JP5984313B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine provided with moving image display means for displaying a moving image.

  In a game machine that is generally known as a conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball enters a start winning opening provided on the game board, a special game (a jackpot) that is advantageous to the player by special game determination means. ) To determine whether or not to perform control, and when the variation of the identification symbol is started in the symbol display device and stopped at a special identification symbol (big hit symbol), the special game (big bonus) is controlled. It is configured. In such special games, the big prize opening provided on the game board is opened to facilitate the entry of the game ball, and the prize ball corresponding to the game ball entered into the big prize opening is paid out to the player. It is like that. In such a gaming machine, generally, an effect display means such as a liquid crystal display device is provided on the game board, and an effect symbol corresponding to the determination result of the special game determination means is displayed on the display screen of the effect display means. Is displayed from the start of the change to the stop, and a moving image for the effect is displayed on the background of the effect design being changed.

  Further, Patent Document 1 has a control panel in the vicinity of the display screen of the game board, and the display of the demonstration image displayed on the screen by the player operating the control panel is rewound, fast forward, frame advance, reverse frame. A pachinko machine technology for feeding, pausing, skipping and reverse skipping is disclosed.

JP 2002-177527 A

However, in a conventional pachinko machine that displays a moving image for presentation on the display screen of the moving image display unit in response to the determination result of the special game determination unit (one big hit lottery), one determination of the special game determination unit The production time corresponding to the result is determined immediately after the determination, so that when the video for the production can be fast-forwarded by the player's operation, the display of the production video for the last frame ( Image) and the remaining production time stops the production video for a long time, causing the player to feel frustrated.
The present invention provides a gaming machine capable of preventing a production video from stopping and stopping for a long time when a production video displayed on the video display means is displayed in a fast-forwarding manner in response to the determination result of the special game judgment means. For the purpose of provision.

The invention according to claim 1 is a special game determination means for determining whether or not to control a special game advantageous to a player on condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and the special game determination means. The special game control means for controlling the special game based on the determination that the special game is to be controlled by the control means, and the effect time corresponding to one determination result of the special game determination means An effect time determining means to be determined immediately after, a moving image display means for displaying a moving image, an image storage means for storing a plurality of images, and a plurality of images stored in the image storage means are displayed as effects moving images. Moving image display data storage means for storing a plurality of types of moving image display data indicating a combination of a plurality of images and a time-series display order, and the plurality of types of moving image display data stored in the moving image display data storage means The moving image display data determining means for determining the moving image display data to be executed according to the determination result of the special game determining means, and the moving image display data determining means determined during the effect time determined by the effect time determining means. Display control means for performing control for continuously displaying time-sequential video images on the video display means based on video display data, and external operation detection means for detecting a predetermined external operation by the player When the predetermined external operation is not detected by the external operation detection unit, the display control unit causes the moving image display unit to display the effect moving image at a standard speed, and when the predetermined external operation is detected by the external operation detecting means, causes enabled display the video for the presentation at rapid traverse to said video display means, to the fast-forward Ri also after displaying the video of the last image for the effect, until the presentation time is ended, the display capable of first video again for the effect back to the image video for the presentation in the fast-forward It is characterized by making it .

According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the production video from stopping for a long time when the production video displayed on the video display means is displayed in response to the determination result of the special game determination means. It can prevent the player from feeling tired.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the gaming machine with the glass frame opened. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a block diagram of an image control board. It is an example of the structure figure of the control register in VDP. It is a figure which shows a big hit determination table and a hit determination table. It is a figure which shows a symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows the special electric accessory operating mode determination table. It is a figure which shows a big prize opening release mode table. It is a figure which shows the variation production pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the classification of the command transmitted to a production | presentation control board from a main control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 1 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 2 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the effect input control process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in host CPU. It is a figure which shows the animation control process in host CPU. It is a figure which shows the interruption process in host CPU. It is an example of an anime group and an anime pattern. It is an example of the animation pattern at the time of fast-forwarding. It is an example of the display list comprised from a drawing control command group. It is a figure which shows the expansion | extension control processing in an expansion | extension circuit. It is a figure which shows the drawing control process in a drawing circuit. It is a figure which shows the display control process in a display circuit. It is explanatory drawing explaining the game content displayed with a liquid crystal display device. It is a block diagram of the display screen of the change effect pattern in a liquid crystal display device. It is explanatory drawing explaining the moving image fast-forward display in a liquid crystal display device.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

(Composition of gaming machine)
Next, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 1 with the glass frame of the present invention opened, and FIG. 3 is a rear side of one gaming machine 1. It is a perspective view. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the speaker and the microphone.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. On the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker 301, and an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by a pressing operation is provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls 200 flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One by one is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface. Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball 200 sent out from the ball feed opening 41 has a downward slope of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the end (see FIG. 2).

  Then, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b, and the launch is performed with the adjusted launch intensity. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. By rotating the launch member 4 c, the game ball 200 stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 is launched by the launch member 4 c, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

(Composition of game area 6)

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  Further, in the area below the center of the game area 6, there are a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area into which game balls can enter, and a second large area in which game balls can enter. A winning opening 17 is provided.

  The second starting port 15 has a pair of movable pieces 15b, a first mode in which the pair of movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state, and a second state in which the pair of movable pieces 15b are in an open state. The movable control is performed. When the second starting port 15 is controlled in the first mode, the winning member of the second large winning port 17 located immediately above the second starting port 15 becomes an obstacle, and the game ball Is impossible to accept. On the other hand, when the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and it is easy to win a game ball to the second start port 15. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is a first for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 2 A start port detection switch 15a (see FIG. 4) is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and a right acquisition lottery (to be described later) Hereinafter, “Lottery for jackpot” is performed. Also, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2. Below the second grand prize opening 17, there is a second big prize opening / closing door 17b that can protrude from the game board surface side to the glass plate 52 side. It is controlled to move between an open state protruding to the side and a closed state buried in the game board surface. When the second grand prize opening opening / closing door 17b protrudes from the game board surface, it functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball can enter the second big prize opening 17. Become. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a. When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Furthermore, in the area on the right side of the game area 6, there are provided a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass and a first grand prize opening 16 through which game balls can enter.

  For this reason, if the operation ball 3 is not a game ball which has been greatly rotated and launched with a strong force, the normal design gate 13 and the first big winning opening 16 are configured so that the game ball does not pass or win. Yes. In particular, even if the short game state, which will be described later, is entered, if the game ball flows down to the left side of the game area 6, the game ball will not normally pass through the symbol gate 13, so that it is at the second start port 15. The pair of movable pieces 15b are not opened, and it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 15.

  The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value. Is acquired, and a “normal symbol lottery” to be described later is performed.

  The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first big prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a (see FIG. 4). When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, it is set in advance. Prize balls (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Further, in the lowermost area of the game area 6 and the lowermost area of the game area 6, the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second large winning opening. An out port 11 is provided for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports 17.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A liquid crystal display device (LCD) 31 is provided at a substantially central portion of the decorative member 7, and an effect driving device 33 in the form of a belt is provided above the liquid crystal display device 31.

The liquid crystal display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 36 for informing the jackpot lottery result, which will be described later, are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 36 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot lottery result. A big hit is announced.
More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 36 are scroll-displayed, and the scroll is stopped after a predetermined time, The effect design 36 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 36, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. The effect driving device 33 performs, for example, an operation in which the belt moves downward or a rotating member at the center of the belt rotates. Various operational feelings are given to the player depending on the operation mode of the effect driving device 33.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color are changed to produce an effect by illumination.

  Moreover, in FIG. 1, the effect button 35 becomes effective, for example, during the change of the effect symbol. The effect button 35 is provided with an effect button detection switch 35a, and when the effect button detection switch 35a detects a player's operation, a fast-forward display of a moving image is executed in accordance with this operation.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 is for notifying a lottery result obtained when a game ball enters the first start port 14, and is composed of 7-segment LEDs. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, the jackpot lottery result The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result. The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

Further, in this embodiment, “big hit” means that a right to win a big hit game is obtained in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 Say what you did. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed 15 times in total. A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed. In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.
This jackpot game is provided with a plurality of types of jackpots, which will be described in detail later.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld. More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.
For both of these holds, the upper limit hold number is set to 4, and the hold number is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24, respectively. When there is one first hold, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, two LEDs on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 Lights up. In addition, when there are three first holds, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 blinks and the right LED is lit, and when there are four first holds, the first special symbol hold. Two LEDs on the display 23 blink. The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.
The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2. On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back side of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20 and the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid. The game is controlled by driving 16c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The main control output port includes a payout control board 130, a start opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 15b of the second start opening 15, and a first large winning opening opening / closing door 16b. A special winning opening / closing solenoid 16c, a second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the second winning opening / closing door 17b, a first special symbol display device 20 and a second special symbol display device 21 for displaying special symbols, and a normal symbol. A normal symbol display device 22 for displaying a symbol, a first special symbol hold indicator 23 and a second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved balls for a special symbol, and a normal symbol hold indicator for displaying the number of reserved balls for a normal symbol 25. A game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal is connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, the main ROM 110b stores a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery, a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery, a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol, and the like.
Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.
The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery (see FIG. 7), a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery (see FIG. 7), and a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol (see FIG. 8). , A jackpot game end setting data table for determining the game state after the jackpot end, a special electric accessory operating mode determination table (see FIG. 9) for determining the opening / closing conditions of the jackpot opening / closing door, and a jackpot opening mode Table (see FIG. 10) A variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols, etc. is stored in the main ROM 110b.
Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, in the main RAM 110c, a normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, a normal symbol hold storage area, a normal symbol data storage area, a first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, and a second special symbol hold count (U2) A storage area, a first special symbol random value storage area, a second special symbol random value storage area, a round game number (R) storage area, a number of times of opening (K) storage area, a number of winning games (C) storage area, Game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and short time game flag storage area), high probability game number (X) counter, short time number (J) counter, game state buffer, stop symbol data storage area, transmission data for production Various timer counters such as an area, a special symbol time counter, and a special game timer counter are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 includes a backup power supply made of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and for example, a battery may be used, and a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby. The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. . The sub CPU 120a reads out the program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on the command transmitted from the main control board 110, or the input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a and the timer, and performs arithmetic processing. Based on the above, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150. The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the contents of the received fluctuation pattern designation command are analyzed, and the liquid crystal display device 31, the voice Data for causing the output device 32, the effect driving device 33, and the effect lighting device 34 to execute a predetermined effect is generated, and the data is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.
For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 36 to be stopped, and the like are stored in the sub ROM 120b. Has been. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The payout control board 130 performs payout control of game balls. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110. Further, a payout motor 131 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from a game ball storage unit to a player is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the prize ball payout device to execute a predetermined prize. Pay the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120.

The image control board 150 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 31 and the audio output device 32, and based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120, image display control and audio output device in the liquid crystal display device 31. The sound output control at 32 is performed.
Detailed description of the image control board 150 will be described later with reference to the block diagram of the image control board of FIG.

  The launch control board 160 performs launch control of the game ball. The launch control board 160 has a touch sensor 3a and a launch volume 3b connected to the input side, and a launch solenoid 4a and a ball feed solenoid 4b connected to the output side. The firing control board 160 inputs a touch signal from the touch sensor 3a and performs control to energize the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b based on the voltage supplied from the firing volume 3b.

  The touch sensor 3a is provided in the inside of the operation handle 3, and is comprised from the electrostatic capacitance type proximity switch using the change of the electrostatic capacitance by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a outputs a touch signal that permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a to the firing control board 160 (see FIG. 4). As a major premise, the launch control board 160 is configured not to launch the game ball 200 into the game area 6 unless a touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a.

  The firing volume 3b is provided directly connected to a rotating portion around which the operation handle 3 rotates, and is composed of a variable resistor. The firing volume 3b divides a constant voltage (for example, 5V) applied to the firing volume 3b by a variable resistor, and supplies the divided voltage to the launch control board 160 (the voltage to be supplied to the launch control board 160). Variable). The launch control board 160 energizes the launch solenoid 4a based on the voltage divided by the launch volume 3b, and rotates the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a, thereby playing the game ball 200 in the game. Fire into area 6.

  The launching solenoid 4a is composed of a rotary solenoid, and a launching member 4c is directly connected to the launching solenoid 4a, and the launching member 4c is rotated by rotating the launching solenoid 4a.

  Here, the rotational speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) from the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 160. As a result, the number of games played per minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, one game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The ball feed solenoid 4b is composed of a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the tray 40 one by one toward the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a.

(Block diagram of image control board)
Next, image display control will be described using the block diagram of the image control board 150 in FIG.

  The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 150a, a host RAM 150b, a host ROM 150c, a CGROM 151, a crystal oscillator 152, a VRAM 153, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 2000, and a sound control circuit 3000 for performing image display control of the liquid crystal display device 31. ing.

Based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120, the host CPU 150a instructs the liquid crystal display device 31 to display the image data stored in the CGROM 151 in the VDP 2000. Such an instruction is performed by setting data in the control register 2010 in the VDP 2000 and outputting a display list including drawing control command groups.
In addition, when receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process.

  Furthermore, the host CPU 150a also instructs the audio control circuit 3000 to output predetermined audio data to the audio output device 32 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.

  The host RAM 150b is built in the host CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the host CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the host ROM 150c. In the storage area of the host RAM 150b, various timer counters such as an effect timer counter are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

The host ROM 150c is composed of a mask ROM, a control processing program for the host CPU 150a, a display list generation program for generating a display list, an animation pattern for displaying an animation of a production pattern, animation scene information, and the like. Is stored (see FIGS. 25 to 32).
This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. The animation scene information stores information such as weight frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. doing.

The CGROM 151 includes a flash memory, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a mask ROM, and the like. The CGROM 151 compresses and stores image data (sprite, movie) or the like including a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 × 32 pixels). ing. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image.
Further, the CGROM 151 stores palette data in which color number information for designating color numbers and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other without being compressed.
Note that the CGROM 151 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without being compressed. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 2000 (clock generation circuit 2050), and divides the pulse signal so that the clock generation circuit 2050 controls the system clock, the liquid crystal display device 31, and the VDP 2000 to control. A synchronization signal or the like for synchronization is generated.

The VRAM 153 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed.
The VRAM 153 also draws or displays an image, a display list storage area 153a that temporarily stores the display list output from the host CPU 150a, a decompression storage area 153b that stores image data decompressed by the decompression circuit 2060, and the like. A first frame buffer 153c and a second frame buffer 153d. The VRAM 153 also stores palette data.
The two frame buffers are alternately switched between a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” every time drawing is started.

  The VDP 2000 is a so-called image processor, reads image data from one of the frame buffers (display frame buffer) based on an instruction from the host CPU 150a, and outputs a video signal (RGB signal or the like) based on the read image data. Is generated and output to the liquid crystal display device.

  The VDP 2000 includes a control register 2010, a CG bus I / F 2020, a CPU I / F 2030, a clock generation circuit 2050, a decompression circuit 2060, a drawing circuit 2070, a display circuit 2080, and a memory controller 2090. ing.

The control register 2010 is a register for the VDP 2000 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register 2010. The host CPU 150a can write and read data to and from the control register 2010 via the CPU I / F 2030.
The control register 2010 includes a system control register that performs basic settings necessary for VDP operation, a data transfer register that performs settings necessary for data transfer, and a drawing that performs settings for controlling drawing. A register, a bus interface register for making settings necessary for bus access, a decompression register for making settings necessary for decompressing a compressed image, a display register for making settings for controlling display, and six types It has a register.
The configuration of this control register will be described later with reference to FIG.

The CG bus I / F 2020 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 151, and image data from the CGROM 151 is input to the VDP 2000 via the CG bus I / F 2020.
The CPU I / F 2030 is an interface circuit for communication with the host CPU 150a, and the host CPU 150a outputs a display list to the VDP 2000, accesses a control register, and accesses from the VDP 2000 via the CPU I / F 2030. Various interrupt signals are input by the host CPU 150a.

The data transfer circuit 2040 performs data transfer between various devices.
Specifically, data transfer between the host CPU 150a and the VRAM 153, data transfer between the CGROM 151 and the VRAM 153, and data transfer between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 153 are performed.

  The clock generation circuit 2050 receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 152 and generates a system clock that determines the operation processing speed of the VDP2000. Also, a synchronization signal generation clock is generated, and the synchronization signal is output to the liquid crystal display device via the display circuit.

  The decompression circuit 2060 is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 151, and stores the decompressed image data in the expanded storage area 153b.

  The drawing circuit 2070 is a circuit that performs sequence control based on a display list including drawing control command groups.

The display circuit 2080 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “display frame buffer” in the VRAM 153, and the generated video signal ( (RGB signal) to the liquid crystal display device 31. Further, the display circuit 2080 also outputs a synchronizing signal (vertical synchronizing signal, horizontal synchronizing signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31 to the liquid crystal display device 31.
In the present embodiment, an RGB signal obtained by converting a digital signal into an analog signal is output to the liquid crystal display device 31 as the video signal. However, the video signal may be output as the digital signal.

  The memory controller 2090 performs control to switch between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer” when the host CPU 150a instructs to switch the frame buffer.

  The sound control circuit 3000 includes an audio ROM that stores a large number of audio data. The sound control circuit reads out a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, and an audio output device. The sound output control at 32 is performed.

(Structure of control register in VDP2000)
Here, the configuration of the control register 2010 provided in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram obtained by obtaining representative data of the control register 2010 in the VDP2000.

  As described above, the control register 2010 includes six types of registers, that is, a system control register, a data transfer register, a drawing register, a bus interface register, an expansion register, and a display register. It is the structure figure which acquired and showed the typical data of the register, the expansion register, and the display register.

FIG. 6A is a structure diagram in which the 0th to 1st bits of the system control register are acquired. The 0th bit of the system control register is data instructing to output a V blank interrupt signal, and the 1st bit of the system control register is data instructing to output a drawing end interrupt signal. The 0th to 1st bits of these system control registers correspond to “interrupt registers”.
Specifically, the clock generation circuit 2050 generates a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms), and system control is performed every time the V blank interrupt signal is generated. 1 is set to 0 bit of the register. Further, when the drawing is completed, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 1 to the first bit of the system control register.
When 1 is set in these “interrupt registers”, the CPU I / F 2030 outputs a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 150a. The CPU I / F 2030 sets 0 to corresponding bits of various interrupt registers after outputting various interrupt signals.

FIG. 6B is a structure diagram in which the 0th bit of the drawing register is acquired. The 0th bit of the drawing register is data that instructs the drawing circuit 2070 to start drawing.
Specifically, the host CPU 150 a sets 1 to the 0 bit of the drawing register via the CPU I / F 2030 and instructs the drawing circuit 2070 to start drawing. When drawing starts, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 0 to the 0 bit of the drawing register.

FIG. 6C is a structure diagram in which the 0th to 1st bits of the decompression register are acquired. The 0th bit of the expansion register is data instructing the expansion circuit 2060 to start expansion of the compressed image. The first bit of the decompression register is data indicating the decompression execution state of the decompression circuit 2060.
Specifically, the drawing circuit 2070 analyzes the display list output from the host CPU 150a. If the image data to be used does not exist in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 1 to the 0 bit of the expansion register, The decompression circuit 2060 is instructed to start decompressing image data to be used and store it in the expanded storage area 153b. When the decompression circuit 2060 starts decompression, it sets 0 to the 0 bit of the decompression register.
The decompression circuit 2060 sets 1 to the 1-bit of the decompression register while decompression is being performed, and sets 0 to the 1-bit of the decompression register when the decompression of the compressed image is completed.

FIG. 6D is a structure diagram in which the 0th to 1st bits of the display register are acquired. The 0 bit of the display register is data for instructing the display circuit 2080 to output a video signal, and the 1 bit of the display register is data for specifying the frame buffer of the VRAM 153.
Specifically, the host CPU 150a instructs the display circuit 2080 to create and output a video signal by setting 1 to the 0 bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030 when the power is turned on. As a result, the display circuit 2080 generates a video signal based on the designated image data in the “display frame buffer” and outputs the video signal to the liquid crystal display device 31.
If the drawing is finished when the V blank interrupt signal is input, the host CPU 150a adds 1 to the first bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030, and displays “display” on the memory controller 2090. An instruction to switch between “frame buffer” and “drawing frame buffer” is given. That is, every time drawing ends, 1 is added to the 1st bit of the display register, so that “0 → 1 → 0 → 1 →...” Is switched.

  The structure diagram of the register shown in FIG. 6 is merely obtained from representative data of the control register 2010, and it goes without saying that more detailed data exists.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Big hit judgment table)
FIG. 7 (a-1) and FIG. 7 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winning lottery”. FIG. 7 (a-1) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. 7 (a-2) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device 21. is there. In the tables of FIG. 7A-1 and FIG. 7A-2, although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

Specifically, the big hit determination table is used to determine whether “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the current probability gaming state and the acquired random number for determining a special symbol.
For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the two special symbol determination disturbances “7” and “8” are in the low probability gaming state. The number is determined to be a big hit. On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be big hits.
Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the random number value for special symbol determination is obtained in the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. In the case of four special symbol determination random numbers “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state is 1 / 299.5, and in the high probability gaming state, the big hit The probability to be determined is 10 times up to 1 / 29.9. In the first special symbol display device, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state.

(Winning judgment table)
FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.
Specifically, the winning determination table determines whether it is “winning” or “lost” based on the presence / absence of the short-time gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.
For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 7B, when in the non-time-saving gaming state, it is determined that one specific normal symbol determination random value of “0” is a win. On the other hand, when in the short-time gaming state, it is determined that 65535 specific random symbols for determining normal symbols from “0” to “65534” are hit. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is 0 to 65535, the probability of being determined to be hit in the non-short-time gaming state is 1/65536, and the probability of being determined to be winning in the time-short gaming state is 65535/65536 = 1 / 1.00002.

(Design determination table)
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.
FIG. 8A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 8B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 8C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol in the event of a loss.

Specifically, according to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8, the type of special symbol display device (the type of the start opening in which the game ball has won) and the game ball in the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value acquired when the ball is entered.
For example, the first special symbol display device refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8A in the case of a jackpot, and if the acquired jackpot symbol random number value is “55”, the stop symbol data is “03”. ”(Special symbol 3 (first positive variation jackpot 3)) is determined. Further, in the first special symbol display device, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8B is referred to at the time of small hitting, and if the acquired random number for small hitting symbol is “50”, as the stopped symbol data “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)) is determined. In case of loss, “00” (special symbol 0 (lost)) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to any random number value.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte DATA indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of data. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot game and the type of jackpot game (see FIG. 9) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data), so the type of special symbol is the end of jackpot game It can be said that it determines the later game state and the type of jackpot game.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the sub ROM 120b will be described with reference to FIG.

(Variation production pattern determination table)
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a variation effect pattern determination table for determining the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 in the liquid crystal display device 31 or the like.

The sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on the special symbol variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1 received from the main control board 110. Here, even if the variation pattern designation command has the same special symbol, since the different variation representation pattern can be determined based on the random number for production 1, the number of variation pattern designation commands for the special symbol is reduced. Thus, the storage capacity of the main control board 110 is reduced.
The “variation effect pattern” refers to a specific effect mode in effect means (liquid crystal display device 31, audio output device 32, effect drive device 33, effect illumination device 34) performed during the change of the special symbol. Say. For example, in the liquid crystal display device 31, the display mode of the background, the display mode of the character, and the variation mode of the production symbol 36 displayed by the variation production pattern are determined. In addition, “reach” in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 36 informing that the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 36 are performing the variable display. . For example, when the combination of the three-digit effect symbol 36 of “777” is set as the combination of the effect symbols 36 for informing that the game will shift to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 36 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state where the remaining effect symbols 36 are performing variable display.

When the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern, the sub CPU 120a transmits an effect pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation effect pattern to the host CPU 150a of the image control board 150.
Specifically, the production pattern designation command is composed of 2 bytes of data for 1 command, 1 byte of MODE data for identifying the control command classification, and 1 byte indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. Data. Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

Although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and “effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)”, "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit start effect pattern (MODE = 0H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit end effect pattern ( MODE = 04H)
Are transmitted to the image control board 150.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In this embodiment, there are “low probability gaming state” and “high probability gaming state” as the states related to the jackpot lottery, and “non-short-time gaming state” is the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b that the second starting port 15 has. And “short-time gaming state”. The state relating to the jackpot lottery (low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state) and the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b (non-short-time gaming state, short-time gaming state) can be associated with each other and are independent. You can also That means
(1) “Low probability gaming state” and “Time saving gaming state”
(2) “Low probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”
(3) “High probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”
(4) It is possible to provide a “high probability gaming state” and a “non-temporary gaming state”.
Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is a “low probability gaming state” and is set to a “non-short-time gaming state”. Is referred to as a “normal gaming state”.

In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, the winning probability of the jackpot is 1 / The game state set to 299.5. On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is set to 1 / 29.95. Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to win a jackpot than in the “low probability gaming state”. Note that a high-probability game flag, which will be described later, is set in this high-probability game state, and the high-probability game flag is off in the low-probability game state.
Further, the low probability gaming state is changed to the high probability gaming state after the jackpot game described later is finished.

  In the present embodiment, the “non-short game state” means that, in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13, the variation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is 29 seconds. And a game state in which the opening control time of the second start port 15 is set to be as short as 0.2 seconds. That is, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol is drawn, and the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol, but the normal symbol is displayed 29 seconds after the fluctuation display is started. Stop display later. If the lottery result is a win, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for about 0.2 seconds after the normal symbol stop display.

On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the normal symbol variation time corresponding to the lottery result is 3 seconds in the normal symbol lottery performed on condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13. , A game that is set shorter than the “non-short game state”, and the opening control time of the second start port 15 when winning in the win is 3.5 seconds, which is set longer than the “non-short game state” State. Furthermore, in the “non-short-time gaming state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 1/65536, and in the “short-time gaming state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 65535/65536. Is set. At this time, the short-time game flag, which will be described later, is set in the short-time game state, and the short-time game flag is off in the non-short-time game state.
Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 15 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”. Thereby, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can advance the game without consuming the game ball.
In addition, since the normal symbol gate 13 is provided in the second dedicated area (the area on the right side of the game area 6) consisting only of the second game area 6R, the operation handle 3 can be operated in the “short-time game state”. It is configured to play by playing a game ball with strong launch strength by rotating it greatly.
Note that the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery may be set so that it does not change in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state”.

(Description of types of jackpot games)
In the present embodiment, a “long winning game” in which the first big winning opening 16 is opened with a long opening time, a “short winning game” in which the second big winning opening 17 is opened in a short opening time, and a second big winning prize. There are provided three types of “big hit games” and one type of “small hit games” in which the mouth 17 is opened with a short opening time and then opened with a long opening time. In the present embodiment, the “big hit game” and the “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

In the present embodiment, “long win game” means that a big win is won and a long jackpot is won in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. A game executed when a corresponding special symbol is determined.
In the “long game”, the round game in which the first grand prize winning opening 16 is opened is performed 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the first grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set to a maximum of 29 seconds, and if a prescribed number (9) of game balls enter the first big prize opening 16 during this time, Round game is over. In other words, “game per long” is a special game in which a game ball enters the first grand prize opening 16 and a player can acquire a prize ball according to the game, so that a lot of prize balls can be acquired. It is. In addition, since the first grand prize winning opening 16 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, in the case of “long hit game”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated to launch the game ball with a strong launch intensity. And is configured to play a game.

In the present embodiment, “short win game” means that, in the big win lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.
In the “short win game”, a round game in which the second grand prize winning opening 17 is opened is performed 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the second grand prize opening 17 in each round game is set to a maximum of 0.052 seconds, which is shorter than the firing time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is launched. Yes. During this time, if a specified number (9) of game balls enter the second grand prize opening 17, one round game is completed, but the opening time of the second big prize opening 17 is extremely short as described above. , Game balls rarely enter. In other words, the “short win game” is a special game in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball unlike the “long win game”.

In the present embodiment, “game per development” refers to a jackpot lottery that is performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.
In "game per development", a round game in which the second grand prize winning opening 17 is opened is performed a total of 15 times. In the first round game, after performing an opening / closing operation with a short opening time of the second big prize opening 17 a plurality of times, an opening / closing operation with a long opening time of the second big prize opening 17 is performed. The maximum opening time of the second grand prize opening 17 after two rounds of game is set to 29 seconds, and if a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter the second big prize opening 17 during this time, one time The round game ends. In other words, “game per development” initially repeats an opening / closing operation with a short opening time of the second big prize opening 17 and then repeating an opening / closing operation with a long opening time of the second big prize opening 17, This is a game in which a large number of prize balls can be obtained because a game ball enters the second big prize opening 17 and a player can obtain a prize ball according to the prize.

In the present embodiment, “small hit game” means the right to execute a small hit game in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. A game that is executed when the player wins the game.
Also in the “small win game”, the second big prize opening 17 is opened 15 times as in the “short win game”. At this time, the opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the second big winning opening 17 are the same as the above “short win game”, or the player determines whether the “small win game” or “short win game” It is set to approximate the impossible or difficult level.

  Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, in step S10, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process. In this process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b and initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 110c in response to power-on.

  In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.

  In step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described using FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area.

  In step S110, the main CPU 110a updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, and updates the normal power release time counter. A time control process for updating various timer counters is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from a special symbol time counter, a special game timer counter, a normal symbol time counter, and a general electricity open time counter is performed.

In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value.
Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are updated by adding +1. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value in the random number range (when the random number counter makes one revolution), the random number counter is returned to 0, and each random number value is newly updated from the initial random number value at that time. .

In step S130, as in step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Perform numerical value update processing.
In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing.
In this process, the main CPU 110a includes a general winning opening detection switch 12a, a first large winning opening detection switch 16a, a second large winning opening detection switch 17a, a first starting opening detection switch 14a, a second starting opening detection switch 15a, a gate. An input process for determining whether or not there is an input to each switch of the detection switch 13a is performed.

  Specifically, various detection signals from the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first big winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Is inputted, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter used for the prize ball provided for each prize opening and updated.

  Furthermore, when a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, if the data set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the first special symbol hold number ( U1) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random value, and special symbol variation random value The random number value is stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Similarly, when a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, if the data set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area is less than 4, the second special symbol hold number (U2) 1 is added to the storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, a small hit symbol random number value, a reach determination random number value, and a special symbol variation random value are acquired. Various random values are stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the second special symbol random number storage region.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, if the data set in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is less than 4, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is set to 1. It adds, acquires the random number value for normal symbol determination, and memorize | stores the acquired random number value for normal symbol determination in the predetermined memory | storage part (0th memory | storage part-4th memory | storage part) in a normal symbol holding | maintenance storage area.

  Further, when a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is counted. 1 is added to the number of entries (C) storage area for the big winning opening to update.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special drawing special electric control process for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a normal / normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory.
Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.
If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.
Then, referring to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 7B, whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Processing to determine is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.
Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a, external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, number of stored Performs data creation for the specified command.

In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in S600.
Further, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.
Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed. The types of commands transmitted to the effect control board 120 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
The special figure special power control processing of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, in step S301, the value of the special figure special electricity processing data is loaded, the branch address is referred to from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302, and if the special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process (step The process proceeds to S310). If the special symbol special power processing data = 1, the process proceeds to the special symbol variation processing (step S320). If the special symbol special power processing data = 2, the special symbol stop processing (step S330) is performed. If special figure special electric processing data = 3, the process moves to jackpot game processing (step S340), and if special figure special electric processing data = 4, the process moves to big hit game end processing (step S350). If special electric processing data = 5, the process moves to the small hit game ending process (step S360).
This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed. .

  In the special symbol memory determination process in step S310, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. Here, the specific content of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110.

First, in step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area.
If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the special figure special electricity processing data = 0. The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while holding.
On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the process proceeds to step S312.

In step S312, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process.
Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 7 (a-2), the random number for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.
In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the random number value for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.
In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area. However, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the starting opening, and the first special symbol storage area is given priority over the second special symbol storage area. You may let them.

In step S313, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed.
In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the first special symbol random value storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. The jackpot symbol (special symbol 1 to special symbol 6) is determined based on the random number value for the jackpot symbol stored in the 0th storage unit. In addition, when it is determined as “small hit” in the big hit determination process (step S312), the 0th memory of the first special symbol random value storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8B. The small hit symbol (special symbol A, special symbol B) is determined based on the random number value for the small bonus symbol stored in the section. If it is determined that the game has been determined to be “lost” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the lost symbol (special symbol 0) is determined with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG.
Then, stop symbol data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

In step S314, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing.
Specifically, referring to the variation pattern determination table, based on the reach determination random value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area, the special symbol Determine the variation pattern. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed. By performing such processing, the production time corresponding to the single determination result of the jackpot lottery (the determination result of the special symbol) corresponds to the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol. Decide immediately.

In step S315, the main CPU 110a sets, in a predetermined processing area, variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform special symbol variation display (LED blinking). . As a result, when the variable display data is set in the predetermined processing area, the LED lighting / extinguishing data is appropriately created in step S600, and the created data is output in step S700. Variation display of the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.
Further, the main CPU 110a, when the special symbol variation display is started, the special symbol variation pattern designation command (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command) corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in step S314. Alternatively, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S316, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special electricity processing data = 0 to the special symbol special electric treatment data = 1, prepares to move to the special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.

Again, the description of the special figure special electric control process shown in FIG. 14 will be returned.
In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed.
Specifically, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the special symbol determined in step S314 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0), and if it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has not elapsed The special symbol variation process is terminated while the special symbol special electricity processing data = 1 is held. Note that the special symbol variation time counter set in step S314 is subtracted in step S110.
If it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the special symbol determined in step S313 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.
Also, when the number of time reduction (J)> 0, 1 is subtracted from the time reduction (J) counter and updated. When the number of time reduction (J) = 0, the time reduction game flag is cleared and the number of high probability games (X )> 0 is updated by subtracting 1 from the high probability game number (X) counter, and if the high probability game number (X) = 0, the high probability game flag is cleared.
Finally, the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 2, preparation is made to move to a special symbol stop processing subroutine, and the special symbol variation processing is terminated.

In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a “big hit symbol”, a “small bonus symbol”, or a “losing symbol”. Do.
If it is determined that the game is a jackpot symbol, the data stored in the gaming state storage area is referred to and data (00H to 03H) indicating the current gaming state is set in the gaming state buffer. Thereafter, the data (high probability game flag and short time game flag), high probability game number (X) counter, and short time number (J) counter stored in the high probability game flag storage area and the short time game flag storage area are cleared. . Further, the special figure special power processing data = 2 is set to the special figure special electric processing data = 3, preparation is made to move to the jackpot game processing subroutine, and the special symbol stop processing is ended.
In addition, when it is determined that the small winning symbol, the data stored in the game state storage area is not cleared, and the special figure special electric processing data = 2 to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5 is set. The special symbol stop process is completed by making preparations for transferring to a winning game process subroutine.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is a lost symbol, the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 is set to special special electric symbol processing data = 0, and the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is prepared for the special symbol stop processing. finish.

In the jackpot game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, first, referring to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, the jackpot release mode is determined based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313 ( Determine TBL per long, TBL per short or TBL per evolution).
Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot opening mode, with reference to the big winning opening opening mode table shown in FIG. 10A, the opening time according to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter, The driving data of the first grand prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is output to open the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b). At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.
When a predetermined number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), The output of the drive data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is stopped, and the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b) is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.
When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 3 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 4, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.

In the big hit game ending process in step S350, the main CPU 110a determines the probability gaming state of either the high probability gaming state or the low probability gaming state, and changes the gaming state of either the short-time gaming state or the non-short-time gaming state. Perform the decision process.
Specifically, with reference to the jackpot game end setting data table, based on the data stored in the game state buffer and the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, the high probability game flag , High probability game count (X), short-time game flag, short-time count (J). For example, in the case of the special symbol 1, the high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, and the high probability game number (X) counter is set to 10,000 times. Further, a time-short game flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area, and a time-short time (J) counter is set to 10,000 times.
After that, the special symbol special power processing data = 4 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 0, and preparation for moving to the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is made, and the big hit game end processing is ended.

In the small hit game process of step S360, the main CPU 110a first refers to the special electric accessory operation mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, and is based on the type of the small hit symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313. Thus, the opening mode for small hits is determined.
Next, in order to execute the determined small winning opening mode, the big winning opening opening mode table shown in FIG. 10B is referred to, and the small winning opening time is set in the special game timer counter, Driving data of the winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is output to open the second large winning opening / closing door 17b. At this time, 1 is added to the number of times of release (K) storage area.
When the small winning opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the drive data output of the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped and the second big prize opening / closing door 17b is closed. The opening / closing control of the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b is repeated 15 times.
Then, the opening / closing control of the second grand prize opening / closing door 17b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the second big prize opening 17 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the grand prize opening entrance) Number (C) = 9), in order to end the small hit game, the output of the drive data of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped, the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning holes (C) Clear the data stored in the storage area, set special figure special electricity processing data = 5 to special figure special electricity treatment data = 0, and prepare to move to a special symbol memory judgment processing subroutine. The winning game process is terminated.

(Command explanation)
The types of commands transmitted from the main control board 110 to which the description is partially omitted in the flowchart of the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The command transmitted from the main control board 110 to the production control board 120 is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte MODE information for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. And 1-byte DATA information indicating the contents of.

The “designation designating command” indicates the type of the special symbol that is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set as “E0H”, and DATA information is set according to the type of the special symbol. Since the special symbol type determines the jackpot type and the high probability gaming state as a result, it can be said that the effect symbol designation command indicates the jackpot type and the gaming state.
In the effect symbol designation command, when various special symbols are determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started, an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when various special symbols are determined in step S313, and the special symbol variation display is started in step S315, the effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is the effect of the main RAM 110c. Set in the transmission data storage area. Thereafter, the effect designating command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “first special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E1H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.
This first special symbol memory designation command is effect-controlled by the first special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the first special symbol holding number (U1) storage area in step S200 (or S230) or step S312 increases or decreases, the first corresponding to the number of holding memory after the increase or decrease. A special symbol memory designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “second special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E2H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.
This second special symbol memory designation command is directed by the second special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area in step S200 (or S240) or step S312 increases or decreases, the second corresponding to the number of reserved storage after the increase or decrease. A special symbol memory designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol memory designation command” and the “second special symbol memory designation command” are collectively referred to as “special symbol memory designation command”.

The “design determination command” indicates that the special symbol is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set to “E3H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.
This symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol is stopped and displayed. Specifically, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 in step S320, the symbol confirmation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. The Thereafter, the symbol confirmation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “power-on designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is powered on, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.
This power-on specification command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on in step S10, a power-on designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Then, immediately after the power-on designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “RAM clear designation command” indicates that the information stored in the main RAM 110c has been cleared, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “01H”.
Here, a RAM clear button (not shown) is provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1, and when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button, the information stored in the main RAM 110c in step S10 is stored. Cleared.
The RAM clear designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button in step S10, a RAM clear designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the RAM clear designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “power restoration designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is turned on and has been restored normally, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “02H to 05H”. Is set. The power recovery designation command also indicates the gaming state at the time of power recovery. If the gaming state at the time of power recovery is “low probability gaming state and non-short gaming state”, “DATA” is set to “02H”. "DATA" is set to "03H" if "low probability gaming state and short time gaming state", "DATA" is set to "04H" if "high probability gaming state and non-short time gaming state" If “high probability gaming state and short time gaming state”, “DATA” is set to “05H”.
This power restoration designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on and is normally restored. Specifically, when the power of the gaming machine is turned on, a checksum of the main RAM 110c is created when the power is turned on, and the checksum of the main RAM 110c when the power is turned on and the checksum of the main RAM 110c when the power is cut off are generated. Compare. Here, if the checksums match, it is determined that the normal recovery has been performed, and a power recovery specification command is generated according to the gaming state, and the generated power recovery specification command is stored in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Set. Then, immediately after the power-on designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “demonstration designation command” indicates that the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is not operating, “MODE” is set to “E5H”, and “DATA” is set to “ 00H ".
This demonstration designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 does not hold the special symbol. Specifically, when one or more pieces of data are not set in either the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area in step S311. The demonstration designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the demonstration designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, “MODE” is set to “E6H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.
The first special symbol variation pattern designation command is a first special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the first special symbol display device 20 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S314 and the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the first special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “variable pattern designation command for the second special symbol” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 21, and “MODE” is set to “E7H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.
The second special symbol variation pattern designation command is a second special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the second special symbol display device 21 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120.
Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S314 and when the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the second special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” and the “second special symbol variation pattern designation command” are collectively referred to as a “variation pattern designation command”.

The “Big Winner Opening Specification Command” indicates the number of jackpot rounds according to various jackpot types, “MODE” is set as “EAH”, and DATA information is set according to the number of jackpot rounds Has been.
With regard to the special winning opening opening designation command, when the big hit round is started, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the started round number is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b) is opened in step S340, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the number of rounds to be opened is issued. It is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, in step S700, the prize winning opening release command set in the effect transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “opening designation command” indicates that various jackpots start, “MODE” is set as “EBH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for the opening designation command, when various jackpots start, an opening designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game processing in step S340, an opening designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. After that, the opening designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “ending designation command” indicates that various jackpots have ended, “MODE” is set as “ECH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for the ending designation command, when various jackpots are completed, the ending designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game end process in step S350, an ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the ending designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “gaming state designation command” indicates whether it is a short-time gaming state or a non-short-time gaming state, and “MODE” is set to “EEH”, and if it is a non-short-time gaming state, “DATA” is “ “00H” is set, and “DATA” is set to “01H” in the time saving gaming state.
As for the gaming state designation command, a gaming state designation command corresponding to the gaming state is transmitted to the effect control board 120 at the start of special symbol variation, at the end of special symbol variation, at the start of jackpot game, and at the end of jackpot. . Specifically, when the special symbol variation display is started in step S315, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in step S320, the high probability game flag, the high probability game count, the short-time game flag, and the step S320 are displayed. When the number of times reduced (J) is cleared, the gaming state corresponding to the current gaming state when the high probability gaming flag, the number of times of high probability gaming, the hourly gaming flag, and the hourly number of times (J) are set in step S350. The designation command is set in the transmission data storage area for presentation in the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the gaming state designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  Next, processing executed by the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 will be described.

(Production control board main processing)
The main process of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1000, the sub CPU 120a performs an initialization process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1100.

  In step S1100, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of updating random numbers (effect random number value 1, effect random number value 2, effect design determining random value, effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Thereafter, the process of step S1100 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of production control board)
The timer interrupt process of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.
Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, in step S1400, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area.

  In step S1500, the sub CPU 120a performs update processing of various timer counters used in the effect control board 120.

  In step S1600, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S1600.

  In step S1700, the sub CPU 120a checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 35a, and performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1800, the sub CPU 120a performs data output processing for transmitting various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  In step S1900, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in step S1810 to the register of the sub CPU 120a.

(Command analysis processing of production control board)
The command analysis processing of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. The command analysis process 2 in FIG. 20 is performed subsequent to the command analysis process 1 in FIG.

In step S1601, the sub CPU 120a checks whether there is a command in the reception buffer, and checks whether the command has been received.
If there is no command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1610.

In step S1610, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demonstration designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1611, and if not the demonstration designation command, moves the process to step S1620.

In step S1611, the sub CPU 120a performs a demo effect pattern determination process for determining a demo effect pattern.
Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

In step S1620, sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1621, and if it is not a special symbol storage designation command, moves the process to step S1630.

  In step S1621, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the special symbol storage designation command to determine the display number of special figure reservation images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and the special CPU corresponding to the determined display number of special figure reservation images. A special symbol memory number determination process for transmitting a figure display number designation command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 is performed.

In step S1630, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1631, and moves to step S1640 if it is not an effect designating command.

In step S1631, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 36 to be stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command.
Specifically, the effect designating command is analyzed, the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 36 is determined according to the presence / absence of jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect symbol data is stored in the effect symbol storage area In addition, in order to transmit the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designation command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1632, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random value from the effect mode determination random value updated in step 1100, and based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command, An effect mode determination process for determining one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, a normal effect mode and a chance effect mode) is performed. Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area. Thereafter, the sub CPU 102a shifts the processing to step S1633.
In step S1633, the sub CPU 102a sets the fast forward display executable flag = 01 (sets the fast forward display executable flag) in the storage area of the sub RAM 102c.

In step S1640, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1641 and moves the process to step S1650 if it is not the variation pattern designation command.

In step S1641, the sub CPU 120a obtains one random value from the effect random number 1 updated in step 1100, and stores the obtained effect random number 1, the received variation pattern designation command, and the effect mode storage area. Based on the set effect mode, a variation effect pattern determination process is performed for determining one variable effect pattern from a plurality of variable effect patterns.
Specifically, in the case of the normal effect mode, the variable effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 11 is referred to, one variable effect pattern is determined based on the acquired random number for effect 1, and the determined variable effect pattern is selected. An effect pattern designation command based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c in order to transmit the determined variation effect pattern information to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 while being set in the effect pattern storage area. To do. For example, when “E6H01H” is received as the variation pattern designation command, if the obtained effect random number value 1 is “0 to 49”, the variation effect pattern 1 is determined, and the obtained effect random number value is “50 to 99”. ”, The variation effect pattern 2 is determined, and the determined variation effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area. Further, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.
Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 are controlled. Note that the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here. In addition, the production time corresponding to the single determination result of the jackpot lottery coincides with the production time indicated by the variation mode of the production design 36. The effect pattern designation command designates an effect time corresponding to a determination result of one lottery for the host CPU 150a of the image control board 150.

In step S1650, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol confirmation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1651, and moves to step S1660 if the command is not the symbol confirmation command.

In step S1651, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol stop display process in which a stop designation command for stopping the effect symbol is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c in order to stop the effect symbol 36. Thereafter, the sub CPU 102a shifts the processing to step S1652.
In step S1652, the sub CPU 102a sets the fast forward display executable flag = 00 (resets the fast forward display executable flag) in the storage area of the sub RAM 102c.

In step S1660, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1661, and moves to step S1670 if the command is not a gaming state designation command.

  In step S1661, the sub CPU 120a sets data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1670, the sub CPU 120a checks whether the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1671, and moves to step S1680 if the command is not the opening command.

In step S1671, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern.
Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1680, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special winning opening opening designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big prize opening release designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1681, and if not, it moves the process to step S1690.

In step S1681, the sub CPU 120a performs a jackpot effect pattern determination process for determining a jackpot effect pattern.
Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1690, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1691, and ends the command analysis process if the command is not the ending command.

In step S1691, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern.
Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c. When this process ends, the command analysis process ends.

(Production control board production input control processing)
The effect input control process will be described with reference to FIG.
First, in step S1701, the sub CPU 102a determines whether or not there is a valid effect button detection signal from the effect button detection switch 17a. If the sub CPU 102a determines that there is no signal, the sub CPU 102a ends the process. If it determines that there is the signal, the sub CPU 102a proceeds to the process of step S1702.

  In step S1702, the sub CPU 102a determines whether or not the fast forward display executable flag = 01 is set in the storage area of the sub RAM 102c. Here, if the fast-forwarding display executable flag = 01 is not set, the sub CPU 102a ends the process, and if the fast-forwarding display executable flag = 01 is set, the sub CPU 102a proceeds to the process of step S1703.

  In step S1703, the sub CPU 102a sets a fast forward display execution command in the transmission buffer. This command is a command for causing the image control board 105 to execute fast-forwarding of a moving image.

  Here, the sub CPU 102a transmits the command set in the transmission buffer to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 in step S1800 (see FIG. 18) after the effect input control process. The image control board 150 operates the liquid crystal display device 31 and the sound output device 32 based on the received command, and the lamp control board 140 operates the effect driving device 33 and the effect lighting device 34 based on the received command. .

  Next, processing executed by the host CPU 150a in the image control board 150 will be described.

(Main processing of image control board)
The main process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the host CPU 150a, and the host CPU 150a performs the following main processing.

In step S2010, the host CPU 150a performs an initialization process. In this processing, the host CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the host ROM 150c and instructs the initial settings of the various modules of the host CPU 150a and the VDP 2000 when the power is turned on.
Here, the host CPU 150a uses the VDP2000 initial setting instruction as follows:
(1) To instruct the display circuit 2080 to create and output a video signal, instruct the video signal to be created (set 1 to 0 bit of the display register),
(2) In order to cause the decompression circuit 2060 to decompress the image data (image data such as the production symbol 36) frequently used in the decompression storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, set predetermined initial value data in the decompression register. ,
(3) In order to cause the drawing circuit 2070 to draw initial value image data (such as a character image “power-on”), an initial value display list is output.

In step S2020, the host CPU 150a performs a drawing execution start process. In this process, in order to instruct the VDP 2000 to execute drawing on the display list that has already been output, drawing start data is set in the drawing register (see FIG. 6B).
That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing for the initial value display list output in step S2010 is instructed, and during normal routine processing, execution of drawing for the display list output in S2050 described later is instructed. .

In step S2030, the host CPU 150a performs effect instruction command analysis processing for analyzing the effect instruction command (command stored in the reception buffer of the host RAM 150b) transmitted from the effect control board 120.
When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S2030.

The effect instruction command analysis process confirms whether or not an effect instruction command (for example, an effect pattern designation command as shown in FIG. 11) is stored in the reception buffer. If an effect instruction command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process proceeds directly to step S2040.
If a production instruction command is stored in the reception buffer, a new production instruction command is read, and one or more animation groups to be executed are determined based on the read production instruction command. A pattern is determined (see FIG. 25).
If the effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer, the host CPU 150a sets the effect time corresponding to the effect pattern designation command in the effect timer counter of the host RAM 150b. The effect timer counter is subtracted every 4 ms.
If a fast-forward display execution command is stored in the reception buffer, the host CPU 150a reads a new fast-forward display execution command and sets a fast-forward display execution flag = 01 in the storage area of the host RAM 105b (turns on the fast-forward display execution flag. )
When the effect time corresponding to the effect instruction command read by the effect timer counter subtraction process ends, the host CPU 150a sets the fast-forward display execution flag = 00 (turns off the fast-forward display execution flag) in the storage area of the host RAM 105b. .

  In step S2040, the host CPU 150a performs an animation control process. In this process, based on the “scene switching counter”, the “weight frame”, the “frame counter” updated in step S2210, which will be described later, and the animation pattern determined in step S2030, various animation scenes are displayed. Update the address.

In step S2050, the host CPU 150a determines the display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. Are generated (see FIG. 27). When the generation of the display list is completed, the host CPU 150a outputs the display list to the VDP 2000. The display list output here will be described later with reference to FIG.
The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 via the CPU I / F 2030 in the VDP 2000.

In step S2060, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01.
Here, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 24B, the FB switching flag is set to FB if the previous display list has been drawn in a V blank interrupt every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). Switching flag = 01. That is, in step S2060, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.
If the FB switching flag = 01, the host CPU 150a shifts the process to step S2070. If the FB switching flag = 00, the host CPU 150a waits until the FB switching flag = 01.

In step S2070, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 00 (turns the FB switching flag off), and moves the process to step S2020.
Thereafter, the processes in steps S2020 to S2070 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt shown in FIG. 24 occurs.

(Image control board animation control processing)
The animation control process in the host CPU of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S2041, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the fast-forward display execution flag = 01 is set in the storage area of the host RAM 105b. Here, if the fast forward display execution flag = 01 is not set, the host CPU 150a proceeds to the process of step S2048, and if the fast forward display execution flag = 01 is set, the host CPU 150a proceeds to the process of step S2042.

  In step S2048, the host CPU 150a performs an animation display process at a standard speed on one or a plurality of animation groups and animation patterns determined in step S2030 (see FIG. 22). Here, the animation display process at the standard speed is a standard speed display of the moving image.

  In step S2042, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the last image display flag = 01 is set in the storage area of the host RAM 105b. Here, if the last image display flag = 01 is not set, the host CPU 150a proceeds to the process of step S2045. If the last image display flag = 01 is set, the host CPU 150a proceeds to the process of step S2043. . The last image display flag is a flag indicating that the last image indicated by the display order of the animation pattern stored in the host ROM 150c is displayed.

  In step S2043, the host CPU 150a returns the order of the images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 in the chronological display order according to the animation patterns of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group (see FIG. 25) to the first image of the animation pattern. The process proceeds to step S2044.

  In step S2044, the host CPU 150a sets the last image display flag = 00 in the storage area of the host RAM 105b, and proceeds to the process of step S2045.

  In step S2045, the host CPU 150a performs an animation display process at the standard speed for the animation pattern of the effect symbol group determined in step S2030, and fast-forwards the animation pattern of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group (in this embodiment). In this case, the animation display process is performed at a triple speed, and the process proceeds to step S2046. Here, the animation display processing by fast-forwarding is fast-forwarding display of moving images.

  In step S2046, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the image to be subjected to the animation display processing using the animation pattern of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group is the last image in the display order of the animation pattern. Here, the host CPU 150a ends the current process if it is not the last image of the animation pattern, and proceeds to the process of step S2047 if it is the last image of the animation pattern.

  In step S2047, the host CPU 150a sets the last image display flag = 01 in the storage area of the host RAM 105b, and the process proceeds to step S2045.

(Image control board interrupt processing)
The interrupt process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.

In the interrupt processing of the image control board 150, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process performed.
Note that the drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process are described with reference to FIG. 24, but the command reception interrupt process is as described in step S2030 and is not illustrated.

(Image control board drawing end interrupt processing)
FIG. 24A is a diagram showing a drawing end interrupt process of the image control board 150. FIG.

When the drawing of a predetermined unit frame (one frame) is finished, the VDP 2000 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 150a via the CPU I / F 2030.
When the host CPU 150a receives a drawing end interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the host CPU 150a sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (step S2110). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

(V blank interrupt processing for image control board)
FIG. 24B is a diagram showing a V blank interrupt process for the image control board 150.
The VDP2000 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the host CPU 150a via the CPU I / F 2030 every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).
When the host CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a executes a V blank interrupt process.

  In step S2210, the host CPU 150a performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter”.

In step S2220, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not drawing of a predetermined unit frame has been completed.
If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2230. If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a ends the current V blank interrupt process. That is, even if the V blank interrupt signal is input, if the drawing is not completed, the processing after step S2230 is not performed.

  In step S2230, the host CPU 150a sets a drawing end flag = 00 (turns the drawing end flag off).

In step S 2240, the host CPU 150 a gives an instruction to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller 2090 of the VDP 2000.
Specifically, the host CPU 150a performs a process of adding 1 to the first bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030 (see FIG. 6D).

  In step S2250, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 01 (turns on the FB switching flag), cancels the standby state in step S2060, and ends the current V blank interrupt processing.

  Next, an animation pattern determination method and a display list generation method will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Anime pattern)
FIG. 25 is an example of an animation group and an animation pattern for displaying an animation of a production pattern.

As shown in FIG. 25A, the animation pattern is grouped for each object or scene displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and displays a background group for displaying the background animation, and an animation of the character used for the notice A. Notice group A for displaying the animation of the character used for the notice B, the reach group for displaying the animation of the reach character, the effect symbol group for displaying the animation of the effect symbol 36, the jackpot There are a large number of groups such as a jackpot directing group for displaying a directing animation. A large number of animation patterns are associated with each group and stored in the host ROM 150c.
Based on the effect pattern designation command received from the sub CPU 120a, the host CPU 150a determines one or a plurality of animation groups to be executed and determines an animation pattern from each animation group.

  25 (b) to 25 (e) show animations to be determined when an effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to the change effect pattern 7 (special pattern change pattern 6 of 10 seconds) shown in FIG. 11 is received. An example of the pattern is shown.

  When the host CPU 150a receives the variation effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to the variation effect pattern 7, the host CPU 150a determines four groups of the background group, the notice A group, the notice B group, and the effect symbol group, The anime pattern 1 is determined from the background group, the anime pattern 11 from the notice A group, the anime pattern 21 from the notice B group, and the anime pattern 501 from the effect design group.

Here, as shown in FIGS. 25B to 25E, the animation pattern stores a combination of animation scene information, a display order of each animation scene information, and the like.
For example, in the effect symbol group / animation pattern 501 shown in FIG. 25 (e), the animation scene 501 is executed first, and the animation scene 511 is executed second.
The host RAM 150b has a “scene switching counter” that is updated every frame. When the scene switching counter measures 540 while the first animation scene 501 is being executed, the second animation scene 511 is displayed. The animation scene changes. When the scene switching counter measures 60 while the second animation scene 511 is being executed, the animation scene of the production symbol group / animation pattern 501 ends.
Note that “one frame” is the update timing of the liquid crystal display device (update timing of the vertical synchronization signal), and one frame is updated every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). That is, 60 frames are measured in 1 second.

Each animation scene stores animation scene information, and wait frames (that is, display time) updated every frame, target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite Display information such as a display position, a transfer destination address, and a drawing method.
For example, in the animation display at the standard speed, in the animation scene 501 shown in FIG. 25 (e), the first to fourth symbols are initially displayed up to 20 frames (about 0.33 seconds) at predetermined coordinates. Thereafter, the first symbol to the fourth symbol are continuously displayed at different coordinates for 15 frames (about 0.25 seconds). Similarly, when the first symbol to the fourth symbol are continuously displayed at different coordinates up to a predetermined frame, an animation is displayed in which the first symbol to the fourth symbol is moved and displayed. be able to.

Then, as shown in FIGS. 25B to 25E, the animation pattern 1 of the background group, the animation pattern 11 from the notice A group, the anime pattern 21 from the notice B group, and the animation from the effect design group A plurality of animation patterns with the pattern 501 are determined, and the animations of these animation patterns are executed in parallel.
That is, images of BG1 (mountains) and BG2 (clouds) continue to be displayed as the background from the start to the end of the animation pattern in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, and 2 seconds (120 frames from the start of the animation pattern). ) After that, the image for performing the animation of the notice display of the character A is displayed for 3 seconds (180 frames), and after 3 seconds (180 frames) from the start of the animation pattern, the image for performing the animation of the notice display of the character B is displayed for 4 seconds (240 Frame). Furthermore, an image for performing animation for normal variation display of effect symbols is performed for 9 seconds (540 frames), and then an image for performing animation for temporary stop display for 1 second (60 frames) is displayed.
Note that these images are displayed in an overlapping manner in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, and the first drawn image is overwritten by the later drawn image and erased. This image generation method will be described in the display list described later.
Here, in this embodiment, in addition to the standard-speed animation display in step S2048 in FIG. 23, the fast-forward animation display that fast-forwards the background image of the effect symbol in step S2045 in FIG. 23 at three times the standard speed. Is possible. The weight frame of the animation pattern of the animation group excluding the effect design group is a multiple of 3 as shown in FIGS.
FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a display mode in the case where the image control board 150 displays the animation patterns of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group in the fast-forward display in step S2045 of FIG.
When fast-displaying the animation patterns of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group, the image control board 150 displays the weight frames of the animation patterns of the animation group excluding the effect symbol group as shown in FIGS. Then, the animation (moving image) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 after being converted into 1/3 of the weight frame shown in FIGS. Thereby, the display time of each image in the animation pattern is shortened to 1/3, and the animation (moving image) by the animation pattern is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 at a triple speed.

(Display list)
FIG. 27 is an example of a display list including drawing control command groups.

  When the host CPU 150a determines the animation pattern as shown in FIG. 25, the host CPU 150a generates a display list for each predetermined frame (every frame) and outputs the generated display list to the VDP 2000.

  Here, regarding the display list generation method, the host CPU 150a follows the contents of the animation scene at the current number of frames based on the “frame counter” indicating the current frame and the determined animation pattern (anime scene). By generating the drawing control commands according to the priority order (drawing order) of each animation group, a display list for the current number of frames is generated.

  For example, as the priority order of the animation groups shown in FIGS. 25B to 25E, the background group is associated with the lowest priority 10 data, and the notice A group is associated with the priority 9 data. The priority B data is associated with the notice B group,..., The priority 2 data is associated with the jackpot production group, and the highest priority 1 data is associated with the production symbol group. Assume that it is associated.

As shown in FIGS. 25 (b) to 25 (e), the background group anime pattern 1, the anime pattern 11 from the notice A group, the anime pattern 21 from the notice B group, and the effect design group It is assumed that a plurality of anime patterns with the anime pattern 501 are determined.
Next, drawing control commands were sequentially generated and determined from the animation pattern 1 of the lowest priority animation group (background group) according to the contents of the animation scene in the current frame counter (current number of frames). When drawing control commands up to the highest priority animation group (direction symbol group) among the animation groups are generated, a drawing end command is finally generated to complete a display list as shown in FIG.
Such a display list is generated by program processing while referring to necessary data by the host CPU 150a.

  As described above, when the host CPU 150a outputs a display list in which drawing control command groups are grouped in predetermined frames (one frame) to the VDP 2000, the drawing circuit 2070 in the VDP 2000 performs specific drawing processing. The processing load on the host CPU 150a can be reduced.

  Next, processing executed in VDP2000 will be described.

(Expansion circuit expansion control processing)
The decompression control process of the decompression circuit 2060 in VDP2000 will be described using FIG.

First, in step S2310, the decompression circuit 2060 determines whether or not there has been an instruction to start decompression execution for decompressing image data to be rendered from the rendering circuit 2070. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the decompression execution start data is set in the decompression register by the drawing circuit 2070 (whether or not 1 is set in the 0th bit of the decompression register) (see FIG. 6C).
When there is an instruction to start decompression execution, the decompression circuit 2060 moves the process to step S2320, and when there is no instruction to start decompression execution, the decompression circuit 2060 waits until there is an instruction to start decompression execution.

  In step S2320, the decompression circuit 2060 clears the decompression start data of the decompression register set by the drawing circuit 2070 (sets 0 to the 0th bit of the decompression register).

  In step S2330, the decompression circuit 2060 sets decompression execution data in the decompression register (sets 1 to the 1st bit of the decompression register) in order to inform the drawing circuit 2070 that decompression is being performed (FIG. 6 ( c)).

  In step S2340, the decompression circuit 2060 reads the compressed image data compressed in the CRROM 151, decompresses the read compressed image data to the original image data, and decompresses the decompressed image data in the decompression storage area 153b of the VRAM 153. Let

In step S2350, the decompression circuit 2060 determines whether decompression of one image has been completed.
In the decompression circuit 2060, when decompression of one image is completed, the process proceeds to step S2360. When decompression of one image is not completed, the process returns to step S2340 and the decompression process is repeated.

  In step S2360, when the decompression circuit 2060 completes decompression of one image, the decompression register 2070 clears the decompression execution data in the decompression register in order to notify the rendering circuit 2070 that decompression has ended (sets 0 to the 1-bit of the decompression register). Then, the process returns to step S2310 to repeat the expansion control process.

(Drawing control process in drawing circuit)
The drawing control process of the drawing circuit 2070 in VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S2410, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether there is an instruction to start drawing from the host CPU 150a. Specifically, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register (whether or not 1 is set in the 0th bit of the drawing register) (see FIG. 6B). .
The drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2420 when there is an instruction to start drawing, and waits until there is an instruction to start drawing when there is no instruction to start drawing.

  In step S2420, the drawing circuit 2070 clears the drawing execution start data of the drawing register set by the host CPU 150a (sets 0 in the 0 bit of the drawing register).

In step S2430, the drawing circuit 2070 reads the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153, and sequentially analyzes drawing control commands of the read display list according to a predetermined priority (drawing order). Go.
Here, not all of the plurality of drawing control commands in the display list are analyzed at once. In one display list analysis control process, a predetermined unit (drawing order) is used in accordance with a predetermined priority (drawing order). For example, a drawing control command of one image data) is sequentially analyzed.

  In step S2440, the drawing circuit 2070 stores a decompression command for decompressing the compressed image in the display list, and if the image data to be rendered is not stored (expanded) in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, the decompression circuit Instruct 2060 to decompress the image data to be drawn. Specifically, the decompression execution start data is set in the decompression register (1 is set to 0 bit of the decompression register).

In step S2450, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether the expansion of the image to be drawn has been completed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the decompression execution data is cleared in the decompression register (whether or not 0 is set in the first bit of the decompression register).
The drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2460 when the drawing image has been decompressed, and waits until the drawing image has been decompressed when the drawing image has not been decompressed.

  In step S2460, the drawing circuit 2070 sets the necessary data in the drawing register according to the display list drawing control command, and displays the expanded image in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153 in the “drawing frame buffer in the VRAM 153”. The drawing process for drawing is performed.

In step S2470, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether all the drawing control commands in the display list of one frame have been completed (drawing processing of one frame has been completed).
When the drawing process for one frame is completed, the drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2480. When the drawing process for one frame is not completed, the drawing circuit 2070 returns the process to step S2430, and the drawing process for one frame is completed. Until the process is completed, the “display list analysis control process” in step S2430, the “decompression instruction process” in step S2440, and the “drawing process” in step S2460 are repeated.
If all the image data is compressed and stored in the CGROM 151 as in the present embodiment, the image is expanded and drawn for each image according to the display list.

  In step S2480, the drawing circuit 2070 sets the drawing end data in the interrupt register (sets 1 in the first bit of the system control register) (see FIG. 6A), and returns the processing to step S2410 to control drawing. Repeat the process.

(Display control processing in display circuit)
A display control process of the display circuit 2080 in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S2510, the display circuit 2080 determines whether there is an instruction to create a video signal from the host CPU 150a. Specifically, it is determined whether 1 is set in the 0 bit of the display register (see FIG. 6D).
If there is an instruction to create a video signal, the display circuit 2080 moves to step S2520. If there is no instruction to create a video signal, the display circuit 2080 waits until there is an instruction to create a video signal.
As a general rule, the 0th bit of the display register remains set to “1” from the time of power-on (the video signal creation ON state is maintained from the time of power-on).

  In step S2520, the display circuit 2080 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “display frame buffer” in the VRAM 153.

  In step S 2530, the display circuit 2080 outputs the generated video signal (RGB signal) and a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31 to the liquid crystal display device 31. . Thereafter, the process returns to step S2510 to repeat the display control process.

  Next, the outline of the effect control board 120 will be briefly described.

  When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer.

  Then, the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 analyzes the received command and generates various commands corresponding to each command in the timer interrupt process of the effect control board 120 performed every 2 ms. Thereafter, the generated various commands are transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the variation pattern designation command from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the received variation pattern designation command, and the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive. A command for causing the device 33 and the effect lighting device 34 to execute a predetermined effect is generated, and the command is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

  Next, the outline of the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 will be briefly described.

  In the lamp control board 140, upon receiving the production command from the production control board 120, the production drive device operation program is read based on the received production command, and the production drive device 33 is operated and controlled. The effect lighting device control program is read based on the received effect command, and the effect lighting device 34 is controlled.

  In the image control board 150, when the production command is received from the production control board 120, the audio CPU reads out the audio output device control program from the audio ROM based on the received production command, and the audio in the audio output device 32 is read. And the host CPU 150a reads the animation control program from the image ROM and controls the image display on the liquid crystal display device 31.

(Game contents)
Next, with reference to FIG. 31 to FIG. 32, game contents performed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 31 will be described.
FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the game content from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol 36 to the big hit game.
FIG. 32 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 31A, and shows a configuration diagram of the display screen of the variation effect pattern until the reach effect is displayed.

(Game contents)
FIG. 31A is a display screen in which the effect symbol 36 is variably displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31.
Here, the effect symbol 36 is composed of four types of symbols. In FIG. 31A, the effect symbol 36a for the left, the effect symbol 36b for the middle, and the effect for the right are shown in the center of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. The symbol 36c is displayed, and a small fourth display symbol 36d is displayed at the lower left of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. Further, an information basic image 37b is displayed below the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. On the information basic image 37b, two special figure hold images 37a and three general figure hold images 38a, 38b is displayed. Furthermore, a mountain background image 39a and an airplane image 39b used for the notice A are displayed in the background of the effect design 36.

FIG. 31B is a display screen showing a state in which a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, for the left effect symbol 36a and the right effect symbol 36c, the same type of effect symbol (for example, 7) is stopped and displayed at both corners of the display area.
The “stop display” of the effect symbol 36 in the present embodiment includes a complete stop display in which the effect symbol 36 does not move at all and a temporary stop display in which the effect symbol 36 swings slightly.

FIG. 31C is a display screen on which a character Z39c appears after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, the character Z39c is displayed over the front surface of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, and the special figure hold image 37a and the general figure hold images 38a and 38b below the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31 are erased. .

FIG. 31D is a display screen that displays the result of the reach effect after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, the medium-type effect symbol 36b of the same kind as the effect symbol 36a for the left and the effect symbol 36c for the right is stopped and displayed. In addition, as a result of the reach effect, a display in which the character Z39c is defeated is also performed.

FIG. 31E is a display screen that displays that a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, a character image “big hit” is displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. In the present embodiment, the display screen of FIG. 31 (e) is performed after the end of the effect time corresponding to the effect instruction command for the variable display of the effect symbol 36, and is included in the effect time of the jackpot game. .

FIG. 31F is a display screen that displays that a big hit game has been played after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, a history image 39e, a big hit round image 39f, and a big hit background image 39g for informing the effect that has been a big hit opportunity are displayed.

(Configuration diagram of display screen of variation effect pattern)
A configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 31A will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 32 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 31A, in which data drawn according to the display list shown in FIG. 27 is displayed.

  As shown in the display list shown in FIG. 27 (a) above, the mountain background image 39a is first drawn, then the airplane image 39b is drawn, and the information basic image 37b, the three ordinary reserved images 38a, 38b, When two special figure reservation images 37a, a left effect symbol 36a, a right effect symbol 36c, a middle effect symbol 36b, and a fourth effect symbol 36d are drawn in this order, as shown in FIG. A plurality of images are overlaid in order, and a display screen shown in FIG. 32B is finally created.

  In FIG. 31 (a), the change display of the effect symbol 36 is indicated by an arrow. However, since the effect symbol 36 is stopped and displayed for a predetermined number of frames to be precise (a configuration like a so-called flaming manga). In FIG. 32, the effect symbol 36 is stopped and displayed.

(Description of fast-forward display of video)
FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram for explaining fast-forward display of a moving image on the liquid crystal display device. The left side of the figure shows a flow A of the display image on the display screen when the effect button 35 is not operated, and the right side of the figure shows the middle of the effect button 35. The flow B of the display image of the display screen by operation is shown.

  In FIG. 33, the animation control process (see FIG. 23) by the host CPU 150a is performed from step S2041 to step S2041 until the effect button 35 is pressed after the change of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c by the liquid crystal display device 31 indicated by 0 seconds in the figure. In the flow of S2048 → RETORN, the liquid crystal display device 31 performs the animation display at the standard speed in the images displayed in the background of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c and the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c. That is, in the flow A of the display image when the effect button 35 is not operated, the animation display at the standard speed is performed on the images (a), (b), (c), and (d) from 0 to 40 seconds in the figure. Is called. In the flow B of the display image due to the midway operation of the effect button 35, animation display at standard speed is performed on the images (a) and (b) from 0 to 20 seconds in the figure.

  When the effect button 35 is pressed while the effect symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are changed by the liquid crystal display device 31 in the flow B of the display image, the animation control process (see FIG. 23) by the host CPU 150a is performed in steps S2041 → S2042 → S2045 → S2046. → RETORN, and on the liquid crystal display device 31, the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are displayed on the background of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c in a state where the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c are variably displayed at the standard speed from the timing shown in 20 seconds. The images (c1) and (d1) to be animated are displayed in fast-forward.

  When the effect button 35 is pressed in the flow B of the display image, and the image displayed in the fast-forwarding on the background of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, 36c is the last image number (d1) of the animation scene, the animation control process by the host CPU 150a (See FIG. 23) is a flow of steps S2041, S2042, S2045, S2046, S2047, and RETORN, the last image display flag = 01 is set in the storage area of the host RAM 105b, and the animation by the host CPU 150a is performed in the next animation control process. The control process (see FIG. 23) follows steps S2041, S2042, S2043, S2044, S2045, S2046, and RETORN, and images displayed on the background of the production symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c on the liquid crystal display device 31. Animation back to the first image of a scene (a2). After that, the animation control process (see FIG. 23) by the host CPU 150a becomes a flow of steps S2041, S2042, S2045, S2046, and RETORN, and the production symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c are variably displayed at the standard speed on the liquid crystal display device 31. The images (b2), (c2), and (d2) displayed in the background of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c in the state are displayed as animations in fast-forward following the first image (a2).

After that, when the stop designation command is stored in the reception buffer, the images displayed in the background of the effect symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c until the effect time corresponding to the change in the current effect symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c ends. Production symbols 36a, 36b, and 36c by the liquid crystal display device 31 are stopped and displayed in a state where animation is displayed in fast-forward following the first image.
Thereafter, in the flow B, as in the flow A, the images (e) and (f) are displayed at the standard speed from 40 seconds in the figure.

  The above configuration and operation will be described together. The main control board 110 determines whether or not to control a special game advantageous to the player on condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied. It has become a means.

  Detection of a game ball entering by the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a is based on the predetermined start condition.

The main control board 110 is special game control means for controlling the special game based on the determination that the special game determination means controls the special game.
The main control board 110 is an effect time determining means for determining an effect time corresponding to a single determination result of the special game determining means immediately after the determination.

The continuous display of the image shown in FIG. 31 is a moving image. The liquid crystal display device 31 is a moving image display means for displaying the moving image.
The CGROM 151 of the image control board 150 is an image storage unit that stores a plurality of images. The host ROM 150c of the image control board 150 is a moving image display data (for example, as shown in FIG. 25) that indicates a combination of a plurality of images to be displayed as a moving image for presentation among the plurality of images stored in the CGROM 151 and a time-series display order. This is a moving image display data storage means for storing a plurality of types of (animation patterns).

The effect control board 120 determines the moving image display data to be determined according to the determination result of the special game determination means by the main control board 110 from the plurality of types of moving image display data stored in the host ROM 150c. It has become a means.
The image control board 150 is an image for causing the liquid crystal display device 31 to display a moving image for rendering based on the moving image display data determined by the moving image display data determining unit during the rendering time determined by the rendering time determining unit. Display control means for performing the display control.

The effect button detection switch 35a is an external operation detection means for detecting a predetermined external operation by the player.
When a predetermined external operation is detected by the effect button detection switch 35a, the image control board 150 displays the effect moving image being displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 in a fast-forwarded manner and displays the last image of the effect moving image. Is displayed, the display returns to the first image of the animation for the effect, and the animation for the effect is displayed again.

The image control board 150 returns to the image of the fast-forward display start when the fast-forward display of the moving image for production by the liquid crystal display device 31 exceeds one round.
The liquid crystal display device 31 performs a change display and a stop display of an effect symbol that provides an effect corresponding to the determination result of the special game determination means by the main control board 110, and an effect that the image control board 150 displays on the liquid crystal display device 31. The moving image is a moving image displayed on the background of the effect design.

  According to the present embodiment described above, when a predetermined external operation is detected by the effect button detection switch 35a, the image control board 150 fast-forwards and displays an effect moving image being displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. After the last image of the animation for the effect is displayed, the animation for the effect is displayed again after returning to the first image of the animation for the effect, so that the determination result of the special game determination means by the main control board 110 When the animation for the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 is displayed in a fast-forwarding manner, the animation for the effect can be prevented from being stopped for a long time, and the player can be prevented from feeling tired. .

In the present embodiment, the animation pattern of the variation display of the effect symbol may be used as a moving image that can be fast-forwarded by detecting the operation of the effect button 35, or a moving image that combines a forward-moving moving image and a rewinding effect moving image.
In the present embodiment, one frame is updated every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). However, one frame may be updated every 1/30 seconds, or 1/120. One frame may be updated every second. In other words, the design cycle can be freely changed in the update period of one frame.

  In the present embodiment, one frame is updated and the next frame is drawn when drawing by the drawing circuit 2070 is completed. However, by updating one frame, the next frame is always updated. You may comprise so that the frame of this may be drawn.

  In the present embodiment, on the condition that the drawing is finished, each frame is updated so that the next frame can be drawn. However, every time two frames are updated, the next frame is updated. It may be configured to be able to draw a frame, or may be configured to be able to draw the next frame every time three frames are updated, that is, one frame. The update cycle and the drawing cycle of the drawing circuit may not be the same.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, although the game machine used for a pachinko game machine was demonstrated, you may use for a swing type game machine (slot machine), a jigball game machine, and an arrangement ball game machine.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 31 is used as the moving image display means. However, the moving image display means may use a plasma display, or a display device such as a projector, a so-called 7-segment LED, a dot matrix, or the like. Etc. may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 14 1st starting port 14a 1st starting port detection switch 15 2nd starting port 15a 2nd starting port detection switch 20 1st special symbol display apparatus,
21 Second special symbol display device 31 Liquid crystal display device 35 Effect button 35a Effect button detection switch 110 Main control board 110a Main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
120 Production control board 120a Sub CPU
120b Sub ROM
120c sub RAM
150 Image control board 150a Host CPU
150b host RAM
150c host ROM
151 CGROM
153 VRAM
153a Display list storage area 153b Expanded storage area 153c First frame buffer 153d Second frame buffer 153s Screenshot storage area 2000 VDP
2010 Control register 2020 CG bus I / F
2030 CPU I / F
2050 Clock generation circuit 2060 Expansion circuit 2070 Drawing circuit 2080 Display circuit 2090 Memory controller

Claims (1)

Special game determination means for determining whether or not to control a special game advantageous to the player on condition that a predetermined start condition is established;
Special game control means for controlling the special game based on the determination that the special game control means controls the special game;
Effect time determining means for determining an effect time corresponding to one determination result of the special game determination means immediately after the determination result;
A video display means for displaying a video;
Image storage means for storing a plurality of images;
Among the plurality of images stored in the image storage unit, a moving image display data storage unit that stores a plurality of types of moving image display data indicating a combination of a plurality of images to be displayed as a moving image for presentation and a time-series display order;
Moving image display data determining means for determining moving image display data to be executed from the plurality of types of moving image display data stored in the moving image display data storage means in accordance with a determination result of the special game determining means;
During the production time determined by the production time determining means, the moving picture display means displays the images of the animation for the production in time series continuously based on the video display data decided by the video display data decision means. Display control means for controlling,
A gaming machine comprising external operation detecting means for detecting a predetermined external operation by a player,
The display control means causes the moving picture display means to display the effect moving picture at a standard speed when the predetermined external operation is not detected by the external operation detecting means, and the predetermined external operation is detected by the external operation detecting means. When the operation is detected, the moving image display means can display the effect moving image by fast-forwarding, and the effect time ends even after the last image of the effect moving image is displayed by the fast-forwarding. Until this is done, the game machine is characterized in that it returns to the first image of the animation for the effect and allows the animation for the effect to be displayed again by the fast-forward.