JP5097062B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a big winning lottery is performed by winning a game ball.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a jackpot lottery is performed when a game ball wins an object such as a start opening. Then, when the jackpot is won, the winning feature such as a big prize opening is released until a predetermined condition is satisfied, and a gaming state in which many winning balls can be obtained is set. At that time, the “big hit” is usually given a plurality of modes with different winning conditions for the big win in the subsequent lottery. For example, a jackpot with a probability variation (probability variation) mode in which the winning probability of the jackpot in the subsequent lottery varies with a high probability, a variation time reduction that shortens the symbol variation time and increases the frequency of the jackpot lottery (shorter time) ) There are jackpots with a mode, and jackpots with a normal mode in which neither the probability variation mode nor the time-saving mode is given.

However, in such a gaming machine, by recognizing that a gaming state advantageous to the player is set after the jackpot game is over, the player can reduce the concentration on the game, and May diminish interest.
Therefore, for example, in Patent Document 1, after the jackpot is over, the game state is set to either “probability change state” or “ordinary short time state” to notify that it is in any advantageous game state. In both the “state” and the “normal short-time state”, the contents of the notification are the same, and a gaming machine is described in which the player cannot clearly know which is set.

JP 2004-167111 A

Here, generally, when the notification mode regarding the gaming state with different winning conditions has the same content, and the player cannot determine which of the gaming states is set, the player can predict the gaming state. Cannot be obtained from a gaming machine. This reduces the pleasure of the player predicting which gaming state with different winning conditions is set. Therefore, it is preferable from the viewpoint of maintaining the player's concentration and the like for a long time to make the contents of the notification regarding the gaming state having different winning conditions different contents and directing the difference to be found.
However, if the mode of notifying different game states can be easily distinguished by the player, the fun of the player finding the difference is halved, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are reduced. It is difficult to continue for a long time. On the other hand, when the winning combination is won in the lottery, it is easy to collect the player's line of sight, and when such a combination is used to notify different gaming states, the player becomes more interested in the operating combination. .
An object of the present invention is to attract a player's attention to an accessory that operates when a lottery is won, and to keep the player's concentration and interest in a gaming machine for a long time.

In the present invention, a lottery is performed as to whether or not the winning probability of winning a jackpot is changed by entering a game ball into the first feature, and a game ball to the first feature is set by setting an open state. A game machine that performs a lottery on whether or not to release the second role to increase the probability of entering a game ball by entering a game ball into the third role, Game state setting means for setting either the first gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is a normal probability or the second gaming state having a higher probability than the normal probability in accordance with the result of the lottery performed by entering the ball; And an accessory control means for controlling an opening operation of the second accessory executed when a lottery performed by entering a game ball into the third accessory is won, When the first gaming state is set by the gaming state setting means In the case where the second game condition is set, the open count to equal the difference in opening operation pattern provided, or the opening operation pattern opening times as the number of times that approximates by providing a difference, the second roles thereof The second accessory is controlled such that the opening operation of the second character differs depending on the approximate operation .

Here, the said accessory control means is the number of times of opening of the second accessory when the first gaming state is set, and the number of times of releasing the second accessory when the second gaming state is set. It is characterized by setting the same number or the approximate number of times.
In addition, the accessory control means determines the opening start timing or release time of the second accessory when the second gaming state is set, and the second accessory when the first gaming state is set. It is set to be different from the opening start timing or the opening time.
Further, the accessory control means may set the number of times the second accessory is released when the second gaming state is set to be less than the number of times the second accessory is released when the first gaming state is set. A large number is set, and an opening time in one or a plurality of opening states of the second accessory in the second gaming state is set shorter than other opening states in the second gaming state. .
The game state setting means further includes an expected value generating means for generating an expected value indicating the degree of possibility that the second game state has been set, and the accessory control means includes the second game state. The operation mode when the state is set and the operation mode when the first gaming state is set have a difference corresponding to the magnitude of the expected value generated by the expected value generating means. The opening operation of the second accessory is controlled.

  According to the present invention, the player's attention can be drawn to the accessory that operates when the lottery is won, and the player's concentration and interest in the gaming machine can be maintained longer than in the case where the present invention is not adopted. it can.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game And a guide member 113 for guiding a game ball on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. As the game progresses by the player, for example, the image display unit 114 notifies the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) with a decorative symbol, or displays a notice effect by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item. Or As the image display unit 114, for example, a configuration example using a liquid crystal display device, an EL display device, an LED dot display device, a 7-segment display device, or the like can be considered.
In the present embodiment, the front of the game board 110 is provided with a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects. The movable accessory 115 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 110 and performs various effects by movement, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by light by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 as an example of the first combination that wins a prize when a game ball enters and starts a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) as various types of prizes and lotteries. A first symbol 122 (opening / closing lottery) when the game ball passes, and a second symbol 122 that is positioned below the first trigger 121 and wins when a game ball enters and a special symbol lottery starts. And the gate 124 as an example of the third accessory that starts up is disposed on the game board 110. Here, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 operate either one predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 125) or one predetermined special symbol display. It means a winning opening related to winning a game ball.
The second starting port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as an example of a second accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers that are opened and closed by an electric solenoid. When the blades of the electric tulip 123 are closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122. However, when the blades are opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 expands and the game ball moves to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a high probability state (for example, 1/30) from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30) when the jackpot probability that the jackpot is drawn in a special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition. ))). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. In some cases, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be shortened, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be opened (electric chew support).

Further, in the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, a large winning opening 125 that is located below the second start opening 122 and opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and a game ball wins. However, the game board 110 is provided with a normal winning opening 126 where the lottery does not start. The big winning opening 125 is normally closed, but a round in which the special winning lottery is maintained in an open state is maintained in an open state until a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won). Repeat a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration example is also conceivable. In the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110. Details of the display 130 will be described later.

  The payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball wins at the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, a predetermined number of award balls per game ball are paid out according to the place where the game ball has won. It is. For example, when a game ball wins the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when the game ball wins the big prize port 125, When a game ball wins the 13 prize balls and the normal prize opening 126, 10 prize balls are paid out respectively. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

Note that various boards and the like (not shown) are attached to the rear surface of the game board 110. In other words, the main board and the sub board are arranged on the rear surface of the game board 110. That is, on the rear surface of the game board 110, a game control board in which a later-described game control unit 200 that performs internal lottery, determination of winning, and the like is provided as a main board. The game control board is sealed in a main board case made of a transparent member so that a trace remains when opened.
Also, as a sub-board, an effect control board in which an after-mentioned effect control unit 300 for overall control of effects is configured, and an image control board in which an after-mentioned image / sound control unit 310 for controlling effects by images and sounds is configured. In addition, a lamp control board on which a later-described lamp control unit 320 that controls effects by various lamps and the movable accessory 115 is provided. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110.
In other words, a payout control board 400, which will be described later, which controls payout of payout balls, and a supply control board controlled by the payout control board and temporarily replenished from the outside, The frame member 150 is provided with a payout unit (not shown) for paying out and paying out lending balls.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display unit 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are configured by a 7-segment display device, and the normal symbol display 223 is configured by an LED display device. .

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. This hold will be described. If there is a prize by another game ball during the fluctuation display operation (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the prized game ball will be applied to the game ball which has been won first. Until the variable display operation is completed, a predetermined number (for example, four) is held as a limit. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220. In the present embodiment, each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is constituted by an LED display device arranged in a row, and the lighting thereof The number of holds is displayed according to the mode.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball. As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, and further, the effect control board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board as sub boards are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 keeps an open state in a protruding manner until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Is controlled to be repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times). Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of reserved symbols for the undrawn special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display (open / close lottery) started by the passage of the game ball to the gate 124 and displays the number of unsettled hold numbers within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 that displays the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning and a normal symbol display 223 that displays the result of the normal symbol lottery are connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162, the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound that expresses the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like, and a work for the CPU 311. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, and the like are performed using the read image data, and voice processing using the read acoustic data is performed.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data that has undergone image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 311 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
More specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls light emission from the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is a storage, and whether or not the plate 153 in which a game ball used when a player plays a game or a prized ball to be held is full is detected. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units for executing various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237. The special symbol lottery unit 231 and the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 function as a lottery means.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first starting port 121 or the second starting port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 124.
The special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result when the special symbol lottery is performed.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the types of “big hit” include “long hit” in which a long jackpot game time can be expected to be paid out, and “short hit” in which a big hit game time is short. For example, in the “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. In the “short win”, the round at the special winning opening 125 is repeated twice, for example.

Furthermore, the “long win” is a jackpot (“specific symbol A” in the subsequent stage), which is also called “15 round probability per change” that generates both a probability change (probability change) gaming state and a time reduction (time reduction) game state after the end of the jackpot game. And a jackpot called “ordinary jackpot” (a jackpot in the “normal symbol” in the subsequent stage) that generates only the short-time gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate the probability variation gaming state. The “short win” is a so-called “two-round probable hit” (a big hit in the “specific symbol B” in the subsequent stage) that generates a probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate a short-time gaming state.
In addition, the “small winning” in the case of not winning a big win, for example, a small winning game is performed in which the big winning opening 125 is opened and closed twice, and the gaming state at the time of winning the small win is continued even after the winning is completed. It is a win (winning with the “small hit symbol” in the latter part). That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction is made, the normal gaming state is continued even after the end of the small hitting game, The gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “missing”, neither the “big hit” nor the “small winning” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set (setting of the “missing symbol” in the subsequent stage).

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects the variation pattern of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or lost”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times), thereby increasing the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122. Generate a state. In addition, when it is determined as “disengagement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the management of the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 5, random number update processing, start port switch (SW) processing, gate switch (SW) processing, special symbol processing, normal symbol processing, big prize opening processing, electric tulip (electric chew) processing, prize ball processing, Output processing is sequentially executed (steps 501 to 509).

In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.
In the start port switch process (step 502), the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. In this case, a special symbol lottery process is executed. Details of the start port switch process will be described later.
In the gate switch process (step 503), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3, and performs the process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on. Run. Details of the gate switch processing will be described later.
In the special symbol processing (step 504), the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the variation pattern selection unit 235, and the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 perform the special symbol variation and the symbol variation. Processing associated with is performed. Details of the special symbol process will be described later.
In the normal symbol process (step 505), the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs the normal symbol variation and the process associated with the symbol variation. Details of the normal symbol processing will be described later.
In the special prize opening process (step 506), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition. Detailed contents of the big prize opening process will be described later.
In the electric tulip process (step 507), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition. Details of the electric tulip process will be described later.
In the prize ball processing (step 508), the prize ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 controls the management of the number of winning prizes and the payout of prize balls according to the winning prize.
In the output process (step 509), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 508, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process (step 502 in FIG. 5).
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON by winning a game ball in the start ports 121 and 122 ( Step 601). If the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U of unreserved reservations is less than the upper limit value (step 602). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U has reached the upper limit (No in step 602), the winning portion for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, and the start port switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations U is less than the upper limit (Yes in step 602), the special symbol lottery unit 231 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations U (step 603). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and held in the RAM 203 (step 604). Here, since the winning of the start ports 121 and 122 is won, random values for special symbol lottery (a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, etc.) are acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process (step 503 in FIG. 5).
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, then the normal symbol lottery unit 232 determines whether or not the number of holds G for the undrawn lot is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is acquired and held in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol process (step 504 in FIG. 5).
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a big hit (a special symbol lottery win) (step 801). If it is a big hit, since a special symbol representing some big hit has already been selected and stopped, the special symbol processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation (Yes in step 801). On the other hand, if it is not a big hit (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a special symbol variation (Step 802). If the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether the number U of unreserved special symbols (see FIG. 6) is 1 or more (step 803). If the number of holdings U = 0 (No in step 803), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the number of holdings U is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the holding number U (Step 804), and then the big hit determination process by another routine Then, the variation pattern selection process is executed (steps 805 and 806). As will be described in detail later, setting information (design, game state, variation pattern, etc.) included in the variation start command sent to the effect control unit 300 is determined by the jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 generates a variation start command including the setting information determined by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process, and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 807). Then, based on this setting information, the special symbols on the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 shown in FIG. 3 start to change (step 808), and the special symbols are set for the time set in the change pattern. In order to perform the fluctuation, measurement of the fluctuation time is started (step 809). The variation start command set in step 807 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

  Next, when it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the variation time has ended (step 810). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 809 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process in step 806. If the variation time has not ended (No in step 810), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (Yes in step 810), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first sets a variation stop command in the RAM 203 (step 811). Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 ends the variation of the special symbols in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 (step 812), and resets the measured variation time (step 812). 813). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 814). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The variation start command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 805 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot has been won (step 902). ). Whether or not the jackpot has been won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot.

If the determination in step 901 is a big win (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random number (step 903). In this determination, it is first determined whether or not the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is changed (probability change or probability change) (step 904). Whether or not the probability fluctuates is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
When the probability changes (Yes in Step 904), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next determines whether or not to shorten the symbol change time (time reduction, time reduction) (Step 905). Whether or not the time is shortened is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value, similarly to the determination of the probability variation.

  After the above determination, when the time is shortened (Yes in step 905), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 sets a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a specific symbol A) indicating a big hit with probability fluctuation and time reduction. Information is set in the RAM 203 (step 906). When the time is not shortened (No in step 905), a symbol (hereinafter, specific symbol B) representing a big hit with probability variation but not time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 907). If the probability does not fluctuate (No in step 904), a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a normal symbol) indicating that the game is a big hit with time reduction but no probability variation is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 908).

When the big hit is not made (No in Step 902), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next judges whether or not the big hit is made (Step 909). Whether or not the jackpot is determined is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number obtained in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot, as in the case of the jackpot determination. Is done.
If the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 is a small hit (Yes in Step 909), the symbol (henceforth, a small hit symbol) indicating that there is no probability variation or time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. Set (step 910). If it is not a small hit (No in step 909), a symbol indicating that the lottery is lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 911).
That is, the “specific symbol A” set in the RAM 203 represents that the lottery result is a big hit with probability fluctuation and time reduction. “Specific symbol B” represents that the lottery result is a big hit with probability fluctuation but not time reduction. “Normal design” represents that the lottery result is a big hit with time reduction but no probability fluctuation. “Small win symbol” represents that the lottery result is a hit without time reduction or probability fluctuation. The “missing symbol” indicates that the lottery result is missing.

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 806 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1001). This determination is the same as step 901 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination result of step 901 may be used). If it is a big hit (Yes in step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selecting unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot is not won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number to determine whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. (Step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 in FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
As a result of determination using random numbers, when a reach effect is performed (Yes in step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads a variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of variation patterns (variation times 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of variation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 acquires a random number (variation pattern random number) for determining the variation pattern, and stores it in the RAM 203 (step 1007). Then, the fluctuation pattern random number is determined using the fluctuation pattern table set in steps 1002, 1005, and 1006 (step 1008). That is, the variation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the variation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a variation pattern according to the random number value acquired in Step 1007. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern tables are different, the determined variation pattern may be different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1008 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1009). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1009 is included in the variation start command set in step 807 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop process (step 814 in FIG. 8).
In this stop process, the game progress control unit 236 as an example of the game state setting means in the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1101). If it is a big hit (Yes in step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not it involves a probability variation (step 1102), and further determines whether or not it involves a time reduction (step). 1103).
These determinations are the same as steps 902, 904, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination results of steps 902, 904, and 905 may be used). Moreover, you may determine based on the kind of symbol set to setting information by the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). That is, if the specific symbol A is set, Yes is made in all steps 1101 to 1103. If the specific symbol B is set, Yes in Steps 1101 and 1102, and No in Step 1103. If a normal symbol is set, Yes in Step 1101 and No in Step 1102. If the off symbol or the small hit symbol is set, No in step 1101.

  In the case of a jackpot (specific symbol A) with probability fluctuation and time reduction (Yes in all steps 1101 to 1103), the game progress control unit 236 changes the game state setting of the RAM 203 as an example of the second game state. The gaming state is set (step 1104), a jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). In the case of a jackpot (specific symbol B) with only a probability variation (Yes in steps 1101 and 1102, No in step 1103), the game progress control unit 236 uses the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 as an example of the second gaming state. Is set to the latent game state (step 1105), a jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). The probability variation gaming state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is shifted to a high probability (probability variation) and the symbol variation time is shortened (time is shortened). The latent game state is a game state in which the probability is changed but the time is not shortened. The jackpot operation control is control of the opening operation of the big prize opening 125. Several types can be set for the probabilistic gaming state and the jackpot operation control based thereon. Which probability variation game state is applied depends on the type of the specific symbol set in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9).

  When the jackpot is not accompanied by a probability change (Yes in Step 1101, No in Step 1102), the game progress control unit 236 sets the gaming state setting in the RAM 203 to the short-time gaming state as an example of the first gaming state (Step 1108) The number J of opening the winning prize opening 125 is set (step 1109), a jackpot start command is set in the RAM 203 (step 1106), and the jackpot operation control is started (step 1107). Here, the short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability is not changed and the time is shortened. In this stop process, the number of times J is released (100 in the example shown), so if the special winning opening 125 is opened 100 times, the short-time gaming state ends.

  If it is not a big win (No in Step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next checks whether or not the number J of opening of the big winning opening 125 is 0 (Step 1110). If the number J of opening is 0 (Yes in Step 1110), the in-stop process is terminated. If the number of times of opening J is not 0 (No in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 next subtracts 1 from the value of the number of times of opening J (Step 1111), and checks whether the number of times of opening J is 0 again. (Step 1112). If the number of releases J is not 0 (No in step 1112), the stop process is terminated. If the number J of releases is 0 (Yes in Step 1112), the game progress control unit 236 sets the game state in the RAM 203 as a normal game state as an example of the first game state (the normal state in which neither the probability change nor the time is shortened) Gaming state) (step 1113), and the stopped process is terminated.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of normal symbol processing (step 505 in FIG. 5).
In this normal symbol processing, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in an auxiliary game (a winning of normal symbol lottery) (step 1201). If it is during the auxiliary game, since the normal symbol is already selected and stopped, the normal symbol process is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is not being performed (No in Step 1201), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is changing the normal symbol (Step 1202). If the normal symbol is not changing (No in Step 1202), then the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the number G of reserved symbols for the undrawn normal symbol (see FIG. 7) is 1 or more (Step 1203). If the number of holds G = 0 (No in step 1203), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in step 1203), the normal symbol control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (step 1204), and the normal random number lottery in this normal symbol lottery A determination is made (step 1205), and it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step 1206). Whether or not the game is won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 in FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value. When the normal symbol lottery is won (Yes in Step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1207). On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won (No in step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 1208). ).

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 corresponds to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (step 1209). When it corresponds to one of the gaming states (Yes in Step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the fluctuation time of the normal symbol variation to a short time (Step 1210). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 3 seconds. On the other hand, when the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not correspond to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (No in step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 increases the variation time of the normal symbol variation. Time is set (step 1211). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 29 seconds.

  Thereafter, the normal symbol control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 3 based on the setting contents of step 1207 or step 1208 (step 1212). Further, in order to perform normal symbol variation for the time set in step 1210 or step 1211, measurement of the variation time is started (step 1213).

  Next, when it is determined in step 1202 that the normal symbol is changing (Yes in step 1202), the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has ended (step 1214). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 1213 has reached the variation time set in step 1210 or step 1211. If the fluctuation time has not ended (No in step 1214), the normal symbol variation is continued, so that the normal symbol processing is ended as it is.

  On the other hand, when the fluctuation time is over (Yes in step 1214), the normal symbol control unit 237 first ends the fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display unit 223 (step 1215), and resets the measured fluctuation time. (Step 1216). Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the winning is made based on the normal symbol which has been stopped after the change (step 1217). If the winning is made (Yes in Step 1217), the auxiliary game operation control is started (Step 1218). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1217), the normal symbol processing is terminated while maintaining the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100.

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special prize opening process (step 506 in FIG. 5).
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a big hit (step 1301). If it is not a big hit, there is no winning in the big winning opening 125, so the big winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1301). On the other hand, if it is a big hit (Yes in step 1301), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 performs the opening operation in the operation control at the big hit started in the pachinko gaming machine 100 being stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether or not it is in progress (step 1302).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1303). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1303). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1303), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then adds 1 to the value of the open round number R of the special winning opening 125 from the current value (step 1304). Then, the special winning opening 125 is opened (step 1305).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the open state at the special winning opening 125 has passed a preset time (opening time) (step 1306). If the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1306), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is 9 or more. Is determined (step 1307). When the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time and the winning number C is less than 9, the open state of the big prize opening 125 is continued, so the big prize opening process is terminated. (No in step 1307). On the other hand, if the open state of the special winning opening 125 has passed the opening time (Yes in Step 1306) or the winning number C has reached nine (Yes in Step 1307), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 The big prize opening 125 is closed (step 1308).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the number of open rounds R of the special winning opening 125 has reached a preset maximum value (step 1309). If the maximum value has not been reached, since the operation control at the time of the big hit is continued, the big winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1309). This maximum value is set according to the type of jackpot specified by the special symbol set in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, the maximum value is set to 15 rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol A and the normal symbol, and the maximum value is set to two rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol B.

  If the number R of open rounds of the big prize opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in step 1309), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then resets the number of open rounds R to 0 (step 1310), The ending operation in the operation control is started (step 1311). Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not an elapsed time from the start of the ending operation has passed a predetermined time (ending time) for the ending operation to be performed (step 1312). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1312). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1312), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then ends the big winning operation and ends the special winning opening process (step 1313).

  If it is determined in step 1302 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not open (No in step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the special winning opening 125 is open (step). 1314). If it is being opened, the operations after step 1306 are executed (Yes in step 1314).

  If the big prize opening 125 is not open (No in step 1314), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is ending (step 1315). If the ending is in progress, the operation after step 1312 is executed (Yes in step 1315).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not in the ending (No in step 1315), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next performs an opening round execution interval (interval) in which the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 is set in advance. It is determined whether or not (time) has elapsed (step 1316). If the interval time has not elapsed, the next open round is not yet performed, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1316). On the other hand, if the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 has passed the interval time, the operation after step 1304 is executed to execute the next open round (Yes in step 1316).

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process (step 507 in FIG. 5).
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in an auxiliary game (step 1401). When the auxiliary game is not being performed, the electric tulip 123 is not opened, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is being performed (Yes in step 1401), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the middle of the opening operation in the operation control during the auxiliary game (step). 1402).

  If the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1402), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether or not a predetermined time (opening time) for performing the opening operation has elapsed. (Step 1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation is continued, and the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1403), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether or not the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability change game state (see step 1104 in FIG. 11). Is determined (step 1404). If the game state is a probabilistic game state (Yes in Step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether or not the game state is a time-short game state (see Step 1108 in FIG. 11) (Step 1405). As a result, when the game is also in the short-time gaming state (Yes in step 1405), an opening operation pattern in which the opening time of the electric tulip 123 is a long time, for example, 3.5 seconds (hereinafter referred to as “long-time opening operation pattern”). Setting is made (step 1406).

On the other hand, when the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability variation gaming state but a latent gaming state that is not a short-time gaming state (see step 1105 in FIG. 11) (Yes in step 1404, No in step 1405), The electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets a first opening operation pattern (hereinafter, “short-time opening operation pattern A”) in which the opening time of the electric tulip 123 is as short as about 0.1 to 2 seconds, for example (step “A short opening operation pattern A”). 1407).
Further, when the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a normal game state (see step 1113 in FIG. 11) that is neither a probability change game state nor a short-time game state (No in step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 A second opening operation pattern (hereinafter, “short-time opening operation pattern B”) in which the opening time of the electric tulip 123 is as short as about 0.1 to 2 seconds, for example, is set (step 1408).
Note that the long-time release operation pattern, the short-time release operation pattern A, and the short-time release operation pattern B are stored in advance in the ROM 202 of the game control unit 200.

  Thereafter, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 starts the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 according to each opening operation pattern (step 1409). The electric tulip operation control unit 239 then sets the long-time opening operation pattern set in step 1406, the short-time opening operation pattern A set in step 1407, or the short-time opening operation pattern set in step 1408. It is determined whether or not the opening operation at B has ended (step 1410). If the opening operation has not ended, the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and thus the electric tulip process is ended (No in step 1410).

  On the other hand, if the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 in each opening operation pattern is completed (Yes in Step 1410), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then performs a time for performing a preset ending operation (ending time) ) Is determined (step 1411). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1411). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1411), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then ends the operation control during the auxiliary game and ends the electric tulip process (step 1412).

[Electric Tulip Operation Control by Electric Tulip Operation Control Unit]
Here, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 as an example of the accessory control means performs the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 in the electric tulip process (FIG. 14). When the current game state in the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a latent game state, the first release operation pattern (short-time release operation pattern A in step 1407 in FIG. 14) and the normal game state are set. The second opening operation pattern to be set (short-time opening operation pattern B in step 1408 in FIG. 14) is controlled to be different.
Here, the “opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123” refers to an operation form including a combination of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the electric tulip 123 when the electric tulip 123 is operated. That is, one operation (one operation) performed on the electric tulip 123 is performed through an opening operation (opening time Top) (see step 1403 in FIG. 14), and a start interval operation until the electric tulip 123 is opened (see FIG. 14). (Start interval time Ts), one or more open state setting operations (open time T), interval operation (interval time Tint) set between the open state and the open state, and the electric tulip 123 are closed. An opening operation consisting of a new end interval operation (end interval time Te) is executed. Then, the process is terminated by an ending operation (ending time Tend) (see step 1411 in FIG. 14). In this case, the start interval operation time length (including Ts = 0), the open state setting operation (open time T) and the interval operation (interval time Tint), and the end interval operation time length ( A combination of Te = 0 is defined as an opening operation pattern.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of an opening operation pattern that is set when the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the operation of the electric tulip 123. As shown in the figure, for example, the opening operation in which the electric tulip 123 is set to open three times is from the end of the opening operation (opening time Top) until the ending operation (ending time Tend) is started. Set between. In this case, the opening operation pattern includes a start interval operation (start interval time Ts), three open state setting operations (release times T1, T2, T3), and two interval operations (interval times Tint1, Tint2). , And an end interval operation (end interval time Te).

This will be specifically described with reference to FIG. When the electric tulip operation control unit 239 starts operation control of the electric tulip 123, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 acquires an opening operation pattern from the ROM 202. The electric tulip operation control unit 239 first performs an opening operation for the opening time Top. Thereafter, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 executes the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 according to the acquired opening operation pattern. When the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is started, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 first performs a start interval operation for the start interval time Ts (including Ts = 0). Then, the electric tulip 123 performs the first open state setting operation (hereinafter, “open state setting operation”), and closes the electric tulip 123 after the open time T1. Subsequently, after the interval operation of the interval time Tint1 has elapsed, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 performs the second open state setting operation with the electric tulip 123, and closes the electric tulip 123 after the opening time T2. Furthermore, after the interval operation of the interval time Tint2 has elapsed, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 performs the third open state setting operation with the electric tulip 123, and closes the electric tulip 123 after the opening time T3. Then, during the end interval time Te (including Te = 0), the end interval operation is performed, and the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is ended. Thereafter, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 performs an ending operation only during the ending time Tend, and ends the operation control of the electric tulip 123.
When the opening operation is performed once, twice, or four times or more, a start interval operation, an opening state setting operation of two times, four times or more, an interval operation between the opening states (one time In this case, the end interval operation is set.

In the effect of making the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 different, one or more of the start interval time, the opening time, the interval time, and the end interval time in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 are set to be different. Further, the number of times of opening in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulips 123 is set to the same number or an approximate number of times. Here, “approximate” means that the player cannot discriminate when observing loosely, but has a difference that can be grasped by observing with caution.
Each opening operation pattern set by the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is a symbol pattern of a winning symbol (see step 1207 in FIG. 12) set in the RAM 203 by the normal symbol control unit 237 in the normal symbol processing (FIG. 12). It is set in association with (Type).

In the pachinko gaming machine 100, if the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 performed when the gaming state is in the latent gaming state and the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 performed in the normal gaming state are the same, the player I cannot distinguish at all. Therefore, the player is not provided with a judgment material for grasping whether the current gaming state is set as the latent gaming state or the normal gaming state. Thereby, the player does not have a positive intention to find out which game state is present, and the game tends to be indiscreet. In addition, there is a case where the player thinks that the normal gaming state such as a small hit or the like is set despite the fact that the special symbol B is won and the latent gaming state is set, and gives up the continuation of the game. .
On the other hand, if the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is clearly different between the latent game state and the normal game state, the player can easily grasp the distinction between the two. However, the stimulus given to the player is reduced by clarifying the game state. Therefore, the player's interest in the game is diminished, and the concentration is likely to be reduced.
Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 when the current gaming state is set to the latent gaming state is different from the case where the normal gaming state is set. The production is given. This arouses the concentration and interest of the player in the game.

  In that case, the effect to be applied to the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 is set in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations. That is, in the opening operation of the electric tulip 123, the law stipulates that the cumulative opening time for one operation of the electric tulip 123 must be 6 seconds or less. Therefore, when the electric tulip operation control unit 239 has set the latent gaming state as an effect applied to the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 within a range where the accumulated opening time in one operation of the electric tulip 123 satisfies 6 seconds or less. Control is performed so that the electric tulip 123 is operated according to an opening operation pattern that provides a difference between when the normal gaming state is set. For example, in the example of FIG. 15 described above, the operation of the electric tulip 123 is controlled so as to satisfy the opening time T1 + opening time T2 + opening time T3 ≦ 6 seconds.

As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state is the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state due to the effect applied to the opening operation of the electric tulip 123. Performed in different forms. Therefore, the player can grasp which of the latent game state and the normal game state is set by carefully observing both. That is, since the psychology of wanting to know whether or not the latent game state that is a game state advantageous to the player is set works for the player, when the electric tulip process (FIG. 14) is started, the player Pay attention to the operation of the electric tulip 123. Then, the player tries to find the difference between the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state. Thereby, the player's concentration and interest in the game are maintained. In particular, the electric tulip 123 that performs an operation corresponding to whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (see step 1206 in FIG. 12) easily collects the player's line of sight. For this reason, when a different game state is suggested depending on the performance using the electric tulip 123, the player becomes more interested in the operation of the electric tulip 123, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are likely to be aroused.
In this case, if the opening action pattern in the latent gaming state and the opening action pattern in the normal gaming state are set to approximate each other, the player will need to observe both of them more carefully. It is impossible to grasp which of the gaming state and the normal gaming state is set. Therefore, the effect given to the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 acts to further improve the concentration and interest of the player in the game.

[Specific example of electric tulip operation control]
(1) First specific example in which the number of times of opening in the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state is set to three, and the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in both is different. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the first specific example. It is. In the example shown in FIG. 16, (a) is an opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state, and (b) is an opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state. The opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state here is predetermined, and the opening times T1, T2, and T3 in the three opening state setting operations are all the same, and the two interval operations are performed. It is assumed that the interval times Tint1 and Tint2 are the same. In addition, the start interval time Ts in the start interval operation is 0 (that is, the start interval operation is not performed), and the end interval time Te in the end interval operation is also 0 (that is, the end interval operation is not performed). The same applies to the second specific example (FIG. 17) to the fourth specific example (FIG. 19). However, the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state is not limited to such a form, and various forms can be used.
In the specific examples of the release action patterns shown in FIGS. 16 to 20, the time of each element action set in the release action pattern in the latent game state is “S” like “release time T1_S”. Is used as a subscript. Further, “N” is used as a subscript for the time of each element operation set in the release operation pattern in the normal gaming state, as in “open time T1_N”.

In the first specific example, in the release operation pattern in the latent game state (FIG. 16A), the release times T1_S and T3_S in the first and third release state setting operations are the normal game state (FIG. 16B). )) Are set shorter than the opening times T1_N and T3_N in the first and third opening state setting operations by time δ1 (T1_S = T1_N−δ1, T3_S = T3_N−δ1). Also, in the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 16A), the opening time T2_S in the second opening state setting operation is the second opening state setting in the normal gaming state (FIG. 16B). The opening time T2_N in the operation is set longer than the time 2 × δ1 (T2_S = T2_N + 2δ1).
On the other hand, in both the latent gaming state (FIG. 16A) and the normal gaming state (FIG. 16B), the start interval time Ts = 0 in the start interval operation (that is, the start interval operation is not performed), and The end interval time Te = 0 in the end interval operation (that is, the end interval operation is not performed) is set. The interval time in the interval operation is also set to the same time length as Tint1_S = Tint1_N and Tint2_S = Tint2_N. Accordingly, the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 16A) and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state (FIG. 16B) are approximated.

  As a result, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123, so that the first and third opening times T1_S and T3_S are shorter than the normal gaming state, and the second opening time T2_S is normally set. Notice that it is longer than the gaming state. Thereby, it is grasped that the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state to which a certain change is given.

  In this case, the time δ1, which is the difference between the open times in the open state setting operation, is set to be as small as can be grasped by the player. Thereby, the inconvenience of finding the difference between the opening time in the latent gaming state and the opening time in the normal gaming state is given. Therefore, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern set for the electric tulip 123. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of distinguishing the difference between the two. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.

  As a modification of the first specific example in which the opening time in one opening state setting operation as shown in FIG. 16 is lengthened and the opening time in another opening state setting operation is set short, one opening is There is a form in which the open time in the state setting operation is shortened and the open time in the other open state setting operation is set to be long. In addition, there is a form in which the difference in opening time in all opening state setting operations is different.

(2) Second specific example in which the number of times of opening the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state is set to three, and the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different between the two. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the second specific example. It is. In the example shown in FIG. 17, (a) is the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state, and (b) is the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state.
In the second specific example, in the release operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 17A), the start interval time in the start interval operation is set as Ts = δ2. Therefore, the first opening state setting operation is started later by the time δ2 than the normal gaming state (FIG. 17B) in which the start interval time is set to Ts = 0 (that is, the start interval operation is not performed). . The second and third opening state setting operations are also started later by the time δ2. That is, the opening start timing of the electric tulip 123 is different.
Accordingly, the player notices that the opening (particularly the first opening) of the electric tulip 123 starts later than the normal gaming state by carefully observing the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123. Thereby, it is understood that the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state to which a certain change is given.

In addition, the time of each other element operation in the latent game state (FIG. 17A) is set to be the same as that in the normal game state (FIG. 17B) except for the third open state setting operation. To do. That is, T1_S = T1_N, Tint1_S = Tint1_N, T2_S = T2_N, and Tint2_S = Tint2_N. Further, the end interval time in the end interval operation is Te = 0 (that is, the end interval operation is not performed). With regard to the opening time T3_S in the third opening state setting operation in the latent gaming state, the start interval time is set to Ts = δ2 in the latent gaming state, so that only the opening time T3_N in the normal gaming state is δ2. Set short.
By such setting, the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 17A) and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state (FIG. 17B) are approximated.

Also in this case, the start interval time Ts (= δ2) in the latent gaming state is set to be as small as can be grasped by the player. Thereby, the difference between the start timing (release start timing) of each release state setting operation (particularly the first time) in the latent game state and the start timing (release start timing) of each release state setting operation in the normal game state is found. The inconvenience of being given. Therefore, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern set for the electric tulip 123. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of distinguishing the difference between the two. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.
As a modification of the second specific example in which a difference is provided in the start interval time Ts shown in FIG. 17, there is a form in which a difference is provided in the end interval time Te in the end interval operation.

(3) Third specific example in which the number of times of opening in the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state is set to three, and the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in both is different. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the third specific example. It is. In the example shown in FIG. 18, (a) is an opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state, and (b) is an opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state.
In the third specific example, the interval time Tint1_S, Tint2_S (= Tint1_S) of the two interval operations is the normal game state (FIG. 18B) in the release operation pattern in the latent game state (FIG. 18A). Is set shorter than the interval time Tint1_N, Tint2_N (= Tint1_N) by time δ3. Correspondingly, the opening times T1_S and T3_S in the first and third opening state setting operations in the latent gaming state (FIG. 18A) are set longer by time δ3.
As a result, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 so that the interval times Tint1_S and Tint2_S in the latent gaming state (FIG. 18A) are in the normal gaming state (FIG. 18B). ) Is shorter than the interval times Tint1_N and Tint2_N. Thereby, it is understood that the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state to which a certain change is given.

In addition, the time of each other element operation | movement in a latent game state (FIG. 18 (a)) shall be set the same as the normal game state (FIG. 18 (b)). That is, T2_S = T2_N. The start interval time in the start interval operation is Ts = 0 (that is, the start interval operation is not performed), and the end interval time in the end interval operation is both Te = 0 (that is, the end interval). No action).
By such setting, the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 18A) and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state (FIG. 18B) are approximated.

Also in this case, the time δ3, which is the difference between the interval times in the latent gaming state, is set to be as small as can be grasped by the player. Thereby, the inconvenience of finding the difference between the interval time in the latent gaming state and the interval time in the normal gaming state is given. Therefore, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern set for the electric tulip 123. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of distinguishing the difference between the two. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.
As a modification of the third specific example in which the interval time shown in FIG. 18 is different, the difference in the interval time Tint1_S of the first interval operation and the interval time Tint2_S of the second interval operation are shown. There is a form in which a difference is provided in the difference. Further, there is a form in which a difference in interval time is set only in one of the first interval operation and the second interval operation.

(4) Fourth specific example in which the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different as the approximate number of opening times of the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the fourth specific example. It is. In the example shown in FIG. 19, (a) shows the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state, and (b) shows the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state.
In the fourth specific example, in the release operation pattern in the latent game state (FIG. 19 (a)), the release state setting operation is set to two times, and the normal game state in which the three release state setting operations are set ( A difference from FIG. 19A is provided.
As a result, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123, so that the number of times the electric tulip 123 is opened in the latent gaming state (FIG. 19A) is the normal gaming state (FIG. 19A). Notice that less than)). Thereby, it is understood that the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state to which a certain change is given.

In the latent gaming state (FIG. 19 (a)), the opening times T1_S and T2_S in the first and second opening state setting operations are the first and second times in the normal gaming state (FIG. 19 (b)). They are set longer than the opening times T1_N and T2_N in the opening state setting operation. Further, the interval time Tint1_S of the first interval operation is set longer than the interval time Tint1_N of the first interval operation in the normal gaming state (FIG. 19B). Furthermore, both start interval times in the start interval operation are Ts = 0 (that is, start interval operation is not performed), and both end interval times in the end interval operation are Te = 0 (that is, end interval). No action).
By such setting, the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 19A) and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state (FIG. 19B) are approximated.

  In addition, as a modification of the fourth specific example in which the number of open state setting operations shown in FIG. 19 is different, the number of open state setting operations in the latent game state (FIG. 19A) is set to the normal game. There is a mode of setting more than the number of times of the open state setting operation in the state (FIG. 19B). At that time, by setting the difference between the number of open state setting operations in the latent game state and the number of open state setting operations in the normal game state within a range of about 1 to 2 times, The opening operation pattern and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state are approximate.

(5) Fifth Specific Example in which the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different as the approximate number of times of opening in the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the fifth specific example. It is. In the example shown in FIG. 20, (a) is an opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 in the latent gaming state, and (b) is an opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state.
In the fifth specific example, in the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 20A), the number of times of setting the opening state is set once more than that in the normal gaming state. In this case, the first opening state setting operation (opening time T1_S) in the latent gaming state has the same timing as the first opening state setting operation (opening time T1_N) in the normal gaming state (FIG. 20B). And the same opening time is set. Further, the third opening state setting operation (opening time T3_S) in the latent gaming state (FIG. 20A) is the second opening state setting operation (opening time in the normal gaming state (FIG. 20B)). The same timing and the same opening time as T2_N) are set. Then, the second open state setting operation (open time T2_N) in FIG. 20A is between the first open state setting operation and the third open state setting operation, based on the open time T1_S and the open time T3_S. Also set in a short time.

That is, the time of each element operation in the latent game state (FIG. 20A) is set as follows. T1_S = T1_N, T3_S = T2_N, Tint1_S + T2_S + Tint2_S = Tint1_N. The start interval time in the start interval operation is Ts = 0 (that is, the start interval operation is not performed), and the end interval time in the end interval operation is both Te = 0 (that is, the end interval). No action).
With such a setting, the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state (FIG. 20A) and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state (FIG. 20B) are approximated.

As a result, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 so that the second opening state setting operation (opening time T2_S) is set more than the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state. Notice that Thereby, it is understood that the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is different from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state to which a certain change is given.
In this case, the opening time T2_S of the second opening state setting operation in the latent gaming state (FIG. 20 (a)) is set to be short enough to be grasped by the player. Thereby, the inconvenience of finding the difference between the opening operation pattern in the latent gaming state and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state is given. Therefore, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern set for the electric tulip 123. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of distinguishing the difference between the two. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.

As a modification of the fifth specific example shown in FIG. 20, an operation with a short open time such as the second open state setting operation in FIG. 20A is performed as the first time in FIG. There is a form of setting as an open state setting operation. Further, there is a mode of setting as the third open state setting operation of FIG.
Furthermore, the second opening state setting operation in the latent gaming state (FIG. 20 (a)) is similarly set in the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state, and the second opening state in the latent gaming state. There is a form in which the timing at which the setting operation is set is set to be different from that in the normal gaming state. For example, the interval time Tint2_S (see FIG. 20A) after the second opening state setting operation in the latent gaming state is made shorter than that in the normal gaming state. Further, the interval time Tint1_S (see FIG. 20A) from the first opening state setting operation to the second opening state setting operation in the latent gaming state is made shorter than that in the normal gaming state.

Thus, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 performs the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 in the electric tulip processing (FIG. 14) described above. A first opening operation pattern (short-time opening operation pattern A) set when the current gaming state is a latent gaming state, and a second opening operation pattern (short-time opening operation pattern B) set when the current gaming state is a normal gaming state. ) Are controlled differently.
Thereby, the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state by carefully observing the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123. In particular, the electric tulip 123 that performs an operation corresponding to whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (see step 1206 in FIG. 12) easily collects the player's line of sight. For this reason, when a different game state is suggested depending on the performance using the electric tulip 123, the player becomes more interested in the operation of the electric tulip 123, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are likely to be aroused. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of recognizing the difference in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulips 123. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.

[Suggestion of the expected value of the latent gaming state depending on the degree of difference set in the opening pattern of the electric tulip]
As described above, the difference provided in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 between the latent gaming state and the normal gaming state suggests that the current gaming state is the latent gaming state. In this case, you may set so that the expectation value showing the magnitude | size of the possibility of being in a latent gaming state may be suggested with the grade of the difference provided in the open operation pattern of the electric tulip 123.
Here, the “expected value” is an index indicating the degree of possibility that the current gaming state shown to the player is a latent gaming state. For example, in relation to the current gaming state actually being a latent gaming state, or regardless of whether the current gaming state is actually in a latent gaming state or a normal gaming state, for example, an expected value generating means The game progress control unit 236 that also functions as an example generates an expected value for the latent game state in a game-like manner.

  For example, when receiving an indication that the expected value is set to 90%, the player predicts that the latent gaming state is set with a high probability. However, even in that case, the possibility that the normal gaming state is set is not excluded. As a result, the player has a sense of anxiety that the normal gaming state is set as well as an expectation that the latent gaming state is set, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are maintained. Conversely, if the player receives an indication that the expected value is set to 10%, the player predicts that the latent gaming state is not set with a high probability. However, even in this case, the possibility that the latent gaming state is set is not excluded. Thus, the player has a slight expectation that the latent game state is set, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are maintained.

  Therefore, the electric tulip motion control unit 239 acquires an expected value for the latent gaming state from the game progress control unit 236 as an example of an expected value generation unit. Then, the difference from the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state set in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 is set in association with the expected value for the acquired latent gaming state. For example, when the expected value is set to 90%, a large difference from the release operation pattern in the normal gaming state is set. For example, when the expected value is set to 10%, the difference from the release operation pattern in the normal gaming state is set to be small.

  For example, the length of the time δ1, which is the difference between the open times in each open state setting operation in the first specific example (FIG. 16), is set in association with the expected value for the latent game state. That is, the length of the time δ1 is set in accordance with the expected value of the latent game state acquired from the game progress control unit 236. Further, the length of the start interval time Ts (= δ2) in the second specific example (FIG. 17) is set in association with the expected value for the latent gaming state. That is, the length of the time Ts is set in accordance with the expected value of the latent gaming state acquired from the game progress control unit 236. Furthermore, the length of the time δ3, which is the difference between the interval times in the third specific example (FIG. 18), is set in association with the expected value for the latent gaming state. That is, the length of the time δ3 is set according to the expected value of the latent gaming state acquired from the game progress control unit 236. Further, the length of the opening time T2_S in the second opening state setting operation in the fifth specific example (FIG. 20) is set in association with the expected value for the latent gaming state. That is, the length of the release time T2_S is set according to the expected value of the latent game state acquired from the game progress control unit 236.

Thus, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the current gaming state is a latent gaming state due to the magnitude of the difference between the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 and the opening operation pattern in the normal gaming state. It is configured to suggest the expected value.
Thereby, the player can know the expected value that the current gaming state is the latent gaming state by carefully observing the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123. Therefore, the player carefully observes the opening operation pattern of the electric tulips 123. In addition, a game can be enjoyed by expectation or anxiety about the latent game state based on the acquired expected value. As a result, the player will continue to concentrate and be interested in the game.

[Random number judgment method]
Subsequently, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 12), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of random numbers used in the present embodiment.
FIG. 21A shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number, FIG. 21B shows a configuration example of a jackpot symbol random number, FIG. 21C shows a configuration example of a reach random number, and FIG. Configuration examples are shown respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 21A, two types of jackpot random numbers are set: a jackpot when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a normal gaming state and a jackpot when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a probabilistic gaming state. The range of random numbers is 300 from 0 to 299. In the normal gaming state, only one winning value is set, and the winning probability is 1/300. In the case of a probable gaming state, 10 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the example shown in the figure, if the winning symbols 121 and 122 are won and the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability variation gaming state, the winning probability is 10 times that in the case where the special symbol lottery is performed in the normal gaming state.

  Referring to FIG. 21B, three types of jackpot symbols are prepared: a normal symbol, a specific symbol A, and a specific symbol B. Here, as described in the explanation of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the normal symbol is a symbol indicating that it is a jackpot without probability variation, and the specific symbol A is a jackpot with probability variation and time reduction. The specific symbol B is a symbol indicating that it is a big hit with a probability variation but not with a time reduction. The range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9. Four values are assigned to each of the normal symbol and the specific symbol A. Two values are assigned to the specific symbol B. That is, in the example shown in the figure, the probability variation probability is 6/10 (= 4/10 + 2/10 = 3/5) and the probability variation probability is 4/10 (= 2/5) in the case of a big hit. In the example shown in the figure, the jackpot symbol is a total of three types including the normal symbol and the two specific symbols. However, the jackpot symbol may be classified into four or more types and assigned a random value.

  Referring to FIG. 21C, the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the lottery without the reach effect is performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/228 (= 11/114).

  Referring to FIG. 21D, the range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9, and 9 winning values are set. That is, in the example shown in the figure, when a game ball passes through the gate 124 and a normal symbol lottery is performed, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10.

  These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 12). The This counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.

Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300 when a command is received from the game control unit 200.
When receiving the command, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not some effect is being executed (step 1601). If the effect is not being executed (No in step 1601), it is next determined whether or not the received command is a change start command (step 1602). If it is not a change start command (No in step 1602), the effect display process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the received command is a change start command (Yes in step 1602), the effect control unit 300 analyzes the acquired change start command (step 1603), and the effect pattern included in this change start command An effect pattern is determined based on the random number (step 1604). Then, according to the determined effect pattern, an effect by image display, sound output, lamp lighting, or the like is executed (step 1605).

  If any effect has been executed when the command is received (Yes in Step 1601), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the received command is a change end command (Step 1606). If it is not a change end command (No in step 1606), the effect display process is ended as it is. On the other hand, if the received command is a change end command (Yes in Step 1606), the effect control unit 300 ends the effect being executed (Step 1607).

As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, when the electric tulip operation control unit 239 performs the opening operation of the electric tulip 123, the current gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 100 is the latent gaming state. The first opening operation pattern (short-time opening operation pattern A) set in a certain case is controlled differently from the second opening operation pattern (short-time opening operation pattern B) set in a normal gaming state.
Thereby, the player knows that the current gaming state is a latent gaming state by carefully observing the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip 123. In particular, the electric tulip 123, which performs an operation corresponding to whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won, easily collects the player's line of sight. For this reason, when a different game state is suggested depending on the performance using the electric tulip 123, the player becomes more interested in the operation of the electric tulip 123, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are likely to be aroused. In addition, the player can enjoy the inconvenience of recognizing the difference in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulips 123. As a result, the player maintains his concentration and interest in the game.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure explaining the pachinko game machine concerning this Embodiment, (a) is an enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator arrange | positioned at the lower right of a game board, (b) is a pachinko game machine FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of a control unit. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure explaining an example of the open operation pattern set when the electric tulip operation control part of a game control part controls the action | operation of an electric tulip. It is a figure explaining the 1st specific example which makes both the number of times of opening of a latent game state and a normal game state 3 times, and provides a difference in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip in both. It is a figure explaining the 2nd specific example which sets both the number of times of opening of a latent game state and a normal game state to 3, and provides a difference in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip in both. It is a figure explaining the 3rd specific example which sets both the number of times of opening of a latent game state and a normal game state to 3, and provides the difference in the opening operation pattern of the electric tulip in both. It is a figure explaining the 4th specific example which provides a difference in the open operation pattern of the electric tulip in both as a frequency | count which approximated the frequency | count of open | release of a latent game state and a normal game state. It is a figure explaining the 5th specific example which provides a difference in the open operation pattern of the electric tulip in both as an approximate number of times of opening of a latent game state and a normal game state. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the production | presentation control part at the time of receiving a command from a game control part.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine 121 ... 1st starting port, 122 ... 2nd starting port, 123 ... Electric tulip, 124 ... Gate, 125 ... Grand prize opening, 126 ... Normal winning port, 130 ... Display, 218 ... 1st Special symbol hold indicator, 219 ... second special symbol hold indicator, 220 ... normal symbol hold indicator, 221 ... first special symbol indicator, 222 ... second special symbol indicator, 223 ... normal symbol indicator, 231 ... Special symbol lottery unit, 232 ... Normal symbol lottery unit, 233 ... Special symbol variation control unit, 234 ... Special symbol lottery result determination unit, 235 ... Variation pattern selection unit, 236 ... Game progress control unit, 237 ... Normal symbol control unit 238 ... Grand prize opening operation control unit, 239 ... Electric tulip operation control unit

Claims (4)

A lottery is performed to determine whether or not the winning probability of the jackpot is changed by entering the game ball into the first feature, and the probability of entering the game ball into the first feature by setting the open state A game machine that performs a lottery on whether or not to open the second role to increase the game by entering a game ball into the third role,
According to the result of the lottery performed by entering the game ball into the first game, the first game state in which the jackpot winning probability is the normal probability and the second game state in which the probability is higher than the normal probability. A game state setting means for setting one of them,
An accessory control means for controlling an opening operation of the second accessory executed when a lottery performed by entering a game ball into the third accessory is won,
The accessory control means provides a difference in the opening operation pattern with the same number of opening times when the first gaming state is set by the gaming state setting means and when the second gaming state is set. Or a game machine characterized by controlling the second combination so that the opening operation of the second combination differs depending on the approximate operation by providing a difference in the opening operation pattern as an approximate number of releases.   The accessory control means determines the opening start timing or release time of the second accessory when the second gaming state is set, and the opening start of the second accessory when the first gaming state is set. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is set to be different from the timing or the opening time.   The accessory control means sets the number of times the second accessory is released when the second gaming state is set to be larger than the number of times the second accessory is released when the first gaming state is set. The opening time in one or more open states of the second accessory in the second gaming state is set shorter than other open states in the second gaming state. The gaming machine according to 1. An expectation value generating means for generating an expectation value indicating the degree of possibility that the second gaming state has been set by the gaming state setting means;
The said accessory control means of the said expected value produced | generated by the said expected value production | generation means with the operation | movement form when the said 2nd game state is set, and the operation | movement form when the said 1st game state is set. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the opening operation of the second accessory is controlled so as to have a difference corresponding to the size.

Images