT monitoring switch 49a for detecting the ejected game ball (out ball) is connected, and the main control unit 20 can receive detection signals from these. Based on the detection signals from each sensor, the main control unit 20 grasps which winning opening the game ball has entered.

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

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

Further, a composite display device 38c is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for displaying and controlling various information displayed on the main control unit 20. Further, a round number display device 39b is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for displaying and controlling a specified number of rounds by a big hit.

Further, the external centralized terminal board 21 for the frame is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 is connected to the hall computer HC provided outside the gaming machine via the external centralized terminal board 21 for the frame. Predetermined game information (for example, jackpot information, prize ball number information, symbol change execution information, etc.) can be transmitted. The hall computer HC monitors the game information from the main control unit 20 and comprehensively manages the operating status of the pachinko hall game machine.

A payout control board (payout control unit) 29 is connected to the main control unit 20, and when it is necessary to pay out the prize balls, a control command (number of prize balls) related to the payout is given to the payout control board 29. The specified payout control command) can be sent.

The payout control board 29 is connected to a launch control board (launch control unit) 28 that controls the launch device 32 and a game ball payout device (game ball payout means) 19 that pays out game balls. The main roles of the payout control board 29 are reception of payout control commands from the main control unit 20, prize ball payout control of the game ball payout device 19 based on the payout control command, transmission of a status signal to the main control unit 20, and the like. Is.

The game ball payout device 19 is provided with a supply shortage detection sensor 19a for detecting a supply shortage of game balls and a ball counting sensor 19b for detecting a game ball (prize ball) to be paid out. It is possible to receive each detection signal of. Further, the game ball payout device 19 is provided with a payout motor 19c for driving a ball payout mechanism unit (not shown) for paying out the game ball, and the payout control board 29 controls the payout motor 19c. It is possible to transmit the control signal of.

Further, the payout control board 29 has a full detection sensor 60 (in the present embodiment, a detection sensor that detects the storage state of the game balls stored in the upper tray 9) for detecting the full state of the upper tray 9 with the game balls. A front door open sensor 61 (in this embodiment, a detection sensor that detects the open state of the front frame 2 and / or the front operation panel 7) is connected.

The payout control board 29 can transmit various status signals to the main control unit 20 based on the detection signals from the fullness detection sensor 60, the front door opening sensor 61, the supply shortage detection sensor 19a, and the ball counting sensor 19b. It has become. This status signal includes a ball jam signal indicating a full state, a door opening signal indicating that the front frame 2 and the front operation panel 7 are open, and a supply shortage indicating a supply shortage of game balls from the game ball payout device 19. It includes a signal, a counting error signal indicating that the payout of the prize ball is insufficient or an abnormality has occurred in the ball counting sensor 19b, a payout completion signal indicating that the payout operation has been completed, and the like, and various status signals can be transmitted. ing. Based on these status signals, the main control unit 20 determines whether the front frame 2 / front operation panel 7 is in the open state (door opening error) and whether the game ball payout device 19 is paying out normally (supply shortage error). , Monitor the full state of the upper saucer 9 (ball clogging error) and the like.

Further, a launch control board 28 is connected to the payout control board 29, and a permission signal for permitting launch can be transmitted to the launch control board 28. The launch control board 28 controls energization of the launch solenoid (not shown) provided in the launch device 32 based on the output of the permission signal from the payout control board 29, and operates the launch operation handle 15. The game ball launching operation is realized. Specifically, the player touches the handle by the fact that the launch permission signal is output from the payout control board 29 (launch permission signal ON state) and the touch sensor (not shown) provided on the launch operation handle 15. The firing operation of the game ball is permitted on condition that the presence is detected and the firing stop switch (not shown) provided on the firing operation handle 15 is not operated. Therefore, when the launch permission signal is not output (launch permission signal OFF state), the launch operation is not executed even if the launch operation handle 15 is operated, and the game ball is not launched. Further, the launch strength of the game ball can be changed according to the operation amount of the launch operation handle 15. When the payout control board 29 detects the ball clogging error, the ball jamming signal is transmitted to the main control unit 20 and the output of the firing permission signal to the firing control board 28 is stopped (launch permission signal OFF), and the upper tray 9 is used. It is designed to stop the launching operation until the full state of is resolved.

Further, the main control unit 20 is connected to a setting key switch 94, a setting change switch 95, and a setting change completion switch 96, and the main control unit 20 can receive detection signals from these. Further, a setting display 97 is connected to the main control unit, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for displaying and controlling the setting value displayed on the main control unit 20.

The setting key switch 94 is a key switch for switching to a setting change mode (at the time of ON operation) by inserting a setting key possessed by a person concerned with the hall at the time of turning on the power and performing an ON / OFF operation. Further, the setting change switch 95 is a push button type switch for changing a "set value" that gradually changes the ball ejection rate (so-called machine discount, PAYOUT rate, or base value). Further, the setting change completion switch 96 is a switch for confirming the setting for completing the operation of changing the set value. These switches are provided in appropriate places inside the gaming machine. Further, the setting display 97 functions as a setting display means capable of displaying the set value, and is mounted at a position on the main control unit (main control board) 20 that is easily visible. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is not limited to the main control board, but the payout control board 28, the launch control board 29, and the relay board (relay board for relaying the connection between various display devices, switches, etc. and the control board: FIG. It can be provided at an appropriate place inside the game machine, such as an effect control unit (effect control board (including a liquid crystal control board)) 24 (not shown).

The above-mentioned "set value" mainly defines the lottery probability (winning probability) of at least a big hit (a hit type in which the condition device described later is activated) in stages (for example, 6 stages of settings 1 to 6). Therefore, the higher the set value, the higher the winning probability (the setting value 1 is the lowest winning probability and the set value 6 is the highest winning probability), which is advantageous to the player. In other words, the higher the fixed value, the higher the so-called "machine discount (ball output rate, PAYOUT rate)" (setting value 1 is the lowest machine discount, setting value 6 is the highest machine discount), which is advantageous for the player. It is designed to work. In this way, the set value is a value that defines the jackpot winning probability rate, machine discount, etc., and means a value for a grade related to the likelihood of a specific event such as a profit state acting on a player. In the present embodiment, the set values are set to a plurality of types of set values 1 to 6 in a plurality of stages, and the advantage related to the game is defined according to each set value.

The set value is changed by the hall clerk operating the setting change switch 94 exclusively based on the sales strategy of the hall (game store). When there are a plurality of types of jackpots, it is possible to appropriately determine which jackpot winning probability is to be changed according to the set value, and the target jackpot type. For example, when there are three types of jackpots, jackpots 1-3, the higher the set value, the higher the winning probability of all jackpots 1-3, or the total winning probability of jackpots 1-3. May be higher. In addition, the probability of winning some big hits may be increased. For example, only the winning probability of the jackpots 1 and 2 may be increased, and the winning probability of the jackpot 3 may be a constant winning probability for all the set values. Further, the winning probability of a small hit (a hit type in which the condition device does not operate) may be defined for each stage as in the case of the big hit described above.

(About the operation to change the set value)
To change the set value, turn on the setting key switch 94 (operate to the setting change mode side) while the power to the gaming machine 1 is off, and then turn on the power to the gaming machine 1 to change the current setting. The value is displayed on the setting display 97, and the mode shifts to the setting change mode in which the setting value (1 to 6 steps) can be changed. The process related to this setting change mode (setting mode change process) is executed in the set value change process (step S024 of FIG. 6, see FIG. 10 showing the details thereof) during the main control side main process described later.

In the setting change mode, when the setting change switch 95 is turned on, the current display value of the setting display 97 is "1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 1 → 2 → 3 → ...". It is switched so as to circulate in the range of 1 to 6. Then, when the desired set value is reached, when the setting change completion switch 96 is turned ON, the set value is confirmed, and after displaying that the setting value has been confirmed on the setting display 97, the setting key switch 94 is operated to the OFF side. Wait until This set value information is stored (stored) in a predetermined area (set value storage area) of the RAM 203, and is managed by the main control unit 20 side. Then, when the setting key switch 94 is turned off, the setting change mode is terminated and the display of the setting display 97 is cleared. After that, it is shifted to a state where the game progress is allowed. Therefore, the main control unit 20 is involved in the game by selecting one of a plurality of types of setting values based on the operation of the predetermined operating means (setting key switch 94, setting change switch 95). It functions as a "set value selection means" for setting an advantage (advantage in game progress with respect to the player).

Further, the main control unit 20 is connected to a RAM clear switch 98 that initializes a predetermined area of the RAM 203, and the main control unit 20 can receive the detection signal of the RAM clear switch 98.

Further, the performance display 99 is connected to the main control unit, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for displaying and controlling predetermined game result information displayed on the main control unit 20.

(About the game result information displayed on the performance display 99)
The performance display 99 functions as a specific game information display means for displaying information related to game results for a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as "performance information"), and includes a plurality of 7-segment displays. In the present embodiment, by confirming the performance information, the inside of the gaming machine is visually recognized so that the presence or absence of illegal prize balls such as excess prize balls for the gaming machine and the original ball ejection performance of the gaming machine can be easily confirmed. It is provided at an easy position, for example, a main control unit (main control board) 20, a payout control board 28, a launch control board 29, the relay board, or an effect control unit (effect control board (including a liquid crystal control board)). It can be provided at an appropriate place inside the gaming machine, such as 24. Here, specifically, the following information can be adopted as the above-mentioned performance information.

(1) The total number of payouts paid out by winning in the specific state (total number of prize balls in the specific state: α) is the total number of out balls discharged from the out port 49 in the specific state (out in the specific state). Information (specific ratio information) based on the value (α / β) divided by the number: β) can be adopted as the performance information.
The above "total number of payouts" is the total value of the game balls (prize balls) paid out when winning the winning openings (upper starting opening 34, lower starting opening 35, general winning opening 43, large winning opening 50). Is. In the case of the present embodiment, the upper starting port 34 or the lower starting port 35 is 3, the large winning opening 50 is 13, and the general winning opening 43 is 10.
Also, as for which state to adopt as a specific state, it depends on what kind of state you want to grasp the performance information. It can be determined as appropriate. In the case of the present embodiment, any of the normal state, the latent probability state, the time saving state, the probability variation state, the big hit game, the small hit game, and the CZ can be adopted. Further, a plurality of types of states may be measured. For example, there are a normal state and a probabilistic state, a normal state and a small hit game, and all game states except during a hit game, and the types to be counted can be appropriately determined.
Further, as the period in the specific state, a period in which the jackpot lottery probability is either a low probability state or a high probability state may be adopted.
Further, the total number of payouts may be obtained by excluding one or a plurality of specific winning openings from the measurement target (total number of payouts excluding specific winning openings). For example, among the winning openings, the one excluding the large winning opening 50 from the measurement target may be used as the total number of payouts.

(2) In addition, only any one of the total number of payouts, the total number of payouts excluding specific winning openings, and the total number of out balls may be measured, and the measurement result may be used as performance information.

In the present embodiment, the total number of payouts in the normal state (number of payouts in the normal state) and the total number of out balls in the normal state (number of outs in the normal state) are measured in real time, and the number of payouts in the normal state is the number of outs in the normal state. The value divided by is multiplied by 100 (the value calculated by the number of payouts during normal times ÷ the number of outs during normal times x 100) is displayed as performance information (hereinafter referred to as "normal time ratio information") (the displayed value is The value rounded to the first decimal place is displayed). Therefore, each data of the number of payouts in the normal time, the number of outs in the normal time, and the ratio information in the normal time is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 203 (hereinafter, these data and the total number of out balls in all states described later). The storage area is referred to as a "measurement information storage area"). However, instead of simply measuring permanently and displaying the performance information, when the total number of out balls reaches a predetermined specified number (for example, 60,000), the measurement is temporarily terminated. This specified number is not the total number of out balls in the normal state, but the total number of out balls during the total gaming state (including during the winning game) (hereinafter referred to as "total number of out balls"). The number of out-balls in all states is also measured in real time and stored in a predetermined area (measurement information storage area) of the RAM.

Then, the normal time ratio information at the end time is stored in a predetermined area (performance display storage area) of the RAM 203 (the current normal time ratio information is stored), and then the measurement information storage area (normal time payout number, normal time out number). After clearing (and the number of out balls in all states), the measurement is started again (measurement of the number of out balls in normal time, the number of out balls in normal time, the normal time ratio information, and the number of out balls in all states). Then, the performance display 99 displays the previous normal time ratio information (measurement history information) and the normal time ratio information currently being measured. In addition to the previous information, the history of the previous two times or the previous time (three times before) may be displayed so that the information up to the previous time can be appropriately determined.

Further, the main control unit 20 can transmit various effect control commands including information on the special symbol variation display game and information on the error to the effect control unit 24 according to the processing state. However, in order to prevent the goto action, the main control unit 20 only transmits a signal to the effect control unit 24, and has a one-way communication configuration in which the signal from the effect control unit 24 cannot be received. ..

(2-2. Production control unit 24)
The effect control unit 24 is equipped with a microprocessor having a CPU 241 (effect control CPU), a ROM 242 (effect control ROM) that stores the effect data required for the effect control process, and a RAM 243 (effect control ROM) that functions as a work area or a buffer memory. It is mainly composed of a microcomputer equipped with a production control RAM), and is also equipped with an acoustic control unit (sound source IC), RTC function unit (Real Time Clock), counter circuit, interrupt controller circuit, reset circuit, WDT circuit, etc. And control the overall production operation.

The main roles of the effect control unit 24 are receiving the effect control command from the main control unit 20, determining the effect selection based on the effect control command, controlling the image display of the liquid crystal display device 36, controlling the sound of the speaker 46, and the decorative lamp. Light emission control of 45 and various LEDs (button LED75, other production LEDs (not shown)), operation control of movable objects, and the like.

Further, the effect control unit 24 includes a display control unit (not shown) that controls the display of the liquid crystal display device 36. This display control unit is developed by a VDP that controls overall video output processing such as image development processing and image drawing, an image ROM that stores image data (effect image data) that the VDP performs image development processing, and a VDP. A VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores the image data, a liquid crystal control CPU that outputs control data necessary for VDP to perform display control, and a program that describes the display control operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU and its It is mainly composed of a liquid crystal control ROM that stores various data necessary for display control and a liquid crystal control RAM that functions as a work area or a buffer memory.

Further, the effect control unit 24 is a clock board unit (numerical display unit) of the decorative lamp 45 and the clock-type accessory 80 in order to display various effects (light effect, sound effect, and movable object effect by the movable object). ) 81, an optical display control unit for the optical display device 45a including various LEDs, an acoustic control unit (sound source LSI) for the sound generator 46a including the speaker 46, and a movable object accessory (not shown) for operating the movable object accessory (not shown). It is provided with a drive control unit (motor drive circuit) for the motor 80c and the like.

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

Further, the effect control unit 24 is connected to the switch of the effect button 13, that is, the operation detection switch of the effect button 13, and the effect control unit 24 can receive the operation detection signal from the effect button 13.

The effect control unit 24 determines by lottery or uniquely from a plurality of types of effect patterns prepared in advance based on the effect control command sent from the main control unit 20, and performs various effect means at the required timing. Control it to bring out the desired effect. As a result, the display of the effect image by the liquid crystal display device 36 corresponding to the effect pattern, the reproduction of the sound from the speaker 46, and the lighting / blinking drive of the decorative lamp 45 and the LED are realized, and various effect patterns (decorative pattern variation display operation and By developing the notice production etc. in chronological order, a "production scenario" in a broad sense is realized.

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

Further, the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) generates an interrupt based on the input of the strobe signal, executes the control program for the command reception interrupt process, and acquires the effect control command in this interrupt process. It has become. Further, unlike the CPU 201, the CPU 241 is executing an interrupt process (a timer interrupt process that is periodically executed) based on another interrupt when an interrupt occurs based on the input of a strobe signal. Even if there is, the command reception interrupt process is performed by interrupting the process, and the command reception interrupt process is preferentially performed even if other interrupts occur at the same time.

<3. Overview of operation>
Next, a gaming operation related to the gaming machine 1 using the control device (FIG. 3) will be described.

(3-1. Symbol variation display game)
(3-1-1. Special symbol variation display game, decorative symbol variation display game)
In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main control unit 20 receives a predetermined starting condition, specifically, the gaming ball enters (wins) the upper starting port 34 or the lower starting port 35. A "big hit lottery" is held by random number lottery. Based on the lottery result, the main control unit 20 variablely displays the special symbols 1 and 2 on the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b to start the special symbol variable display game, and displays the result as a special symbol after a lapse of a predetermined time. Derived display is performed on the device, thereby ending the special symbol variation display game.

Here, in the present embodiment, the big hit lottery based on the winning of the upper starting port 34 and the big hit lottery based on the winning of the lower starting port 35 are performed separately and independently. Therefore, the jackpot lottery result for the upper starting port 34 is derived on the special symbol display device 38a side, and the jackpot lottery result for the lower starting port 35 is derived on the special symbol display device 38b side. Specifically, on the special symbol display device 38a side, on the condition that the game ball enters the upper start opening 34, the special symbol 1 is variablely displayed and the first special symbol variable display game is started. On the other hand, on the special symbol display device 38b side, the special symbol 2 is variablely displayed and the second special symbol variable display game is started on the condition that the game ball enters the lower start opening 35. ing. Then, when the special symbol variation display game on the special symbol display device 38a or the special symbol display device 38b is started, after a predetermined variation display time elapses, if the jackpot lottery result is a "big hit", a predetermined "big hit" In the mode, in other cases, in a predetermined "missing" mode, the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner is stopped and displayed, whereby the game result (big hit lottery result) is derived.

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

Further, when the above-mentioned special symbol variation display game is started, the decorative symbol (directing game symbol) is variablely displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 to start the decorative symbol variation display game, which accompanies this. Then, various productions are developed. When the special symbol variation display game ends, the decorative symbol variation display game also ends, the special symbol display device reflects a predetermined special symbol indicating the jackpot lottery result, and the liquid crystal display device 36 reflects the jackpot lottery result. The decorative design is derived and displayed. That is, the result of the special symbol variation display game is reflected and displayed by the dramatic decorative symbol variation display game including the variation display operation of the decorative symbol.

Therefore, for example, when the result of the special symbol variation display game is "big hit" (when the jackpot lottery result is "big hit"), the decorative symbol variation display game develops an effect reflecting the result. Then, in the special symbol display device, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a display mode indicating a big hit (for example, the 7-segment is in the display state of "7"), the liquid crystal display device 36 displays "left", "middle", and "right". In each display area of "", the decorative symbols reflect the "big hit" (for example, in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" display areas, the three decorative symbols are "7", "7", and "7". 7 ”is displayed) and the display is stopped.

In the case of this "big hit", specifically, the special symbol variation display game ends, and the decorative symbol variation display game ends accordingly, and as a result, the symbol mode of the "big hit" is derived and displayed. After that, the large winning opening solenoid 52c of the special variable winning device 52 operates to open and close the opening door 52b in a predetermined pattern, whereby the large winning opening 50 is opened and closed, which is more advantageous to the player than in the normal gaming state. A special game state (big hit game) occurs. In this big hit game, the opening door 52b allows the opening time of the big winning opening to elapse until a predetermined time (maximum opening time: 29.8 seconds, for example), or the number of game balls that have won the big winning opening (big winning opening). A predetermined number of winning balls to 50) (maximum number of winning balls: maximum number of winning balls allowed for a winning opening whose entrance is opened or expanded by one operation of the accessory: for example, 9) The "round game", in which the winning area is opened or expanded until the number of winnings is reached, and the big winning opening is closed when any of these conditions is met, is defined as a predetermined number of rounds (for example, a maximum of 16). Round) Repeated.

When the jackpot game starts, an opening effect for notifying that the jackpot has started is performed first, and after the opening effect is completed, the round game is performed a plurality of times up to a predetermined number of predetermined rounds. Then, after the end of the specified number of rounds, an ending effect is performed to notify that the jackpot is finished, so that the jackpot game is finished.

Regarding the information necessary for executing the above-mentioned decorative symbol variation display game, first, the main control unit 20 first enters (wins) a game ball into the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35, and specifically. , "Big hit", "Small hit", or "Loss" on condition that the game ball is detected by the upper start opening sensor 34a or the lower start opening sensor 35a and the start condition (starting condition related to the special symbol) is satisfied. If it is a "big hit", the big hit type is selected, and if it is a "small hit", the small hit type is "missed". If there is, a big hit lottery including'design lottery (winning type (winning type) lottery)'that draws the loss type is performed (because there is no need to perform a type lottery if there is only one type of small hit or loss). , The lottery may be omitted), based on the lottery result information, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol and the special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "special stop symbol") to be finally stopped and displayed according to the winning type. decide. Then, as an effect control command for specifying the processing state, a "variation pattern designation command" including at least the variation pattern information of the special symbol (for example, information on the jackpot lottery result and the variation time of the special symbol) is sent to the effect control unit 24 side. Send. As a result, the basic information required for the decorative symbol variation display game is sent to the effect control unit 24. In the present embodiment, a "decorative symbol designation command" including information on the special stop symbol (design lottery result information (information on the winning type)) is also transmitted to the effect control unit 24 in order to enrich the variation of the effect. It has become like.

The variation pattern information of the special symbol may include information for designating whether or not a specific advance notice effect (for example, "reach effect" or "pseudo-continuous effect" described later) is generated. In detail, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol is roughly classified into a "hit fluctuation pattern" in the case of a hit and a "loss fluctuation pattern" in the case of a loss, depending on the result of the big hit lottery. These fluctuation patterns include, for example, a'reach fluctuation pattern'that specifies the occurrence of the reach effect described later, a'normal fluctuation pattern'that does not specify the occurrence of the reach effect, and the occurrence (overlap occurrence) of the pseudo continuous effect and the reach effect. Multiple types of fluctuation patterns are included, such as the specified'pseudo-ream reach variation pattern'and the'pseudo-ream normal variation pattern'that specifies the occurrence of the pseudo-ream effect and does not specify the occurrence of the reach effect. In addition, in order to secure the production time of the reach effect and the pseudo-continuous effect, the variation pattern that specifies the reach effect and the pseudo-continuous effect is usually set to have a longer variation time than the normal variation pattern.

The effect control unit 24 is time-series during the decorative symbol variation display game based on the information included in the effect control commands (here, the variation pattern designation command and the decorative symbol designation command) sent from the main control unit 20. The content of the production to be developed (the production scenario such as the advance notice production) and the decorative design to be finally stopped and displayed (decorative stop design) are determined, and the decorative design is variablely displayed and decorated according to the time schedule based on the fluctuation pattern of the special design. Run the symbol variation display game. As a result, the decorative symbol by the liquid crystal display device 36 is variablely displayed in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and the period of the special symbol variable display game and the decorative symbol variable display game are in progress. The period of is substantially the same time width. Further, the effect control unit 24 controls the liquid crystal display device 36, the light display device 45a, or the sound generator 46a, respectively, so as to correspond to the effect scenario, and develops various effects in the decorative symbol variation display game. As a result, image reproduction (image effect) on the liquid crystal display device 36, sound effect reproduction (sound effect), and lighting / blinking drive (light effect) of the decorative lamp 45, LED, and the like are realized.

In this way, the special symbol variation display game and the decorative symbol variation display game have an inseparable relationship, and what reflects the display result of the special symbol variation display game is expressed in the decorative symbol variation display game. , These two symbol variation display games may be regarded as equivalent symbol games. Unless otherwise specified in the present specification, the above two symbol variation display games may be simply referred to as "symbol variation display games".

(3-1-2. Ordinary symbol variation display game)
Further, in the gaming machine 1, based on the fact that the gaming ball has passed (winning) through the normal symbol start port 37, the main control unit 20 performs a "subsidy winning lottery" by a random number lottery. Based on this lottery result, the normal symbol represented by the LED is variablely displayed on the normal symbol display device 39a to start the normal symbol variable display game, and after a certain period of time, the result is a combination of lighting and non-lighting of the LED. It is designed to stop and display. For example, when the result of the normal symbol variation display game is "auxiliary hit", the display unit of the normal symbol display device 39a is in a specific lighting state (for example, all two LEDs 39 are lit, or "○" and "○" and ". Of the LEDs expressing "x", the LED on the "○" side is in the lit state) to stop and display.

In the case of this "auxiliary hit", the normal electric accessory solenoid 41c (see FIG. 3) is activated, whereby the movable wing piece 47 opens in an inverted "C" shape and the lower starting port 35 opens. Alternatively, the game ball is expanded to a state in which the game ball easily flows in (starting opening open state), and an auxiliary game state (hereinafter, referred to as "solenoid open game") that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state occurs. In this general electric opening game, the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variable winning device 41 is used until the opening time of the lower starting port 35 elapses for a predetermined time (for example, 0.2 seconds), or the lower starting port 35 is won. Until the number of game balls reaches a predetermined number (for example, 4), the winning area is opened or expanded, and when any of these conditions is satisfied, the lower starting port 35 is closed, and the like is performed a predetermined number of times (for example). , Up to 2 times).

Here, in the present embodiment, during the special / decorative symbol variation display game, the normal symbol variation display game, the jackpot game, the normal electric opening game, etc., the upper start port 34, the lower start port 35, or the normal symbol start port When a prize is generated in 37, that is, when a detection signal is input from the upper start port sensor 34a, the lower start port sensor 35a, or the normal symbol start port sensor 37a, and the corresponding start condition (symbol game start condition) is satisfied. , This is used as data related to the start right of the variable display game, and is stored up to the maximum number of reserved storages (for example, up to 4), which is a predetermined upper limit, except for those related to the variable display. .. The pending data that is not used for this symbol variation display operation or the game ball related to the reserved data is also referred to as an "operation pending ball". In order to clarify the number of operation holding balls to the player, a dedicated holding display (not shown) provided at an appropriate position in the game machine 1 or a holding display provided as an icon image on the screen by the liquid crystal display device 36. Turn on the device.

Further, in the present embodiment, up to four operation-holding balls related to the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the ordinary symbol are reserved and stored in the corresponding storage area of the RAM 203, and are retained as the number of times the fluctuation of the special symbol or the ordinary symbol is confirmed. The maximum number of stored balls (maximum number of reserved balls) for each of the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol is not particularly limited. In addition, all or part of the maximum number of reserved memories of each symbol may be different, and the number can be appropriately determined according to the playability.

(3-2. Game state)
The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to be capable of generating a plurality of types of gaming states in addition to the above-mentioned jackpot, which is a special gaming state. In order to facilitate the understanding of the present invention, first, various gaming states will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to execute and control five types of gaming states: a normal state, a time saving state, a latent probability state, a probability change state, and a CZ (chance mode). These game states are distinguished by the presence or absence of a jackpot lottery probability state (low probability state, high probability state) and an electric chew support state (privilege game) (with electric support, without electric support).

The "electric chew support state" is a normal state in which the opening operation period of the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variable winning device 41 (at least one of the opening time of the movable wing piece 47 and the number of times of opening the movable wing piece 47) in the normal variable opening game is Refers to the "open extension state" that is more extended than. When the open extension state occurs, the open operation period of the movable wing piece 47 is extended from 0.2 seconds in the normal state (under the non-open extension state) to 1.7 seconds, and the number of times of opening and closing thereof is, for example, It is extended from 1 time in normal time to 2 to 3 times. In the case of the present embodiment, under the electric chew support state, the lottery probability per auxiliary varies from a low probability (for example, 1/256) of a predetermined probability (normal probability) to a high probability (for example, 255/256). (Normal symbol probability fluctuation state) occurs, and a'normal symbol time reduction state'that shortens the average time (normal symbol fluctuation display operation time) required for one normal symbol fluctuation display game occurs (for example). It is shortened from 10 seconds to 1 second). Therefore, when the electric chew support state occurs, the normal electric opening game frequently occurs, and the operating rate is improved (high base state) in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved as compared with the normal state. Hereinafter, the state under the electric chew support state is abbreviated as "with electric support", and the case where it is not is abbreviated as "without electric support".

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

In the "time saving state", the jackpot lottery probability is as low as the normal state, but the average time required for one special symbol variation display game (special symbol variation display operation time) is the normal state. It is a game state in which a'special symbol time reduction state'is generated and the electric chew support state is set. In other words, during the time saving state, it becomes "low probability + with electric support + special symbol time saving state".

Further, the "latent probability state" is a "special symbol probability change state" in which the jackpot lottery probability fluctuates to a high probability (for example, 1 / 39.9) higher than the above low probability, and is a gaming state without electric support. (High probability, no electric support).

Further, the "probability change state" refers to a gaming state in which the jackpot lottery probability is as high as the latent probability state, but a special symbol time reduction state and an electric chew support state occur. In other words, during the probability change state, it becomes "high probability + with electric support + special symbol time saving state".

The "CZ (chance mode)" is used as a gaming state for concealing the jackpot lottery probability in the production. In the case of the present embodiment, the "CZ" is provided with "CZ (latent probability)" under the latent state and "CZ (normal)" under the normal state. When the mode is shifted to "CZ (normal)" or "CZ (latent probability)", the effect mode described later is shifted to the substantially same "CZ effect mode (chance effect mode)". As a result, the jackpot lottery probability state (high probability, low probability) is concealed in the production, and the player is given an estimation element of the game state to excite the game. The above CZ is designed so that the special figure variation display game ends in any of 2 to 4 times (see the remarks column in FIG. 4), and if it is "CZ (latent probability)" after the CZ ends. It shifts to the latent state, and if it is "CZ (normal)", it shifts to the normal state. In addition, the mode is shifted to the corresponding effect mode, whereby the concealment state is released, and the current game state is clarified in the effect.

Therefore, when paying attention to the jackpot lottery probability with respect to the game state, when the game state is "normal state", "time saving state" or "CZ (normal)", at least the jackpot lottery probability becomes "low probability state", and the game When the state is "latent state" or "probability change state", at least the jackpot lottery probability is "high probability state". During the big hit, a big hit game in which the big winning opening is opened and closed occurs, but the big hit lottery probability and the presence / absence of the electric support are placed under the same low probability / no electric support game state as the above normal state.

<4. About hit>
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the “hit” of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described.

(4-1. About hit type and hit game)
The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is designed to perform a big hit lottery (winning lottery) for a plurality of types of hits. This hit type includes "16R long open probability variable jackpot", "12R long open probability variable jackpot", "12R long open time short jackpot", "5R long open probability variable jackpot", "5R long open time short jackpot", which belong to the jackpot type. It includes a plurality of types of hits such as "2R short open latent probability big hit", "2R short open time short big hit A, B", and "small hit (small hit A, small hit B)" belonging to the non-big hit type.

The jackpot type is a hit that triggers the operation of the conditional device, and the "small hit" is a hit that belongs to the "non-big hit" type that does not trigger the activation of the conditional device. Here, the "condition device" is a device whose operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device for performing a round game, and a combination of a specific special symbol is displayed or the game ball is displayed. It is the one that operates when passing through a specific area in the big winning opening. The hits that belong to the "big hit" type and the hits that belong to the "non-big hit" type (small hits) are both the triggers (occurrence) of transition to the special game state (hits game) accompanied by the opening and closing operation of the big winning opening. It is a hit. Therefore, a hit that belongs to the "non-big hit" type is different from a mere "loss". Although "small hit" is a hit belonging to the "non-big hit" type, it will be treated in the same line as one of the big hit types without distinguishing it from the above-mentioned big hit unless it is particularly necessary.

Among the hits belonging to the above'big hit'type, the "probability change big hit" is a big hit that shifts the game state after the big hit game to the probable change state, and the "time reduction big hit" is the time reduction state (time reduction 60 times or 100 times). ), The "latent jackpot" is a jackpot that shifts to the latent state. However, the game state of the transition destination may differ depending on the game state of winning the jackpot. For example, when the 2R short open latent probability jackpot is won, as shown in the figure, depending on the game state at the time of winning. The migration destination is different, for example, if you win in the normal state, it will be transferred to "CZ (4 times: latent)", if you win in the latent state, it will be transferred to "latent state", CZ (normal) If you win in the "CZ (4 times: latent)", if you win in the CZ (latent), you are in the "latent state". Is to be migrated to.

Notations such as "16R, 12R, 5R, 2R" regarding the hit type in FIG. 4 mean the specified number of rounds (maximum number of rounds), respectively. Further, "long opening" means that the maximum opening time of the large winning opening in one round game is set to "long opening time (for example, 29.8 seconds)", and the winning opening is won. It refers to the hit type that is expected to reach the maximum number of prizes (9). On the other hand, "short opening" means that the maximum opening time of the large winning opening in one round game is set to "short opening time (for example, 0.1 seconds)", and winning is hardly expected. Refers to the winning type (which may not be possible to win). Therefore, in the case of the present embodiment, regarding the profit state during the big hit game, the 16R long open probability variable big hit is the highest, and the 2R short open latent probability big hit is the lowest.

In the above latent state or probability change state, when the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game is completed a predetermined number of times (for example, 70 times: specified ST number) without winning the big hit type (excluding the small hit winning). It is a so-called "count-cutting probability change machine (ST machine)" that ends the high-probability state and shifts to a low probability, and when the specified ST number of times ends, it shifts to the normal state from the next game. However, it may be a type of "general probability change machine" that continues until the next big hit is won. The number of executions of the special symbol variation display game may be the total number of executions of the special symbol variation display game 1 and the special symbol variation display game 2 (total number of fluctuations of the special figure 1 and the special figure 2). It may be the number of executions of either one (for example, the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game 2). Further, the number of times of the time saving state is not limited to 60 times or 100 times, and can be appropriately determined according to the playability. In addition, there is no particular limitation on what kind of hit is provided, and it can be appropriately determined.

Next, a hit game by small hits A and B (hereinafter, referred to as "small hit game") will be described. In each small hit game, the large winning opening is opened twice with a short opening, and the opening and closing operation of the large winning opening 50 captured from the outside during the small hit game is the upper 2R short opening latent big hit. It is controlled in substantially the same operation mode as that of the jackpot game. Since this "small hit" is a hit type that does not trigger the operation of the "condition device", a round game such as the "big hit" is not executed. However, by controlling the opening and closing of the big winning opening in substantially the same operation mode as the 2R short open latent jackpot, a pseudo round game was realized, and it seemed that the 2R short open latent jackpot was won. It is possible to pretend like.

In addition, the "hit-in-game effect (effect that appears during the hit-game)" during the small-hit game shows a production that is substantially the same (same or very similar) as the hit-in-time effect during the 2R latent large-hit game. It has become like. That is, the operation related to the small hit game including the hitting effect shows substantially the same behavior as the game operation related to the 2R short open latent probability big hit, and which hit game is executed from the player's side. Is difficult or impossible to identify. As a result, even if a small hit is won, the player can be given a sense of expectation of winning the "2R short open latent probability big hit" that triggers the transition to the high probability state. In addition, when a small hit is won, as shown in FIG. 4, the hit game may be shifted to the same "CZ (chance mode)" as when the 2R short open latent probability big hit is won. Until the end of CZ (until the end of CZ production mode), it is possible to conceal whether or not it is in a high-probability state in terms of production, and to fuel the expectation of winning the latent jackpot.

<5. About production>
(5-1. Production mode)
Next, the effect mode (effect state) will be described. The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of types of effect modes for displaying an effect related to the gaming state, and is configured to be able to switch between the effect modes. Specifically, a normal effect mode, a time-saving effect mode, a latent effect effect mode, and a probabilistic effect mode are provided corresponding to each of the normal state, the time-saving state, the latent state, the probable change state, and the CZ (chance mode). .. In each effect mode, the background display as the background of the variable display screen of the decorative pattern displays different background effects so that the player can grasp what kind of game state he / she is currently staying in. It has become. If it is under "CZ (normal)" or "CZ (latent probability)", the mode shifts to the same CZ effect mode. Therefore, the CZ effect mode plays a role as a "confidential effect mode" in which the jackpot lottery probability state is set to a concealed state from the effect.

The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) has a function unit (effect state transition control means) for transition control between a plurality of types of effect modes. The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) includes a specific effect control command sent from the main control unit 20 (CPU 201), specifically, a game state information managed by the main control unit 20 side. Based on the "control command", the current game state can be grasped and the transition control between a plurality of types of effect modes can be performed while maintaining consistency with the game state managed by the main control unit 20 side. Such effect control commands include, for example, a variation pattern designation command, a decorative symbol designation command, and a game state designation command sent when a change occurs in the game state.

(5-3. Notice production)
Next, the advance notice production will be described. The effect control unit 24 is based on the content of the effect control command from the main control unit 20, specifically, at least the variation pattern information included in the variation pattern designation command, and variously related to the current effect mode and the jackpot lottery result. It is configured so that the appearance of the "notice effect" can be controlled. Such a notice production suggests (notices) the degree of expectation (hereinafter referred to as "winning expectation") of whether or not the player has won the winning type, and serves as a "fanning effect" to fuel the player's sense of expectation of winning. work. Typical notice productions include "reach production", "pseudo-continuous production", and pre-reading notice production. The effect control unit 24 includes a notice effect control means capable of executing (appearing) and controlling these effects.

The "reach effect" refers to an effect mode with a reach state (variation display mode with a reach state: reach variation pattern), and specifically, the final game result is derived and displayed via the reach state. A mode of production. Reach effects include multiple types of reach effects associated with winning expectations. For example, there are cases where the winning expectation is relatively higher than when the normal reach effect (N reach) appears. Such a reach production is called "super reach production (SP reach)". Many of these "SP reach" have a relatively longer production time (variable time) than N reach in order to fuel the expectation of winning. In addition, N reach and SP reach include multiple types of reach effects. For example, SP reach includes multiple types of reach effects such as SP reach A, B, and C, and the degree of expectation of winning should be related to "SP reach A <SP reach B <SP reach C". Can be done.

The "pseudo-continuous effect" refers to an effect mode accompanied by a pseudo continuous variation display state (pseudo variation) of the decorative symbol, and the "pseudo variation" is a part of the decorative symbol or a part of the decorative symbol in the decorative symbol variation display game. It refers to a variable display mode in which a display operation is repeated once or a plurality of times, such as temporarily setting all of them in a temporary stop state and executing a re-variable display operation of a decorative symbol from the temporary stop state. In this respect, it is different from the "look-ahead notice effect (continuous notice effect)" described later, which is developed over a plurality of symbol variation display games. The rate of occurrence of such "pseudo-ream" is basically set so that the higher the number of pseudo-variations, the higher the expectation of winning. For example, SP reach or the like is determined according to the number of pseudo-variations. It is used as a notice production to fuel the expectation of occurrence.

In addition, the "look-ahead notice effect" mainly refers to the hold display mode and the hold display mode for the operation hold ball (undigested operation hold ball) that has not yet been used for executing the symbol change display game (special symbol change display operation). This is an effect mode in which the winning expectation level can be notified in advance before the operation holding ball is provided to the symbol variation display game by using the background effect of the symbol variation display game executed earlier. In the symbol variation display game, in addition to the above-mentioned "reach effect", various effects such as so-called "character notice effect" and "step-up notice effect" are generated to excite the game content.

Here, with reference to FIG. 5, the screen display of the liquid crystal display device according to the present embodiment will be described in relation to the pre-reading notice effect. In the case of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, in the upper display area in the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, a display area for displaying the decorative symbol variable display game (a variable display effect of the decorative symbol or a notice effect is displayed). In the lower display area of the screen, there is a hold display area 76 (hold display units a1 to d1) for displaying the number of operation hold balls on the special symbol 1 side, and a special symbol. A hold display area 77 (hold display units a2 to d2) for displaying the number of operation hold balls on the second side is provided. Regarding the presence or absence of the operation holding ball, the fact is notified by a predetermined holding display mode. In the figure, the presence or absence of the operation hold ball is in the lit state (with the operation hold ball: "○ (white circle)" in the figure) or in the off state (without the operation hold ball: the broken line circle in the figure). An example is shown in which information on the number of balls is notified.

The display regarding the presence / absence of the operation hold ball (hold display) is sequentially displayed in the order of occurrence (winning order), and in each hold display area 76, 77, the leftmost operation hold ball is all the operations in the hold display. It is displayed as the earliest (that is, the oldest) activated holding ball on the time axis among the holding balls. Further, on the left side of the hold display areas 76 and 77, a changing display area 78 for showing the operation hold ball actually used in the special symbol change display game is provided. In the case of this embodiment, the changing display area 78 is configured so that an image in which the icon of the game execution hold K currently used for the game is placed appears on the icon of the seat J. That is, when the variable display of the special symbol 1 or the special symbol 2 is started, the oldest icon (icon image) of the hold a1 or a2 displayed in the hold display areas 76 and 77 is the hold K during game execution. As an icon, the icon is moved onto the icon of the seat J in the changing display area 78, and the state is maintained for a predetermined display time.

When an operation-holding ball is generated, the main control unit 20 sends the look-ahead determination information related to the jackpot lottery result and the number of operation-holding balls at the time of the look-ahead judgment (the number of existing operation-holding balls including the operation-holding ball generated this time). A "hold addition command" for designating the above is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (see steps S319 to S322 in FIG. 14). The hold addition command is composed of 2 bytes, and in the case of the present embodiment, the hold addition command can specify the data on the upper byte side that can specify the number of operation hold balls at the time of the look-ahead determination and the look-ahead judgment information. It is composed of lower byte side data.

When the effect control unit 24 receives the hold addition command, based on the look-ahead determination information included in the hold addition command, the effect control process related to the "look-ahead notice effect" is performed as a part of the display control process related to the hold display. Specifically, a pre-reading notice lottery is performed to determine whether or not the pre-reading notice effect can be executed, and if this is won, the pre-reading notice effect is displayed. The probability of winning by the pre-reading notice lottery is higher for "big hit" than for "missing", and for the reach type with a relatively high expectation of winning, pre-reading notice production occurs. Depending on whether or not it is, the probability of winning the jackpot is shown.

Here, the look-ahead determination information is specifically the jackpot lottery result (big hit lottery result at the start of fluctuation) or fluctuation executed when the operation holding ball is provided to the symbol variation display game in the main control unit 20. This is game information obtained when the fluctuation pattern at the start is pre-read and determined. That is, this information includes at least information that pre-reads the winning lottery result at the start of fluctuation (pre-reading winning information), and other information that pre-reads the symbol lottery result (pre-reading symbol information) and fluctuation at the start of fluctuation. Information for which the pattern is pre-read-determined (pre-reading fluctuation pattern information) can be included. What kind of information is included in the hold addition command to be sent to the effect control unit 24 can be appropriately determined according to the content to be notified by the pre-reading notice. It should be noted that the "look-ahead fluctuation pattern" obtained by the look-ahead determination when the operation-holding ball is generated must be the "variation pattern at the start of fluctuation" itself obtained when the operation-holding ball is actually subjected to the fluctuation display operation. There is no. Regarding this, for example, if the case where the fluctuation pattern at the start of the fluctuation is a fluctuation pattern that specifies "SP reach A" is typically described, in this case, the content specified by the look-ahead fluctuation pattern is "SP reach". It is possible to specify that it is not the type of reach effect itself of "A" but the "SP reach type" which is the main point of the effect.

In the case of this embodiment, when the look-ahead notice lottery is won, among the hold icons of the hold display units a1 to d1 and a2 to d2, the hold icon targeted for the look-ahead notice is, for example, a normal hold display. Pre-reading of "hold display change system" such as changing from white (normal hold display mode) to special hold color such as blue, green, red, rainbow color of notice display or color hold display (special hold display mode) A notice production will be performed. FIG. 5 shows an example in which the hatched hold display unit b1 has changed to a special hold display. Here, the display of the blue, green, red, and rainbow colors of the hold icon means that the winning expectation is high in the order of this color, and in particular, the display of the rainbow-colored hold icon is a big hit confirmation (correct). It is a premium hold icon to be displayed. Therefore, this hold display unit functions as a hold display means for displaying the number of operation holds. However, when executing the look-ahead notice effect, the hold display mode of one of the hold display units a1 to d1 and a2 to d2 is changed to a predetermined look-ahead notice display mode (special hold display mode). However, this works as a means for generating a look-ahead notice effect.

(5-4. Directing means)
Various effects in the game machine 1 are expressed by the effect means provided in the game machine. Such a directing means may be any stimulus transmitting means capable of exerting a directing effect by appealing to human perception such as sight, hearing, and touch, and is a light generating means (light directing means) such as a decorative lamp 45 or an LED device. ), Sound generator (sound effect means) such as speaker 46, effect display device (display means) such as liquid crystal display device 36, pressurizing device that transmits contact pressure to the operator's body, and applies wind pressure to the player's body. A typical example is a wind pressure device or a movable body accessory that exerts a visual effect by its operation. Here, the effect display device is a display device that appeals to the eyes like the image display device, but differs from the image display device in that it includes a display device that does not depend on an image (for example, a 7-segment display). When referred to as an image display device, it mainly refers to a type that displays an effect by displaying an image, and a device that displays an effect by means other than an image, such as a 7-segment display, is included in the concept of the effect display device.

<Processing on the main control unit side: FIGS. 6 to 15>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 6 to 15, the game operation processing on the main control unit 20 side of the present embodiment will be described. The processing on the main control unit 20 side is mainly a predetermined main processing (main control side main processing: FIG. 6) and a timer interrupt processing activated by a scheduled interrupt from the CTC (main control side timer interrupt processing: It is configured to include FIG. 11).

<10. Main control side Main processing: Fig. 6>
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the main processing on the main control unit 20 side. The watchdog timer function (WDT) starts the main process when a system reset occurs due to a system reset signal from the power supply board when recovering from a power failure or power failure, or when the control program runs out of control. Is exhibited and the CPU is forcibly reset (WDT reset). In any case, when the main process is started, the main control unit 20 (CPU201) first executes the initial setting process necessary for starting the game operation, such as initializing the register values of each unit including the CPU201. (Step S011). The initial setting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After completing the initial setting process in step S011, the CTC for generating the timer interrupt periodically is set every 4 ms (step S012). After that, the interrupt request signal to the interrupt controller is periodically output, and the main control side timer interrupt process (FIG. 11) described later is executed. Details will be described later, but in the timer interrupt process on the main control side, input management process for monitoring the ON / OFF state of switches, LED management process for LED display control, various processes related to game progress, etc. are executed. It has become.

Next, a processing route (step) via the "setting value changing process (step S024: FIG. 10 described later)" related to the setting value changing operation (setting changing operation) based on whether or not the setting changeable condition is satisfied. YES → S024 → S017 in S023) or the processing route (step S014 → S015 → S016 → S017) via the “backup confirmation process (step S016: FIG. 8 described later)” related to the recovery process of the backup data backed up when the power is cut off. ) Is executed. In the case of the present embodiment, it is determined whether the ON / OFF state of the setting key switch 94 and the open / closed state of the front frame 2 are satisfied, and whether or not the above-mentioned "setting changeable condition" is satisfied. It has become.

When the above "setting changeable condition" is satisfied, as shown in the figure, the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state (step S013: YES) and the door is open, that is, the door open sensor 61 is in the ON state (front frame 2 is open). State) (step S023: YES). When the setting changeable condition is satisfied, the "setting value changing process (step S024)" shown in FIG. 10 described later is executed, and the setting value (1 to 6 steps) can be changed.

However, in order to determine that the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state in step S013, the setting key switch 94 is turned on while the power supply (main power supply) of the gaming machine is OFF, and the power is turned on while the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state. It is necessary to do. That is, in order to change the set value, the setting key switch 94 is put into the set value change mode side (the setting key switch 94 is turned on) while the power is not turned on (the power switch is OFF), and the game is played as it is. It is necessary to turn on the power of the machine (turn on the power switch). This is because when the setting key switch 94 is turned on after the power is turned on to the gaming machine, it takes at least several seconds from the power on to the ON operation, and the main control side is executed every 4 ms during that time. By the timer interrupt process (FIG. 11), it is determined that the setting key switch 94 is in the OFF state (step S013: NO), and it is assumed that the setting changeable condition is not satisfied, and the "backup confirmation process (step S016)" is performed. This is because the processing route to be routed is executed (see the processing route of NO in step S013), and the operation of changing the set value is prohibited. Therefore, if you want to change the set value and turn on the power of the gaming machine without turning on the setting key switch 94, turn off the power switch once, turn off the power of the gaming machine, and then turn on the setting key. The switch 94 may be turned on, and in that state, the power switch may be turned on again to turn on the power to the gaming machine.

When the above setting value change process (step S024) is completed, the process proceeds to the process of step S017 described later.

On the other hand, when the above "setting changeable condition" is not satisfied, that is, when the setting key switch 94 is not in the ON state (step S013: NO) when the power is turned on, or the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state. When the door opening sensor 61 is in the OFF state (step S023: NO), then the protection of the RAM 203 is enabled and the prohibited area is set to invalid (step S014). As a result, writing of data to the RAM 203 is prohibited in the subsequent processing.

Here, RAM protection is a function for preventing rewriting of RAM due to malfunction or erroneous operation. The operation of RAM protection is as follows. After the system reset or WDT reset occurs, RAM protection is enabled (RAM protect state). Data can be read from the RAM when RAM protection is enabled, but data cannot be written to the RAM. Therefore, when writing data to RAM, it is necessary to disable RAM protection.

In addition, when the prohibited area is valid, if there is an access to a preset address range (for example, a program related to the change setting of the set value), it is assumed that the access is outside the specified area, and the IAT generation signal is generated from the IAT circuit. Is output and an IAT reset occurs (IAT function that prohibits driving outside the designated area), but if the setting of the prohibited area is invalidated, this IAT reset does not occur. When an IAT reset occurs, only the CPU core is reset and the internal functions are not reset, but when a system reset or WDT reset occurs, all internal functions including the CPU core are reset. That is, even if an IAT reset occurs, the RAM is not protected, and the CTC and WDT are not initialized. However, when a system reset or WDT reset occurs, the RAM is set to the protected state (enabled). CTC and WDT are initialized. However, the stored contents of the RAM do not change even if any of the system reset, the WDT reset, and the access error reset is performed. In addition, when an IAT reset occurs, the system may be reset on the assumption that an invalid program has been executed.

Next, the standby screen display command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S015), and the backup confirmation process shown in FIG. 8 is executed (step S016). When the standby screen display command is transmitted from the main control unit 20, the effect control unit 24 that receives the command uses the effect means to notify that the game is being restored, at least until the backup confirmation process is completed. Make the production appear during restoration. For example, the liquid crystal display device 36 is made to display a dedicated standby image in which characters such as "Please wait for a while" are displayed.

After the backup confirmation process (step S016) is completed, the protection of the RAM 203 is invalidated and the prohibited area is effectively set (step S017). As a result, in the subsequent processing, writing of data to the RAM 203 is permitted, and access to the designated area is prohibited.

Next, the operation permission of the WDT is set, and the timeout time (for example, 1000 ms) at which the WDT generates the timeout signal (WDT reset signal) is set (step S018). This process restarts the WDT, and if the WDT is not cleared within the set timeout period thereafter, a WDT reset will occur, internal functions including the CPU core will be reset, and the RAM will be set to the protected state. However, during normal operation, the WDT is periodically cleared during the main control unit timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 11 (step S101 in FIG. 11), so that such a problem does not occur.

When the process of step S018 is completed, the program at the time of turning on the power is normally started, that is, the game can be started, and the "launch control signal 1 (launch permission signal)" that permits the launch operation by the launch device 32 is issued. Output to the control board 29 (step S019: the launch permission signal is set from the OFF state to the ON state). When the payout control board 29 receives the launch control signal 1, it determines that it is in the launch permission state, outputs the permission signal to the launch control board 28, and allows the launching device 32 to launch the game ball. .. After that, the game ball can be launched by the launch operation handle 15. In the present embodiment, the payout control board 29 receives the launch permission signal from the main control unit 20 to allow the launch operation, that is, the launch permission instruction information from the main control unit 20 is transmitted through the payout control board 29. The present invention is not limited to this, although it is configured to be indirectly sent to the launch control board 28. For example, the launch control signal 1 by the main control unit 20 may be directly output to the launch control board 28. In the present embodiment, before the process of step S019 is executed, the firing control signal 1 is controlled not to be output (controlled to the OFF state). Therefore, when the setting change operation is performed, the launch control signal 1 is not output (controlled to the OFF state) until the set value change process (step S024) is completed, and the launch control signal 1 is output after the setting change process is completed. Output (control to ON state). Then, when a series of power-on processing S011 to S019: control start processing is completed, the game processing related to the normal game progress (steps S20 to S22 described later) is executed.

After that, various random number update processes are executed (step S021) with the CPU set to the interrupt disabled state (step S20). In this various random number update process, various random numbers used in the special symbol variation display game and the normal symbol variation display game (random numbers related to the jackpot lottery circulating in a predetermined numerical range by the increment process (special symbols used in the symbol lottery). Random numbers used to change the initial value (start value) of the random number for judgment) and the random number related to the lottery for auxiliary hits (random number for judgment of auxiliary hits used in the winning lottery for auxiliary hits) (initial value for special symbol judgment) Random numbers, initial value random numbers for auxiliary hit judgment) and random numbers for fluctuation patterns used for selecting fluctuation patterns are updated.

In the RAM 203 of the present embodiment, as various random number counters used for a symbol lottery related to a big hit lottery, an auxiliary hit lottery, a variable pattern lottery, etc., a random number counter for special symbol determination, a counter for generating an initial value, and a special symbol determination A random number counter, a random number counter for auxiliary hit determination, a counter for generating initial values, a random number counter for auxiliary hit determination, a random number counter for fluctuation patterns, and the like are provided. These counters serve as random number generating means for generating random numbers by software. In the various random number update processes of step S021, the above-mentioned special symbol determination random number counter, the two initial value generation counters that generate the initial values of the auxiliary hit determination random number counter, the fluctuation pattern random number counter, and the like are updated. Generate various soft random numbers. For example, if the numerical range that can be taken as a random number counter for fluctuation patterns is 0 to 238, a value is acquired from the count value storage area for generating a random number value for fluctuation patterns in RAM 203, and 1 is added to the acquired value. Then store it in the original count value storage area. At this time, if the result of adding 1 to the acquired value is 239, zero is stored in the original random number counter storage area. Other random number counters for initial value generation are updated in the same way.

When the various random number update processes (step S021) are completed, the interrupt enabled state is set (step S022), and the process returns to the process of step S020. The CPU 201 repeatedly executes various random number update processes except during the timer interrupt process that is intermittently executed.

(10-1. Initial setting process: Fig. 7)
Next, the initial setting process (step S011) in FIG. 6 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the details of the initial setting process of step S011.

In FIG. 7, when a system reset or WDT reset occurs, the CPU 201 first sets itself to the interrupt disabled state (step S031), then shifts to the process of step S032, and as the initial setting at startup, the following Execute each process.

Initialization processing that initializes the register values inside the CPU including each part of the microcomputer, interrupt mode setting processing that sets the predetermined interrupt mode (interrupt mode 2), and the value of the stack pointer SP inside the CPU are set to the stack area. The stack pointer setting process that sets the final address of the above, the internal hard random number setting process that activates the internal hard random number circuit, and so on are executed.

Subsequently, a RAM clear signal is acquired from an input port (not shown). The RAM clear signal is a signal for determining whether or not to initialize a predetermined area of RAM, and usually has a value corresponding to an ON / OFF state of the RAM clear switch 98 operated by a hall clerk. .. Also, here, the setting change signal is acquired from the input port. The setting change signal is a signal for determining whether or not to shift to the setting change mode in which the setting value can be changed, and like the RAM clear switch described above, the setting key switch 94 normally operated by the hall clerk is turned on. It has a value corresponding to the / OFF state. Therefore, if the acquisition timing of the RAM clear signal or the setting change signal is delayed, the hall clerk releases the switch and misses the ON operation. However, in the present embodiment, in order to avoid such a situation. In addition, these signals are quickly acquired when the power is restored.

Next, the start-up waiting time of the sub control board (effect control unit 24) is set (step S033). Then, while clearing the WDT count value, waiting for the set start-up waiting time to elapse so that the WDT count value does not time out and the WDT reset does not occur (steps S034 to S036). Specifically, the set start-up waiting time is subtracted by 1 (step S034), the WDT count value is cleared (step S035: WDT clear process), and the start-up waiting time is not zero (step S036: ≠ 0). ), Returning to the process of step S034. Due to this waiting time, the activation of the effect control unit 24 is completed.

If the start-up waiting time has elapsed (step S036: = 0), the power supply abnormality signal output from the power supply board is read twice (step S037). Next, it is determined whether or not the levels of the power supply abnormality signals read twice match (step S038), and the processes of steps S037 to S038 are repeated until they match (step S038: NO), and the level of the power supply abnormality signal changes. If they match (step S038: YES), it is determined whether or not the power supply abnormality signal is at a normal level (step S039).

If the power supply abnormality signal is not at a normal level (step S039: ON), the process returns to step S037. That is, the same process is repeated until the power supply abnormality signal changes to the normal level, and if the power supply abnormality signal is at the normal level (H) (step S039: OFF), the process proceeds to step S040, and then the WDT count value is counted. While clearing, wait for the power-on signal from the payout control board 29 to be sent (steps S040 to S041). This power-on signal is a signal that is output when the payout control board 29 starts up normally, and the CPU 201 waits until the payout control board 29 starts up normally. As a result, if the payout control board 29 is not functioning normally due to some trouble, the game operation is not started only by repeating the processes of steps S040 to S041. Therefore, for example, a payout abnormality such as a prize ball not being paid out does not occur, and there is no risk of giving the player a sense of distrust. Then, when the above power-on signal is confirmed (step S041: ON), the initial setting process is exited, and the process of step S012 of the main control side main process of FIG. 6 is executed.

(10-2. Backup confirmation process: Fig. 8)
Next, the backup confirmation process (step S016) in FIG. 6 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the details of the backup confirmation process in step S016.

This backup confirmation process is a process executed when the setting changeable condition such as the setting key switch 94 is not satisfied, and here, the RAM clear switch 98 (RAM clear signal) is in the ON / OFF state. In response to this, the game recovery process from the backup data at the time of power failure and the RAM clear process for initializing (clearing) the predetermined area of the RAM 203 are executed.

In FIG. 8, the CPU 201 first determines whether the value of the backup flag BF is in the ON state (step S051). The backup flag BF is set to the ON state (backup flag BF = 5AH ('H' means hexadecimal number)) by the power interruption process (not shown) when the power is cut off. Therefore, from the power on or the power failure state. However, if the program goes out of control for some reason and a WDT reset occurs, the backup flag BF should be in the OFF state (00H). Therefore, in the case of an abnormality in which the backup flag BF is in the OFF state (step S051: OFF), the contents of the RAM may be damaged, so the RAM error processing described later is executed (step). S055).

On the other hand, if the backup flag BF is in the ON state (step S051: YES), the checksum operation for calculating the checksum value is executed. Here, the checksum operation is an 8-bit addition operation targeting a predetermined work area of the RAM 203. Then, when the checksum value is calculated, this calculation result is compared with the stored value of the SUM address of the RAM 203 (step S052). The checksum value obtained by the same checksum calculation is stored in the SUM address when the power is turned off. Then, the stored calculation result is maintained by the backup power supply together with other data of the RAM 203. Therefore, originally, both should match by the determination in step S052.

However, if the checksum calculation cannot be executed when the power is turned off, or even if it can be executed, the data in the work area will be stored until the checksum calculation is executed when the power is turned on (main processing on the main control side). It may be damaged, and in such a case, the determination result in step S052 will be inconsistent. When data corruption is detected due to a discrepancy in the determination results (step S052: NO), the RAM error processing (step S055) described below is executed.

(10-2-1. RAM error processing: Fig. 9)
The processing content of the RAM error processing (step S055) is shown in FIG. In this RAM error processing, the CPU 201 first turns on the RAM error flag (step S058). Next, a RAM error command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S059), data of all output ports (not shown) is cleared (step S60), and then loop processing (infinite loop processing) that does nothing is performed. repeat. Therefore, when a RAM error occurs, the process related to the game progress is not executed thereafter, and the game operation is stopped (game stop process). Here, when clearing the output port, it is preferable to clear at least the data transmitted to the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b in order to explicitly notify that the game progress has stopped. When the RAM error command is transmitted from the main control unit 20, the effect control unit 24 that receives the command causes an error corresponding to the RAM error by using the effect means such as the speaker 46, the decorative lamp 45, and the liquid crystal display device 36. Execute notification. When a RAM error occurs, the determination result of S086 during the main control side timer interrupt process of FIG. 11 described later becomes YES, and then the WDT clear process of step S101 is executed, so that an infinite loop process is performed. WDT reset does not occur at the timing of repeating.

Here, in the RAM error processing, the contents of the RAM 203 are not cleared. Therefore, if the backup data remains in a damaged state, an incorrect checksum value will be stored in the SUM address by the checksum calculation including the damaged data at the time of power failure, and the check in step S052 after the power is restored. In the thumb judgment, the data corruption may be overlooked. Therefore, assuming such a case, in the present embodiment, once a RAM error occurs, the ON state of the RAM error flag is not cleared even if the power is turned on / off, and the RAM error flag is checked when the power is turned on. If the flag is ON, the RAM error will be re-executed. This RAM error cannot be resolved unless the RAM error flag is cleared in the "RAM clear process at the time of setting change (step S061)" in the setting value change process (step S024) shown in FIG. 10 described later. ing. That is, when a RAM error occurs, the error cannot be resolved unless the setting change operation is performed.

Returning to the explanation of step S052, if the checksum value by the checksum calculation and the stored value of the SUM address match (step S052: YES), the RAM input via the input port (not shown) is cleared. It is determined whether the signal (output signal of the RAM clear switch 98) is in the ON state or the OFF state (step S053).

Here, assuming that the RAM clear signal is in the ON state, the determination result in step S053 is "YES", and in this case, the RAM clearing process described below is executed (step S056).

In the above RAM clearing process, all areas except at least the set value storage area of RAM 203 and the area related to performance information (measurement information storage area and performance display storage area) are cleared to reset the operating state of the gaming machine to the initial state. return. Therefore, the value of the backup flag BF set at the time of power failure becomes zero together with other checksum values and the like. In addition to the backup flag BF value and checksum value, the following data necessary for the progress of the game are prepared to be cleared.

For example, data related to game state designation (game state flag that specifies the current game state such as normal state, probability change state, time saving state, latent state), and a flag that specifies whether or not a winning game is in progress (conditional device). Operation flag, small hit medium flag), various data related to the execution of the winning game (current number of rounds, maximum number of rounds, etc.), data related to the big hit lottery result (big hit judgment flag / small hit judgment flag (winning lottery result information)) , Special symbol judgment data (symbol lottery result information)), Hold data related to operation hold balls (number of operation hold balls, various random number values used for big hit lottery, various random number values used for auxiliary hit lottery), special symbol operation Status, timer that manages game progress (special symbol accessory operation timer), input / output data related to switches and sensors, winning counter that counts the number of winning balls in each winning opening, flag that specifies the presence or absence of electric support status ( Open extension flag), electric support count counter that counts the remaining number of electric support, counter that counts the remaining number of high probability states (special figure probability variation counter, normal figure probability variation counter), specific gaming state (this embodiment) Then, there are a counter (special figure fluctuation number counter) for counting the remaining number of times of CZ), various error flags (excluding the RAM error flag), and the like. In any case, when the RAM clearing process is executed, all the data except the specific data is set to the initial state.

In this embodiment, the set value is not initialized by the RAM clearing process. Therefore, when the RAM clear in step S056 is executed, the set value is the same as the value at the time of the previous power cutoff, but the game state, the hold data, and the like are cleared (normal state and operation hold ball). The game will be started with (without). As a result, for example, when it is desired to inherit only the set value from the business on the previous day, the clearing work can be completed by a simple operation of ON / OFF operation of the RAM clear switch 98 without having to perform the setting change operation with many work processes. There is an advantage.

Also, the above performance information is not initialized by the RAM clearing process. The RAM area (performance display storage area, measurement information storage area) related to this performance display is not the target of the checksum determination process in step S052, and the check for the RAM area is performed by interrupting the timer on the main control side, which will be described later. The performance display monitor processing during processing is performed (see step S096 in FIG. 11).

Subsequently, the "RAM clear display command" is transmitted to each control board as an initialization command. Then, a predetermined notification time (for example, 30 seconds) is set in the RAM clear notification timer as a time for notifying the surroundings (including notification to the hall computer HC) that the RAM has been cleared. When the effect control unit 24 receives the RAM clear display command, the effect mode is set to the "normal effect mode" in the initial state, the effect state is returned to the initial state, and the speaker 46, the decorative lamp 45, the liquid crystal display device 36, etc. The error notification corresponding to the RAM clear is executed for 30 seconds, which is the same as the set time of the notification timer, by using the effect means of.

On the other hand, when the RAM clear signal is in the OFF state (step S053: OFF), the stack pointer before the power is cut off is restored based on the backup data saved at the time of power interruption, and the game is started from the processing state at the time of power interruption. The backup restoration process necessary for this is performed (step S054). In addition, information required for game recovery (for example, information on the number of balls on hold when the power is cut off, hold data, game status information, hit game type information, etc.) is acquired from the backup data, and various production controls including that information are included. A command (a plurality of game return commands) is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. By such a game return command, the effect control unit 24 grasps the game progress state when the power is cut off, and returns to the effect state when the power is cut off when the game is restored.

When either the backup restoration process in step S054 or the RAM clearing process in step S056 is completed, the backup confirmation process is exited and the process in step S017 of the main control side main process of FIG. 6 is executed.

(10-3. Setting value change process: Fig. 10)
Next, the set value change process (step S024) in FIG. 6 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the details of the set value change process in step S024.

In FIG. 10, the CPU 201 first executes the RAM clear process when the setting is changed (step S061). Here, as in the RAM clearing process (step S056 in FIG. 8), the areas other than the set value storage area of the RAM 203 and the storage area related to the performance information (measurement information storage area and performance display storage area) are cleared (initial). To). That is, the RAM error flag is also cleared. As a result, the RAM error can be eliminated. If an abnormality occurs in the set value data, the set value is set to the setting 1 in the initial state by the process of step S067 described later.

Next, the setting changing flag that specifies that the setting is being changed is set to the ON state (5AH) (step S062).

Next, the protection of the RAM 203 is invalidated and the prohibited area is invalidated (step S063). As a result, writing of data to the RAM 203 is permitted, and access to the set value storage area is permitted.

Next, a setting changing display command for specifying that the setting is being changed is transmitted (step S064). When the effect control unit 24 receives this setting changing display command, it executes a setting changing effect that notifies that the setting value is being changed. For example, the effect LED of the decorative lamp 45 is all turned on in red, the alarm sound of "setting is being changed ♪" is output from the speaker 16, and the effect image of "setting is being changed" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36.

Next, the set value Nc (current set value) stored in the RAM 203 is acquired (step S065), and it is determined whether or not the acquired set value Nc is a normal value (step S066). In the present embodiment, six levels of setting values 1 to 6 are defined, and values of 00H to 05H are defined as data corresponding to these set values 1 to 6. Therefore, when the acquired set value is not any of 00H, 01H, 02H, 03H, 04H, and 05H due to some trouble such as noise (when it is not a normal value), that is, the acquired set value Nc is the set value. If none of 1 to 6 is applicable, it is assumed that an abnormality has occurred, and the initial value of 00H (setting 1) is set in the set value Nc (step S067). Then, the process proceeds to step S068, and the set value display process is executed. On the other hand, when the acquired set value Nc is a normal value (step S66: YES), step S067 is skipped and the set value display process of step S068 is executed.

In the set value display process of step S068, display data (dynamic lighting data) for displaying the current set value is created and set on the setting display 97 of the 7-segment LED. The display data created here is output processed to the setting display 97 in the LED management process (step S098) during the main control side timer interrupt process of FIG. 11, which will be described later. As a result, the current set value is displayed on the setting display 97, and the set value can be confirmed during the setting change operation.

Next, it is determined whether or not the setting change completion switch 96 is in the ON state (step S069), and if the setting change completion switch 96 is not in the ON state (step S069: NO), it is assumed that the setting change operation has not been completed. Next, it is determined whether or not the setting change switch 95 is in the ON state (step S070).

If the setting change switch 95 is not in the ON state (step S070: NO), the process returns to the determination process in step S69. That is, it is in a state of waiting for ON operation detection of either the setting change completion switch 96 or the setting change switch 95, which is a setting value confirmation operation (steps S70: NO, S069: NO).

When the ON operation of the setting change switch 95 is detected while waiting for the ON operation detection (step S070: YES), it is assumed that the setting change operation has been performed, and the current set value Nc is changed (updated) (step). S071). As for the set value, as described above, when the setting change switch 95 is operated, the set value is switched so as to circulate in the range of the settings 1 to 6. That is, when the processing of step S071 is completed, the process returns to step S066, and thereafter, every time there is a setting change operation, the processing route of "YES in step S070 → YES in S066 to S070" is changed to "YES" in the determination result of S069. Repeat until you get it.

Then, when the setting change completion switch 96 is turned on (step S069: YES), assuming that the set value is confirmed, the current set value Nc is saved in the set value storage area of the RAM 203 (step S072). The lighting display process of the setting confirmation LED is executed (step S073). The setting confirmation LED of the present embodiment has a function of the DP unit (decimal point) of the setting display 97, which is a 7-segment LED. When the setting change completion switch 96 is turned on, the displayed setting value disappears, the DP unit lights up, and it is notified that the setting value has been confirmed. As a result, the change of the set value is completed.

In the present embodiment, a dedicated switch is provided as the setting change completion switch 96, but the switches provided in the gaming machine 1 may be used and configured as follows. For example, the sensor related to the firing handle 15 (touch sensor, sensor for detecting the amount of operation, or firing stop switch) may be configured to function as the setting change completion switch 96 during the setting value change process. Further, the winning detection sensor (sensors 34a, 35a. 37a, 52a, 43a, or 49a) related to the winning opening may be configured to function as the setting change completion switch 96. In this case, it is determined that the setting operation is completed when the sensor detects the game ball (ON state) by, for example, cleaning the game ball in the winning opening.

Next, wait until the setting key switch 94 is in the OFF state (step S074: NO), and when the OFF state of the setting key switch 94 is confirmed (step S074: YES), turn off the setting confirmation LED (DP unit). , The setting value command is transmitted (step S077). The above setting value command includes information (setting value information) capable of specifying the current setting value Nc. In addition, the setting value command sent here is sent when the setting change operation is completed and the setting value is confirmed, so it can also be used as a command to indicate that the setting change operation is completed (the setting value is confirmed). It will be used.

Upon receiving the above-mentioned set value command, the effect control unit 24 ends the effect during the setting change being executed. After the setting key switch 94 is turned off, the front frame 2 is simply opened. Therefore, after the effect during the setting change is completed, the door opening error notification is switched to. However, instead of executing the door opening error notification immediately after finishing the setting changing effect, the setting change operation is finished, that is, a new setting value is selected and decided (replacement with the same setting value). It can be said that it is preferable to notify (including). Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the effect control unit 24 receives the set value command, the setting change operation end effect for notifying the end of the setting change operation may appear for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). Since this setting change operation end effect notifies the end of the setting change operation, the effect (notification) mode is different from that of the door opening error notification and the setting changing effect. For example, the effect LED of the decorative lamp 45 is all turned on in blue, the change end sound is output from the speaker 16, and the effect image of "setting change end" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. The setting-changing effect and the setting-changing operation end effect may be those using at least one of the light effect, the sound effect, and the image display effect.

Further, since the set value command includes the set value information, the effect control unit 24 can grasp the current set value by the set value command. As a result, it is possible to control the appearance of the effect (setting suggestion effect) related to the set value in the advance notice effect and the hit effect. For this reason, it is possible to give the player a guessing element for estimating the internal set value while playing the game, so that the fun of the game can be improved.

Examples of this setting suggestion effect include a "low setting suggestion effect" that suggests a low setting (settings 1 to 3), an "even number setting suggestion effect" that suggests an even number setting (settings 2, 4, and 6), and an odd number setting (settings 2, 4, and 6). "Odd setting suggestion effect" that suggests settings 1, 3 and 5), "High setting suggestion effect" that implies high settings (settings 4 to 6), and "Setting 6" that definitively notifies the highest setting value "Setting 6" There are a specific range suggestion effect that suggests a setting value of a specific range (for example, setting N or more (N <6))). For example, the current setting value can be suggested by displaying a specific item image or character image, or displaying a specific sound effect or a specific light effect.

Further, as an effect related to the set value, the appearance rate of a specific reach effect can be made different for each set value or a part of the set values. Further, with respect to the decorative symbol, the appearance rate of a specific lost symbol mode (decorative stop symbol at the time of loss: for example, "224") can be different depending on each set value or a part of the set values. Specifically, the appearance rates can be set to high probabilities in the order of settings 1 to 6, or settings 1 to 3 can be set to the same appearance rate and settings 4 to 6 can be set to different appearance rates.

In addition, the set value can be suggested by using the look-ahead notice effect. For example, the hold display (hold icon) can be changed to an item image for setting suggestion, or a hold icon using a hold color other than the special hold display mode can be displayed (special hold display mode). In this case, the above-mentioned low setting suggestion effect to specific range suggestion effect can be displayed by using the special hold display mode. In addition, the appearance rate of the special hold display mode can be different for each set value or a part of the set values. Further, the appearance rate of a specific special hold display mode (for example, blue hold color) may be different for each set value or a part of the set values without using the special hold display mode.

Finally, the setting changing flag is set to the OFF state (00H) (step S078), thereby exiting the setting value changing process and executing the process of step S017 of the main control side main process of FIG.

<11. Main control side timer interrupt process: FIG. 11>
Next, the timer interrupt process on the main control side will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process on the main control side. This main control side timer interrupt process is started by an interrupt from the CTC at regular time intervals (about 4 ms), and is interrupted and executed during the execution of the main control side main process.

In FIG. 11, when a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 201 immediately executes a power supply abnormality check process without saving the contents of the register (step S081). This power supply abnormality check process mainly monitors the power supply level supplied from the power supply board, and if an abnormality such as a power failure occurs, the game can be restored without any trouble when the power is restored. The backup process of storing the predetermined game information in the RAM is performed.

Next, the switch input data creation process is executed (step S082). Input data is created from various sensors and switches based on input information (ON / OFF signal and rising state (ON edge, OFF edge)). The detection information by the various sensors here includes, for example, an upper start port sensor 34a, a lower start port sensor 35a, a normal symbol start port sensor 37a, a large winning opening sensor 52a, a general winning opening sensor 43a, an OUT monitoring switch 49a, and the like. ON / OFF information (winning detection information) of the switch signal output from the winning detection switch, and the switch signal output from the switch related to the setting change operation such as the setting key switch 94, the setting change switch 95, and the setting change completion switch 96. ON / OFF information (operation information), a status signal from the payout control board 29 (ON / OFF information of the door opening sensor 61 and the fullness detection sensor 60), and the like. As a result, whether or not a game ball is detected at the out opening or each winning opening is monitored for each interrupt.

Next, the error management process is executed (step S083). In this error management process, it is monitored whether or not an error has occurred based on the input data related to various sensors and the status signal from the payout control board 29. When an error occurs, as error processing, if the error type requires the transmission of an error command, the command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. When the effect control unit 24 receives this error command, it executes error notification according to the error type. When the error being generated is resolved, an error release command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. When the effect control unit 24 receives this error release command, the executing error notification is terminated.

Next, a timer management process for managing the timer used for game operation control is executed (step S084). The timer values of various timers (for example, special symbol accessory operation timers described later) used for game operation control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 are updated (subtracted) here.

Next, a random number management process in the timer interrupt that periodically updates the random numbers related to each variable display game is executed (step S085). Here, in order to make the count value of the random number counter random, the random number is updated (+1 is added for each interrupt) for the special symbol judgment random number and the auxiliary hit judgment random number, and every time the random number counter goes around. In addition, the process of changing the start value of the random number counter is performed. Since the internal lottery random number (big hit determination random number) is generated by the above random number generation circuit, it is not updated here.

Next, it is determined whether or not a RAM error is occurring (step S086). Whether or not a RAM error is occurring is determined by the ON / OFF state of the RAM error flag. If a RAM error is occurring (step S086: YES), the process proceeds to step S101 without executing the processes of steps S087 to S100 described later (processes related to game progress such as a symbol variation display game and a winning game), and the WDT The WDT clear process that clears the count value of is executed.

On the other hand, if the RAM error is not occurring (step S086: NO), then it is determined whether or not the setting changing flag is in the ON state, that is, whether or not the setting value is being changed (step S087). If the setting changing flag is in the ON state (step S087: YES), it is assumed that the setting is being changed, and the process proceeds to step S098 without executing the processes of steps S088 to S097 described later, and the LED management process is executed. do.

On the other hand, if the setting changing flag is not in the ON state (step S087: NO), then it is determined whether or not the setting change confirmation flag is in the ON state (step S088). This setting change confirmation flag is a flag that specifies that the setting value is being confirmed (setting confirmation is being performed), and is set during the setting value confirmation process in step S095 described later (of the setting value confirmation process). See S805 in FIG. 12, showing details).

If the set value confirmation flag is in the ON state (step S088: YES), the process proceeds to the set value confirmation process in step S095 without executing the processes of steps S089 to S094 described later. When the set value confirmation flag is not in the ON state (step S088: NO), then the input management process is executed (step S089). In the present embodiment, when the RAM error is not occurring, the setting is not being changed, and the setting is not being confirmed, it is assumed that the game can proceed, and the processing after step S089 related to the symbol variation display game is executed. There is.

In the input management process of step S089, the values of the winning counter, the OUT ball monitoring counter, and the like are updated based on the input data created in the switch input data creation process (step S082). The above-mentioned "winning counter" is a counter provided corresponding to each winning opening and counting the number of winning game balls (number of winning balls). The OUT ball monitoring counter is a counter that counts game balls (out balls) discharged from the out port.

Next, the prize ball management process is executed (step S090). In this prize ball management process, the winning counter is confirmed, and if there is a winning, a payout control command for specifying the number of prize balls is transmitted to the payout control board 29. When the payout control board 29 receives the payout control command, the payout control board 29 controls the game ball payout device 19 based on the prize ball number information included in the payout control command to execute the payout operation for the designated number of prize balls.

Next, the normal symbol management process is executed (step S091). In this normal symbol management process, processing necessary for executing the normal symbol variation display game is performed. Here, whether or not a game ball is detected by the normal symbol start port sensor 37a is monitored, and if the game ball is detected, predetermined game information (random number for determining auxiliary hit, etc.) required for the auxiliary hit lottery is input. Acquire (random number acquisition process), and store the game information as hold data (operation hold ball related to a normal symbol) up to the maximum number of hold balls (hold storage process). Then, when a predetermined variation display start condition for the normal symbol is satisfied, a lottery for the auxiliary hit based on the operation holding ball is performed, the variation pattern of the normal symbol is selected based on the lottery result for the auxiliary hit, and the stop display mode of the normal symbol (normal) Stop symbol) is decided. Further, here, in order to operate the normal symbol in a variable display operation, the LED display data for the variable display is created if it is changing, and the LED display data for the stop display is created if it is not changing.

Next, the normal electric accessory management process is executed (step S092). In this ordinary electric accessory management process, the process necessary for executing the normal electric accessory management process is performed. Specifically, when the lottery result of the auxiliary hit lottery is a win, the solenoid control data setting process for the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c is performed. Based on the solenoid control data set here, an excitation signal is output to the normal electric accessory solenoid 41c in the solenoid management process of step S100 described later, whereby the opening / closing operation pattern of the movable wing piece 47 is changed. Be controlled.

Next, the special symbol management process is executed (step S093). In this special symbol management process, a big hit lottery is mainly performed in the special symbol fluctuation display game, and based on the lottery result, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol (look-ahead fluctuation pattern, fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation) and the special stop symbol are displayed. The processing required for the special symbol variation display game, such as determination, is executed. Details of this special symbol management process will be described later in FIG.

Next, the special electric accessory management process is executed (step S094). In this special electric accessory management process, setting processing necessary for executing and controlling the winning game is performed. Specifically, when the big hit lottery result is a big hit or a small hit, the hit game (big hit game or small hit game) corresponding to the hit type is executed and controlled.

Specifically, the solenoid control data for the large winning opening solenoid 52c is set, the number of rounds is counted (in the case of a big hit), the maximum number of winnings in the large winning opening 50 and the opening time are monitored. When the winning game is completed, the transition setting of the game state based on the game state at the time of winning and the winning type is set (see FIG. 4).

Further, here, a plurality of effect control commands are transmitted according to the progress of the winning game. At the start of the jackpot, the start of the round game, the end of the round game, the end of the maximum number of rounds, etc., it is time to send the jackpot start command, round start command, round end command, jackpot winning command, and jackpot end command, respectively. Send when you do. The jackpot start command includes the hit type information of this time, and is used when the effect control unit 24 side determines a series of hit effect scenarios developed during the hit game. In addition, the jackpot end command includes information on the current hit type and the game state at the time of winning the hit, that is, information capable of specifying the game state after the hit game ends, and the effect control unit 24 side hits. It is used when determining the production mode after the game. Therefore, since this "big hit end command" can specify the game state after the end of the hit game, it plays a role as a game state specification command for designating the game state.

Next, the set value confirmation process related to the set value confirmation is executed (step S095). The details of this set value confirmation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, the performance display monitor process is executed (step S096). In the performance display monitor process, the CPU 201 first saves the contents of the register in the stack area, and then executes the process related to the performance display. In the present embodiment, a process for displaying the normal time ratio information on the performance display 99 is executed. Specifically, first, it is checked whether or not the processing related to the performance display is correctly executed and whether or not the data in the RAM area (performance display storage area, measurement information storage area) related to the performance display is damaged. If it is determined that an abnormality has occurred, a RAM clear check process for clearing the RAM area is performed. As a case where a data abnormality occurs, for example, when there is an abnormality in the arithmetic processing required for calculating the normal time ratio information or the switch input data, the number of out balls in the normal state is larger than the number of out balls in all states, which is not normal. When a condition occurs. Even if it is determined to be abnormal in this process and the corresponding area of the RAM is cleared, error processing is not particularly executed, and processing for calculating new normal time ratio information is advanced.

After completing the RAM clear check process, it is then determined whether or not the current gaming state is the normal state. If the current game state is not the normal state, the contents of the saved register are restored and the performance display monitor process is exited, assuming that the game period is not counted.

On the other hand, in the current normal state, the payout during normal operation is based on the input data of the upper start opening sensor 34a, the lower start opening sensor 35a, the large winning opening sensor 52a, the general winning opening sensor 43a, and the OUT monitoring switch 49a. Update the number, the number of outs in normal time, and the number of outs in all states. Then, the normal time ratio is calculated based on the updated normal time payout number and normal time out number, that is, the latest normal time payout number and normal time out number, and the value is stored in the measurement information storage area of RAM 203. do. However, in the case of this embodiment, since the performance information (specific ratio information) related to the normal state is calculated, the detection information of the large winning opening sensor 52a is excluded from the measurement target. When the number of out balls in all states reaches a predetermined specified number (60,000 in this case), the normal time ratio information at this point (current normal time ratio information) is stored in the performance display storage area of the RAM 203. For the next measurement, clear the current number of payouts during normal times, the number of outs during normal times, and the number of out balls in all states. In this case, the current normal time ratio information may or may not be cleared because it is overwritten when the next normal time ratio information is calculated.

Then, display data for displaying the normal time ratio information is created and set for the performance display 99 (display data is updated), the saved register contents are restored, and the performance display monitor processing is exited. .. The display data created here is output processed in the LED management process (step S098) described later, but may be configured to be output independently in this performance display monitor process. As a result, the performance display 99 realizes real-time display of normal time ratio information.

Next, the right-handed notification information management process is executed (step S097). In this right-handed notification information management process, a right-handed instruction is given when the player is in a hit game or is in a game state (time saving state, probability change state) accompanied by electric support, that is, when the game state is "right-handed advantageous". The "right-handed notification effect (first launch position guidance effect)" that notifies information, on the other hand, is in a game state (normal state, latent state) with no electric support, that is, a "left-handed advantageous" game. In the case of the state, the processing necessary for displaying the "left-handed notification effect (second launch position guidance effect)" for notifying the left-handed instruction information is performed.

Next, the LED management process is executed (step S098). In this LED management process, control signals (dynamic lighting data) are output and controlled for LED indicators such as the normal symbol display device 39a, the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, the setting display 97, and the performance display 99. Control signal based on LED display data created by normal symbol management process (step S091), special symbol management process (step S093), performance display monitor process (step S096), set value change process (step S024, S068), etc. Is output by this LED management process. As a result, a series of variable display operations (variable display and stop display) of the special symbol on the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b and the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 39a, the set value display by the setting display 97, and the performance display 99. Performance information display etc. is realized by.

Next, an external terminal management process is performed (step S099). In this external terminal management process, the operating state information of the gaming machine is output to an external device such as a hall computer HC or an island lamp through the external centralized terminal board 21 for the frame. The operation state information includes, for example, game information such as hit game occurrence information, symbol variation display game execution start information, prize number / prize ball number information, and error information.

Next, the solenoid management process is performed (step S100). In this solenoid management process, based on the solenoid control data set in the ordinary electric accessory management process (step S092) or the special electric accessory management process (step S094), the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c and the large winning opening solenoid 52c are subjected to. Controls the output of the excitation signal. As a result, the movable wing piece 47 and the large winning opening 50 can be opened and closed.

Next, the count value of the WDT is cleared (step S101). As a result, the WDT is reset and the count value is returned to the initial value.

After completing the processes of steps S081 to S101 above, the interrupt enabled state is set (step S102). As a result, the timer interrupt process is terminated, the process returns to the main control side main process before the interrupt, and the main control side main process is performed until the next timer interrupt occurs.

<12. Set value confirmation process: Fig. 12>
Next, the set value confirmation process (step S095) in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the details of the set value confirmation process in step S095.

In FIG. 12, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the set value confirmation flag is in the ON state (step S801). When the set value confirmation flag is in the ON state (step S801: YES), in this case, since the setting is being confirmed, the process proceeds to step S803, which will be described later. On the other hand, when the set value confirmation flag is not in the ON state (step S801: NO), in this case, since the setting is not being confirmed, it is subsequently determined whether or not the following "setting confirmation allowable condition" is satisfied. (Step S802).

(Regarding the allowable conditions for setting confirmation)
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the set value is to be confirmed after the setting change operation at the time of turning on the power is completed (at least after the setting value change process of the main control main process (step S024 in FIG. 6) is completed). Then, again, the current set value is displayed on the setting display 97 without displaying the set value by the setting change operation (without executing the setting value change process (see the process of step S068 in FIG. 10)). Can be done.

The situation for checking the set value includes, for example, when checking the set value in the confirmation work before the opening of the hall (after the setting change operation at the time of turning on the power is completed and before the player actually starts the game). When something goes wrong or an error occurs after the hall opens, the set value may be checked. Further, the setting display 97 is arranged at an appropriate position inside the gaming machine so that the set value is not known to the player. Normally, the game is played unless the front frame 2 is opened and the inside is looked into. It is invisible to the person. Therefore, the set value cannot be confirmed unless the front frame 2 is opened. Therefore, when confirming the set value, it is desirable that the symbol variation display game is not being executed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the following conditions (A) to (C) are defined as conditions (setting confirmation allowable conditions) for displaying the set value on the setting display 97 after the setting change operation is completed.

(A) The switch sensor (switches connected to the main control unit 20) is not inputting (ON state).
(B) Not in an error other than the door open error (not in various errors such as full error, ball jam error, RAM error, etc. as errors other than the door open error), and (C) Special symbol variation display The condition is that the game is not running and there is no special symbol operation hold ball (the special symbol is stopped and the operation hold ball is zero).
In short, it is a condition that at least the special symbol variation display game is not running and only the door opening error is occurring. In addition to the above conditions (A) to (C), (D) the normal symbol variation display game is not running and there is no normal operation hold ball (the normal symbol is stopped and the operation hold ball is (Zero) and / or (E) The prize ball is not being paid out (the payout operation of the game ball payout device 19 is completed (the state signal related to any abnormality is not received from the payout control board 29). That)) can be set as a setting confirmation allowable condition. Further, the condition (C) may be a condition when a predetermined time elapses (for example, 10 seconds later) after the special symbol (F) is stopped and the operation holding ball becomes zero.

Here, in the present embodiment, the detection information (ON / OFF signal) of the touch sensor (not shown) of the firing operation handle 15 is not transmitted to the main control unit 20. Therefore, the main control unit 20 cannot grasp whether or not the player is operating the firing operation handle 15, that is, whether or not the launching device 32 is executing the firing operation. .. However, if the main control unit 20 is configured to be able to detect the ON / OFF signal of the touch sensor, for example, a state signal capable of specifying the ON / OFF state of the touch sensor from the launch control board 28 (or the launch device 32). When (touch sensor signal) is configured to be transmittable to the main control unit 20, (G) firing operation is not in progress (at least the above conditions (A) to (C) are satisfied as setting confirmation allowable conditions. It may be added to the condition (the touch sensor is in the OFF state). What kind of condition (one or more conditions) is added to the above conditions (A) to (C) from the conditions (D) to (G) to make the above setting confirmation allowable condition is determined. It can be appropriately determined according to the playability and the like.

If the above setting confirmation allowable condition is not satisfied (step S802: NO), the game situation is such that the set value cannot be confirmed, so the setting value confirmation process is exited without doing anything. On the other hand, when the above setting confirmation allowable condition is satisfied (step S802: YES), it is checked whether or not the setting is being confirmed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the door opening sensor 61 is in the ON state (whether or not the front frame 2 is open) and whether or not the setting key switch 94 is turned on (steps S803 and S804). ..

(When setting is being confirmed)
As shown in the figure, if the door opening sensor 61 is in the ON state and the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state (steps S803: YES, S804: YES), it is treated as being in the process of setting confirmation, and the setting confirmation flag is in the ON state. (Step S805), the current set value is acquired, and display data for displaying the set value is created and set on the setting display 97. The display data created here is output processed in the LED management process (step S098).

Next, a command during setting confirmation is transmitted (step S806), the launch control signal 1 is turned off and controlled to the launch stop state (step S807), and the set value confirmation process is exited. Here, the reason for controlling the firing stop state is to prevent the game ball from being accidentally launched during the setting confirmation. For example, the player may have some abnormality during the game and the hall clerk may check the set value. At this time, if the game ball is accidentally fired during the setting confirmation, if the ball dies and becomes a ball, the player may be injured. However, if the firing operation is stopped, such troubles can be prevented.

When the effect control unit 24 receives the above-mentioned setting confirmation command, it displays a "setting confirmation effect" that notifies that the setting is being confirmed (for example, the liquid crystal display device 36 is dedicated to "setting confirmation" or the like. Display image). By the way, when confirming the set value, first the front frame 2 is opened and then the setting key switch 94 is turned ON (ON state) (a door opening error occurs prior to the setting checking effect). On the other hand, when the setting confirmation is finished, on the contrary, the setting key switch 94 is first turned off (OFF state), and then the front frame 2 is closed (even if the setting confirmation is completed, the front frame 2 is closed. There is a door open error until it is closed). That is, in any case, a door opening error occurs from the start of confirmation of the set value to the completion of the confirmation. Therefore, in order to reduce the control load, the effect during setting confirmation and the door opening error notification may be the same effect mode, but at least when the setting key switch 94 is in the ON state and the setting is being confirmed, a door opening error occurs. It is preferable to notify the fact that the setting is being confirmed in duplicate. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to reduce the control load and realize duplicate notification, regarding the setting confirmation effect and the door opening error notification, until the setting key switch 94 is turned off, a light effect by a decorative lamp 45 or the like is used. For both, the same production mode (for example, blinking in red) is issued, and for the sound production by the speaker 46, an alarm sound for a door opening error (for example, "door is open ♪") is issued, and the liquid crystal display screen. In (Image display effect), an image display that notifies both of "Setting is being confirmed" or "Door opening error. Setting is being confirmed" is displayed. When the setting key switch 94 is turned off, the effect during setting confirmation that is currently appearing is terminated based on the setting confirmation end command described later, and the door opening sensor 61 is turned off (before). Until the frame 2 is closed), only the door opening error notification is executed.

(If the settings are not being confirmed)
On the other hand, if the setting confirmation allowable condition is satisfied but the setting is not being confirmed, that is, the door opening sensor 61 is not in the ON state (step S803: NO), or the door opening sensor 61 is in the ON state, but the setting key When the switch 94 is not in the ON state (step S803: YES, S804: NO), it is assumed that the setting is not being confirmed, the setting checking flag is set to the OFF state (step S808), and the set value displayed on the setting display 97 is set. Executes the process to erase (turn off) the display. This is because if the set value is still displayed even when the setting is not being confirmed, the current set value may be exposed when the front frame 2 is opened due to some problem.

Next, the setting confirmation end command is transmitted (step S809), the launch control signal 1 is turned on and controlled to the launch permission state (step S810), and the set value confirmation process is exited.

When the effect control unit 24 receives the above-mentioned setting confirmation end command, as described above, if the setting confirmation effect is appearing, it ends it. As a result, the door opening error notification is executed until the setting confirmation effect is completed and the door opening sensor 61 is turned off.

<13. Special symbol management process: Fig. 13>
Next, the special symbol management process (step S093) in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the details of the special symbol management process in step S093.

In FIG. 13, the CPU 201 first performs a special figure 1 start port check process for the special symbol 1 side (upper start port 34 side) (step S301), and then performs a special figure for the special symbol 2 side (lower start port 35 side). 2 Start port check processing is performed (step S302). The details will be described later in FIG.

When the start port check processing in steps S301 to S302 is completed, the state of the small hit medium flag is determined (step S303). This "small hit medium flag" is a flag for designating whether or not the small hit game is in progress, and when the flag is in the ON state (= 5AH), it indicates that the small hit game is in progress. , When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the small hit game is not in progress.

When the start port check processing in steps S301 to S302 is completed, the state of the small hit medium flag is determined (step S303). This "small hit medium flag" is a flag for designating whether or not the small hit game is in progress, and when the flag is in the ON state (= 5AH), it indicates that the small hit game is in progress. , When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the small hit game is not in progress.

When the small hit middle flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S303: ≠ 5AH), then the state of the condition device operation flag is determined (step S304). This "condition device operation flag" is a flag for designating whether or not the jackpot game is in progress, and when the flag is in the ON state (= 5AH), it indicates that the jackpot game is in progress. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the jackpot game is not in progress.

When the condition device operation flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S304: ≠ 5AH), that is, when neither the small hit game nor the big hit game is performed (step S303: ≠ 5AH and step S304: ≠ 5AH), special Processes related to the variable display operation of the special symbol are performed according to the symbol operation status (00H to 03H) (step S305: special symbol operation status branch processing). On the other hand, during the small hit game (step S303: = 5AH) or during the big hit game (step S304: = 5AH), the process related to the variation display operation of the special symbol in steps S306 to S308 is not performed as it is. The process proceeds to the special symbol display data update process in step S309. Therefore, during either the small hit game or the big hit game, the variable display operation of the special symbol is not performed (the display state of the special symbol of the special symbol display device is confirmed and displayed after the small hit or the big hit. The state as it was is retained). The "special symbol operation status" is a status value indicating the behavior of the special symbol, and this status value is changed according to the processing state and stored in the special symbol operation status storage area of the RAM 203.

In the special symbol operation status branch processing in step S305, depending on which of the status values "waiting (00H, 01H)", "changing (02H)", and "confirming (03H)" the special symbol operation status is , Execute the corresponding process.

Specifically, when the special symbol operation status is "waiting (00H, 01H)", the special symbol change start process (step S306) is performed, and when the special symbol operation status is "changing (02H)", it is special. When the symbol changing process (step S307) is "confirming (03H)", the special symbol confirmation time process (step S308) is executed. Here, the above-mentioned "waiting" means that the behavior of the special symbol is in a standby state for the next fluctuation, and "changing" means that the behavior of the special symbol is changing (variation display). The above-mentioned "confirming" indicates that the special symbol has been changed and stopped (confirmed) is being displayed (during the special symbol confirmation time). By these processes, the fluctuation display operation that sets the fluctuation start and fluctuation stop of the special symbol is realized. The details of the above-mentioned special symbol change start processing (step S306) will be described later with reference to FIG.

When any of the processes of steps S306 to S308 is completed, the special symbol display data update process of step S309 described later is executed. In this special symbol display data update process, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing, and if it is changing, 7-segment display data during the special symbol change is created, and the special symbol must be changing. For example, data for 7-segment display during special symbol stop display is created. The display data of the special symbol created here is output in the LED management process (step S98) of FIG. As a result, the process exits the special symbol management process and proceeds to the special electric accessory management process in step S094 of FIG.

(13-1. Special figure 1 Starting port check process: FIG. 14)
First, the special drawing 1 start port check process (step S301) shown in FIG. 13 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the details of the special drawing 1 start port check process in step S301. This special figure 1 start port check process serves as a winning process executed based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition, and here, for executing the special symbol variation display game 1 on the special figure 1 side. As pre-start processing (processing at the time of winning on the special drawing 1 side), addition processing of the number of operation-holding balls on the special drawing 1 side due to the occurrence of winning of the upper start port 34, storage processing of various random numbers (holding storage processing), holding Processing such as sending an addition command is executed. Further, the special figure 2 start port check process (step S302) also plays a role as a winning process executed based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition as in the special figure 1 start port check process described above, and the special figure 2 As a pre-start process (process at the time of winning a prize on the special figure 2 side) for executing the special symbol variation display game 2 on the side, an addition process of the number of pending balls on the special figure 2 side due to the occurrence of a prize in the lower start port 35. , Various random number storage processing, hold addition command transmission processing, etc. are executed. Therefore, the special figure 1 start port check process and the special figure 2 start port check process have substantially the same processing contents. In the following, the special figure 1 start port check process will be mainly described, and the details of the special figure 2 start port check process will be omitted in order to avoid duplicate description.

In FIG. 14, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not a winning (winning ball) is detected at the upper starting port 34 (step S311).

When the winning of the upper starting port 34 is detected (step S311: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of operation holding balls of the special symbol 1 (hereinafter referred to as "special figure 1 operation holding ball") is 4 or more (hereinafter, referred to as "special figure 1 operation holding ball"). Step S312). That is, it is determined whether or not the number of operation holding balls in Special Figure 1 is equal to or greater than the maximum number of holding storage balls (here, the upper limit is 4). However, if the winning of the upper starting port 34 is not detected (step S311: NO), the special figure 1 starting port check process is exited without doing anything.

If the winning of the upper starting port 34 is detected, but the number of balls held in special figure 1 is 4 or more (step S312: YES), the process proceeds to step S321 described later, and the number of balls held in special figure 1 is increased. If it is not 4 or more (less than 4) (step S312: NO), 1 is added to the number of balls held in the special figure 1 (step S313), and the process proceeds to step S314.

Proceeding to the process of step S314, various random numbers used in the special symbol variation display game 1 related to the special figure 1 operation holding ball generated this time are acquired (step S314). Specifically, the current values of the jackpot judgment random number, the special symbol judgment random number, and the fluctuation pattern random number (in this embodiment, two types of fluctuation pattern random numbers 1 and 2) are acquired from various random number counters. The acquired random number value is stored in the hold storage area of the RAM 203. This hold storage area is an area for storing predetermined game information related to the symbol variation display game as an operation hold ball (hold data), and the above-mentioned various random number values as hold data are specially stored in this hold storage area. Until the symbol 1 is subjected to the variable display operation (until the special symbol variable display game 1 is executed), the start conditions are held and stored in the order of establishment (winning order). The reserved storage area is provided with a reserved storage area corresponding to the special symbol 1 side and the special symbol 2 side, that is, a special figure 1 reserved storage area and a special figure 2 reserved storage area. These hold storage areas are provided with hold 1 storage area to hold n storage area (n is the maximum number of hold storages: n = 4 in the present embodiment), and each holds hold data for the maximum number of hold storages. It is possible.

Next, as the winning command data (data corresponding to the lower byte side (EVENT) of the hold addition command) for creating the hold addition command, the look-ahead prohibition data (EVENT: "01H") for prohibiting the look-ahead determination is acquired (". Step S315), it is determined whether or not the "special figure 1 look-ahead prohibition condition" is satisfied (step S316). The special figure 1 look-ahead prohibition condition is a condition for prohibiting the look-ahead determination for the special figure 1 operation holding ball.

When the above-mentioned special figure 1 read-ahead prohibition condition is satisfied (step S316: YES), the process proceeds to step S321 without executing the process related to the look-ahead determination (step S319). In this case, the hold addition command having the look-ahead prohibition data (EVENT: "01H") specifies the look-ahead prohibition, and the look-ahead determination targeting the special figure 1 operation hold ball of this time is prohibited. The production will not be executed either. In other words, it can be said that the read-ahead prohibition data specifies that the look-ahead determination process (step S319) described later is not performed.

In the present embodiment, the pre-reading determination of the special figures 1 and 2 is not performed regardless of the gaming state, but whether or not the pre-reading is prohibited is determined based on the current gaming state. The reason is as follows. If you are in a game state with'with electric support', which is advantageous for right-handed hitting (time saving state, probability change state), winning a prize to the lower starting port 35 frequently occurs, but it is advantageous for left-handed hitting. In the game state with "no electric support" (normal state, latent state), the lower start port 35 is hardly won and the upper start port 34 is frequently won. Considering that it will occur, the pre-reading judgment of Special Figure 1 and Special Figure 2 is not made in the dark clouds regardless of the game state, but when it is in the time saving state or probable change state of'with electric support', Special Figure 1 The look-ahead judgment on the special figure 2 side is prohibited and the look-ahead judgment on the special figure 2 side is allowed, and the look-ahead judgment on the special figure 2 side is prohibited when it is in the normal state or the latent state of'no electric support'. The look-ahead judgment on the side is allowed.

Special Figure 1 If the pre-reading prohibition condition is not satisfied (step S316: NO), the set value is acquired (step S317), and whether or not the set value is within the normal range (whether or not it is valid). ) Is determined (step S318). The determination process in step S318 is the same as the content of the determination process in step S066 of FIG. 10, and the acquired set value is not any of 00H to 05H corresponding to the set values 1 to 6 (step S318: NO). ), Assuming that an abnormality (setting value data abnormality) has occurred, the process proceeds to the process of step S321 described later without executing the next look-ahead determination process (step S319). Although the details will be described later, in the present embodiment, when a set value data abnormality occurs, the look-ahead prohibited data (“01H” acquired in the process of step S315” is not regarded as a RAM error in the process at the time of winning. ) Is sent to exit the process. If there is an abnormality in the set value data, a RAM error is generated during the subsequent special symbol change start processing.

When the acquired set value is within the normal range (step S318: YES), the look-ahead determination process is executed (step S319). In this look-ahead determination process, the jackpot lottery result executed at the start of fluctuation is pre-read and determined. Therefore, the pre-reading that executes the pre-reading winning judgment of the winning lottery result, the pre-reading symbol judgment of the symbol lottery result, and the pre-reading fluctuation pattern judgment of the fluctuation pattern at the start of the fluctuation is executed. It includes a series of processes related to the determination.

Specifically, first, the random number value for big hit judgment stored in RAM 203 (random number storage area for judgment) is acquired, then the "hit random number judgment table (not shown)" is acquired, and the random number value for big hit judgment and the hit are obtained. Based on the random number judgment table, a winning lottery (a pre-reading winning judgment that is determined separately for a big hit, a small hit, and a loss) is performed for the operation pending ball this time, and the result (pre-reading winning result) is acquired. In the above "hit random number judgment table", a judgment value (winning area) for determining the distinction (winning) of big hit, small hit, and loss is defined, and the random number value for big hit judgment belongs to any judgment value. Whether or not the winning type is determined. That is, the winning lottery at the start of the fluctuation, which is executed when the current operation holding ball is subjected to the fluctuation display operation, is pre-read and determined, and the result is acquired. The hit random number determination table is provided with a table corresponding to the set value (a table in which at least the lottery probability of the big hit is different depending on the set values 1 to 6). It should be noted that a table that is common to some of the set values may be used instead of the hit random number determination table that differs for each set value. For example, a table that is common to settings 1 and 2 and has different jackpot lottery probabilities in settings 3 to 6. In addition, when referring to the common hit random number judgment table with some set values, the profit degree (ball output rate) will be the same performance, but in the symbol table described later, the symbol selection rate of the hit type is set. The probability may be different for each value. The hit random number determination table is also used for processing at the start of fluctuation (FIG. 15).

Here, in the present embodiment, the pre-reading winning result is not stored in the RAM 203 while being captured in a predetermined general-purpose register built in the CPU. This is because the pre-reading winning / winning determination result is immediately used in the subsequent pre-reading symbol determination processing, and this data is not required and does not need to be stored in the RAM.

In the pre-reading symbol determination, a symbol table (not shown) corresponding to the pre-reading winning result (large hit, small hit, loss) and the special symbol type (special figures 1 and 2) is acquired, and the special acquired in step S314 is acquired. The symbol determination random value is acquired, and based on the acquired symbol table and the special symbol determination random value, a symbol lottery is performed for the operation pending ball this time, and the result (look-ahead symbol result) is acquired. The above-mentioned "symbol table" of the present embodiment includes a "big hit symbol table" for determining a big hit type and a "small hit symbol table" for determining a small hit type, and each of them determines a hit type (symbol type). Judgment value (winning area) is determined, and which judgment value the special symbol judgment random value belongs to determines which one is the hit (in the case of special figure 1). The hit shown in FIG. 4 (a), and in the case of special figure 2, one of the hits shown in FIG. 4 (b) will be determined). That is, the symbol lottery at the start of fluctuation, which is executed when the current operation holding ball is subjected to the fluctuation display operation, is pre-read and determined, and the result is acquired. If there are a plurality of types of loss (for example, loss A, B, etc.), a loss symbol table for determining the type of loss may be provided. Further, when only one type of small hit or loss is provided, the small hit symbol table or the loss symbol table is unnecessary.

Further, for a part or all of the above-mentioned symbol tables, a symbol table may be provided in which different symbol selection rates are set according to the set value. For example, with respect to the jackpot symbol table, a table having a different selection rate for the jackpot type (in this case, 6 types of jackpot symbol tables corresponding to 6 levels of set values) can be provided for each of the set values 1 to 6. To explain the hit type on the special figure 2 side as a representative, for example, in the case of the setting value 1, "2R short open latent jackpot is 50/256, 12R long open jackpot is 70/256, 16R long open jackpot is 136. / 256 ", in the case of the set value 6, the set value becomes high, such as" 2R short open latent jackpot is 40/256, 12R long open jackpot is 60/256, 16R long open jackpot is 156/256 ". Therefore, the ball ejection performance can be determined to be advantageous to the player. Of course, a jackpot symbol table common to each set value may be used. The symbol table is also used for processing at the start of fluctuation (FIG. 15).

Then, the pre-reading symbol result is not stored in the RAM 203 while being taken into a predetermined general-purpose register built in the CPU, as in the case of the pre-reading winning / failing determination described above. This is because the look-ahead symbol result is immediately used in the subsequent look-ahead variation pattern determination, and this data is not required and does not need to be stored in the RAM.

When the look-ahead symbol determination is completed, the look-ahead variation pattern determination is executed. In this look-ahead variation pattern determination, a lottery is performed using the look-ahead variation pattern selection table (not shown) according to the look-ahead symbol determination result (hit type) and the random number for the variation pattern acquired in step S314, and the look-ahead variation pattern is determined. do. That is, the fluctuation pattern (variation pattern at the start of fluctuation) executed when the current operation holding ball is subjected to the fluctuation display operation is pre-read and determined. In the above-mentioned look-ahead fluctuation pattern selection table, one or a plurality of judgment values corresponding to the look-ahead fluctuation pattern are defined, and the look-ahead fluctuation pattern is determined depending on which judgment value the random number value for the fluctuation pattern belongs to. NS. In short, the winning command data (lower byte side (EVENT) of the hold addition command) corresponding to the look-ahead fluctuation pattern is determined, and the content of the look-ahead fluctuation pattern can be specified. It should be noted that the reason why the same fluctuation pattern selection table as at the start of fluctuation is not used when determining the look-ahead fluctuation pattern is that the number of operation hold balls at the time of pre-reading determination does not always match the number of operation hold at the start of fluctuation, so it is accurate. The fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation cannot be pre-read and determined. Therefore, in the pre-reading fluctuation pattern determination stage, the fluctuation pattern is determined without considering the number of balls on hold. However, even if the look-ahead fluctuation pattern is determined without considering the number of balls on hold, the look-ahead fluctuation pattern should be determined so that the contents of the look-ahead fluctuation pattern and the fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation do not deviate as much as possible. Can be done. In addition, the fluctuation pattern selection table referred to at the start of fluctuation is provided with a table corresponding to the set value (a table in which the selection rate of at least one type (one or a plurality of types) of a specific fluctuation pattern differs depending on the set value). Therefore, the above-mentioned look-ahead fluctuation pattern selection table is also provided with a table corresponding to each set value, but it may be a common table for each set value.

The look-ahead variation pattern determination result (winning command data (EVENT)) is immediately used in the hold addition command creation process in step S321, and this data is not required thereafter. Therefore, here as well, the processing is completed without storing the result of the look-ahead fluctuation pattern determination in the RAM 203 while being captured in the register.

After completing a series of look-ahead determination processes in steps S319 to S320, the winning command data (EVENT) on the lower byte side obtained by the above-mentioned look-ahead fluctuation pattern determination process, the current number of pending balls, and the special symbol type A "hold addition command" is created (step S321) based on the winning command data (MODE) on the upper byte side based on the above, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 without being stored in the RAM 203 (step S322). .. For the data on the MODE side, for example, "B6H to B9H" are set according to 1 hold of special figure 1 to 4 hold of special figure 1, and 1 hold of special figure 2 to hold of special figure 2. "BAH-BEH" is set according to four. Further, regarding the data on the EVENT side, "01H" set in step S315 is updated to a value corresponding to the look-ahead fluctuation pattern (value obtained in the look-ahead fluctuation pattern determination process) in this process. Become. If the read-ahead prohibition condition is met or a set value data abnormality occurs, the look-ahead prohibition data (01H) is maintained as it is, and a hold addition command having the look-ahead prohibition data is transmitted. In addition, a hold addition command (hold addition command for overflow designation) is also transmitted at the time of overflow (when a new prize is generated while the maximum number of hold storages has been reached) (step S312). See YES processing route).

After the above-mentioned hold addition command is sent from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24, it is only used when the effect control unit 24 side displays the "look-ahead notice effect" related to the operation hold ball this time. Yes, it is not particularly used in the special symbol variation start processing shown in FIG. 15 described later. Therefore, without storing the hold addition command in the RAM 203, the special figure 1 start port check process is exited, and then the special figure 2 start port check process in step S302 of FIG. 13 is performed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the start port check process is completed without storing the various data obtained in the series of'look-ahead determination'processes related to the winning process in the RAM one by one. As a result, the memory capacity of the ROM or RAM can be reduced, and the control load can be reduced. In addition, even if an abnormality occurs in the set value data at the time of winning (when the operation hold ball occurs), the hold addition command is transmitted, but since this hold addition command is a command having read-ahead prohibition data, Even if the look-ahead notice effect based on the set value or the look-ahead notice effect not based on the set value is configured to be able to appear, the effect control itself related to the look-ahead notice is prohibited, so the look-ahead notice caused by the defect is prohibited. Will not appear and will not be disadvantageous to the player, so no particular problem will occur. If the look-ahead notice effect is not prohibited, even though the set value data is abnormal, the high-expected red hold display and the rainbow-color hold display indicating the correctness appear in the hold display system look-ahead notice effect. In that case, if the game progress is stopped by the RAM error processing (Fig. 9) after that, the winning expectation held by the player disappears at once, causing a great distrust of the game machine. However, in the case of the present embodiment, as described above, the pre-reading notice itself is prohibited, so that such a problem does not occur.

(13-2. Special symbol change start processing: FIG. 15)
Next, a special symbol variation start process (step S306), which is a process at the start of variation, will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the details of the special symbol variation start processing of FIG.

In FIG. 15, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the number of balls on hold in FIG. 2 is zero (step S401), and if the number of balls on hold in FIG. 2 is not zero (step S401: NO), the step Proceeding to the process of S403, the process at the start of the fluctuation (steps S403 to S416) for the special figure 2 operation holding ball to be used for the current variation display is performed. On the other hand, when the number of balls on hold in FIG. 2 is zero (step S401: YES), it is subsequently determined whether or not the number of balls on hold in special figure 1 is zero (step S402), and the number of balls on hold in special figure 1 is zero. If the number is not zero (step S402: NO), the process proceeds to the process of step S403, and the process related to the start of fluctuation of the special symbol for the special figure 1 operation holding ball to be used for the current variation display (steps S403 to NO). S416) is performed. By the processing of steps S401 and S402, which of the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball is preferentially subjected to the variable display operation (which operation holding ball is preferentially digested). "Priority fluctuation order" is decided. In the present embodiment, when the operation holding ball exists in both the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball, the special figure 2 operation holding ball is preferentially digested, that is, the special symbol variation display game 1 The special symbol variation display game 2 is preferentially executed rather than the special symbol variation display game 2 (priority variation means). In addition, the configuration is not limited to the above-mentioned priority variation type, and the operation holding balls may be digested in the order in which the prizes are won.

When the number of operation-holding balls in both the special figure 2 operation-holding ball number and the special figure 1 operation-holding ball number is zero (step S401: YES and step S402: YES), the state of "no operation-holding ball". It becomes. This "no operation hold ball" state is a case where a special symbol is waiting and there is no hold memory, and the effect control unit 24 is notified that this state has been entered and the liquid crystal display is displayed. The device 36 is switched and controlled to display a demo screen for waiting for customers (demo screen for waiting for customers). Therefore, when it becomes "no operation hold ball", the process proceeds to step S417, and it is determined whether or not the special symbol operation status is "waiting (00H)" indicating the state of the above "no operation hold ball". (Step S417).

When the determination process of step S417 is passed, that is, when the above-mentioned "no operation holding ball" state is reached, and the special symbol operation status at this time is "waiting (01H)" (step S417: NO), the special symbol operation status is switched to "waiting (00H)" (00H is stored in the special symbol operation status: step S418). Then, as the effect control command, a "demo display command" for displaying the customer waiting demo screen is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S419), and the special symbol variation start process is exited. After that, if it is "waiting (00H)" when the determination process of step S417 is executed, the special symbol change start process is exited without transmitting the demo display command again. The reason for doing this is that if the demo display command is sent without any conditions when the number of pending balls is zero, the demo display command is repeatedly sent at a cycle of 4 ms while the number of reserved balls is zero. As a result, unnecessary transmission occurs, and the control burden increases unnecessarily. Therefore, when the above-mentioned "no operation holding ball" is set, the demo display command is transmitted once, and if the demo display command has already been transmitted, the demo display command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. This special symbol management process can be exited without sending to.

If the effect control unit 24 does not receive any effect control command (for example, hold addition command) related to the symbol variation display game even after a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the demo display command, the effect display operation is performed for a certain period of time. It is assumed that a state in which the user is not waiting (waiting for customers) has occurred, and the demo screen for waiting for customers is displayed.

When the number of balls on hold in Special Figure 2 is not zero (step S401: NO), or when the number of balls on hold in action 2 is zero but the number of balls on hold in action 1 is not zero (step S401: YES → step). S402: NO), processing (steps S403 to S416) related to the start of fluctuation of the special symbol for the operation holding ball used for the current fluctuation display is performed. Here, regarding the processes of steps S403 to S416 described below, if the determination in step S401 is'NO', the process for the special figure 2 operation holding ball, and the determination in step S402 above. If it is "NO", the processing is performed for the special symbol 1 operation holding ball, but since the processing method is the same, the operation on the special symbol 1 side is performed unless there is a special need to avoid duplicate description. We will explain without distinguishing whether the processing is for the holding ball or the operation holding ball on the special symbol 2 side.

Proceeding to the process of step S403, the number of operation-holding balls is subtracted by 1 (the number of operation-holding balls related to the special symbol side used for the current variation display operation-1: step S403), and the operation-holding ball number information after the subtraction is included. A "hold subtraction command" is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S404). By this hold subtraction command, the effect control unit 24 side grasps the remaining number of operation hold balls after the current number of operation hold balls is digested, and shifts the hold display currently being displayed.

Next, the special symbol operation confirmation data is stored (step S405). This special symbol operation confirmation data is information for designating the special symbol type of the fluctuation start side this time. For example, if the special symbol 1 is the fluctuation start side, "00H (special symbol 1 fluctuation start designation)" is displayed. If the special symbol 2 is on the fluctuation start side, "01H (special symbol 2 fluctuation start designation)" is stored in the special symbol operation confirmation data of the RAM 203.

Next, the hold data stored in the hold storage area of the RAM 203 is shifted (step S406), and the hold 4 storage area is cleared (step S407). In the processing of steps S406 to S407, the hold data (big hit determination random number, special symbol determination random number, and fluctuation pattern) stored in the hold storage area (hold 1 storage area) corresponding to the hold storage number n = 1 are used. (Random number) is read and stored in the determination random number storage area of RAM 203, and the hold storage area (hold 2 storage area, hold 3 storage area, hold 4 storage) corresponding to the hold n storage area (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored. The hold data stored in the area) is stored in the hold storage area corresponding to'n-1'(step S406), the hold 4 storage area is cleared, and a free area is provided (step S407). As a result, the start order of the special symbol variation display game matches the order of the number of operation hold balls n (n = 1, 2, 3, 4), and the operation hold balls acquired at the time of winning the start opening are stored in any hold. While it is specified whether it corresponds to the area, it becomes possible to hold and store a new operation holding ball.

Next, the remaining time reduction command and the game state command are transmitted (step S408). Here, it is determined whether or not the "electric support count counter" that counts the remaining number of times with electric support is zero, and if there is a remaining time reduction number, the "variable number remaining" including the remaining time reduction number information. A "designated command" is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. By this "variation number remaining number designation command", the effect control unit 24 side can grasp the remaining time reduction number and notify the remaining time reduction number information. Also, here, a game state command that specifies the current game state is also transmitted.

Next, the set value is acquired (step S409), and it is determined whether or not the set value is within the normal range (step S410). The processing contents of steps S409 and S410 are the same as those of steps S317 and S318 during the start port check processing of FIG. Therefore, "processing of S409 to S410" and "processing of S317 to S318" are configured as common processing.

When the acquired set value is not in the normal range (step S410: NO), it is assumed that an abnormality in the set value data has occurred, RAM error processing (FIG. 9) is performed (step S411), and the jackpot lottery at the start of fluctuation and the determination of the fluctuation pattern are related. The process exits the special symbol variation start process without executing the process of steps S421 to S416 including the variation pattern management process described later. In other words, the special symbol management process is exited without starting the symbol variation display game. As a result, after that, the main operation processing related to the games (symbol variation display game, hit game, normal power opening game, etc.) in steps S086 to S100 of the timer interrupt processing on the main control unit side is skipped (step S086 in FIG. 11). : Refer to the processing route of YES), unless the RAM error is cleared, the game cannot be executed (RAM error stop control process (abnormal stop process)). The RAM error is eliminated by performing the setting change operation as described above.

In the present embodiment, RAM error processing is immediately performed when an operation-holding ball occurs so that the progress of the game (design variation display game, hit game, normal electric opening game, etc.) does not proceed any further (step in FIG. 11). S086: Refer to the processing route of YES). However, in this case, the following problems may occur. For example, if a jackpot game is being executed when the operation hold ball is generated, even this jackpot game may have a RAM error even though the jackpot game currently being executed is a result of correct processing. (Finally, it disappears when the RAM is cleared). Then, the profit of the jackpot game disappears, and the player feels distrust of the gaming machine. In order to avoid such a situation, during the big hit game, the RAM error may be executed (controlled to the above-mentioned non-executable state of the game) after waiting for the end of the hit game.

As the above-described configuration (hereinafter referred to as “modification example 1”), for example, in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 11, a determination process for checking the condition device operation flag is provided in the case of YES in step S086, and the condition device operation is performed. If the flag is in the ON state (during the big hit game), the process proceeds to the input management process (step S089), and if the condition device operation flag is in the OFF state (other than during the big hit game), the WDT clear process (step S101) is performed. You just have to go ahead. Further, when not only the big hit game but also the small hit game is included, a determination process for checking the small hit medium flag is further provided, and as in the case of the above-mentioned big hit, the input management process is performed during the small hit game. (Step S089) may be performed, and the WDT clear process (step S101) may be performed except during the small hit game (modification example 2). In this way, the profit obtained by the player by the hit game is not lost, and the distrust is not given. Further, after the winning game is completed, the fluctuation of the special symbol is not started, and the RAM error (defectiveness of the set value data) can be appropriately dealt with.

In addition, the following cases are also assumed. For example, there is a symbol variation display game (normally processed) that is in process when an operation pending ball occurs, and there is a case where this game result is a big hit. In such a case, if RAM error processing is performed immediately when the operation hold ball is generated this time, the game is stopped even though the game result is a big hit of the correctly processed result, and as a result, the game is stopped. , The right of the jackpot will be lost (eventually it will be lost by clearing the RAM). In such a case, it is determined whether or not the symbol variation display game (variation display of the special symbol) in process has ended, and if the current game is a hit, a hit game is generated after the variation ends. It is configured to be able to execute control that waits for the end of the hit game this time, executes a RAM error (controls to the above-mentioned incapable state), and in the case of loss, makes the incapable state after the end of the fluctuation. (For the winning game, the configuration of the above-mentioned modification 1 or modification 2 may be used). In this case, the variable display processing for the existing operation holding ball is not executed, but the right of the big hit (which may include the small hit) is not lost, so that the player is not distrusted.

On the other hand, when the acquired set value is within the normal range (step S410: YES), the set value command including the set value information is transmitted (step S412). As described above, the above set value command includes the current set value information, so that the effect based on the set value (setting suggestion effect, etc.) can be displayed and controlled in the notice effect and the hit effect.

Next, the fluctuation pattern management process is executed (step S413). This fluctuation pattern management process includes a process of acquiring various random number values from the determination random number storage area, executing a jackpot lottery, and determining a fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation based on the result of the jackpot lottery.

Specifically, first, a "winning lottery" is executed for the operation-holding balls used in this special symbol variation display game. The winning lottery is substantially the same as the pre-reading winning determination described in the pre-reading determination process in step S319. That is, a lottery is executed based on the random number value for big hit judgment and the hit random number judgment table according to the set value, and the winning type (whether big hit, small hit, or loss) is determined. Then, the result is stored in the hit judgment flag area of the RAM 203 (the big hit judgment flag is turned ON (5AH) if it is a big hit, the small hit judgment flag is turned ON (5AH) if it is a small hit, and if it is a loss, the big hit and The small hit determination flag stores OFF (00H)). As a result, the winning type related to this special symbol variation display game is determined.

The symbol lottery is substantially the same as the pre-reading symbol determination, and the symbol table corresponding to the winning lottery result is acquired, a random number value for special symbol determination is acquired, and the symbol table and the special symbol determination are performed. A lottery is executed based on the random numbers to determine the winning type. Then, the result (special symbol determination data) is stored in a predetermined area (special symbol determination data storage area) of the RAM 203. As a result, the winning type (winning type) related to this special symbol variation display game is determined.

Here, the reason why the lottery results of the winning lottery and the symbol lottery at the start of the fluctuation are stored in the RAM 203 is that these lottery results are not used only in the special figure management process (step S093), and are later used. This is because the data is also used in the special electric accessory processing (step S094). Specifically, the winning lottery result is used for the pre-start processing of the winning game required when executing the big hit or small hit game in the subsequent special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308), and the symbol lottery result is This is because when the result of this time is a hit, it is the data required to execute the hit game according to the type of the hit. This point is different from the process at the time of pre-reading determination in which the lottery result is not stored in the RAM.

Further, here, as a setting process for shifting the game state in the case of a hit, a necessary setting process for designating the game state (see FIG. 4) after the hit game is performed (game state transition preparation process). ..

After completing the above-mentioned game state transition preparation process, the current set value, the current game state, the symbol lottery result, the random number for the fluctuation pattern, the number of operation hold balls (the number of operation hold balls obtained by subtracting the digested amount this time), etc. are used. Then, the fluctuation pattern at the start of the fluctuation for the operation holding ball used for the current fluctuation display operation is determined by lottery. The fluctuation pattern is determined by the fluctuation pattern selection table (not shown). In this fluctuation pattern selection table, one or a plurality of judgment values corresponding to the fluctuation pattern are defined, and the fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation (of the special symbol) depends on which judgment value the random number value for the fluctuation pattern belongs to. Fluctuation pattern) is to be determined. Further, in the variation pattern selection table, a plurality of types of variation pattern selection tables corresponding to the set value, the game state, the symbol lottery result, and the number of pending balls are prepared. When the fluctuation pattern is determined, the corresponding fluctuation time is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer. As a result, the fluctuation time of the special symbol related to the fluctuation pattern of this time is determined.

Next, 5AH (ON state) is stored in the special symbol N changing flag (N = 1, 2) that specifies that the fluctuation is being displayed (step S414). The above "special symbol N changing flag" is a flag indicating which of the special symbols 1 and 2 is changing, and when the flag is in the ON state (= 5AH), the special symbol changes. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the special symbol is stopped. The special symbol 1 changing flag (N = 1) corresponds to the special symbol 1 side, and the special symbol 2 changing flag (N = 2) corresponds to the special symbol 2 side.

Next, the command transmission process at the start of fluctuation is executed (step S415). In the command transmission process at the start of fluctuation, in order to notify the effect control unit 24 of the content of the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern management process, the effect control command includes variation pattern information capable of specifying the variation pattern content. A "variation pattern specification command" is created and transmitted to the effect control unit 24 side. Further, based on the above-mentioned symbol lottery result, a decorative symbol designation command is created and transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The decorative symbol specification command is composed of two bytes, a high-order byte (MODE) that specifies the special symbol type on the variable side and a low-order byte (EVENT) that specifies the winning type. Therefore, this decorative symbol designation command includes information regarding the special symbol type on the variable side and the winning type (symbol lottery result). Since this decorative symbol designation command includes information on the winning type, the effect control unit 24 mainly uses the combination of decorative symbols when forming the reach state (the symbol type whose component is the reach symbol) and It is used when deciding the combination of decorative symbols (decorative stop symbols) to be finally stopped and displayed, and the advance notice effect corresponding to the winning type in the symbol variation display game.

Then, as the setting process at the start of fluctuation, the special symbol operation status is switched to "changing (02H)" (02H is stored in the special symbol operation status), and the judgment random number storage area and the fluctuation pattern random number storage area are cleared (step). S416).

As described above, when the special symbol variation start processing is exited, the special symbol display data update process (step S309) of FIG. 13 is performed, and thus the variation display of the special symbol is started.

In the special symbol changing process (step S307), it is monitored whether or not the special symbol is changing, that is, whether or not the fluctuation time of the special symbol has elapsed, and if the fluctuation time has elapsed, the effect control is performed. As a command, a process of transmitting a "fluctuation stop command" to the effect control unit 24, a fixed display time (for example, 500 ms) is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer, and the special symbol operation status is "confirmed (03H)". Switch to (store 03H in the special symbol operation status) and perform processing. The above-mentioned "fluctuation stop command" is a command indicating that the variation of the special symbol has ended. By this variation stop command, the effect control unit 24 has terminated the special symbol variation display game after the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed. Grasp that (end) and stop the decorative design currently being displayed in a variable manner. As a result, the decorative symbol variation display game ends at the same time as the special symbol variation display game ends. Further, the above-mentioned "fixed display time" is a time (stop display time) for holding the stop display when the variable display of the special symbol is completed and the special symbol is stopped and displayed.

Further, in the special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308), it is monitored whether or not the above-mentioned confirmed display time has elapsed, and if the confirmed display time has elapsed, it is considered that the special symbol variation display game has ended. If the symbol operation status is switched to "standby (01H)" (01H is stored in the special symbol operation status) and this special symbol fluctuation display game is a big hit, the process required to start the jackpot game (big hit symbol stop) (Various setting processing of time) is performed, and if it is a small hit, the processing required to start the small hit game (various setting processing when the small hit symbol is stopped) is performed. In various setting processes when the jackpot symbol is stopped, various settings such as clearing the jackpot judgment flag, turning on the condition device operation flag, and setting the game state to the same game state as the normal state as the process before shifting to the jackpot game. Perform processing. Further, in various setting processes when the small hit symbol is stopped, the small hit determination flag is cleared (00H is stored), and the small hit medium flag is turned ON.

In addition, here, the electric support count counter (remaining number of times with electric support), special figure probability variation counter (remaining number of high probability state), special figure fluctuation number counter (remaining number of CZ mode), etc. are monitored and small hits. Or, in the case of loss, as the digest of this special symbol fluctuation display game, for non-zero counters, the counter is subtracted by 1, the counter value after subtraction is checked, and the setting is made according to whether or not it is zero. Perform processing.

When the number of times of electric support after subtraction is zero, in this case, it is assumed that the number of continuations with electric support has reached the end number in this game, and the setting process at the end of the state with electric support is performed. As a result, from the next game, it will be under the state without electric support. For example, if the current game state is a time saving state (low probability, with electric support) and the electric support count counter after subtraction becomes zero in this game, the normal state (low probability) from the next game.・ There will be no electric support).

Further, when the special figure probability variation counter after subtraction is zero, in this case, it is assumed that the high probability state has reached the end number in this game, and the setting process at the end of the high probability state is performed. As a result, from the next game, it will be in a low probability state. For example, if the current game state is the latent state (high probability, no electric support), and the special figure probability change counter after subtraction becomes zero in this game, the normal state (low) from the next game. It will be shifted to (no probability / electric support). Also, for example, if the current game state is a probability change state (high probability, no electric support), and the electric support count counter after subtraction and the special figure probability change count counter after subtraction become zero, the next game starts. It will shift to the normal state (low probability, no electric support).

If the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after subtraction is zero, in this case, the number of fluctuations of the special symbol related to the CZ mode has reached the end number, so the setting process at the end of CZ is performed and CZ (latent probability) is performed. Depending on whether it is CZ (normal) or CZ (normal), the transition setting process from the next game to the latent state or the normal state is performed.

Further, when the game state is updated, a "game state designation command" including the game state transition information is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The effect control unit 24 can grasp that the game state has changed by the game state designation command.

In each of the above-described embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine using a gaming ball as a gaming medium has been described, but the pachinko gaming machine is not particularly limited as long as it can achieve the object of the present invention. For example, a gaming machine that uses a gaming medal as a gaming medium, a gaming machine that uses a gaming medium that uses electromagnetic recording (a gaming machine such as a so-called "enclosed gaming machine (managed gaming machine)"), or a pachinko machine. It may be a pachinko / pachislot machine.

The present invention is useful for gaming machines.

1 Pachinko machine,
2 front frame,
3 game board,
3a Game area,
4 outer frame,
6 glass door,
9 Upper saucer,
15 Launch operation handle,
19 Game ball payout device,
20 Main control unit (main control board),
24 Production control unit (Production control board, LCD control board)
28 Launch control board,
29 Payout control board,
32 launcher,
34, 34a Upper start port, upper start port sensor 35, 35a Lower start port, lower start port sensor,
36 Liquid crystal display device,
37, 37a Normal symbol start port, normal symbol start port sensor,
38a, 38b special symbol display device,
39a Ordinary symbol display device,
50, 52a Large winning opening, large winning opening sensor 41 Ordinary variable winning device,
41c Ordinary electric accessory solenoid,
52 Special variable prize device,
52c Grand prize opening solenoid,
43 General winning opening,
43a General winning opening sensor,
45 decorative lamps,
45a optical display device,
46 speakers,
46a sound generator,
47 Movable wing pieces,
49 out mouth,
60 full detection sensor,
61 Front door open sensor,
94 setting key switch,
95 setting change switch,
96 Setting change completion switch,
97 Setting indicator,
98 RAM clear switch,
99 Performance indicator,
201 Main control CPU,
202 main control ROM,
203 Main control RAM,
241 production control CPU,
242 production control ROM,
243 Production control RAM.

Claims (1)

A backup means that retains the stored contents of the RAM even after the power is turned off,
After the power is turned on, the validity of the stored contents of the RAM is determined, and if it is determined to be valid, the operation after the power is turned on and before the power is turned off based on the stored contents of the RAM held by the backup means. A power-on processing means that executes a return process to return to
A normal game processing means that is repeatedly executed after the processing by the processing means at power-on, and
With
A gaming machine configured to execute a lottery process based on a predetermined starting condition and to be able to control a special gaming state based on the result of the lottery process.
The RAM has a first storage area for storing game data used in game processing related to normal game progress including the result data of the lottery process, and a second storage for storing game result data obtained in a predetermined game period. With an area,
The power-on processing means is configured so as to initialize the storage data in the first storage area but not to initialize the storage data in the second storage area when the initialization condition is satisfied after the power is turned on. Further, when it is determined that the stored data in the first storage area is valid, the restoration process is executed, and when it is determined that the data is not valid, a notification corresponding to a RAM error is sent. It is configured to perform notification processing to perform
The normal game processing means is configured to determine the correctness of the stored data in the second storage area, and if it is determined that there is no correctness, the second storage area does not stop the progress of the game. It is configured to initialize the stored data in the storage area and execute the calculation process of the game result data without executing the notification process for performing the notification corresponding to the RAM error.
A gaming machine characterized by that.

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