JP5603984B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability varies.

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

  In such gaming machines, the main control board operates in each mode of jackpot, probability change, time reduction, and normal, and there are those that produce effects for each mode according to the command output from this main control board. There was something that made the game more interesting and made the game more interesting until the jackpot was finalized.

  Conventionally, there has been a gaming machine that maintains a sense of expectation of a game by not displaying a display of whether the mode after the jackpot is a time-saving mode or a probability-changing mode up to a predetermined number of revolutions (for example, , See Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2004-337366 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technique, the mode is not notified until the predetermined number of revolutions, so that the expectation of the game can be maintained. There was a problem of losing interest, such as stopping the game. In addition, since the mode can be understood even for a customer who wants to play a new game on the game table, there is a problem that a game by a new customer is not started indefinitely.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the fun of a game for a player who continuously plays and a new player in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art. To do.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is provided with a gaming board in which a gaming area in which gaming balls can flow down is formed, and in the gaming area, through which gaming balls can pass. A winning prize opening that can be operated in a closed state in which the start opening and the game ball cannot pass and an open state in which the game ball can pass; and a determination unit that determines whether or not to play a special game when the game ball passes through the start opening; Based on the determination result by the determination means, after the symbols are variably displayed on the symbol display device, the symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the determination symbol indicating the determination result by the determination means, and the determination means performs a special game. If it is determined to perform, a special game executing means for performing a special game for operating the big prize opening in the second state after the determination symbol is stopped and displayed by the symbol display control means; The game can be controlled in either a low-probability gaming state that is determined to play a special game with a predetermined probability by the determination means or a high-probability gaming state that is determined to perform a special game with a higher probability than the predetermined probability. A game effect control means; and a lamp effect execution means for performing a lamp effect in a predetermined lamp pattern in the lamp device when the symbols are displayed in a variable manner by the symbol display control means, the lamp effect execution means Even if the game state is controlled by the gaming state control means according to the high probability gaming state or the low probability gaming state, a lamp effect is performed with the first special lighting pattern when the predetermined time is counted by the timing means. When the game is controlled in the high-probability gaming state, the high probability after the lamp effect in the first special lighting pattern When the lamp effect is performed with the second special lighting pattern indicating that the game state is in effect, and the game is controlled in the low probability gaming state, the high probability game state is performed after the lamp effect with the first special lighting pattern. The second special lighting pattern indicating that the time is not given, and the predetermined time is not counted by the timing means regardless of whether the game is controlled by the high probability game state or the low probability game state. The lamp effect is not performed in the first special lighting pattern and the second special lighting pattern.

  According to the above configuration, the game state at that time can be clearly notified to the player by lighting the lamp of the gaming machine with the lighting contents associated with the game state being executed at the notification time.

  According to the present invention, the game state can be notified to the player at the notification time, so that the player can play a game while maintaining his expectation until the notification time. In addition, it is possible to improve the ability to attract customers at the notification time. Furthermore, in a store where a plurality of gaming machines are installed, it is possible to produce effects simultaneously at the notification time with the plurality of gaming machines, and the atmosphere in the store at that time can be raised.

It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the timer interruption process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the production control process which a production control part performs. It is a table which shows the lighting content of the lamp with which a game machine is provided. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a lighting content selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a background selection process. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the alerting | reporting effect by the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the image display part at the time of the alerting | reporting effect by the gaming machine of this embodiment, and an effect light part. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the timing of the notification effect at the time of a customer waiting. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the image display part at the time of the alerting | reporting effect by the gaming machine of this embodiment, and an effect light part.

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

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine of the present invention. The gaming machine of the present invention includes a game board 101. A launcher (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 2) is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. A plurality of nails (not shown) are provided in the game area 103, and a game ball is dropped in various directions, and a windmill or a prize opening that changes the fall direction of the game ball is placed in the middle of the fall. Is arranged.

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

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

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

  A normal symbol display part 119 and a special symbol display part 120 are arranged in the lower right part of the game board 101. As the normal symbol display unit 119 and the special symbol display unit 120, for example, a 7-segment display is used. The normal symbol display unit 119 and the special symbol display unit 120 display numbers, alphabets, and the like representing a predetermined lottery result. The symbols such as numbers (hereinafter referred to as “ordinary symbols”) displayed on the normal symbol display unit 119 start to change when the game ball passes the winning gate 106 and stop after a predetermined time. At this time, when the predetermined normal symbol stops, the electric tulip is opened for a predetermined time. The symbols such as numbers (hereinafter referred to as “special symbols”) displayed on the special symbol display unit 120 start to change when the game ball wins the start winning holes 105a and 105b, and stop after a predetermined time. At this time, when a predetermined special symbol stops, a big hit state is obtained.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The main control unit 201 can change the jackpot probability during the game. For example, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, there are two probability states, a low probability state and a high probability state, and the high probability state is generally called a probability variation state. Here, the low probability state is a gaming state in which the generated random number is compared with a predetermined low probability state table to perform a jackpot determination, a loss determination, or the like. In the high probability state, the generated random number is compared with a predetermined high probability state table to perform a jackpot determination, a loss determination, or the like, and further to the starting winning hole 105b of the game ball by an electric tulip control process described later. It is a gaming state that makes it easy to win. Each table is stored in advance in the ROM 212 or the like.

  Thus, for example, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a jackpot is generated at 1/300 in the low probability state, and a jackpot is generated at 1/30 in the high probability state. Yes. The low probability state includes a normal low probability state and a short time state. Here, the short-time state is a gaming state in which a jackpot determination or a loss determination is performed in the same manner as in a normal low probability state, but it is easy to win a game ball into the start winning opening 105b. Specifically, in the short-time state, the generated random number is compared with a predetermined low-probability state table to make a jackpot determination or a loss determination, but the electric tulip control process applies the game ball to the start winning opening 105b. It is easier to win a prize. Information indicating the game state being executed is output as a command to the effect control unit 202, and an effect corresponding to the game state being executed (for example, control of symbol variation or movable accessory) is performed.

  Further, when there is one winning for the start winning opening 105a (or 105b), the main control unit 201 outputs, to the effect control unit 202, time information of the symbol variation applied to one symbol variation as a command.

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

  The effect supervision unit 202a includes a CPU 241 that executes effect processing, a ROM 242 that stores an effect program, and a RAM 243 that functions as a data work area when the CPU 241 performs arithmetic processing.

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

  The image / sound control unit 202b displays on the CPU 251 that executes image and sound generation and output processing, the ROM 252 that stores various image data such as background images, design images, and character images and various sounds, and the image display unit 104. And a RAM 253 for storing image data and sound to be output via the speaker 277. These CPUs 241 and 251 constitute control means for the image display unit 104 and the like. That is, the CPUs 241 and 251 control the gaming machine according to the present embodiment to execute an effect corresponding to the game state being executed.

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

  Based on the command sent from the main control unit 201, the production control unit 202a reads the program stored in the ROM 242, determines the content of the production, and outputs an instruction to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. To do. The CPU 251 of the image / sound control unit 202b performs various image processing and sound processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing based on the instructed contents of the rendering, and necessary image data. The audio data is read from the ROM 252 and written to the RAM 253. The background image, the design image, and the character image written in the RAM 253 are superimposed and displayed on the image display unit 104 on the display screen. That is, the design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image.

  A plurality of symbol images are registered in advance in the ROM 252 as symbol variation patterns that repeatedly vary and stop on the image display unit 104. Based on the command output from the main control unit 201, at the normal time (low probability state), any one of the plurality of registered patterns is selected. Further, for example, in the high probability state, a symbol variation pattern different from the normal time is selected. Thereby, the gaming machine can indicate to the player that the game state being executed is the low probability state / high probability state. Even if the game state being executed is a high probability state, the symbol variation pattern may be the same as that in the normal state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. By doing so, the player cannot see whether the game state being executed is the low probability state or the high probability state from the appearance, and can always play the game with expectation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit (payout drive motor) 291 to pay out the number of prize balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. In addition, an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 is detected, and the launch of the game ball is controlled.

  The winning ball control unit 203 pays out to the paying unit 291 the number of winning balls corresponding to the game balls won in each of the winning ports (start winning ports 105a and 105b, the normal winning port 107, and the big winning port 109). Take control. The launcher 292 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 203 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 292, the prize ball control unit 203 intermittently fires a game ball by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

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

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

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

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

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

  The effect control unit 202 performs various effects corresponding to the selected event. Here, the events include, for example, jackpots (15 rounds probable jackpots (so-called, probable jackpots), 15 rounds regular jackpots, 2 rounds probable jackpots (so-called, suddenly), 2 rounds regular jackpots (so-called, suddenly)), Includes small hits. Here, a small hit is an event that causes a gaming machine to perform the same behavior (production) as a two-round probability change big hit.

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

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

  At this time, the winning ball control unit 203 pays out with 15 winning balls per winning game ball to the big winning opening 109. After the jackpot is over, the jackpot state is released, and if it is a 15-round probable jackpot, the game state returns to a high probability state, and if it is a 15-round normal jackpot, the game state returns to a low probability state. .

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

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

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

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the special prize opening process. The big prize opening process is a process included in the electric accessory control process shown in step S303 of FIG. In the big prize opening process, first, it is determined whether or not it is a win (step S401). Here, the win is, for example, an event such as each of the above jackpots (15 round probability variation / normal jackpot), a jackpot or the like.

  If it is not a hit in step S401 (step S401: No), the process is terminated as it is. When it is hit (step S401: Yes), an opening process is performed (step S402). In the opening process, a special winning opening is opened.

  Next, the winning type is determined. Specifically, when it is a small hit (step S403: Yes), a value obtained by adding 1 to the value for small hit (the number of remaining rounds per small hit) K is set as a new K (step S404). When the jackpot is not small (step S403: No), a value obtained by adding 1 to the jackpot value (number of remaining rounds of jackpot) R is set as a new R (step S405).

  In step S404 or step S405, when a new K or new R is obtained, the big prize opening solenoid 231 is controlled to open the big prize opening 109 (step S406). After opening the special winning opening 109, it is determined whether a predetermined period (for example, an opening time of 30 seconds) has elapsed since the start of opening (step S407). When the opening time has elapsed (step S407: Yes), the special winning opening 109 is closed (step S410). When the opening time has not elapsed (step S407: No), it is determined whether the winning number C of the game ball to the big winning opening 109 is 9 (step S408), and when the winning number C is 9 (step S408). : Yes), the process proceeds to step S410. When the winning number C is not 9 (step S408: No), a flag is set (step S409), and the process is terminated.

  In step S409, the flag is set when either the opening time of the special winning opening 109 or the number of winnings is not satisfied between the opening of the special winning opening in step S406 and the closing of the special winning opening in step S410 described later (step S409). S407: No and step S408: No), the flag is set to ON. 4 is part of the electric accessory control process (step S303) that is executed every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) shown in FIG. 3, and is therefore executed every period of the predetermined period. In steps S402 to S406, if the flag is ON, the process is not performed. That is, when the flag is ON, the opening process and the number of rounds are not updated.

  In step S410, if either one of the opening time of the big winning opening 109 and the number of winning is satisfied (step S407: Yes or step S408: Yes), the big winning opening 109 is closed. At this time, the flag in step S410 is turned OFF. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a small hit is being made (step S411). When the small hit is being made (step S411: Yes), it is determined whether the small hit value K is 2 (step S412). When the value K is 2 (step S412: Yes), the value K is set to 0. (Step S413), the predetermined number of fluctuations S is set to 5 (Step S414), and the process proceeds to Step S417. If the small hit value K is not 2 (step S412: No), the process is terminated. Here, the predetermined number of fluctuations S is set to 5, but is not limited to this. The predetermined variation number S may be an arbitrary value. In addition, the predetermined variation number S may be a value that varies depending on a lottery result after performing a predetermined lottery.

  When the jackpot is not hit (step S411: No), the jackpot value R digested during the hit is the maximum (15 for round 15 probability / normal jackpot, 2 for round 2 probability / normal jackpot, 2). It is determined whether or not (step S415). When the jackpot value R is not the maximum (step S415: No), the process is terminated. When the jackpot value R is maximum (step S415: Yes), the jackpot value R is set to 0 (step S416), and the ending process is performed (step S417).

  In the ending process, when a predetermined ending time has elapsed from the start of the ending, the winning is ended (step S418), and the above process is ended.

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

  If the number of holdings is 1 or more (step S503: Yes), a value obtained by subtracting the number of holdings by one is set as a new holding number (step S504), and a variation pattern selection process (another routine) is performed (step S505). In this variation pattern selection process, a hit type (big hit, small hit, reach, etc.) is selected and a symbol variation time is set. The pseudo-ream time information (variation time) described above is set here. Next, a variation start command is set in the RAM 213 (step S506), and the symbol variation is started (step S507). Then, the measurement starts and ends the fluctuation period in which the symbols are changing (step S508).

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

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the variation pattern selection processing. This is the processing content in step S505 in FIG. It is determined whether the variation pattern selection process is a big hit (step S601), and if it is a big hit (step S601: Yes), it is determined whether it is a probable big hit (step S602). If the probability variation jackpot (step S602: Yes), it is determined whether the type of probability variation jackpot is 2R probability variation jackpot (step S603), and if it is 2R probability variation jackpot (step S603: Yes), the 2R probability variation symbol set is stored in the RAM 213. If it is set (step S604) and it is not 2R probability variation big hit (step S603: No), a probability variation symbol set for 15R probability variation big hit is set (step S605). If it is not probable big hit in step S602 (step S602: No), a normal symbol set is set (step S606).

  If it is not a big win in step S601 (step S601: No), reach determination is performed (step S608), and then it is determined whether it is a small win (step S609). If it is a small hit (step S609: Yes), a small hit symbol set is set (step S610). If not a small hit (step S609: No), a lost symbol set is set (step S611).

  In step S604, step S605, step S606, step S610, and step S611, each variation symbol set is set in the RAM 213, and thereafter, a variation pattern is set (step S607), and the process is terminated. When this variation pattern is set, a period (variation time) during which symbol variation is performed is also set.

(Processing procedure of production control unit)
Next, the contents of the processing procedure of the effect control unit 202 will be described. The effect control unit 202 receives various commands transmitted from the main control unit 201 and performs predetermined main effect processing (not shown) for effect display.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the effect control process performed by the effect control unit. The production control process is interrupted and executed at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the main production process performed by the production control unit 202a.

  In the production control process, first, it is determined whether the production is being performed (step S701). If the production is not being performed (step S701: No), it is determined whether a change start command has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S702). When the change start command has not been received (step S702: No), the process ends. When the change start command is received (step S702: Yes), an effect pattern selection process for selecting the type of effect to be executed is executed based on the change start command (step S703).

  After executing the effect pattern selection process, a background selection process to be the background of the symbol is executed (step S704), the effect is started (step S705), and the process ends.

  If the effect is being produced in step S701 (step S701: Yes), it is determined whether a change stop command has been received (step S706). When the change stop command is received (step S706: Yes), the effect is ended (step S707), and the process ends. When the change stop command is not received (step S706: No), the process is ended as it is.

  In the effect pattern selection process in step S703, an effect pattern using the change time included in the change start command from the main control unit 201 is generated.

(Notification production)
Next, a notification effect executed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when the preset notification time is reached, a notification effect for notifying the game state (probability state) being executed is executed. For example, in the notification effect, an effect that the lamp of the gaming machine is turned on with the lighting content corresponding to the game state at that time (when the effect is executed) is made, so that the player can know the game state at that time.

  FIG. 8 is a table showing the lighting contents of the lamps provided in the gaming machine. As shown in the table 800, lighting contents are associated with each gaming state. When the current time input from the RTC 247 reaches a predetermined notification time (for example, 15:00), the gaming machine has a lamp (the lamp of the effect light unit 112 or the game board 101) with a lighting content associated with the game state being executed. The lamp provided above is turned on. For example, when the game state being executed is a high probability state, the gaming machine lights these lamps using “lighting pattern 2” and the emission color “red” as the lighting contents.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the lighting content selection processing. The lighting content selection process shown in FIG. 9 is interrupted and executed at a predetermined interval (for example, 4 ms) with respect to a main lamp control process (not shown) executed by the lamp control unit 202c. In the lighting content selection process, first, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit (step S901). If it is a big hit (step S901: Yes), the lighting pattern 1 is set in the RAM 263 (step S902), and the process ends. At this time, the emission color and the like are also set in the RAM 263 at the same time. As a result, the lamp provided in the gaming machine is lit with the lighting content set in the RAM 263. Further, although explanation is omitted, the lighting content for the big hit may be used at the time of the big hit.

  If it is not a big hit (step S901: No), it is judged whether it is a high probability state (step S903), and if it is not a high probability state (step S903: No), it will transfer to step S902 and if it is a high probability state ( Step S903: Yes), it is determined whether it is a high-probability state notification period (step S904). In the illustrated example, 15: 00 to 15: 05 is set as a notification period for notifying the gaming state. If the current time measured by the RTC 247 is outside the notification period (step S904: No), the process proceeds to step S902, and if the current time is within the notification period (step S904: Yes), high probability. The lighting pattern 2 for the state is set in the RAM 263 (step S905), and the process ends. At this time, the emission color and the like are also set in the RAM 263 at the same time. Further, when the notification period is reached, the lamp may be turned on using the lighting content set after the light is turned off temporarily (for example, for 5 seconds). By turning on the lamp after it is temporarily turned off, the notification effect can be emphasized and can be made more prominent.

  By the way, the gaming machine of this embodiment includes an image display unit 104. The notification effect may be performed only by controlling the lighting content of the lamp, but it is possible to provide a more informative notification effect by interlocking the display content displayed on the image display unit 104. It is.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the background selection process. The flowchart shown in FIG. 10 shows the processing contents of the processing in step S704 shown in FIG. First, in the background selection process, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit (step S1001). If it is a big hit (step S1001: Yes), the background A for the low probability state is set in the RAM 253 (step S1002), and the process is terminated. . As a result, the display content set in the RAM 253 is displayed on the image display unit 104.

  If it is not a big hit (step S1001: No), it is judged whether it is a high probability state (step S1003). If it is not a high probability state (step S1003: No), the process proceeds to step S1002, and if it is a high probability state ( Step S1003: Yes), it is determined whether it is a high probability state notification period (step S1004). In the illustrated example, 15: 0 to 15:05 is set as a notification period for notifying the gaming state in the same manner as described above. If the current time measured by the RTC 247 is outside the notification period (step S1004: No), the process proceeds to step S1005, and if the current time is within the notification period (step S1004: Yes), high probability. The background B for status is set in the RAM 253 (step S1005), and the process is terminated. When the notification time comes, first, a telop for starting the notification effect may be displayed for a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) and then switched from the background A to the background B. By displaying the telop, the start of the notification effect can be emphasized, and the notification effect can be further emphasized.

  FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a notification effect by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. In the example shown in the figure, the gaming state becomes a high probability state at the end of the jackpot (time t11), and it is assumed that the symbol variation continues due to the holding ball after the jackpot. At this time t11, the normal background A is displayed on the image display unit 104.

  Then, at 15:00 at time t12 and entering the notification period T1, first, a telop (see FIG. 12) is displayed to notify the start of the notification effect. The telop is displayed for a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds). If the telop is not displayed after a predetermined period, the temporary (T2) lamp is turned off. In the illustrated example, both the lighting pattern 1 and the lighting pattern 2 are turned off.

  Thereafter, the background A is switched to the background B, and the background B notifies the player that the state is in a high probability state. At the same time, the lamp is lit using the lighting pattern 2 associated with the high probability state. Accordingly, it is possible to notify the player that the state is in a high probability state more clearly.

  Then, at 15:05 at time t13 and when the notification period T1 ends, the display content displayed on the image display unit 104 is switched from the background B to the background A, and the lighting content of the lamp is also changed from the lighting pattern 2 to the lighting pattern 1. The notification effect is finished. That is, when the notification period ends, the original state before the notification period (that is, a state in which the gaming state is unknown) is restored.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of an image display unit and an effect light unit during a notification effect by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As described above, at the notification time, the gaming machine displays the telop 1202 at the top while the background A1201 is displayed on the image display unit 104. In the example shown in the figure, “Turning Super Alert Warning!” Is displayed as the telop 1202. At this time, the effect light unit 112 is lit using the lighting pattern 1 (light emission color “white”) even if the gaming state is a high probability state. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (a).

  After the predetermined period, the telop 1202 is not displayed. At this time, the lamp of the effect light unit 112 is temporarily turned off (for example, for 5 seconds). The lighting is not limited to the lamp of the effect light unit 112, and other lighting lamps such as a lamp (not shown) on the game board 101 may be turned off. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (b).

  Then, after the light is turned off, the background B1203 for informing the high probability state is displayed on the image display unit 104. At the same time, the effect light unit 112 is lit by the lighting pattern 2 (light emission color “red”). At this time, the effect light unit 112 may be driven. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (c). (C) continues during the notification period, and after the notification period has elapsed, returns to the state (a). Note that the telop 1202 is not displayed after the return.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment has the same effects in the low probability state and the high probability state (the same display content (background) and the same lighting content) during normal times (other than the notification period). The player can know the game state being executed only during the notification period.

  In the example shown in the figure, the game state being executed is shown as having a high probability state, but the notification effect is also performed when the game state is in a low probability state. In that case, the same effects are performed up to (a) and (b) in FIG. In the case of the low probability state, after the effect light unit 112 is turned off, the state returns to the state (a) without performing (c). That is, in the low probability state, after the lights are turned off, the background A is displayed on the image display unit 104, and the effect light unit 112 is turned on using the lighting pattern 1. The telop 1202 is not displayed after the return.

  In the above description, the effect light unit 112 is turned on by the lighting pattern 1 at the normal time. In normal times, the lighting may be performed by a normal lighting pattern. In that case, after the notification period, the normal lighting pattern is restored.

  As described above, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, first, when the notification time comes, a telop to start the notification effect is displayed on the image display unit 104. Then, when the telop is not displayed after the lapse of a predetermined period, the lamp is turned on with the lighting content associated with the gaming state. At this time, the display content displayed on the image display unit 104 is also set as a background corresponding to the gaming state. These notification effects continue until the notification period elapses, and return to the original state (that is, a state where the gaming state is unknown) after the notification period ends. Therefore, the player can know the game state only during the notification period, and can always play with a sense of expectation without being aware of the game state at other times.

(Notification production-2)
Although the notification effect when the gaming machine is playing is described above, the notification effect may be performed even when the gaming machine is waiting for a customer. The gaming machine according to the present embodiment shifts to a customer waiting state when a game has not been played for a certain period of time (the symbol has not changed). Although illustration and detailed description are omitted, the main control board transmits a customer waiting start command to the production control unit 202a when the game is not played for a certain period of time. When receiving the customer waiting start command, the production supervising unit 202a causes the image display unit 104 to display a customer waiting display screen (hereinafter referred to as “background C”). The lighting content selection process shown in FIG. 9 is executed even when waiting for the customer, and when the current time is in the notification period, the gaming machine executes a notification effect.

  FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing an example of the timing of the notification effect when waiting for a customer. In the example shown in the figure, it is in a state where a high probability state is reached at the end of jackpot (time t21), and it is assumed that the symbol variation continues for a predetermined number of times due to the holding ball after the jackpot as illustrated. At this time, the normal background A (that is, the background that does not notify the high probability state) is displayed on the image display unit 104.

  If the next symbol change is not made even after a predetermined period has elapsed since the end of the symbol change (time t22), the gaming machine switches the background A to the background C (display screen for waiting for customers) and displays it. (Time t23). When the background C is displayed at 15:00 (time t24) and the notification period T1 is entered, first, a telop is displayed to notify the start of the notification effect. The telop is displayed for a predetermined period. If the telop is not displayed after a predetermined period, the temporary lamp is turned off.

  Thereafter, the background C is switched to the background B, and the player is notified that the background B is in a high probability state. At the same time, the lamp is lit using the lighting pattern 2 associated with the high probability state. When the notification period T1 ends, the background B is switched to the background C, and at the same time, the lamp is turned on using the lighting pattern 1 associated with the low probability state. That is, it returns to the original state before the start of the notification effect.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of an image display unit and an effect light unit during a notification effect by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As described above, when no game is played for a certain period of time, the gaming machine displays the background C1401, which is a display screen for waiting for customers. At that time, when the notification time comes, the gaming machine displays the telop 1402 at the top while the background C1401 is displayed on the image display unit 104. At this time, the effect light unit 112 is lit using the lighting pattern 1 (light emission color “white”) even if the gaming state is a high probability state. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (d). This is the state at time t24 in the timing chart shown in FIG.

  After the predetermined period, the telop 1402 is not displayed. At this time, the effect light unit 112 is temporarily turned off (for example, for 5 seconds). Note that turning off is not limited to the lamp of the effect light unit 112, and the lamp on the game board 101 may be turned off. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (e).

  Then, after the light is turned off, a background B 1403 for informing the high probability state is displayed on the image display unit 104. At the same time, the effect light unit 112 is lit by the lighting pattern 2 (light emission color “red”). Hereinafter, this state is referred to as (f). (F) continues during the notification period, and after the notification period, returns to the state (d). The telop 1402 is not displayed after the return. When the game is started in the state (f), the state shifts to the state (c) shown in FIG.

  In the example shown in the figure, the game state is in a high probability state, but the notification effect is also performed in the low probability state. In that case, the same effects are performed up to (d) and (e) in FIG. In the case of the low probability state, after the effect light unit 112 is turned off, the state returns to the state (d) as it is without performing (f). That is, in the low probability state, after the lights are turned off, the background A is displayed on the image display unit 104, and the effect light unit 112 is turned on using the lighting pattern 1. The telop 1402 is not displayed after the return.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention executes a notification effect at a predetermined notification time, and for other normal times, for example, an effect for a low probability state (same display content, same Is lit). As a result, the player can always have a sense of expectation such as “may be in a high probability state”, and the game performance can be improved. Furthermore, the gaming machine according to the present invention can be expected to attract customers at the time of notification by executing the notification effect, and can improve the operating rate of the gaming machine. Furthermore, in a store where a plurality of gaming machines are installed, a notification effect can be executed simultaneously with a plurality of gaming machines at the notification time, so that the atmosphere in the store can be raised.

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

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and is particularly suitable for a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability varies.

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

Claims (1)

A game board in which a game area where game balls can flow down is formed;
Provided in the gaming area, a start opening through which a game ball can pass and a large winning opening that can operate in a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass and an open state in which the game ball can pass through,
Determining means for determining whether or not to play a special game when a game ball passes through the start opening;
A symbol display control means for stopping and displaying a determination symbol indicating the determination result by the determination means after the symbols are displayed in a variable manner on the symbol display device based on the determination result by the determination means;
When it is determined by the determination means that a special game is to be performed, a special game execution means for performing a special game for operating the special winning opening to the second state after the determination display is stopped by the symbol display control means. When,
The game can be controlled in either a low-probability gaming state determined to play a special game with a predetermined probability or a high-probability gaming state determined to play a special game with a higher probability than the predetermined probability. Gaming state control means,
A lamp effect executing means for performing a lamp effect with a predetermined lamp pattern in the lamp device when the symbols are variably displayed by the symbol display control means;
With
The lamp production execution means
Regardless of whether the gaming state control means controls the high probability gaming state or the low probability gaming state, when the predetermined time is counted by the timing means, a lamp effect is performed in the first special lighting pattern, When the game is controlled in the high probability gaming state, the lamp effect is performed in the second special lighting pattern indicating the high probability gaming state after the lamp rendering in the first special lighting pattern, and the low When the game is controlled in the probabilistic gaming state, the lamp effect is not performed in the second special lighting pattern indicating the high probability gaming state after the lamp effect in the first special lighting pattern,
Even if the game is controlled by either the high probability gaming state or the low probability gaming state, a lamp effect in the first special lighting pattern and the second special lighting pattern unless the predetermined time is counted by the timing means. A gaming machine characterized by not performing.

Images