Game machine

Abstract

To comprehend a state of a game machine in a stand-by state more clearly than before.SOLUTION: A game machine displays a stand-by image A while a pattern A is selected as a stand-by mode when the game machine is brought into a stand-by state by being powered up accompanied by initialization of RWM, displays a demonstration movie and a stand-by image D alternately after displaying the stand-by image A, displays a stand-by image B while a pattern B is selected as the stand-by mode when the game machine is brought into the stand-by state by being powered up not accompanied by the initialization of RWM, displays the demonstration movie and the stand-by image D alternately after displaying the stand-by image B, displays a stand-by image C while a pattern C is selected as the stand-by mode when the game machine is brought into the stand-by state due to the end of game, and displays the demonstration movie and the stand-by image D alternately after displaying the stand-by image C.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 41

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pinball gaming machine or a reel gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known pachinko and reel type gaming machines that go into a standby mode when no game is played for a certain period of time. During the standby mode, the display of the pachinko machine or the like shows, for example, a screen introducing the performance images during the game, a screen showing the characters that appear during the game, a screen showing the logo of the manufacturer of the pachinko machine or the like. In addition, even if the game machine model is the same, there are some games in which multiple demo presentation contents are provided and the probability of selection is changed so that the demo presentation contents do not become monotonous (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-271725 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, it was not possible to understand how the power was restored through standby mode, or whether the power supply switched to standby mode after the fluctuations had stopped. The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has an object to make it possible to more clearly grasp the state of a gaming machine in standby mode. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The gaming machine according to claim 1, which has been made in consideration of the above problem, is a gaming machine including a main control means for controlling a game and a performance control means for performing a performance in response to an instruction from the main control means, The performance control means is configured to execute a standby mode when the game is not being played and the game is in a standby state, The gist of the standby mode is that different standby modes are executed when the standby state is entered after power return accompanied by initialization, when the standby state is entered after power return without initialization, and when the standby state is entered after a prescribed time has elapsed since the end of a game. In this way, it is possible to determine from which state the device entered the standby state by checking the difference in the standby mode.

[0006] The standby mode refers to a mode in which standby screens and demo movies are executed in a predetermined order based on the elapsed time, in order to stimulate the desire of players who are not playing to play, and to promote playing by providing explanations of the gameplay and presentation of the gaming machine. Power restoration with initialization refers to restoring power by operating the power button and the RAM clear button together to initialize the memory of the game state immediately before the power was cut off and restore the power to its initial state. "Power recovery without initialization" refers to restoring power by operating only the power button without operating the RAM clear button, thereby restoring the game state that was stored immediately before the power was cut off and restoring power. The time that has elapsed since the end of the game refers to the time that has elapsed since the special symbol (also written as "toku-zu") stopped changing and no further changes were made. It can also be the time that has elapsed since the normal symbol (also written as "fu-zu") stopped changing instead of the special symbol, the time that has elapsed since the firing stopped, or the time that has elapsed since the changing performance on the performance display device ended.

[0007] Different standby modes refer to different display contents of the standby screen, different display contents of the demo movie, different timing or order of switching from the standby screen to the demo movie, etc. Since it indicates the state from which the standby mode was entered, it is sufficient for a knowledgeable game store clerk to be able to tell at a glance, and it is not necessary for an uninformed player to be able to tell from what state the standby mode was entered by looking at the standby mode. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the inside of an MPU mounted on a main control device. [Figure 6] 13 is a table showing the relationship between stage setting values ​​and jackpot probability. [Figure 7] 11 is a table showing the relationship between transition modes and mode values. [Figure 8] A diagram explaining the state transition of a pachinko machine when the power is turned on or when a power outage occurs. [Figure 9] 11 is a table showing the relationship between the transition modes that can be transitioned to when the RWM is normal and the operation states of the setting key SW and the RWM clear SW when the power is turned on. [Figure 10] 11 is a table showing the relationship between the transition modes that can be transitioned to when the RWM is abnormal and the operation states of the setting key SW and the RWM clear SW when the power is turned on. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing the inside of the power supply board. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] 4 is a flowchart showing a startup process executed by a main control device. [Figure 14] 1 is a flowchart 1 showing an interrupt process executed by a main control device. [Figure 15] 2 is a flowchart 2 showing an interrupt process executed by the main control device. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing an input determination process executed in the interrupt process. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart showing the special ball entry confirmation process executed during the input judgment process. [Figure 18]This is a flowchart showing the normal ball entry confirmation process executed during the input judgment process. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart showing the correct / incorrect determination process executed during the interrupt process. [Figure 20] This is a flowchart 1 showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed during the correctness determination process. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart 2 showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed during the correctness determination process. [Figure 22] This is a flowchart 3 showing the special drawing correctness determination process executed during the correctness determination process. [Figure 23] This is a flowchart 1 showing the special game processing executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Figure 24] This is a flowchart 2 showing the special game processing executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 25] This is a flowchart 3 showing the special game processing executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Figure 26] This is a flowchart 4 showing the special game processing executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Figure 27] This is a flowchart 1 showing the normal pass / fail determination process executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 28] This is a flowchart 2 showing the normal pass / fail determination process executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 29] This is a flowchart 3 showing the normal pass / fail determination process executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Diagram 30] This is a flowchart 1 showing the normal game processing executed in the normal winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 31] This is a flowchart 2 showing the normal game processing executed during the normal winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 32] 4 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the main control device when a power interruption occurs. [Diagram 33] 10 is a flowchart showing an initial setting process executed during the startup process. [Diagram 34]10 is a flowchart showing an RWM abnormality determination process executed in the initial setting process. [Diagram 35] 13 is a flowchart showing a mode value setting process executed in the initial setting process. [Diagram 36] 13 is a flowchart showing a setting confirmation process executed in the initial setting process. [Figure 37] 13 is a flowchart showing a setting change process executed in the initial setting process. [Figure 38] 13 is a flowchart showing a game mode transition process executed during the initial setting process. [Figure 39] An explanatory diagram of the first and second images displayed on the performance pattern display device when the power is turned on. [Diagram 40] 13 is a flowchart of a power-on process. [Diagram 41] This is an example of displaying standby images A, B, and C. [Diagram 42] This is an example of displaying standby image D and demo movies A and B. [Diagram 43] 1 is a transition diagram showing a transition of a standby mode. [Diagram 44] 2 is a transition diagram showing a transition of a standby mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the external configuration of a pachinko machine 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3. (1. General configuration of pachinko machine 1) As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine that players can play on and is installed in gaming facilities. The pachinko machine 1 is supported by an outer frame 2 that is a vertically long fixed outer shell holding frame that holds each component part. The outer frame 2 is provided with a front frame 3 and an inner frame 4 (see FIG. 3) that are connected via hinges 11 provided at upper and lower positions on the left side. The front frame 3 and the inner frame 4 are locked and closed to the outer frame 2 by a cylinder lock 12. The inner frame 4 is opened by inserting a specified key into the cylinder lock 12 and turning the key clockwise, and the front frame 3 is opened by turning the key counterclockwise with the inner frame 4 open.

[0010] A glass plate 31 is fitted into the front frame 3, and a game board 5 (see FIG. 2) detachably held by the inner frame 4 is provided behind the glass plate 31. Speakers 32 that output game sounds are provided on both the left and right sides of the upper part of the front frame 3. Furthermore, the front frame 3 is provided with a number of frame side decorative lamps 33 that emit light according to the game status, and LEDs that notify of game abnormalities.

[0011] An upper tray 34 and a lower tray 35 are arranged in the lower half of the front frame 3. Prize balls that enter various winning holes provided in the game board 5 are paid out to the upper tray 34. The lower tray 35 is provided below the upper tray 34, and receives prize balls that overflow from the upper tray 34. By operating a ball removal lever (not shown) provided on the lower tray 35, the player can transfer the game balls that have accumulated in the lower tray 35 to a separate box (dollar box) provided in the hall.

[0012] A launch handle 36 is provided on the right side of the lower tray 35. When the launch handle 36 is operated clockwise, the launch device is activated and the game balls supplied from the upper tray 34 are launched toward the game area 50 (see FIG. 2). In addition, at the center position of the upper tray 34, a performance button 37 that can be operated by the player and a jog dial 38 provided to surround the outer periphery of the performance button 37 are provided.

[0013] The pachinko machine 1 is a so-called CR machine, and a CR unit 70 that reads and writes prepaid cards is provided adjacent to the left side of the pachinko machine 1. In addition, a loan button 71, a settlement button 72, and a balance display 73 are provided to the right of the upper tray 34. 2, a substantially circular game area 50 surrounded by an outer rail 51 and an inner rail 52 is formed on the game board 5, and a large center case 53 is attached to the center of the game area 50. A large number of game nails are planted in the game area, and an LCD panel for a performance pattern display device 54 is provided in the center of the center case 53, and a warp port, warp gutter (game ball passage), stage, etc., similar to those of a well-known center case, are provided around the LCD panel.

[0014] A normal symbol start port 55 is provided on the left side of the center case 53. The normal symbol start port 55 is a gate through which the game ball can pass, and when the game ball passes through the normal symbol start port 55, a judgment is made as to whether the normal symbol (normal symbol) is a winning symbol or not. A first special symbol start opening 56 that opens upward is provided at the lower center position in the left-right direction of the center case 53. The first special symbol start opening 56 is a start opening into which a gaming ball can always enter, and the pachinko machine 1 executes a hit / miss judgment of a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "first special symbol") based on the entry of a gaming ball into the first special symbol start opening 56. Specifically, when a gaming ball enters the first special symbol start opening 56, multiple types of random numbers are extracted, and the extracted random numbers are stored as reserved memory of the first special symbol.

[0015] Further, below the first special symbol start hole 56, a normal electric device 57 and a second special symbol start hole 58 are provided. The normal electric device 57 is an electric device that opens and closes the second special symbol start hole 58, and when the normal electric device 57 is closed, a game ball cannot enter the second special symbol start hole 58. On the other hand, when the normal symbol is judged to be a hit, the normal electric device 57 is opened for a predetermined time, and a game ball can enter the second special symbol start hole 58. Then, the pachinko machine 1 executes a hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the "second special symbol") based on the game ball entering the second special symbol start hole 58. Specifically, when a game ball enters the second special symbol start hole 58, multiple types of random numbers are extracted, and the extracted random numbers are stored as reserved memory of the second special symbol.

[0016] In addition, a big prize opening 59 that can be opened and closed by an opening and closing plate is provided below the second special chart starting opening 58. When the big prize opening 59 is closed by the opening and closing plate, game balls cannot enter the big prize opening 59. When the first and second special symbols are judged to be a jackpot, the pachinko machine 1 starts the jackpot game. The device for continuously operating the special electric symbols provided in the pachinko machine 1 operates the special electric symbols continuously during the jackpot game. When the special electric symbols are operated, the jackpot opening 59 is opened for a predetermined time. This allows the game ball to enter the jackpot opening 59.

[0017] A plurality of normal winning holes 60, which are winning holes whose winning rate does not change, are provided at the lower left side of the game area 50. At the bottom of the game area 50, an outlet 61 is provided for taking in game balls that have not entered the various start holes or winning holes described above and discharging the game balls from the game area 50 to the back side of the game board 5. At the lower right end of the game board 5, there are provided a first special symbol display device 62A which displays the changes and confirmation of the first special symbol, a second special symbol display device 62B which displays the changes and confirmation of the second special symbol, a normal symbol display device 62C which displays the changes and confirmation of the normal symbol, a first special symbol reserved number display device 63A which displays the number of reserved memories of the first special symbol, a second special symbol reserved number display device 63B which displays the number of reserved memories of the second special symbol, and a normal symbol reserved number display device 63C which displays the number of reserved memories of the normal symbol.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 3, the inner frame 4 is provided with a ball tank 41, a tank rail 42, and a payout unit 43, and the payout unit 43 is provided with a payout device (not shown) that pays out game balls. Game balls are stored in the ball tank 41, and when a game ball enters various winning holes or the like provided on the game board 5, the payout unit 43 pays out a predetermined number of game balls from the ball tank 41 as prize balls, and the paid-out game balls are paid out to the upper tray 34 via the tank rail 42. The payout unit 43 also pays out loan balls based on the operation of the loan button 71. In addition, an external connection terminal board 161 is provided on the right side of the ball tank 41 to send signals indicating the game status and game results to the hall computer HC (see FIG. 4) and the test firing test device (not shown).

[0019] On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are provided a main control device 100, a payout control device 110, a sub integrated control device 120, a performance symbol control device 130, a launch control device 140 (see FIG. 4), and a power supply board 150. The main control device 100, the sub integrated control device 120, and the performance symbol control device 130 are provided on the game board 5, while the payout control device 110, the launch control device 140, and the power supply board 150 are provided on the inner frame 4. The launch control device 140 is provided below the payout control device 110. Also, on the power supply board 150, there is provided a power supply SW155 which is operated when switching the power supply of the pachinko machine 1 ON or OFF.

[0020] The main control device 100 is also provided with an RWM clear SW101 and a setting key SW102. The RWM clear SW101 is mainly operated when clearing game information and the like stored in the RWM330 (RAM) built into the main control device 100. The RWM clear SW101 may be provided in the payout control device 110 or the power supply board 150. The setting key SW102 is a key switch mechanism that is turned on by turning a key inserted in the keyhole in one direction. The pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine with a setting function that allows the setting of the jackpot probability to be changed by the operation of a hall employee, etc., and the hall employee, etc. can change and check the setting of the jackpot probability by turning on the power with the setting key SW102 turned on. The RWM clear SW101 is also operated when changing the setting of the jackpot probability.

[0021] Furthermore, the main control device 100 is provided with a performance display device 103 consisting of four 7-segment LED displays. By providing the performance display device 103 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, the performance display device 103 can be placed in a position that is not visible to the player during play. In addition, the dispensing control device 110 is provided with a fraud notification lamp 111 that lights up an LED to notify hall personnel and the like that fraud has occurred if the main control device 100 determines that fraud has occurred.

[0022] Next, returning to Fig. 2, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. When a game ball enters the normal symbol start hole 55, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random numbers related to the normal symbol hit / miss judgment, and judges the hit / miss based on the extracted random numbers. Based on the result of this hit / miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the normal symbol variable display on the normal symbol display device 62C, and displays the fixed image after a predetermined time.

[0023] If the result of the hit / miss judgment is a hit, the pachinko machine 1 drives the normal electric device 57 to open the second special symbol start hole 58. The opening time and number of times of the second special symbol start hole 58 by the normal electric device 57 are set to 0.2 seconds x 1 time in the normal state, and 2 seconds x 1 time in the special game state (probability change state and time-saving state) that is advantageous to the player. When a game ball enters the first special symbol starting hole 56, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random number values ​​related to the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol, and stores a predetermined number of the extracted random number values ​​as reserved memory of the first special symbol. Then, the pachinko machine 1 performs a hit / miss judgment based on the reserved random number values. Based on the result of this hit / miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts a variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 62A, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed. The pachinko machine 1 also starts a variable display of a pseudo performance symbol corresponding to the first special symbol on the performance symbol display device 54, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed.

[0024] Similarly, when a game ball enters the second special symbol start hole 58, the pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random numbers related to the hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol, and stores a predetermined number of the extracted random numbers as reserved memory of the second special symbol. Then, the pachinko machine 1 performs a hit / miss judgment based on the reserved random number of the second special symbol. Based on this hit / miss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 62B, and displays the finalized second special symbol after a predetermined time has passed. Also, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the pseudo performance symbol corresponding to the second special symbol on the performance symbol display device 54, and displays the finalized pseudo performance symbol after a predetermined time has passed.

[0025] The variable display and the fixed display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed in small size in the corner of the game board 5. The pachinko machine 1 performs a pseudo display (in other words, a pattern display) using pseudo display symbols corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol on the display symbol display device 54 provided in the center of the game area 50, and notifies the player of the result of the hit / miss judgment through the pseudo display. The pachinko machine 1 performs a variable display of three pseudo display symbols in the pseudo display, and if the result of the hit / miss judgment is a jackpot, stops the three pseudo display symbols with the same pattern. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 performs a reach display in which two pseudo display symbols are stopped with the same pattern in the pseudo display, and the remaining one pseudo display symbol is displayed with a variable display, thereby giving the player a sense of expectation that the hit / miss judgment will be a jackpot.

[0026] Here, the pachinko machine 1 prioritizes the judgment of the second special symbol over the judgment of the first special symbol, regardless of the order of balls entering the first special symbol start hole 56 and the second special symbol start hole 58. Specifically, when there is a reserved memory of the first special symbol, the judgment of the first special symbol is made after the fluctuation of the second special symbol stops and there is no reserved memory of the second special symbol. When the first special chart or the second special chart is judged to be a jackpot, the pachinko machine 1 determines the jackpot type and jackpot pattern, and displays the jackpot pattern on the performance pattern display device 54, indicating whether the jackpot pattern is a variable or fixed jackpot, and starts a jackpot game (special game). During this jackpot game, the pachinko machine 1 opens and closes the jackpot winning hole 59. Specifically, the pachinko machine 1 closes the jackpot winning hole 59 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the opening of the jackpot winning hole 59 was started, or when the number of game balls that have entered the jackpot winning hole 59 since the opening of the jackpot winning hole 59 has reached a specified number of winning balls (10 in this embodiment), and performs a predetermined number of round games, with one round consisting of such a series of operations.

[0027] The pachinko machine 1 is a so-called probability variable machine, and is roughly divided into two game states: a game state in which the big prize opening 59 is closed, and a game state in which the big prize opening 59 is open. Furthermore, the game state in which the big prize opening 59 is closed includes two game states: a normal state (low probability state) and a probability variable state (high probability state) which is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. The probability variable state is a game state in which the probability of winning a jackpot in the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set higher than in the normal state. Furthermore, in the probability variable state, the opening time of the second special symbol start hole 58, which is opened by the normal electric device 57 when a hit is made with a normal symbol, is extended more than in the normal state.

[0028] The pachinko machine 1 also includes two types of jackpots: a probability jackpot and a normal jackpot. When the first or second special chart is judged to be a probability jackpot, the pachinko machine 1 selects a probability jackpot pattern as the jackpot pattern. In this case, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to a probability jackpot state after the jackpot game. On the other hand, when the first or second special chart is judged to be a normal jackpot, the pachinko machine 1 selects a non-probability jackpot pattern as the jackpot pattern. In this case, after the jackpot game, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to a time-saving state in which the variation time of the first special chart, the second special chart, and the normal chart is shortened and the opening time of the normal electric role object 57 is extended compared to the normal state. In this time-saving state, the pachinko machine 1 can increase the number of times that the first special chart, the second special chart, and the normal chart are displayed within a certain period of time.

[0029] (2. Electrical Configuration of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. Note that FIG. 4 does not show the so-called relay board and power circuit, which simply relay signals. The main control device 100, the payout control device 110, the sub-integrated control device 120, and the performance symbol control device 130 are each equipped with a CPU, a ROM, an RWM, an input port, an output port, and the like. Each CPU starts a program consisting of a main routine and a subroutine loaded in the ROM based on an interrupt signal with a 2 ms or 4 ms cycle, and executes various controls. Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the launch control device 140 is not provided with a CPU, a ROM, and an RWM, but the launch control device 140 may be provided with a CPU, a ROM, an RWM, and the like.

[0030] (2-1: Main control device 100) As shown in Fig. 4, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 is centered around a main control device 100 that mainly controls gameplay. The main control device 100 is electrically connected to a hall computer HC or a test firing device (not shown) via a back wiring relay terminal board 162 and an external connection terminal board 161. An output signal from the main control device 100 is sent to the hall computer HC or the test firing device via the back wiring relay terminal board 162 and the external connection terminal board 161.

[0031] A front frame open SW 201 that detects whether the front frame 3 (see FIG. 1) is open or not, and an inner frame open SW 202 that detects whether the inner frame 4 (see FIG. 3) is open or not are connected to the main control device 100 via a rear wiring relay terminal board 162. The front frame open SW 201 and the inner frame open SW 202 output their respective detection signals to the main control device 100. In addition, the main control device 100 is connected to a first start port SW203 that detects balls entering the first special start port 56 (see FIG. 2), a second start port SW204 that detects balls entering the second special start port 58 (see FIG. 2), a normal start port SW205 that detects balls entering the normal start port 55 (see FIG. 2), a normal prize port SW206 that detects balls entering the normal prize port 60 (see FIG. 2), a count SW207 that counts the number of balls entering the big prize port 59 (see FIG. 2), and an out port SW208 that detects game balls taken into the out port 61 through the game board relay terminal board 163. Then, the first start port SW203, the second start port SW204, the normal start port SW205, the normal prize port SW206, the count SW207, and the out port SW208 output their respective detection signals to the main control device 100.

[0032] Furthermore, the main control device 100 drives the large prize opening solenoid 209 via the game board relay terminal board 163 to control the opening and closing of the large prize opening 59 (see Figure 2), and also drives the normal electric device solenoid 210 to control the opening and closing of the normal electric device 57 (see Figure 2). The main control device 100 operates according to the installed program. The main control device 100 generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on various detection signals, etc., and outputs the commands to the payout control device 110 and the sub-integrated control device 120. Furthermore, the main control device 100 controls the display of the first special symbol display device 62A, the first special symbol reserved number display device 63A, the second special symbol display device 62B, the second special symbol reserved number display device 63B, the normal symbol display device 62C, and the normal symbol reserved number display device 63C, which are connected via the symbol display device relay terminal board 164.

[0033] (2-1-1: Outline of MPU300 configuration) Here, the MPU 300 (Micro Processing Unit) mounted on the main control device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5, the MPU 300 mainly includes a CPU 310, a ROM 320, an RWM 330, a counter circuit 340, a timer circuit 350, and a random number circuit 360. The CPU 310, the ROM 320, the RWM 330, the counter circuit 340, the timer circuit 350, and the random number circuit 360 are each connected via an internal bus 301, and the internal bus 301 is communicatively connected to various SWs and various devices provided in the pachinko machine 1 via an external bus interface 302 (see Fig. 4).

[0034] (2-1-2:ROM320) The ROM 320 stores a win / loss determination table 321a for the first special symbol, a pattern selection table 322a for the first special symbol, a variable pattern selection table 323a for the first special symbol, a win / loss determination table 321b for the second special symbol, a pattern selection table 322b for the second special symbol, a variable pattern selection table 323b for the second special symbol, and a reach determination table 324.

[0035] The first special symbol win / loss judgment table 321a is used to judge the win / loss of the first special symbol. The first special symbol win / loss judgment table 321a includes a plurality of win / loss judgment tables that are used according to the game state and the stage setting value described later. The first special symbol pattern selection table 322a is used when determining the pattern to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A as a result of the win / loss judgment of the first special symbol. The first special symbol variation pattern selection table 323a is used when selecting the variation pattern to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A. The first special symbol variation pattern selection table 323a includes a plurality of variation pattern selection tables that are used according to the result of the win / loss judgment of the first special symbol and the game state being executed.

[0036] The second special symbol win / loss judgment table 321b is used for winning / loss judgment of the second special symbol. The second special symbol win / loss judgment table 321b includes a plurality of win / loss judgment tables that are used according to the game state, the set stage value, etc. The second special symbol pattern selection table 322b is used when determining the pattern to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 62B as a result of the win / loss judgment of the second special symbol. The second special symbol variation pattern selection table 323b is used when selecting the variation pattern to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 62B. The second special symbol variation pattern selection table 323b includes a plurality of variation pattern selection tables that are used according to the result of the win / loss judgment of the second special symbol, the game state being executed, etc.

[0037] The reach judgment table 324 is used for judging whether the first special chart and the second special chart are hit or not. The reach judgment table 324 is used for deciding whether or not to perform a reach miss performance in which a pseudo performance pattern indicating a miss is confirmed after the reach performance in the pseudo performance display displayed on the performance pattern display device 54 in conjunction with the variable display of the first special chart and the second special chart. In addition, the ROM 320 further stores a normal pattern hit / miss judgment table 321c, a normal pattern selection table 322c, and a normal pattern variation pattern selection table 323c. The normal pattern hit / miss judgment table 321c is used to judge whether the normal pattern is hit or not. The normal pattern selection table 322c is used to determine the pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 62C as a result of the hit / miss judgment of the normal pattern. The normal pattern variation pattern selection table 323c is used to select the variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 62C.

[0038] (2-1-3:RWM330) The RWM 330 stores a first special symbol reserve memory area 331, a second special symbol reserve memory area 332, a regular symbol reserve memory area 333, a special symbol counter 334, a time-saving counter 335, a stage setting value storage area 336, and a mode value storage area 337. The first special design reserved memory area 331 stores the number of reserved balls for the first special design, and the second special design reserved memory area 332 stores the number of reserved balls for the second special design. The regular design reserved memory area 333 stores the number of reserved balls for the regular design. The upper limit of the number of reserved balls stored in the first special design reserved memory area 331, the second special design reserved memory area 332, and the regular design reserved memory area 333 is four.

[0039] The probability change counter 334 is used to count the probability change number M. As described above, when the pachinko machine 1 becomes a probability change jackpot in the hit / miss judgment of the first special chart or the second special chart, after the jackpot game ends, it transitions to a probability change state (high probability state) in which the probability of becoming a jackpot in the hit / miss judgment is higher than in the normal state (low probability state). At this time, a predetermined value (10000 in this embodiment) is set as the value of the probability change number M in the probability change counter 334. The value of this probability change number M decreases by 1 each time a hit / miss judgment is performed, and when the probability change number M becomes 0, the game state transitions from the probability change state to the normal state. In addition, the RWM 330 is provided with a probability change flag indicating that the game state is in a probability change state. This probability change flag is set to "1" when the game state is in a probability change state, and is set to "0" when the game state is not in a probability change state.

[0040] The time-saving counter 335 is used to count the number of time-saving times N. As described above, when the pachinko machine 1 is determined to be a normal jackpot in the hit / miss judgment of the first special design or the second special design, it transitions to a time-saving state after the jackpot game ends. At this time, a predetermined value (10,000 or 100 in this embodiment) is set in the time-saving counter 335 as the value of the number of time-saving times N. The value of this number of time-saving times N is decreased by 1 each time a hit / miss judgment is performed, and when the number of time-saving times N becomes 0, the game state transitions from the time-saving state to the normal state. In addition, the RWM 330 is provided with a time-saving flag indicating that the game state is in the time-saving state. This time-saving flag is set to "1" when the game state is in the time-saving state, and is set to "0" when the game state is not in the time-saving state.

[0041] (2-1-4: step setting value) The stage setting value storage area 336 stores a stage setting value that is a value related to the probability of winning in the win / loss judgment. As described above, the pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine with a setting function. That is, the pachinko machine 1 sets stage setting values ​​1 to 6 divided into six stages according to the probability of winning in the win / loss judgment in the stage setting value storage area 336. Then, the main control device 100 determines a win / loss judgment table to be used in the win / loss judgment of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the stage setting values ​​stored in the stage setting value storage area 336. Note that the stage setting value is not limited to six stages, and may be two to five stages, or seven stages or more. Also, the stage setting value may be only one stage.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 6, in this embodiment, when the stage setting value stored in the stage setting value storage area 336 is "1", the jackpot probability in the normal state is set to 1 / 300, and the jackpot probability in the special probability state is set to 1 / 30. When the stage setting value in the stage setting value storage area 336 is "2", the jackpot probability in the normal state is set to 1 / 290, and the jackpot probability in the special probability state is set to 1 / 29, and when the stage setting value in the stage setting value storage area 336 is "3", the jackpot probability in the normal state is set to 1 / 280, and the jackpot probability in the special probability state is set to 1 / 28.

[0043] Similarly, when the stage setting value is set to "4", the probability of a jackpot in the normal state is set to 1 / 270, and the probability of a jackpot in the special probability state is set to 1 / 27; when the stage setting value is set to "5", the probability of a jackpot in the normal state is set to 1 / 260, and the probability of a jackpot in the special probability state is set to 1 / 26; and when the stage setting value is set to "6", the probability of a jackpot in the normal state is set to 1 / 250, and the probability of a jackpot in the special probability state is set to 1 / 25.

[0044] In this embodiment, the stage setting value is linked to the jackpot probability in the normal state and the jackpot probability in the special probability state, but is not limited to this. For example, the pachinko machine 1 may be configured such that either the jackpot probability in the normal state or the jackpot probability in the special probability state is constant regardless of the stage setting value, while only the other is changed according to the stage setting value. Also, when the stage setting value is changed, the pachinko machine 1 may increase either the jackpot probability in the normal state or the jackpot probability in the special probability state, while decreasing the other.

[0045] Here, while the main control device 100 is designed to set values ​​from "1 to 6" as the stage setting values ​​to be stored in the stage setting value storage area 336, the pachinko machine 1 can also set "7" as the stage setting value to be stored in the stage setting value storage area 336. When "7" is stored in the stage setting value storage area 336, the main control device 100 determines that some kind of fraudulent activity or an abnormality in the RWM 330 has occurred. In this case, the main control device 100 disables the start of a game until the RWM 330 is cleared and the stage setting value is reset.

[0046] (2-1-5: Transition mode) The mode value storage area 337 stores a "mode value" indicating which of the four transition modes the pachinko machine 1 transitions to after the pachinko machine 1 is powered on (in other words, when power supply to the pachinko machine 1 starts). In this embodiment, at least two types of power-on are assumed: power-on when an employee of a pachinko parlor turns on the power switch 155, and power-on when power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is temporarily interrupted (hereinafter also referred to as a momentary power outage) and then the power is restored. Hereinafter, interruption of power supply to the pachinko machine 1 will also be referred to as a power outage.

[0047] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, when the power to the pachinko machine 1 is turned on and the specified preparation processing is completed, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to one of the transition modes: "game mode," "setting confirmation mode," "setting change mode," or "game stop mode." The game mode is a transition mode that is set when the pachinko machine 1 becomes playable. The game mode includes a "backup return mode" in which the game mode is transitioned to while maintaining the data (hereinafter, "backup data") that was stored in the RWM 330 at the time of the most recent power outage (for example, at the time of the momentary power outage), and an "RWM clear mode" in which the game mode is transitioned to after erasing the backup data that was stored in the RWM 330 at the time of the most recent power outage. When the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "0", the main control device 100 transitions to the game mode.

[0048] The setting confirmation mode is a transition mode that is set when a hall employee or the like checks the stage setting value currently set in the pachinko machine 1. The setting change mode is a transition mode that is set when changing the stage setting value set in the pachinko machine 1. Note that the pachinko machine 1 disables play when the setting confirmation mode or setting change mode is set as the transition mode.

[0049] Furthermore, when the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "1", the main control device 100 transitions to the setting check mode, and when the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "2", the main control device 100 transitions to the setting change mode. The setting check mode and the setting change mode are ended when a prescribed operation is performed by a hall employee or the like. After the setting check mode or the setting change mode is ended, the main control device 100 transitions to the game mode and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 337.

[0050] The setting check mode, setting change mode, and game stop mode are transition modes that can be entered only when the power is turned on. In other words, after the pachinko machine 1 has entered either the setting check mode or the setting change mode after the power is turned on, it will not enter any transition mode other than the game mode. Also, after the pachinko machine 1 has entered the game mode, it will not enter either the setting check mode, setting change mode, or game stop mode.

[0051] The game stop mode is a transition mode that is set when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330. When the game stop mode is set as the transition mode, "3" is stored in the mode value storage area 337 as the mode value. (2-1-6: Relationship between power-on operation and transition mode) Here, we will explain the operations that hall employees, etc. perform at the same time as they turn on the power switch 155 when selecting the transition mode to be set in the pachinko machine 1 after power is turned on. Hall employees, etc. can select the mode to which the pachinko machine 1 will transition after power is turned on by performing the following predetermined operations at the same time as power is turned on.

[0052] Specifically, when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on with the setting key SW102 provided on the main control device 100 being turned on (in other words, the power supply SW155 is turned on), the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the setting confirmation mode or the setting change mode. On the other hand, when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on with the setting key SW102 being turned off, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the game mode.

[0053] In addition, when the power is turned on while the RWM clear SW101 provided on the main control device 100 is pressed down (turned ON), the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the RWM clear mode or the setting change mode. At this time, the main control device 100 erases the backup data stored in the RWM 330 at the time of the most recent power outage before transitioning to the game mode or the setting change mode. On the other hand, when the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1 with the RWM clear SW101 turned OFF, the pachinko machine 1 starts playing while maintaining the backup data stored in the RWM 330 at the time of the most recent power outage before transitioning to the game mode (hereinafter also referred to as backup recovery). As a result, when the power is turned on after the instantaneous interruption, the game is resumed while maintaining the state at the time of the instantaneous interruption.

[0054] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, when the power supply SW155 is switched ON with the setting key SW102 turned OFF and the RWM clear SW101 turned OFF, the main control device 100 executes a backup recovery and then transitions to the gaming mode (arrow in FIG. 8). <1> ). In addition, when the power supply SW155 is switched ON with the setting key SW102 turned OFF and the RWM clear SW101 turned ON, the main control device 100 executes a clear process of the RWM 330 and then transitions to the game mode (arrow in FIG. 8). <2> ).

[0055] On the other hand, when the power switch 155 is switched ON with the setting key SW 102 turned ON and the RWM clear SW 101 turned OFF, the main control device 100 transitions to the setting confirmation mode (arrow 8 in FIG. 8). <3> When the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF while the transition mode is set to the setting confirmation mode, the main control device 100 executes a notification process to the effect that the backup has been restored, and then transitions to the game mode.

[0056] Furthermore, when the power switch 155 is switched ON with the setting key SW 102 turned ON and the RWM clear SW 101 turned ON, the main control device 100 transitions to the setting change mode (arrow 8 in FIG. 8). <4> When the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF with the transition mode set to the setting change mode, the main control device 100 executes a notification process to the effect that the RWM 330 has been cleared, and then transitions to the game mode.

[0057] In this embodiment, when the main control device 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330, it is necessary to perform a clear process for the RWM 330 and reset the stage setting value. Therefore, in this case, when the main control device 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330, the main control device 100 transitions to a game stop mode. In this regard, the game stop mode takes precedence over the backup return mode, the RWM clear mode, and the setting check mode, as shown in Fig. 10. In other words, even if the RWM clear SW101 and the setting key SW102 are operated to transition to the backup return mode, the RWM clear mode, or the setting check mode when the main control device 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330, the main control device 100 transitions to the game stop mode when the power is turned on.

[0058] In contrast, the setting change mode takes precedence over the game stop mode. In other words, when the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the game stop mode, the hall employee or the like operates the RWM clear SW101 and the setting key SW102 to transition to the setting change mode at the same time as turning on the power, and executes the resetting of the stage setting value and the clearing process of the RWM 330. In this way, the hall employee or the like can return the pachinko machine 1 to a playable state.

[0059] Specifically, when the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the play stop mode, the hall employee first turns the power OFF. Then, when turning the power ON again, the hall employee turns ON the setting key SW102 and also switches ON the power SW155 with the RWM clear SW101 ON. This causes the pachinko machine 1 to transition to the setting change mode. The hall employee then sets the desired stage setting value in the setting change mode and ends the setting change mode. This causes the pachinko machine 1 to reset the stage setting value and clear the RWM 330, and the transition mode is set to the play mode.

[0060] In this way, when an abnormality occurs in the RWM 330, the pachinko machine 1 turns on the power supply SW155 with the setting key SW102 turned on and the RWM clear SW101 turned on (as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 8 ). <4> ), the game stops (see arrow in Figure 8). <5> In this case, the pachinko machine 1 cannot switch from the game stop mode to the game mode, and has no choice but to switch to the power off process. The hall employee or the like can turn the power back on and reset the stage setting value in the setting change mode and execute the process of clearing the RWM 330 to make the pachinko machine 1 playable.

[0061] In the pachinko machine 1, if the power is turned off during the setting change mode, the mode to be entered after the power is turned on is set to the setting change mode regardless of the operation of the setting key SW102 and the RWM clear SW101 if it is determined that there is no abnormality in the RWM 330 when the power is turned on (see the arrow in FIG. 8). <4> However, in this case, if the main control device 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330 when the power is turned on, and if the setting change mode has not been selected during the operation when the power is turned on, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the game stop mode (as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 8). <5> ).

[0062] In this regard, the main control device 100 locks the setting key SW102 when the power-off process is performed before the setting change mode is terminated (i.e., before the setting key SW102 is switched from ON to OFF). Therefore, when the power is turned on after the power-off process is performed during the setting change mode, the setting key SW102 is necessarily set to ON. In this case, even if the RWM clear SW101 is not set to ON when the power is turned on, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the setting change mode if there is no abnormality in the RWM330. Also, in this case, even if an abnormality occurs in the RWM330 and the game stop mode is set as the transition mode, a hall employee or the like can transition to the setting change mode after power is turned on by turning on the power while pressing down the RWM clear SW101.

[0063] The stage setting values ​​stored in the stage setting value storage area 336 are not erased even if the RWM 330 is cleared. On the other hand, the mode values ​​stored in the mode value storage area 337 are erased by the RWM 330 clearing process. In this regard, the CPU 310 is provided with a general-purpose register 311. Then, before executing the process of clearing the RWM 330, the main control unit 100 stores the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 in the general-purpose register 311. As a result, even if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is erased by the process of clearing the RWM 330, the main control unit 100 can confirm the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 at the time of the power outage by referring to the general-purpose register 311.

[0064] (2-1-7: Display of step setting value) Here, the performance display device 103 displays the stage setting values ​​when the setting confirmation mode or the setting change mode is set as the transition mode. That is, when the setting confirmation mode is set as the transition mode, the performance display device 103 displays the currently set stage setting value in a lit state on the performance display unit 103a. Specifically, the performance display device 103 displays "--" in the identification display unit 103b, and displays one of "-1" to "-6" in the performance display unit 103a. For example, if the currently set stage setting value is "3", the performance display device 103 displays "---3" as the stage setting value.

[0065] Furthermore, when the setting change mode is set as the transition mode, the performance display device 103 displays the provisionally set stage setting value in a flashing manner on the performance display unit 103a. For example, when the provisionally set stage setting value is "5", the performance display device 103 displays "---5" in a flashing manner. Next, the procedure for changing the stage set value will be described. When the setting change mode is set as the transition mode, the main control device 100 causes the performance display device 103 to flash the provisionally set stage set value. Then, the main control device 100 adds 1 to the provisionally set stage set value every time the RWM clear SW 101 is pressed once. For example, when the provisionally set stage set value is "5", if the RWM clear SW 101 is pressed once, the provisionally set stage set value switches from "5" to "6", and the display on the performance display device 103 switches from "---5" to "---6".

[0066] Furthermore, when the RWM clear SW101 is pressed once when the provisionally set stage setting value is "6", the provisionally set stage setting value switches to "1", and the display on the performance display device 103 switches from "---6" to "---1". That is, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the upper limit of the settable stage setting value is "6". Therefore, when the RWM clear SW101 is pressed once when the provisionally set stage setting value is "6", "1", which is the lower limit of the settable stage setting value, is provisionally set as the stage setting value.

[0067] (2-1-8: Counter circuit) Returning to Fig. 5, the description of the MPU 300 will be continued. The counter circuit 340 performs timing processing of various counters provided in the pachinko machine 1, and the timer circuit 350 performs timing processing of various timers provided in the pachinko machine 1. For example, the timer circuit 350 includes a variable time timer 351 in which a variable time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is set according to a selected variable pattern. The main control device 100 performs a variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol until the variable time timer 351 reaches 0, and performs a final display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol when the variable time timer 351 reaches 0.

[0068] (2-1-9: Random number circuit 360) The random number circuit 360 generates hardware random numbers used in the processing performed by the main control device 100. Examples of random numbers generated by the random number circuit 360 include a random number for determining whether or not a first special symbol and a second special symbol are a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is a hit. When the extracted random number for determining whether or not a big win is determined matches the random number value set in the hit / miss determination table 321a for the first special symbol or the hit / miss determination table 321b for the second special symbol, the main control device 100 determines that the result of the hit / miss determination is a big win.

[0069] When a gaming ball enters the first special symbol start hole 56, the main control device 100 stores the extracted random number for determining a big win in the first special symbol reserve memory area 331. Similarly, when a gaming ball enters the second special symbol start hole 58, the main control device 100 stores the extracted random number for determining a big win in the second special symbol reserve memory area 332. When a gaming ball enters the normal symbol start hole 55, the main control device 100 stores the extracted random number for determining a win in the normal symbol reserve memory area 333.

[0070] The random number circuit 360 generates a random number 1 for determining a jackpot symbol and a random number 2 for determining a jackpot symbol used to select a special symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A or the second special symbol display device 62B. Then, the main control device 100 determines a special symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A or the second special symbol display device 62B based on the extracted random number 1 for determining a jackpot symbol and the random number 2 for determining a jackpot symbol and the random number value set in the first special symbol symbol selection table 322a or the second special symbol symbol selection table 322b.

[0071] Similarly, the random number circuit 360 generates a winning symbol determining random number used to select a normal symbol to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 62C. Then, the main control device 100 determines a normal symbol to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 62C based on the extracted winning symbol determining random number and the random number value set in the normal symbol selection table 322c. Furthermore, the random number circuit 360 generates a reach determination random number used to determine whether or not to perform a reach-miss performance. Then, the main control device 100 determines whether or not to perform a reach-miss performance based on the extracted reach determination random number and the random number value set in the reach determination table 324.

[0072] In addition, the random number circuit 360 generates a special pattern variation pattern determination random number 1 and a special pattern variation pattern determination random number 2 used to select a variation pattern to be displayed on the first special pattern display device 62A or the second special pattern display device 62B. Then, the main control device 100 determines a variation pattern to be displayed on the first special pattern display device 62A or the second special pattern display device 62B based on the extracted special pattern variation pattern determination random number 1 and special pattern variation pattern determination random number 2 and the random number value set in the first special pattern variation pattern selection table 323a or the second special pattern variation pattern selection table 323b.

[0073] Furthermore, the random number circuit 360 generates a random number for determining a normal pattern variation pattern used to select a variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 62C. Then, the main control device 100 determines the variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 62C based on the extracted random number 2 for determining a normal pattern variation pattern and the random number value set in the normal pattern variation pattern selection table 323c.

[0074] (2-2: Dispensing control device 110) Returning to FIG. 4, the payout control device 110 will be described. The payout control device 110 is connected to the main control device 100 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The payout control device 110 is connected to the front frame opening SW 201 and the inner frame opening SW 202 via the payout relay terminal board 165 and the back wiring relay terminal board 162. The payout control device 110 transmits information about winning balls, information about the open / closed state of the front frame 3 and the inner frame 4, etc. to the hall computer HC or the test shot test device (not shown) via the external connection terminal board 161. The payout control device 110 also transmits a shot stop signal to the shot control device 140 to stop the shot of the game balls as necessary.

[0075] In addition, the dispensing control device 110 is connected to a bulb out SW 211 that detects when the bulb tank 41 (see FIG. 3) is empty via the rear wiring relay terminal board 162. When the bulb out SW 211 detects that the bulb tank 41 (see FIG. 3) is empty, it outputs a detection signal to the dispensing control device 110. Furthermore, the payout control device 110 is connected to a payout motor 112 that pays out game balls and a payout SW 212 that detects that the game balls have been paid out via a payout relay terminal board 165. The payout control device 110 drives the payout motor 112 in response to a command sent from the main control device 100 to pay out game balls, and when the payout SW 212 detects that the game balls have been paid out, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 110. Furthermore, a full SW 213 that detects that the lower tray 35 has become full is connected to the payout control device 110. When the full SW 213 detects that the lower tray 35 has become full, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 110.

[0076] When a detection signal is input from the out-of-ball SW 211 and when a detection signal is input from the full SW 213, the payout control device 110 stops the payout motor 112. This stops the payout operation of the payout unit 43. The out-of-ball SW 211 continues to output a detection signal until the out-of-ball condition is resolved, and the full SW 213 continues to output a detection signal until the full condition of the lower tray 35 is released. Then, when the input of the detection signals from the out-of-ball SW 211 and the full SW 213 stops, the payout control device 110 resumes driving the payout motor 112.

[0077] The present invention may be applied to an enclosed type gaming machine in which game balls enclosed in the machine are circulated to play a game, and in this case, one-way communication may be performed from the main control device 100 to the payout control device 110 (in the case of an enclosed type gaming machine, since game balls are not paid out, it is preferable to call it a frame control device). In this case, the gaming machine can be configured to be difficult to be fraudulently used. Furthermore, the payout control device 110 is connected to the CR unit 70 and the settlement display SW 214 via the CR unit terminal board 166 so as to be capable of two-way communication. A ball lending SW 215 and a settlement SW 216 operated by a player are connected to the settlement display SW 214. The ball lending SW 215 is a switch operated when a player requests the lending of game balls, and the settlement SW 216 is a switch operated when a player requests settlement.

[0078] When the ball lending SW 215 detects the operation of the lending button 71 by the player, it outputs an operation signal for a lending request. The lending request signal output by the ball lending SW 215 is input to the CR unit 70 via the settlement display SW 214, and a lending request signal is transmitted from the CR unit 70 to the payout control device 110. Then, when the payout control device 110 receives the lending request signal from the CR unit 70, it drives the payout motor 112 to pay out game balls and controls the display of the balance of the prepaid card inserted in the CR unit 70.

[0079] When the settlement SW 216 detects the operation of the settlement button 72 by the player, it outputs an operation signal for requesting settlement. The settlement request signal output by the settlement SW 216 is input to the CR unit 70 via the settlement display SW 214, and the CR unit 70 performs control related to the balance management and balance display of the prepaid card inserted into the CR unit 70 in response to the settlement request signal. The payout control device 110 is also provided with a fraud notification lamp 111, which is an LED that lights up when it is determined that the frequency of balls entering the normal winning port 60 is abnormal. When the payout control device 110 receives a fraud command from the main control device 100, it lights up the fraud notification lamp 111 to notify hall employees, etc. that fraud may have occurred.

[0080] (2-3: Sub-integrated control device 120 and performance pattern control device 130) The sub integrated control device 120 is connected to the main control device 100 via the performance relay terminal board 167, and enables communication from the main control device 100 to the sub integrated control device 120. The sub integrated control device 120 controls performance based on commands received from the main control device 100. A button operation detection SW221 that detects the operation of the performance button 37 (see FIG. 1) and a jog dial operation detection SW222 that detects the operation of the jog dial 38 (see FIG. 1) are connected to the sub integrated control device 120. The button operation detection SW221 and the jog dial operation detection SW222 input their respective detection signals to the sub integrated control device 120.

[0081] The sub-integrated control device 120 controls the output of sound by driving the speaker 32, and also controls the turning on and off of various LEDs and lamps including the frame side decorative lamp 33. Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 120 is provided with a volume adjustment SW 121 that adjusts the volume of sound output from the speaker 32. The sub-integrated control device 120 controls the volume of sound output from the speaker 32 based on an operation signal input from the volume adjustment SW 121.

[0082] The effect symbol control device 130 is connected to the sub-integrated control device 120 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The sub-integrated control device 120 transmits commands to the effect symbol control device 130 regarding the display mode of the pseudo effect that displays characters and the pseudo pattern of the special pattern. Meanwhile, the effect symbol control device 130 displays the pseudo effect pattern corresponding to the command sent from the sub-integrated control device 120 on the LCD panel of the effect symbol display device 54, and notifies the result of the hit / miss judgment by performing the pseudo effect display.

[0083] In addition, if the sub-integrated control device 120 determines that the frequency of balls entering the normal winning port 60 is abnormal, it will issue an error alert via the speaker 32, the frame side decorative lamp 33, and the performance pattern display device 54. (2-4: Launch control device 140) The launch control device 140 is connected to the payout control device 110, and enables communication from the payout control device 110 to the launch control device 140. The launch control device 140 controls the launch motor 141 based on commands sent from the main control device 100 via the payout control device 110 and rotation signals of the launch handle 36, and launches and stops the launch of game balls.

[0084] The launch control device 140 is also connected to a launch stop SW241 provided on the launch handle 36 and a touch SW242 that detects the player's contact with the launch handle 36. When the touch SW242 detects the player's contact with the launch handle 36, it inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 140. When the detection signal is input from the touch SW242, the launch control device 140 launches the game ball. On the other hand, the launch stop SW241 inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 140 when an operation is performed by the player. When the detection signal is input from the launch stop SW241, the launch control device 140 stops the launch of the game ball even when a detection signal is input from the touch SW242.

[0085] (2-5: Power supply board 150) As shown in Fig. 11, the power supply board 150 includes a power supply circuit 151, a power receiving circuit 152, a power failure detection circuit 153, and a backup power supply circuit 154. The power supply circuit 151 converts an AC voltage supplied from an external AC power supply (main power supply AC 24V) to generate a DC voltage. The power receiving circuit 152 is provided with a power supply SW155, and the power supply circuit 151 is connected to the AC power supply via the power receiving circuit 152. When the power supply SW155 is turned ON, the power supply circuit 151 is conductive with the AC power supply, and the main power supply AC 24V is supplied to the power supply circuit 151. Then, the power supply circuit 151 supplies the necessary DC voltage to various control devices, actuators, and the like.

[0086] The power failure detection circuit 153 monitors the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 151. When the supplied voltage falls below a predetermined voltage, the power failure detection circuit 153 determines that the power supply SW 155 has been switched OFF or that a power interruption has occurred due to a power failure, and sets the power failure detection signal output to the main control device 100 and the dispensing control device 110 to a high level (ON). On the other hand, when the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 151 rises above the predetermined voltage, the power failure detection circuit 153 sets the power failure detection signal to a low level (OFF).

[0087] In this embodiment, the power failure detection circuit 153 is described as transmitting a power failure detection signal to the main control device 100 and the dispensing control device 110, but this is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the power failure detection circuit 153 may be configured to transmit a power failure detection signal to only one of the main control device 100 and the dispensing control device 110, and transmit a power failure command from the main control device 100 to the dispensing control device 110, or from the dispensing control device 110 to the main control device 100.

[0088] The backup power supply circuit 154 is composed of a capacitor, etc. The backup power supply circuit 154 charges the DC 5V power generated by the power supply circuit 151 while supplying power from the AC power supply, and in the event of a power outage, supplies the backup power (DC 5V) to the RWM 330 of the main control device 100 and the RWM of the dispensing control device 110, etc. In this embodiment, the backup power supply is supplied to the RWM 330 of the main control device 100 and the RWM of the payout control device 110. Therefore, even after the power supply is cut off, the pachinko machine 1 can hold the contents stored in the main control device 100 and the payout control device 110 at the time of the power outage, for a certain period of time, such as the game status of the pachinko machine 1 and the number of game balls to be paid out as prize balls.

[0089] On the other hand, the backup power supply is not supplied to the RWM of the sub integrated control device 120. Therefore, when the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped, the contents stored in the RWM of the sub integrated control device 120 are erased. However, the stage setting value storage area 336 in which the stage setting values ​​are stored is configured as a non-volatile memory, and the contents of the stage setting value storage area 336 may be retained even after the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped.

[0090] (3. Specifications of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the basic specifications of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The probability of a big win in the normal state of the pachinko machine 1 is 1 / 300 (when the stage setting value is 1) to 1 / 250 (when the stage setting value is 6), and the probability of a big win in the high probability state is 1 / 30 (when the stage setting value is 1) to 1 / 25 (when the stage setting value is 6) (see Fig. 6).

[0091] Regarding the prize balls of the pachinko machine 1, when one game ball enters the first special game starting hole 56 and the second special game starting hole 58, the prize balls are three, when one game ball enters the normal game winning hole 60, the prize balls are ten, and when one game ball enters the large game winning hole 59, the prize balls are fifteen. Regarding the number of prizes that the pachinko machine 1 specifies, the number of prizes that the second special prize start port 58 specifies is four, and the number of prizes that the special prize start port 59 specifies is ten. In other words, if four game balls enter the second special prize start port 58 during the period from when the second special prize start port 58 is opened by the normal power accessory solenoid 210 until a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal power accessory solenoid 210 closes the second special prize start port 58. Also, if ten game balls enter the special prize start port 59 during the period from when the special prize start port 59 is opened by the special prize port solenoid 209 until a predetermined time has elapsed, the special prize port solenoid 209 closes the second special prize start port 58.

[0092] Regarding the probability of winning in the normal game state, the probability of winning is 1 / 6, and the probability of winning in the special game state is 5 / 6. In addition, regarding the opening time and the number of openings of the second special game start hole 58, the opening time in the normal state is 0.2 x 1 time, and the opening time in the special game state is 2 seconds x 1 time. Regarding the jackpot types of the pachinko machine 1, the pachinko machine 1 includes three types of jackpot types. Specifically, the pachinko machine 1 includes three types of jackpot types: a 15R probability variable jackpot that transitions to a probability variable state after 15 rounds of round play, a 10R probability variable jackpot that transitions to a probability variable state after 10 rounds of round play, and a 5R normal jackpot that transitions to a time-saving state after 5 rounds of round play.

[0093] In addition, when the first special chart is judged as a jackpot, the probability of a 15R special jackpot is 30%, the probability of a 10R special jackpot is 30%, and the probability of a 5R normal jackpot is 40%. On the other hand, when the second special chart is judged as a jackpot, the probability of a 15R special jackpot is 40%, the probability of a 10R special jackpot is 20%, and the probability of a 5R normal jackpot is 40%. In addition, when a 15R special jackpot or a 10R special jackpot is won, the number of special jackpots granted after the jackpot game is 10,000 times. On the other hand, when a 5R normal jackpot is won, the number of time-saving times granted in the time-saving state to which the game transitions after the jackpot game is won is 100 times.

[0094] (4. Startup process) Next, the startup process executed by the main control device 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 13. The startup process is a process executed when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on. 13, as the first process of the startup process, the main control unit 100 sets a stack pointer to a stack address (S1). Next, the main control unit 100 sets an interrupt vector address of the interrupt vector table to a corresponding register (S2) and also sets a built-in register (S3). Note that the interrupt vector address is used to specify a start address in the address space (memory space) related to a program for interrupt processing, which will be described later.

[0095] Next, the main control device 100 reads the register of the input port (S4) and determines whether the power failure stop signal is OFF or not (S5). If the power failure detection signal remains ON (S5: No), the main control device 100 determines that the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 151 has not reached the predetermined voltage. In this case, the main control device 100 returns to the S4 process, and the processes of S4 and S5 are repeatedly executed until the power failure stop signal is OFF.

[0096] On the other hand, if the power outage detection signal is switched to OFF (S5: Yes), the main control unit 100 determines that the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 151 has reached or exceeded a predetermined voltage and a stable voltage supply has been achieved, and allows writing to the RWM 330 (S6). After the process of S6, the main control device 100 executes an initial setting process (S7). This initial setting process (S7) mainly sets the transition mode, and when the state is transitioned to a state where the game can be started, sets the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B to display the start of the game mode. Details of the initial setting process (S7) will be described later with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG.

[0097] After the process of S7, the main control device 100 prohibits interrupts (S8) and executes register save (S9). After that, the main control device 100 executes a gaming performance calculation process to calculate gaming performance such as a base value (S10). In other words, the main control device 100 performs calculations related to gaming performance outside the area of ​​the RWM 330. After processing S10, the main control unit 100 executes register restoration (S11) and allows interrupts (S12), and returns to processing S8. Thus, the main control unit 100 repeatedly executes the processes from S8 to S12 in the startup process. Meanwhile, the main control unit 100 periodically (for example, at 4 ms intervals) executes an interrupt process (see FIG. 14), which will be described later, between the time when processing S12 is executed and the time when processing S8 is executed again.

[0098] (5: Interrupt processing) Next, the interrupt processing executed by the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 14. As shown in Fig. 14, the main control unit 100 sets a timer and a watchdog timer as the first process executed in the interrupt processing (S21). In the process of S21, the main control unit 100 sets various timers provided in the main control unit 100, and clears and restarts the watchdog timer.

[0099] After processing S21, the main control device 100 judges whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "3" (S22). As a result, if the mode value is "3" (S22: Yes), the pachinko machine 1 can judge that the game stop mode is set as the transition mode. In other words, the pachinko machine 1 can be judged to be in a state in which it is not possible to start a game and is waiting for the power supply SW 155 to be switched to OFF. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 performs interrupt permission (S35) and returns to the start-up process (see FIG. 13).

[0100] On the other hand, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not "3" (S22: No), the main control device 100 executes a timer update process to update various timers provided in the main control device 100 (S23). Next, the main control device 100 executes an input determination process (S24) which is a process related to the entry of game balls into various starting holes and various winning holes. Details of the input determination process (S24) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16. After the process of S24, the main control device 100 executes a win / loss determination process (S25) which is a process related to win / loss determination and jackpot play. Details of the win / loss determination process (S25) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 19.

[0101] After the process of S25, the main control device 100 executes a game state setting process (S26) in which, when the game state has changed, a signal to that effect is sent to the hall computer HC. In the process of S26, the main control device 100 sends a signal to the hall computer HC after a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the big win game (special game) or the winning game (normal game) in the hit / miss determination process (S25) described above. Note that, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to a test firing device (not shown), the main control device 100 sends a test signal indicating that the game state has changed to the test firing device (not shown) in the process of S26.

[0102] After the process of S26, the main control device 100 performs an error monitoring process (S27) for monitoring whether an error has occurred. Examples of errors that the main control device 100 monitors for in the error monitoring process (S27) include an open error indicating that the front frame 3 or the inner frame 4 is open, a radio wave error indicating that an abnormal radio wave has been detected by a radio wave sensor (not shown), and a vibration error indicating that an abnormal vibration has been detected by a vibration sensor (not shown).

[0103] After the process of S27, the main control device 100 executes a prize ball command transmission process (S28) to transmit a prize ball command to the payout control device 110. Then, the payout control device 110 executes the payout of the prize balls set for each of the various starting holes or various winning holes into which the ball entered, based on the received prize ball command. After the process of S28, the main control device 100 executes a performance data output process (S29) in which image data, audio data, etc. corresponding to the game content are created during execution, and output to the sub integrated control device 120. Furthermore, when the main control device 100 detects the occurrence of an error in the error monitoring process (S27) described above, it appropriately notifies the error by displaying an error on the performance symbol display device 54, lighting or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 33, outputting audio from the speaker 32, etc., according to the content of the detected error.

[0104] After the process of S29, the main control device 100 executes an external output process (S30) to the hall computer HC via the external connection terminal board 161. In the process of S30, the main control device 100 transmits data related to the large prize opening solenoid 209 and the normal power accessory solenoid 210 to the hall computer HC based on the process contents of the hit / miss determination process (S25) described above. Also, in the process of S30, if the main control device 100 detects the occurrence of an error in the error monitoring process (S27) described above, it transmits a security signal to the hall computer HC. Note that, if a test firing device is connected to the pachinko machine 1, the main control device 100 transmits data related to the large prize opening solenoid 209 and the normal power accessory solenoid 210 and a security signal to the test firing device in the process of S30.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 15, after processing S30, the main control unit 100 saves the register (S31) and executes a performance display data creation process (S32). In the process of S32, the main control unit 100 creates data for displaying on the performance display device 103 the calculation results of the performance display division process (S10) executed outside the area of ​​the RWM 330 in the startup process (see S20) and the test results of the test firing test. After processing S31, the main control unit 100 executes register restoration (S33).

[0106] After the process of S33, the main control device 100 executes a segment data creation process (S34). In the process of S34, the main control device 100 creates segment data for controlling the light emission of each common (8-bit display area related to an LED segment) of various LEDs provided on the performance display device 103 in preparation for displaying the data created in the process of S31 on the performance display device 103.

[0107] After the process of S34, the main control device 100 displays the game performance and test firing data on the performance display device 103 as a display process (S35) for various display devices. In addition, in the process of S35, the main control device 100 performs variable display and final display of various symbols on the first special symbol display device 62A, the second special symbol display device 62B, and the normal symbol display device 62C according to the game situation being executed. After the process of S35, the main control device 100 permits an interrupt (S36) and returns to the start-up process (see FIG. 13).

[0108] In addition, the main control device 100 executes the performance display calculation process (S10) in the startup process (S20), while performing the process related to displaying the calculation results of the performance display calculation process (S10) in the interrupt process. In this regard, the main control device 100 performs the performance display calculation process (S10), which has a large processing volume, in the startup process, thereby preventing interrupt prohibition (S8, see FIG. 13) from being executed before the performance display calculation process (S10) is completed. Meanwhile, the main control device 100 can improve the efficiency of display control by executing the display process for the performance display device 103 at the same timing as the display process for the first special diagram display device 62A, etc.

[0109] (6. Input Judgment Processing) Next, the input determination process (S24) executed in the interrupt process (see FIG. 14) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 16, the main control device 100 executes a special ball entry confirmation process (S41) as the first process of the input determination process (S24). The special ball entry confirmation process (S41) is a process executed when a game ball enters the first special ball start hole 56 or the second special ball start hole 58. Details of the special ball entry confirmation process (S41) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 17.

[0110] After the process of S41, the main control device 100 executes a normal ball entry confirmation process (S42). The normal ball entry confirmation process (S42) is a process executed when a game ball enters the normal ball entry start hole 55. Details of the normal ball entry confirmation process (S42) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. After processing S42, the main control device 100 executes a winning number count process (S43). The winning number count process (S43) is a process executed when a gaming ball enters the large winning opening 59 or the normal winning opening 60. Specifically, in the process of S43, when the normal winning opening SW 206 or the count SW 207 detects a gaming ball, the main control device 100 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of gaming balls that have entered the large winning opening 59 or the normal winning opening 60.

[0111] After processing S43, the main control device 100 executes a number-of-outs counting process (S44). The number-of-outs counting process (S44) is a process for tallying up the number of outs used to calculate game performance. Specifically, in the process of S44, when the first start port SW203, the second start port SW204, the normal start port SW205, the normal winning port SW206, the count SW207, and the out port SW208 detect a game ball, the main control device 100 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of outs.

[0112] After processing S44, the main control device 100 judges whether the frequency of balls entering the normal winning opening 60 is abnormal (S45). Specifically, in the processing of S44, the main control device 100 judges that cheating has occurred if the number of game balls entering the normal winning opening 60 within a predetermined time (e.g., 60 seconds) exceeds a specified number (e.g., 10 balls). As a result, if the frequency of balls entering is normal (S45: No), the main control device 100 ends this processing as it is.

[0113] On the other hand, if the ball entry frequency is abnormal (S45: Yes), the main control device 100 transmits a fraud notification command to the dispensing control device 110 and the sub integrated control device 120 (S46), and ends this process. In the process of S46, the dispensing control device 110, which has received the fraud notification command from the main control device 100, turns on the fraud notification lamp 111 (see FIG. 3) provided on the dispensing control device 110.

[0114] Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 120, which has received a fraud notification command from the main control device 100, issues an error notification by turning on or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 33, outputting a voice from the speaker 32, etc. Furthermore, the performance pattern control device 130, which has received a fraud notification command from the sub-integrated control device 120, displays a warning that fraud has occurred on the performance pattern display device 54. The error notification by voice output from the speaker 32 ends 30 seconds after the error notification starts, and the warning display on the performance pattern display device 54 and the error notification by the frame side decorative lamp 33 end 5 minutes after the error notification starts.

[0115] (6-1: Special ball entry confirmation process) Next, the special ball entry confirmation process (S41) executed in the input judgment process (S24, see FIG. 16) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17, the main control device 100 judges whether or not a game ball has entered the first special ball entry hole 56 (S51) as the first process executed in the special ball entry confirmation process (S41). Specifically, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the first start hole SW203 has detected a game ball. Then, if the game ball has not entered the first special ball entry hole 56 (S51: No), the main control device 100 skips to the process of S58.

[0116] On the other hand, when the game ball enters the first special symbol starting hole 56 (S51: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the reserved memory number of the first special symbol is full (4 pieces) or not (S52). As a result, if the reserved memory number of the first special symbol is full (S52: Yes), the main control device 100 skips to the process of S55. In contrast, if the number of reserved memories for the first special chart is not full (three or less) (S52: No), the main control unit 100 executes a first special chart extraction random number reserved storage process (S53) to store multiple random number values ​​(random number for determining a jackpot, random number 1 for determining a jackpot pattern, random number 2 for determining a jackpot pattern, random number for reaching a reach, random number for determining a fluctuation pattern, etc.) extracted due to the ball entering the first special chart starting hole 56 as reserved memories.

[0117] Next, the main control device 100 increases the reserved memory number lit on the first special symbol reserved number display device 63A by one, and performs a transmission process of a first special symbol reserved number command to transmit the current reserved memory number of the first special symbol to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S54). Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 transmits the first special symbol reserved number command to the performance pattern control device 130, and updates the display content of the first special symbol reserved display 401 on the performance pattern display device 54. After the process of S54, the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S55.

[0118] In the process of S55, the main control device 100 judges whether the start display flag is 1 or not. If the start display flag is 1 (S55: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that the game mode start display is displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 executes a start display end process to end the game mode start display (S56), sets the start display flag to 0 (S57), and proceeds to the process of S58. On the other hand, if the start display flag is 0 (S55: No), the main control device 100 judges that the game mode start display is not displayed on the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B. Therefore, the main control device 100 skips the processes of S56 and S57 and proceeds to the process of S58.

[0119] In the process of S58, the main control device 100 judges whether or not a game ball has entered the second special pattern start hole 58. Specifically, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the second start hole SW204 has detected a game ball. Then, if the game ball has not entered the second special pattern start hole 58 (S58: No), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S62. On the other hand, when the game ball enters the second special symbol starting hole 58 (S58: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the reserved memory number of the second special symbol is full (4 pieces) or not (S59). As a result, if the reserved memory number of the second special chart is full (S59: Yes), the main control device 100 skips to the processing of S62.

[0120] On the other hand, if the number of reserved memories for the second special chart is not full (S59: No), the main control unit 100 executes a second special chart extraction random number reserved storage process (S60) in which multiple random number values ​​(random number for determining a jackpot, random number 1 for determining a jackpot pattern, random number 2 for determining a jackpot pattern, random number for reaching a reach, random number for determining a fluctuation pattern, etc.) extracted due to the ball entering the second special chart starting hole 58 are stored as reserved memories.

[0121] Next, the main control device 100 increases the reserved memory number lit on the second special symbol reserved number display device 63B by one, and performs a transmission process of a second special symbol reserved number command to transmit the current reserved memory number of second special symbols to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S61). Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 transmits the second special symbol reserved number command to the performance symbol control device 130, and updates the display content of the second special symbol reserved display 402 on the performance symbol display device 54. After the process of S61, the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S62.

[0122] The processes from S62 to S64 are the same as the processes from S55 to S57 described above. That is, when the main control device 100 determines that the game mode start display is displayed (S62: Yes), it executes a start display end process (S63) for ending the game mode start display, and sets the start display flag to 0 (S64). After the process of S64, the main control device 100 ends this process and returns to the input determination process (S24, see FIG. 16).

[0123] In this embodiment, the main control device 100 does not transmit the first special chart reserved number command or the second special chart reserved number command when the reserved memory number of the first special chart or the reserved memory number of the second special chart is full, but this is not necessarily limited to this. That is, the main control device 100 may transmit the first special chart reserved number command or the second special chart reserved number command when it wants to inform that a ball has entered the first special chart start port 56 or the second special chart start port 58 even if it is full. In addition, the main control device 100 may determine whether there is a possibility of a jackpot or a reach, etc., based on the reserved memory of the stored first special chart and the second special chart. In this case, it is preferable that the main control device 100 transmits a read-ahead command to the sub-integrated control device 120.

[0124] (6-2: Normal ball entry confirmation process) Next, the normal ball entry confirmation process (S42) executed in the input judgment process (S24, see FIG. 16) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 18. As shown in FIG. 18, the main control device 100 judges whether or not a game ball has entered the normal ball entry hole 55 (S71) as the first process executed in the normal ball entry confirmation process (S42). Specifically, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the normal ball entry hole SW205 has detected a game ball. Then, if the game ball has not entered the normal ball entry hole 55 (S71: No), the main control device 100 ends this process as it is and returns to the input judgment process (S24).

[0125] On the other hand, when the game ball enters the normal symbol start hole 55 (S71: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the reserved memory number of normal symbols is full (4) or not (S72). Then, if the reserved memory number of normal symbols is full (S72: Yes), the main control device 100 skips to the process of S75. On the other hand, if the number of reserved memories for normal symbols is not full (3 or less) (S72: No), the main control unit 100 executes a normal symbol extraction random number reserved memory process (S73) to store random number values ​​(random numbers for determining a win, random numbers for determining a winning symbol, random numbers for determining a variation pattern, etc.) extracted as a result of the ball entering the normal symbol start port 55 as reserved memory.

[0126] Next, the main control device 100 increases the reserved memory number lit on the normal symbol reserved number display device 63C by one, and performs a normal symbol reserved number command transmission process to transmit the current reserved memory number of normal symbols to the sub integrated control device 120 (S74). After processing S74, the main control device 100 proceeds to processing S75. The processing from S75 to S77 is the same as the processing from S55 to S57 and the processing from S62 to S64 described above. That is, when the main control device 100 judges that the game mode start display is displayed (S75: Yes), it executes a start display end processing (S76) that ends the game mode start display, and sets the start display flag to 0 (S77). After the processing of S77, the main control device 100 ends this processing and returns to the input judgment processing (S24). On the other hand, when the main control device 100 judges that the game mode start display is not being performed (S75: No), it ends this processing as it is, and returns to the input judgment processing (S24).

[0127] (7. Correctness determination process) Next, the winning / losing determination process (S25) executed in the interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 19. As shown in Fig. 19, the main control device 100 executes the winning / losing determination process (S100) for the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the process related to the big win game (special game), as the first process executed in the winning / losing determination process (S25). Details of the special symbol winning / losing determination process (S100) will be described later with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figs. 20 to 26.

[0128] Next, the main control device 100 executes a normal symbol win / loss determination process (S200), which is a process related to the win / loss determination of the normal symbol and the winning game (normal symbol game). Details of the normal symbol win / loss determination process (S200) will be described later with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 27 to 31. (7-1: Special drawing validity determination process) Next, the special drawing hit / miss judgment process (S100) executed in the hit / miss judgment process (S25) will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 20 to 26. The special drawing hit / miss judgment process (S100) is executed in common for both the hit / miss judgment in the first special drawing and the hit / miss judgment in the second special drawing.

[0129] As shown in Fig. 20, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the consecutive operation device of the accessory that operates during the big win game is operating as the first process executed in the special winning / losing judgment process (S100) (S101). In the process of S101, if the consecutive operation device of the accessory is operating (S101: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that the big win game is being played, and proceeds to the special game process (S150) (see Fig. 23).

[0130] On the other hand, if the role object continuous operation device is not operating (S101: No), the main control device 100 judges whether the first special symbol (second special symbol) is being displayed variably on the first special symbol display device 62A (second special symbol display device 62B) (S102). If the first special symbol (second special symbol) is being displayed variably (S102: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the change time of the first special symbol (second special symbol) being displayed variably has elapsed (S103).

[0131] If the time for the first special symbol (second special symbol) being displayed has elapsed (S103: Yes), the main control device 100 stops the display of the first special symbol (second special symbol), executes a final display process for final display (S104), and proceeds to the special game process (S150). On the other hand, if the time for the first special symbol (second special symbol) being displayed has not elapsed (S103: No), the main control device 100 skips the process of S104 and proceeds to the special game process (S150).

[0132] In the processing of S102, if the first special chart (second special chart) is not being displayed in a variable manner (S102: No), the main control unit 100 determines whether the first special chart (second special chart) is being displayed in a fixed manner on the first special chart display device 62A (second special chart display device 62B) (S105). As a result, if the first special symbol (second special symbol) is being displayed (S105: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the display time of the first special symbol (second special symbol) has elapsed (S106). If the display time has not elapsed (S106: No), the main control device 100 proceeds to the special game process (S150). On the other hand, if the display time of the first special symbol (second special symbol) has elapsed (S106: Yes), the main control device 100 executes the display end process (S107).

[0133] In the process of S107, the main control device 100 performs a display end setting of the first special pattern or the second special pattern being displayed on the first special pattern display device 62A or the second special pattern display device 62B. Also, in the process of S107, the main control device 100 transmits a command to the sub integrated control device 120 to end the display of the pseudo effect pattern being displayed on the effect pattern display device 54. Then, after the process of S107, the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S108 shown in FIG.

[0134] As shown in Fig. 21, the main control device 100 judges whether the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol (second special symbol) is a special symbol jackpot or not as the process of S108. As a result, if the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol (second special symbol) is a special symbol jackpot (S108: Yes), the main control device 100 performs a process to start a jackpot game. Specifically, the main control device 100 judges whether the probability variable flag is "1" (S109). If the probability variable flag is "1" (S109: Yes), the main control device 100 sets the probability variable flag to "0" (S110) and proceeds to processing of S111. On the other hand, if the probability variable flag is "0" (S109: No), the main control device 100 skips the processing of S110 and proceeds to processing of S111.

[0135] In the process of S111, the main control device 100 judges whether the time-saving flag is "1". If the time-saving flag is "1" (S111: Yes), the main control device 100 sets the time-saving flag to "0" (S112) and proceeds to the process of S113. On the other hand, if the time-saving flag is "0" (S111: No), the main control device 100 skips the process of S112 and proceeds to the process of S113.

[0136] In the process of S113, the main control device 100 executes a condition device operation start process, which is a process for starting the operation of the condition device. Next, the main control device 100 executes a role continuous operation device operation start process (S114), which is a process for starting the operation of the role continuous operation device. After that, the main control device 100 transmits a jackpot game start command to the sub-integrated control device 120 to instruct the start of the jackpot game presentation (S115), and starts timing the start presentation time of the jackpot game. Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 that has received the jackpot game start command performs the start presentation of the jackpot game.

[0137] On the other hand, in the process of S108, if the first special chart (second special chart) is not a special chart jackpot (S108: No), the main control device 100 determines whether the probability of winning is "1" (S116). Then, if the probability variable flag is "0" (S116: No), the main control unit 100 can determine that the current game state is not in the probability variable state. In this case, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the processing of S120. On the other hand, if the probability variable flag is "1" (S116: Yes), the main control unit 100 can determine that the current game state is in the probability variable state. In this case, the main control unit 100 subtracts 1 from the probability variable number M (S117). After that, the main control unit 100 determines whether the probability variable number M has become 0 (S118).

[0138] As a result, if the number of times of probability change M is 0 (S118: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that the number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed since the transition to the probability change state after the big win game has reached the number of times of probability change set after the big win game (10,000 times in this embodiment). In other words, since it can be judged that it is time to transition from the probability change state to the normal state, the main control device 100 sets the probability change flag to "0" (S119) and proceeds to the processing of S120. On the other hand, in the processing of S118, if the number of times of probability change M is not 0 (S118: No), the main control device 100 can judge that it is not time to transition from the probability change state to the normal state, so skips the processing of S119 and proceeds to the processing of S120.

[0139] In the process of S120, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the time-saving flag is "1". As a result, if the time-saving flag is "0" (S120: No), the main control device 100 can judge that the current game state is not in the time-saving state. In this case, the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S124. In contrast, if the time-saving flag is "1" (S120: Yes), the main control device 100 can judge that the current game state is in the time-saving state. In this case, the main control device 100 subtracts 1 from the time-saving number N (S121). Thereafter, the main control device 100 judges whether or not the time-saving number N has become 0 (S122).

[0140] As a result, if the time-saving count N is 0 (S122: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that the number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed since the time-saving state was changed after the big win game has reached the time-saving count set after the big win game (10,000 times in this embodiment). In other words, since it can be determined that it is time to change from the time-saving state to the normal state, the main control device 100 sets the time-saving flag to "0" (S123) and proceeds to processing of S124. On the other hand, if the probability change count M is not 0 (S122: No), the main control device 100 can determine that it is not time to change from the time-saving state to the normal state, so skips the processing of S123 and proceeds to processing of S124.

[0141] In the process of S124, the main control device 100 transmits a state designation command including information on the probability change flag and the time-saving flag to the sub-integrated control device 120. After the process of S124, the main control device 100 proceeds to the special game process (S150, see FIG. 20). Returning to Fig. 20, the explanation of the special chart hit / miss judgment process (S100) will be continued. In the process of S105, if the first special chart (second special chart) is not being confirmed (S105: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not there is a reserved memory of the second special chart (S125).

[0142] As a result, if there is a reserved memory of the second special design (S125: Yes), the main control device 100 performs a shift process of the reserved memory of the second special design (S126) and performs a win / loss judgment based on the oldest reserved memory of the reserved memory of the second special design. With the process of S126, the main control device 100 subtracts 1 from the reserved memory number of the second special design. After the process of S126, the process proceeds to the process of S129 shown in FIG. 22.

[0143] On the other hand, in the process of S125, if there is no reserved memory of the second special symbol (S125: No), the main control device 100 judges whether there is a reserved memory of the first special symbol (S127). As a result, if there is no reserved memory of the first special symbol (S127: No), the main control device 100 proceeds to the special game process (S150). On the other hand, in the process of S127, if there is a reserved memory of the first special drawing (S127: Yes), the main control device 100 performs a shift process of the reserved memory of the first special drawing (S128) and performs a win / loss judgment based on the oldest reserved memory of the first special drawing. With the process of S128, the main control device 100 subtracts 1 from the reserved memory number of the first special drawing. After the process of S128, the process proceeds to the process of S129 shown in FIG. 22.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 22, in the process of S129, the main control device 100 judges whether the probability variable flag is "1". As a result, if the probability variable flag is "1" (S129: Yes), the main control device 100 can judge that the current game state is a probability variable state. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 performs a win / loss judgment based on a win / loss judgment table (probability variable table) that corresponds to the stage setting value stored in the stage setting value storage area 336 and is used when in a probability variable state, and a random number for determining a jackpot (S130).

[0145] On the other hand, if the probability variable flag is "0" (S129: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the current game state is not a probability variable state. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 performs a win / loss judgment based on a win / loss judgment table (normal table) corresponding to the stage setting value stored in the stage setting value storage area 336 and used in the normal state or time-saving state and a random number for determining a big win (S131).

[0146] Regarding the process of S130 or S131, if the result of the hit / miss judgment is a jackpot (S132: Yes), the main control device 100 determines the jackpot pattern of the first special symbol (second special symbol) based on the random number for determining the jackpot pattern (S133), and determines the variation pattern based on the random number for determining the variation pattern (S134). After that, the main control device 100 executes the jackpot setting process (S135). In the process of S135, the main control device 100 performs settings related to the jackpot game (special game) (settings of opening time, opening pattern of the big prize opening 59, number of rounds, ending time, etc.) and settings according to the jackpot type (settings related to the game state (probability state or time-saving state) to be transitioned to after the jackpot game) based on the jackpot pattern determined in the process of S133.

[0147] On the other hand, if the result of the win / loss determination is a loss (S132: No), the main control device 100 determines a loss symbol (S136) and determines a variation pattern based on the variation pattern determination random number (S137). After processing S135 or S137, the main control device 100 transmits reserved memory information including information indicating a decrease in reserved memory to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S138). Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 that has received the reserved memory information transmits the reserved memory information to the performance pattern control device 130, and updates the display contents of the first special pattern reserved display 401 or the second special pattern reserved display 402 on the display screen of the performance pattern display device 54.

[0148] After the process of S138, the main control device 100 transmits a special symbol variation start command to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S139). The process of S139 is a pre-processing for performing a variation display of a pseudo performance symbol corresponding to the first special symbol (second special symbol) to be displayed in the performance symbol display device 54 in association with the variation display of the first special symbol (second special symbol) in the first special symbol display device 62A (second special symbol display device 62B). Specifically, the main control device 100 transmits, as a special symbol variation start command to the sub-integrated control device 120, a symbol variation start command including the result of the hit / miss judgment and the variation pattern of the first special symbol (second special symbol), and a symbol designation command designating a pseudo performance symbol corresponding to the big win symbol or the losing symbol determined in the process of S133 or S136. After the process of S139, the main control device 100 executes a special game process (S150, FIG. 20).

[0149] Next, the special game process (S150) executed in the special game win / loss determination process (S91) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 23. As shown in FIG. 23, the main control device 100 determines whether the consecutive operation device of the accessory is in operation or not (S151) as the first process executed in the special game process (S150). If the consecutive operation device of the accessory is not in operation (S151: No), the main control device 100 determines that the big win game (special game) is not in progress. Therefore, the main control device 100 ends this process and the special game win / loss determination process (S100) as it is, and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0150] On the other hand, if the consecutive operation device of the bonus item is in operation (S151: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that a big win game is being played. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 next determines whether the big win opening 59 is open (S152). If the big win opening 59 is open (S152: Yes), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S153 shown in FIG. 24.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 24, in the process of S153, the main control device 100 judges whether or not 15 game balls have entered the big prize opening 59. If the number of game balls entering the big prize opening 59 has not reached 15 (S153: No), the main control device 100 then judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the big prize opening 59 was opened (S154). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the big prize opening 59 was opened (S154: No), the main control device 100 ends this process and the special prize winning / losing determination process (S100, see FIG. 20) as it is, and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0152] On the other hand, when the number of game balls entering the big prize opening 59 reaches 15 (S153: Yes), or when a predetermined time has elapsed since the big prize opening 59 was opened (S154: Yes), the main control device 100 drives the big prize opening solenoid 209 to close the big prize opening 59 (S155). Next, the main control device 100 performs an interval performance start process (S156). In the process of S156, the main control device 100 starts timing the interval time until the start of the next round of play, and transmits an interval performance start command to the sub-integrated control device 120. Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 that has received the interval performance start command starts an interval performance to be executed between rounds of the big prize game. After the process of S156, the main control device 100 ends the special game process (S150) and the special chart win / loss determination process (S100), and returns to the interrupt process.

[0153] Returning to Fig. 23, the explanation of the special game process (S150) will be continued. In the process of S152, if the special prize opening 59 is not open (S152: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not it is during an interval from when the special prize opening 59 is closed until the start of the next round of play (S157). As a result, if it is during an interval (S157: Yes), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S158 shown in Fig. 25.

[0154] As shown in Fig. 25, in the process of S158, the main control device 100 judges whether the interval time has elapsed. If the interval time has not elapsed (S158: No), the main control device 100 ends this process and the special pattern hit / miss judgment process (S100) and returns to the interrupt process (see Fig. 14). On the other hand, if the interval time has elapsed (S158: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the round game that ended immediately before was the final round (S159).

[0155] As a result, if the previously completed round game was the final round (S159: Yes), the main control device 100 transmits a jackpot game end command to the sub integrated control device 120 (S160). In response to this, the main control device 100 starts measuring the jackpot game end presentation time. Then, the sub integrated control device 120, which has received the jackpot game end command, executes the jackpot game end presentation.

[0156] On the other hand, in the process of S159, if the round game that ended immediately before is not the final round (S159: No), the main control device 100 drives the large prize opening solenoid 209 to open the large prize opening 59 in order to move to the next round (S161). After the process of S160 or S161, the main control device 100 ends the special game process (S150, see FIG. 20) and the special symbol win / loss determination process (S100, see FIG. 20), and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0157] Returning to Fig. 23, the explanation of the special game process (S150) will be continued. In the process of S157, if it is not during the interval (S157: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not the end presentation of the big win game is in progress (S162). As a result, if the end presentation of the big win game is in progress (S162: Yes), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S163 shown in Fig. 26.

[0158] As shown in Fig. 26, in the process of S163, the main control device 100 judges whether the end presentation time of the big win game has elapsed. As a result, if the end presentation time of the big win game has not elapsed (S163: No), the main control device 100 ends the special game process (S150, see Fig. 20) and the special symbol hit / miss determination process (S100, see Fig. 20), and returns to the interrupt process (see Fig. 14).

[0159] On the other hand, if the end presentation time of the jackpot game has elapsed (S163: Yes), the main control device 100 stops the operation of the role continuous operation device (S164) and stops the operation of the condition device (S165). After that, the main control device 100 judges whether the current jackpot type is a probability variable jackpot (15R probability variable jackpot or 10R probability variable jackpot) (S166). As a result, if the current jackpot type is a probability variable jackpot (S166: Yes), the main control device 100 sets the value of the probability variable count M to "10000" (S167) and sets the probability variable flag to "1" (S168).

[0160] On the other hand, in the process of S166, if the current jackpot type is not a sure-variant jackpot (S166: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the current jackpot type is a normal jackpot (5R normal). Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 sets the value of the time-saving count N to "100" (S169) and sets the time-saving flag to "1" (S170). After processing S168 or S170, the main control device 100 transmits a big win game end command to the sub integrated control device 120 (S171). Then, the sub integrated control device 120 that has received the big win game end command ends the end presentation of the big win game. After processing S171, the main control device 100 ends the special game process (S150, see FIG. 20) and the special chart win / loss determination process (S100, see FIG. 20), and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0161] Returning to Fig. 23, the explanation of the special game process (S150) will be continued. In the process of S162, if the end performance of the big win game is not in progress (S162: No), the main control device 100 judges whether the start performance time of the big win game has elapsed (S172). As a result, if the start performance time of the big win game has not elapsed (S172: No), the main control device 100 ends this process and the special chart hit / miss judgment process (S100, see Fig. 20) and returns to the interrupt process (see Fig. 14).

[0162] On the other hand, if the start time of the big win game has elapsed (S172: Yes), the main control device 100 determines that it is time to start the first round of round play and opens the big win opening 59 (S173). After processing S173, the main control device 100 ends this process and the special chart win / loss determination process (S100) and returns to the interrupt process. (7-2: Normal map validity determination process) Next, the normal winning / loosening process (S200) executed in the winning / loosening process (S25, see FIG. 19) will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 27 to FIG.

[0163] As shown in Fig. 27, the main control device 100 judges whether the normal electric device 57 (normal power) that operates during a winning game (normal game) is operating (S201) as the first process executed in the normal winning / losing judgment process (S200). In the process of S201, if the normal electric device 57 is operating (S201: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that a winning game is being performed and proceeds to the normal game process (S250).

[0164] On the other hand, if the normal electric role object 57 is not operating (S201: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not the normal pattern is being displayed variably on the normal pattern display device 62C (S202). As a result, if the normal pattern is being displayed variably (S202: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether or not the variability time of the normal pattern being variably displayed has elapsed (S203).

[0165] Then, if the time for the normal symbol being changed has elapsed (S203: Yes), the main control device 100 stops the change of the normal symbol, executes a confirmation display process to display the confirmed symbol (S203), and proceeds to the normal game process (S250). On the other hand, if the time for the normal symbol being changed has not elapsed (S203: No), the main control device 100 skips the process of S204 and proceeds to the normal game process (S250).

[0166] In the process of S202, if the normal symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner (S202: No), the main control device 100 determines whether the normal symbol is being displayed in a fixed manner on the normal symbol display device 62C (S205). If the fixed display time of the normal symbol is being displayed (S205: Yes), the main control device 100 judges whether the fixed display time of the normal symbol has elapsed (S206). If the fixed display time has not elapsed (S206: No), the main control device 100 proceeds to the normal game process (S250). On the other hand, if the fixed display time of the normal symbol has elapsed (S206: Yes), the main control device 100 executes the fixed display end process (S207).

[0167] In the process of S207, the main control device 100 performs the display end setting of the normal pattern being displayed in the normal pattern display device 62C. In addition, the main control device 100 transmits a command to the sub-integrated control device 120 to end the display of the pseudo performance pattern in the performance pattern display device 54. After the process of S207, the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S208 shown in FIG.

[0168] As shown in FIG. 28, in the process of S208, the main control device 100 judges whether the result of the win / loss judgment of the normal symbol is a win or not. Then, if the result of the win / loss judgment of the normal symbol is a win (S208: Yes), the main control device 100 performs a process to start a winning game (normal game). Specifically, the main control device 100 performs a process to start the operation of the normal electric role device 57 (S209). In addition, the main control device 100 transmits a winning game start command to the sub integrated control device 120 to instruct the start of a winning game presentation (S210), and starts timing the start interval time of the winning game. After the process of S210, the main control device 100 proceeds to a normal game process (S250, see FIG. 27).

[0169] On the other hand, in the process of S208, if the result of the judgment of whether the normal symbol is a win or a loss is a loss (S208: No), the main control device 100 skips the processes of S209 and S210 and proceeds to the normal game process (S250). Returning to Fig. 27, the explanation of the normal symbol winning / losing determination process (S200) will be continued. In the process of S205, if the normal symbol is not being displayed (S205: No), the main control device 100 determines whether or not there is a reserved memory of the normal symbol (S211).

[0170] As a result, if there is no reserved memory of a normal symbol (S211: No), the main control device 100 proceeds to normal game processing (S250). On the other hand, if there is a reserved memory of a normal symbol (S211: Yes), the main control device 100 performs shift processing of the reserved memory of the normal symbol (S212) and performs a win / lose judgment based on the oldest reserved memory of the normal symbol. In addition, with the processing of this S212, the main control device 100 subtracts 1 from the number of reserved memories of the normal symbol. Then, after processing of S212, the process proceeds to processing of S213 shown in FIG. 29.

[0171] As shown in Fig. 29, in the process of S213, the main control device 100 performs a win / lose determination based on a win / lose determination table (normal table) used for normal symbols and a win determination random number. As a result, if the result of the win / lose determination is a win (S214: Yes), the main control device 100 determines the winning symbol of the normal symbol based on the winning symbol determination random number (S215) and determines the variation pattern based on the variation pattern determination random number (S216). After that, the main control device 100 executes a win setting process (S217) for setting the start interval time and end interval time of the winning game.

[0172] On the other hand, if the result of the win / loss determination is a loss (S214: No), the main control device 100 determines a loss symbol based on the random number for determining a winning symbol (S218) and determines a variation pattern based on the random number for determining a variation pattern (S219). In the processes of S216 and S219, the main control device 100 determines the variation pattern so that the variation time of the normal symbols is shorter than that in the normal state during bonus play. For example, the main control device 100 selects a variation pattern with a variation time of 30 seconds during normal play, and selects a variation pattern with a variation time of 0.5 seconds, which is shorter than that during normal play, during bonus play.

[0173] After processing S217 or S219, the main control device 100 transmits reserved memory information including information indicating a decrease in the reserved memory of normal symbols to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S220). Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 that has received the reserved memory information transmits the reserved memory information to the performance symbol control device 130 and updates the display contents of the normal symbol reserved display (not shown) on the performance symbol display device 54.

[0174] After the process of S220, the main control device 100 transmits a normal pattern variation start command to the sub-integrated control device 120 (S221). The process of S221 is a pre-processing for performing a variation display (not shown) of a pseudo performance pattern corresponding to a normal pattern on the performance pattern display device 54 in conjunction with the variation display of a normal pattern on the normal pattern display device 62C. Specifically, the main control device 100 transmits, as a normal pattern variation start command, a pattern variation start command including the result of a win / lose judgment and a variation pattern of a normal pattern, and a pattern designation command designating a pseudo performance pattern corresponding to a winning pattern or a losing pattern determined in the process of S215 or S218 to the sub-integrated control device 120. After the process of S221, the main control device 100 executes a normal game process (S250, FIG. 27).

[0175] Next, the normal game process (S250) executed in the normal game win / loss determination process (S200) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 30. As shown in FIG. 30, the main control device 100 determines whether the second special game start hole 58 is open (S251) as the first process executed in the normal game process (S250). If the second special game start hole 58 is open (S251: Yes), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S252 shown in FIG. 31.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 31, in the process of S252, the main control device 100 judges whether or not four game balls have entered the second special starting hole 58. If the number of game balls entering the second special starting hole 58 has not reached four (S252: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the second special starting hole 58 was opened (S253). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the second special starting hole 58 was opened (S253: No), the main control device 100 ends the normal game process (S250, see FIG. 27) as it is, and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0177] On the other hand, if the number of game balls entering the second special game start port 58 reaches four (S252: Yes), or if a predetermined time has elapsed since the second special game start port 58 was opened (S253: Yes), the main control device 100 drives the normal power role solenoid 210 to close the second special game start port 58 (S254). Next, the main control device 100 executes an end interval process (S255) that starts timing the end interval time. After the process of S255, the main control device 100 ends the normal game process (S250) and returns to the interrupt process.

[0178] Returning to Fig. 30, the explanation of the normal game process (S250) will be continued. In the process of S251, if the second special symbol start port 58 is not being opened (S251: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not the end interval is in progress (S256). As a result, if the end interval is in progress (S256: Yes), the main control device 100 subsequently judges whether or not the end interval time has elapsed (S257).

[0179] As a result, if the end interval time has elapsed (S257: Yes), the main control device 100 executes the operation stop process (S258) of the normal electric role device 57 and transmits a winning game end command to the sub integrated control device 120 (S259). Then, the sub integrated control device 120 that has received the winning game end command ends the winning game presentation. After processing S259, the main control device 100 ends the normal game process (S250, see FIG. 27) and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14). On the other hand, if the end interval time has not elapsed (S257: No), the main control device 100 ends the normal game process (S250) as it is and returns to the interrupt process.

[0180] Also, in the process of S256, if it is not during the end interval (S256: No), the main control device 100 judges whether or not the start interval time has elapsed (S260). As a result, if the start interval time has elapsed (S260: Yes), the main control device 100 drives the normal power role solenoid 210 and opens the second special chart start port 58 (S261). On the other hand, in the process of S260, if the start interval time has not elapsed (S260: No), the main control device 100 ends the normal game process (S250) as it is and returns to the interrupt process.

[0181] (8. Processing when power is interrupted) Next, the power interruption process (S300) executed during the interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 32. The power interruption process (S300) is a process for maintaining the information currently stored in the RWM 330 as backup data in preparation for the next power-on when a power interruption occurs.

[0182] The power interruption process (S300) is a non-maskable interrupt process (NMI interrupt process) that is executed when the power interruption detection signal output from the power interruption detection circuit 153 turns ON. That is, when the power interruption detection signal turns ON, the main control device 100 outputs a reset signal (NMI signal) to the CPU 310, and when the CPU 310 receives the reset signal, it immediately executes the power interruption process (S300). The power interruption detection signal is also output to the dispensing control device 110, and when the power interruption detection signal output from the power interruption detection circuit 153 turns ON, a process similar to the power interruption process (S300) is executed in the dispensing control device 110.

[0183] 32, as the first process executed in the power interruption process (S300), the main control device 100 determines whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "3" (S301). As a result, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "3" (S301: Yes), the main control device 100 proceeds to the process of S305. On the other hand, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not "3" (S301: No), the main control device 100 sets the backup flag to "1" (S302). After processing S302, the main control device 100 calculates a checksum and stores the calculated checksum in the RWM 330 (S303), and also stores information on the occurrence of a power outage in the RWM 330 (S304). After processing S304, the main control device 100 proceeds to processing S305.

[0184] In the process of S305, the main control device 100 prohibits writing to the RWM 330 (S304) and waits until the power is cut off. In this way, when the game stop mode is set as the transition mode, the main control device 100 omits the processes of S302 to S304. As a result, in the start-up process (see FIG. 13) executed when the power is turned on again, the main control device 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330.

[0185] (9. Initial setting process) Next, the initial setting process (S7) executed in the startup process (FIG. 13) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 33. As shown in FIG. 33, the main control device 100 executes an RWM abnormality determination process (S311) as the first process of the initial setting process (S7). In the RWM abnormality determination process (S311), the main control device 100 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330. Details of the RWM abnormality determination process (S311) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 34.

[0186] After processing S311, the main control device 100 judges whether the RWM clear SW 101 is ON (whether it is pressed down) (S312). As a result, if the RWM clear SW 101 is OFF (S312: No), the main control device 100 subsequently judges whether the value of the general-purpose register 311 is "3" (S313). As a result, if the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S312: Yes), or if the value of the general-purpose register 311 is "3" (S313: Yes), the main control unit 100 performs a clear process of the RWM 330 (S314) and performs an initial setting (S315) of the RWM 330. In addition, in conjunction with the processing of S315, the main control unit 100 transmits an RWM clear command to the dispensing control unit 110. Then, the dispensing control unit 110, which has received the RWM clear command, executes a clear process of the RWM built into the dispensing control unit 110. After the completion of S315, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the processing of S316.

[0187] On the other hand, in the process of S313, if the value of the general-purpose register 311 is not "3," the main control unit 100 determines that it is not necessary to clear the RWM 330. Therefore, the main control unit 100 skips the processes of S314 and S315 and proceeds to the process of S316. In the process of S316, the main control device 100 executes a mode value setting process. The mode value setting process (S316) is a process for determining a mode value to be stored in the mode value storage area 337. Details of the mode value setting process (S316) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0188] After processing S316, the main control device 100 determines whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "1" (S317). As a result, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "1" (S317: Yes), the main control device 100 determines that the setting check mode has been selected as the transition mode. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 proceeds to a setting check process (S318) that is executed when the setting check mode is selected. Details of the setting check process (S318) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0189] On the other hand, in the process of S317, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not "1" (S317: No), the main control device 100 skips the process of S318 and proceeds to the process of S319. In the process of S319, the main control device 100 judges whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "2". As a result, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "2" (S319: Yes), the main control device 100 judges that the setting change mode has been selected as the transition mode. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 proceeds to a setting change process (S320) that is executed when the setting change mode is selected. Details of the setting change process (S320) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 37. On the other hand, in the process of S319, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not "2" (S319: No), the main control device 100 skips the process of S320 and proceeds to the process of S321.

[0190] In the process of S321, the main control device 100 executes a game mode transition process. The game mode transition process (S321) is a process executed when transitioning to a game mode. Details of the game mode transition process (S321) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. (9-1: RWM abnormality determination process) Next, the RWM abnormality determination process (S311) executed in the initial setting process (S7) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 34. As shown in Fig. 34, the main control device 100 determines whether the backup flag is "0" (S331) as the first process executed in the RWM abnormality determination process (S311). In the process of S331, if the backup flag is "0", the main control device 100 can determine that the transition mode at the time of the most recent power outage was the game stop mode.

[0191] In the process of S331, if the backup flag is "1" (S331: No), the main control device 100 then judges whether the power failure occurrence information is abnormal (S332). In the process of S332, if the power failure occurrence information is not stored in the RWM 330, for example, when the power is turned on for the first time or when the power failure occurrence information has volatilized over time, the main control device 100 judges that the power failure occurrence information is abnormal.

[0192] In the process of S332, if the power interruption occurrence information is normal (S332: No), the main control device 100 continues by calculating a checksum and acquiring the checksum stored in the RWM 330 in the process of S303 executed in the power interruption occurrence process (S300) (S333).Then, the main control device 100 determines whether the checksum is abnormal (S334).

[0193] In the process of S334, the main control device 100 determines whether the checksum value calculated in the process of S333 matches the checksum value stored in the RWM 330 in the process of S303 in the power interruption processing (S300), and determines that the checksum is abnormal if the checksums do not match. In other words, if the checksums do not match, the main control device 100 determines that the contents stored in the RWM 330 do not match the contents stored in the RWM 330 at the time of the power interruption, and that it is not possible to return to the state at the time of the power interruption.

[0194] When the checksum is determined to be normal in the process of S334 (S334: No), the main control unit 100 subsequently determines whether the stage setting value is a value exceeding "6" (S335). That is, in the process of S335, the main control unit 100 determines whether the stage setting value is "7". As a result, if the stage setting value is "6" or less (S335: No), the main control unit 100 determines that the RWM 330 is normal. In this case, the main control unit 100 stores the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 in the general-purpose register 311 (S336). Note that, in the process of S336, the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 at the time of the power interruption is stored in the mode value storage area 337. After the process of S336, the main control unit 100 ends this process and returns to the initial setting process (S7, see FIG. 33).

[0195] On the other hand, in the RWM abnormality determination process (S311), if the backup flag is 0 (S331: Yes), if there is an abnormality in the power outage occurrence information (S332: Yes), if the checksum is abnormal (S334: Yes), or if the stage setting value exceeds 6 (S335: Yes), the main control unit 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330. Therefore, in this case, the main control unit 100 stores "3" in the general-purpose register regardless of the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 (S337).

[0196] The process of S337 is executed when the game cannot be started and it is necessary to clear the RWM 330 and reset the stage setting value. Therefore, the main control device 100 stores "3" in the general-purpose register 311 in the process of S337, and if the RWM 330 is not cleared and the stage setting value is not reset, the main control device 100 transitions to a game stop mode and prompts the hall employee or the like to clear the RWM 330 and reset the stage setting value.

[0197] (9-2: Mode value setting process) Next, the mode value setting process (S316) executed in the initial setting process (S7) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 35. As shown in Fig. 35, as the first process executed in the mode value setting process (S316), the main control device 100 determines whether the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is "3" (S341).

[0198] In the process of S341, if the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is not "3" (S341: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the RWM 330 has been determined to be normal in the RWM abnormality determination process (S311). Therefore, the main control device 100 subsequently determines whether the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is "2" (S342).

[0199] If the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is not "2" (S342: No), the main control device 100 judges whether the setting key SW102 is ON (S343). If the setting key SW102 is OFF (S343: No), the main control device 100 judges whether the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S344). As a result, if the RWM clear SW101 is OFF (S344: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the backup return mode has been selected as the transition mode (see Figs. 8 and 9). In this case, the main control device 100 executes a backup return process (S345) that transmits a power return command to the sub integrated control device 120. In other words, while the information stored in the RWM built into the sub integrated control device 120 is not backed up and is erased when the power is cut off, the pachinko machine 1 can return the sub integrated control device 120 to the state it was in when the power was cut off by executing the backup return process (S345). In addition, when the backup return is executed, the sub integrated control device 120 notifies the fact by outputting a sound from the speaker 32, turning on the frame side decorative lamp 33, etc.

[0200] Thereafter, the main control device 100 determines that the pachinko machine 1 is in a state in which it can transition to the game mode, and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 337 (S346). After the processing of S346, the main control device 100 returns to the initial setting processing (S7, see FIG. 33). On the other hand, in the process of S344, if the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S344: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that the RWM clear mode has been selected as the transition mode (see Figs. 8 and 9). In this case, the main control device 100 therefore executes an RWM clear notification process (S347). In the process of S347, the main control device 100 transmits an RWM clear notification command to the sub integrated control device 120 to notify that an RWM clear has been executed. Then, upon receiving the RWM clear notification command, the sub integrated control device 120 notifies that an RWM clear has been executed by outputting sound from the speaker 32, turning on the frame side decorative lamp 33, etc.

[0201] Thereafter, the main control device 100 determines that the pachinko machine 1 is in a state in which it can transition to the game mode, and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 337 (S348). After the processing of S348, the main control device 100 returns to the initial setting processing (S7). Furthermore, if the setting key SW102 is ON in the process of S343 (S343: Yes), the main control device 100 subsequently determines whether the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S349).

[0202] As a result, if the RWM clear SW101 is OFF (S349: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the setting check mode has been selected as the transition mode (see Figs. 8 and 9). In this case, the main control device 100 executes a setting check notification process (S350). In the process of S350, the main control device 100 transmits a setting check notification command to the sub integrated control device 120 to notify that the setting check mode has been set as the transition mode. Then, the sub integrated control device 120 that has received the setting check notification command notifies that the setting check mode has been set as the transition mode and that it is not possible to start playing by outputting a sound from the speaker 32 or turning on the frame side decorative lamp 33, etc. Then, the main control device 100 stores "1" in the mode value storage area 337 (S351) and returns to the initial setting process (S7).

[0203] On the other hand, if the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S349: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that the setting change mode is selected as the transition mode (see Figs. 8 and 9). In this case, the main control device 100 executes a setting change notification process (S352). In the process of S352, the main control device 100 transmits a setting change notification command to notify the sub integrated control device 120 that the setting change mode is set as the transition mode. Then, the sub integrated control device 120 that has received the setting change notification command notifies the user that the setting change mode is set as the transition mode and that the game cannot be started by outputting a sound from the speaker 32 or lighting the frame side decorative lamp 33. Thereafter, the main control device 100 stores "2" in the mode value storage area 337 (S353) and returns to the initial setting process (S7).

[0204] Furthermore, in the process of S342, if the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is "2" (S342: Yes), the main control unit 100 can determine that the setting change mode was set as the transition mode when the power failure occurred. In this case, the main control unit 100 proceeds to a setting change notification process (S352) and stores "2" in the mode value storage area 337 (S353). That is, if there is no abnormality in the RWM 330 when the power is turned on and the setting change mode was set as the transition mode when the previous power failure occurred, the main control unit 100 sets the transition mode to the setting change mode regardless of the operation contents of the RWM clear SW101 and the setting key SW102.

[0205] On the other hand, if the mode value stored in the general-purpose register 311 is "3" in the process of S341 (S341: Yes), it can be determined that an abnormality occurred in the RWM 330 when the power was turned on this time. In this case, the main control device 100 then determines whether the setting key SW102 is ON (S354). As a result, if the setting key SW102 is ON (S354: Yes), the main control device 100 determines whether the RWM clear SW101 is ON (S355).

[0206] As a result, if the RWM clear switch 101 is ON (S355: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that the setting change mode has been selected as the transition mode (see Figs. 8 and 10). Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 executes the setting change notification process (S352) and stores "2" in the mode value storage area 337 (S353). In this regard, as described above, the setting change mode takes precedence over the game stop mode. Therefore, even if "3" is stored in the general-purpose register 311 in the RWM abnormality determination process (S311), the main control device 100 stores "2" in the mode value storage area 337 if the setting change mode is selected as the transition mode.

[0207] On the other hand, if the setting key SW102 is OFF (S354: No) or the RWM clear SW101 is OFF (S355: No), the main control device 100 executes a game stop notification process (S356). In the process of S356, the main control device 100 transmits a game stop notification command to the sub-integrated control device 120 to notify that the game stop mode is set as the transition mode. Then, the sub-integrated control device 120 that has received the game stop notification command notifies that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 330 by outputting a sound from the speaker 32, turning on the frame side decorative lamp 33, or displaying on the performance pattern display device 54. At this time, the pachinko machine 1 may also notify on the performance pattern display device 54 that the RWM 330 needs to be cleared and the stage setting value needs to be reset.

[0208] In this regard, as described above, the game stop mode takes precedence over the backup return mode, the RWM clear mode, and the setting check mode (see FIG. 10). Therefore, even if the backup return mode, the RWM clear mode, or the setting check mode is selected by operating the setting key SW102 and the RWM clear SW101, if "3" is stored in the general-purpose register 311 in the RWM abnormality determination process (S311), the main control device 100 determines that the game cannot be started and stores "3" in the mode value storage area 337 (S357). After the process of S357, the main control device 100 ends this process and returns to the initial setting process (S7).

[0209] Thus, in the mode value setting process (S316), when "3" is stored in the general-purpose register 311, the main control device 100 transitions to the game stop mode, except when both the setting key SW102 and the RWM clear SW101 are ON. On the other hand, in this case, when both the setting key SW102 and the RWM clear SW101 are ON, the main control device 100 transitions to the setting change mode.

[0210] The power return command, the RWM clear notification command, the setting check notification command, the setting change notification command, and the game stop notification command may be commands that are first transmitted from the main control device 100 to the sub-integrated control device 120 after the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1. Also, the setting check notification command, the setting change notification command, and the game stop notification command may not be transmitted from the main control device 100 to the sub-integrated control device 120.

[0211] (9-3: Setting confirmation process) Next, the setting confirmation process (S318) executed in the initial setting process (S7, see FIG. 40) will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 36. As shown in FIG. 36, the main control device 100 displays the currently set stage value by lighting it on the performance display device 103 (S361) as the first process executed in the setting confirmation process (S318). This allows hall employees and the like who look at the performance display device 103 to check the stage value currently set in the pachinko machine 1.

[0212] After that, the main control device 100 judges whether the setting key SW102 has been switched to OFF (S362). As a result, if the setting key SW102 remains ON (S362: No), the main control device 100 repeatedly executes the process of S362 until the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF. Then, when the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF (S362: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that the end of the setting confirmation mode has been selected. In this case, the main control device 100 executes a backup return process (S363). The process of S363 is the same as the process of S345 described above (see FIG. 35). Thereafter, the main control device 100 determines that the pachinko machine 1 is in a state in which it can transition to the game mode, and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 337 (S364). After the process of S364, the main control device 100 returns to the initial setting process (S7).

[0213] (9-4: Setting change processing) Next, the setting change process (S320) executed in the initial setting process (S7, see FIG. 33) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 37. As shown in FIG. 33, the main control device 100 causes the currently set stage setting value to flash on the performance display device 103 (S371) as the first process executed in the setting change process (S320). This allows hall employees and the like who look at the performance display device 103 to confirm the stage setting value that is currently provisionally set in the pachinko machine 1.

[0214] After processing S371, the main control device 100 judges whether or not it has detected that the RWM clear SW101 has been pressed down (S372). Specifically, in the processing of S372, the main control device 100 detects whether or not the RWM clear SW101 has been pressed down again after it has been released from being pressed down. For example, in the processing of S372, if the RWM clear SW101 has been continuously pressed down since the power was turned on (if it has been continuously pressed and held down), the main control device 100 judges that the RWM clear SW101 has not been pressed down.

[0215] As a result, when it is detected that the RWM clear switch 101 has been pressed (S372: Yes), the main control unit 100 adds 1 to the provisionally set stage setting value (S373). Next, the main control unit 100 judges whether the stage setting value exceeds 6 (S374), and if the stage setting value exceeds 6 (S374: Yes), sets the stage setting value to 1 (S375) and proceeds to processing of S376. On the other hand, if the stage setting value does not exceed 6 (S374: No), the main control unit 100 skips the processing of S375 and proceeds to processing of S376. Then, in the processing of S376, the main control unit 100 executes a stage setting update processing for updating the stage setting value displayed in a flashing manner on the performance display device 103.

[0216] The processes from S372 to S376 are executed when the RWM clear SW101 is pressed in a state in which the stage setting value can be changed. Specifically, the main control device 100 adds 1 to the provisionally set stage setting value each time the RWM clear SW101 is pressed, and when the stage setting value exceeds the upper limit value of "6" (i.e., when the stage setting value becomes "7"), it resets the stage setting value to 1. Then, the main control device 100 displays the provisionally set stage setting value after it has been changed by pressing the RWM clear SW101 in a flashing manner on the performance display device 103.

[0217] On the other hand, if pressing of the RWM clear switch 101 is not detected in the process of S372 (S372: No), the main control device 100 skips the processes of S373 to S376 and proceeds to the process of S377. In the process of S377, the main control device 100 determines whether the setting key SW 102 has been switched to OFF. As a result, if the setting key SW 102 remains ON (S377: No), the main control device 100 returns to the process of S372.

[0218] On the other hand, if the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF (S377: Yes), the main control device 100 can determine that the end of the setting change mode has been selected. In this case, the main control device 100 executes an RWM clear notification process (S378). The process of S378 is the same as the process of S347 described above (see FIG. 35). Thereafter, the main control device 100 determines that the pachinko machine 1 is in a state in which it can transition to the game mode, and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 337 (S379). After the process of S379, the main control device 100 returns to the initial setting process (S7).

[0219] In the setting change mode, the stage setting value is determined when the setting key SW102 is switched to OFF. At this time, the main control device 100 may transmit data on the determined stage setting value to the sub integrated control device 120 when performing a suggestion effect on the stage setting value in the reach effect or the big win effect in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the game mode transition process (S321) executed in the initial setting process (S7, FIG. 33) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 38. As shown in Fig. 38, the main control device 100 determines whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "0" (S381) as the first process executed in the game mode transition process (S321).

[0220] As a result, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not "0" (S381: No), the main control device 100 can determine that the game stop mode is set as the transition mode and that the game cannot be started. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 100 ends the initial setting process (S7) without transitioning to the game mode, and returns to the start process (see FIG. 13).

[0221] On the other hand, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is "0" (S381: Yes), the main control device 100 transitions to the game mode. Specifically, the main control device 100 sets the backup flag to "0" (S382) and sets the timer interrupt register as a pre-processing for the interrupt processing (see FIG. 14) (S383). This puts the pachinko machine 1 in a state where it is possible to start playing. Thereafter, the main control device 100 sets a game mode start display in the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B (S384) and sets the start display flag to "1" (S385). After the processing of S385, the main control device 100 ends the initial setting processing (S7) and returns to the start processing.

[0222] In this way, when the main control device 100 transitions to a game start possible state in the initial setting process (S7), it displays a game mode start display on the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B. Then, the pachinko machine 1 ends the game mode start display when a game is started for the first time after transitioning to the game start possible state. In addition, when the pachinko machine 1 transitions to the game mode, it does not transition to another transition mode until the power is cut off, and the main control device 100 does not refer to the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 after transitioning to the game mode until the power is cut off. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 determines the mode to transition to based on the operation contents of the setting key SW102 and the RWM clear SW101 at the time of power-on, as long as there is no abnormality in the RWM 330 when the power is turned on and the transition mode was not the setting change mode at the time of the power cut. Therefore, in this embodiment, the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 is not cleared after transition to the game mode, but the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 337 may be cleared as necessary.

[0223] As described above, after the pachinko machine 1 has transitioned to the game mode, before the game starts (before the game balls are detected entering the various start ports), that is, in the game start possible state, the pachinko machine 1 sets the game mode start display for the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B. This makes it impossible to determine whether the pachinko machine 1 has transitioned to the game mode via the backup return mode, the RWM clear mode, the setting confirmation mode, or the setting change mode in the game start possible state.

[0224] In other words, even if a player checks the first special symbol display device 62A and the second special symbol display device 62B of the pachinko machine 1 in the game start state, the player cannot determine whether the pachinko machine 1 is one in which the stage setting value may have been changed. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 can prevent the player from guessing whether the setting has been changed in the game start state.

[0225] (10. Processing in the sub-integrated control device) As described above, the sub-integrated control device 120 controls the effect symbol control device 130 in response to commands from the main control device 100, and performs effects such as displaying effect images on the effect symbol display device 54. The effects indicate the progress of the game, and also indicate the results of hit / miss judgments for the first and second special symbols and normal symbols, or suggest that a hit will occur as a result of the hit / miss judgment. Specifically, the sub-integrated control device 120 may perform, in addition to the pseudo effect display (in other words, symbol effect), for example, reserved symbol effect, advance notice effect, foresight effect, big win effect, etc.

[0226] The reserved pattern effect is an effect that indicates the occurrence of a new reserved memory or the number of reserved memories by displaying a reserved pattern corresponding to the reserved memory. The advance notice effect is an effect that is performed together with the pseudo effect display and indicates the expectation of winning in the hit / miss judgment corresponding to the pseudo effect display. The look-ahead effect is an effect that indicates the expectation of winning in the hit / miss judgment before the hit / miss judgment based on the reserved memory is performed. The look-ahead effect may be performed, for example, by displaying a look-ahead reserved pattern that indicates the expectation of winning in the hit / miss judgment corresponding to the reserved memory, or may be performed by displaying a predetermined character or the like without displaying a look-ahead reserved pattern. The big win effect is an effect that is performed during the execution of a big win game and indicates the current round number, the total round number, etc.

[0227] (10-1: Processing when power is turned on) In this embodiment, when the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is turned on and the power supply to the sub integrated control device 120 is started, the sub integrated control device 120 displays the first image 400 (see FIG. 39(a)) on the performance symbol display device 54. The first image 400 indicates that the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 has been started and that no command has been transmitted from the main control device 100 to the sub integrated control device 120 after the power supply has been started. In addition, the first image 400 may display, for example, the model name of the pachinko machine 1. This allows the model name of the pachinko machine 1 to be understood even in a situation where no command has been transmitted from the main control device 100 to the sub integrated control device 120. In addition, for example, the first image 400 may display images of characters appearing in the performance, background images in the performance, and still images or videos that are part of the performance. This allows the motif and outline of the game and performance to be understood even in a situation where no command has been transmitted from the main control device 100 to the sub integrated control device 120.

[0228] Then, when a command is received from the main control device 100 while the first image 400 is being displayed, the sub integrated control device 120 displays a second image on the performance pattern display device 54 in place of the first image 400. The second image indicates that power supply to the main control device 100 has started and that the main control device 100 is operating normally. The second image also indicates that a command has been sent from the main control device 100 to the sub integrated control device 120.

[0229] Specifically, when the sub integrated control device 120 receives a power restoration command from the main control device 100 while the first image 400 is being displayed, it displays a power restoration image 410 (see FIG. 39(b)) as the second image. Furthermore, when the sub integrated control device 120 receives an RWM clear notification command from the main control device 100 while displaying the first image 400, it displays an RWM clear image 420 (see FIG. 39(c)) as the second image. The RWM clear image 420 indicates that the RWM is cleared when the power is turned on, and that the game will start in the state where the RWM 330 is cleared.

[0230] In this embodiment, the power restoration image 410 and the RWM clear image 420 are configured, for example, as images different from the first image 400. However, the power restoration image and the RWM clear image may be configured by adding text such as "power restoration in progress" or "RAM clear" to an image similar to the first image 400. Furthermore, when a certain time has elapsed after the display of the power recovery image 410 or the RWM clear image 420, the sub integrated control device 120 displays an image on the performance symbol display device 54 in accordance with a command from the main control device 100. At this time, if no game is being played, a standby image 430 (FIG. 39(d)) may be displayed on the performance symbol display device 54. The standby image 430 is an image that is displayed when no game is being played for a certain period of time while the pachinko machine 1 is in operation. As an example, the standby image 430 displays the pseudo performance symbol that was confirmed and displayed in the last pseudo performance display.

[0231] On the other hand, if the sub-integrated control device 120 receives a command other than the power recovery command and the RWM clear notification command (more specifically, a setting change notification command, a setting check notification command, or a game stop notification command) from the main control device 100 while displaying the first image 400, the sub-integrated control device 120 maintains the display of the first image 400. However, even in this case, the sub-integrated control device 120 may display a second image on the performance pattern display device 54 instead of the first image 400.

[0232] Specifically, for example, when the sub integrated control device 120 receives a setting change notification command from the main control device 100 while displaying the first image 400, the sub integrated control device 120 may display, as the second image, a setting change image indicating that the mode has been changed to the setting change mode when the power is turned on. Note that the setting change image may be, for example, the first image 400 to which text indicating that the mode has been changed to the setting change mode has been added. This allows the user to know whether or not a command has been received from the main control device 100 and whether or not the mode has been changed to the setting change mode.

[0233] Also, for example, when the sub integrated control device 120 receives a setting check notification command from the main control device 100 while displaying the first image 400, the sub integrated control device 120 may display, as the second image, a setting check image indicating that the mode has been changed to the setting check mode when the power is turned on. Note that the setting check image may be, for example, the first image 400 to which text indicating that the mode has been changed to the setting check mode has been added.

[0234] Also, for example, when the sub integrated control device 120 receives a game stop notification command from the main control device 100 while displaying the first image 400, the sub integrated control device 120 may display a game stop image indicating that the game mode has been changed to the game stop mode as the second image. Note that the game stop image may be, for example, the first image 400 with characters added thereto indicating that the game mode has been changed to the game stop mode. Also, even if the second image is displayed by receiving a setting change notification command or a setting confirmation notification command, when the sub integrated control device 120 transitions from the setting change mode or the setting confirmation mode to the game mode, it displays an image on the performance symbol display device 54 in accordance with a command from the main control device 100. At this time, if a game is not being played, a standby image 430 may be displayed on the performance symbol display device 54.

[0235] Also, as described above, a configuration is assumed in which the main control device 100 does not transmit a setting change notification command, a setting confirmation notification command, and a game stop notification command to the sub integrated control device 120. In such a case, it goes without saying that when the setting change mode, the setting confirmation mode, or the game stop mode is entered when the power is turned on, the sub integrated control device 120 displays the first image 400 on the performance pattern display device 54 when the power is turned on, but does not display the second image. In this case, it is possible to grasp from the first image 400 that the sub integrated control device 120 has been started normally. Also, by displaying the model name, images of characters appearing in the performance, background images in the performance, still images and videos that are part of the performance, etc., in the first image 400 as described above, it is possible to appeal to the game and the performance contents even at the stage where no command is received from the main control device 100.

[0236] (10-2: Power-on process) Next, the power-on process in which the sub-integrated control device 120 displays an image on the performance symbol display device 54 when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 40. This process is executed when power supply to the sub-integrated control device 120 starts. In S500, the sub-integrated control device 120 displays the first image 400 on the performance pattern display device 54. After that, when the sub-integrated control device 120 receives a command from the main control device 100, it determines the type of the command (S505). If the command is a power return command, it proceeds to S510, and if the command is an RWM clear notification command, it proceeds to S515. If the command is a command other than the power return command and the RWM clear notification command, it proceeds to S520.

[0237] In S510, the sub-integrated control device 120 displays a power recovery image 410 on the performance symbol display device 54, and ends this process. In addition, in S515, the sub-integrated control device 120 displays an RWM clear image 420 on the performance symbol display device 54, and ends this process. In addition, in S520, the display of the first image 400 on the performance symbol display device 54 continues, and ends this process. As a result, it is possible to know that a command has not yet been received from the main control device 100 just by looking at the performance symbol display device 54, and if the model name or an image of a character appearing in a performance is displayed in the first image 400, it is possible to know what kind of performance the gaming machine is performing.

[0238] <Second embodiment> Next, a pachinko machine 1 of a second embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a backup power supply for holding the RWM provided in the sub-integrated control device 120 is provided, and in the process in which the sub-integrated control device 120 displays an image on the performance symbol display device 54 when the power is turned on. Below, these differences will be described, and the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0239] (1. Backup power supply) In the second embodiment, the backup power circuit 154 in the power supply board 150 supplies power to the RWM 330 of the main control device 100 and the RWM of the payout control device 110, as well as to the RWM provided in the sub integrated control device 120. Therefore, even after the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is cut off, the data of the RWM of the sub integrated control device 120 is held for a certain period of time. Specifically, the RWM of the sub integrated control device 120 is provided with a history information area for saving history information of commands received from the main control device 100, and when the power supply is cut off, the data of the history information area is held for a certain period of time. Note that when the power supply is cut off, the backup power circuit 154 may be configured to hold only a part of the RWM of the sub integrated control device 120, including the history information area.

[0240] (2. Processing when power is turned on) In the second embodiment, the sub integrated control device 120 judges, based on the data in the history information area, whether the power-on occurred after a momentary interruption or was caused by turning on the power SW 155 after a certain time had elapsed since the power-on. Specifically, if the history information of the command is stored in the history information area, the sub integrated control device 120 may consider the power-on to have occurred after a momentary interruption. On the other hand, if the history information of the command is not stored in the history information area, for example, when the value in the history information area is the value at the time of initialization of the RWM, the sub integrated control device 120 may consider the power-on to have occurred by turning on the power SW 155.

[0241] Then, if it is determined that the power-on occurred after a momentary interruption, the sub-integrated control device 120 displays the above-mentioned power recovery image 410 (see FIG. 39(b)) on the performance pattern display device 54. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power-on occurred by turning on the power SW 155, the sub-integrated control device 120 displays an image different from the power recovery image 410 on the performance pattern display device 54. Specifically, for example, the above-mentioned RWM clear image 420 or standby image 430 may be displayed on the performance pattern display device 54.

[0242] (Variation 1) The following describes Modification 1. Note that a description of the same parts as those described in the above embodiment will be omitted. In the gaming machine of variant 1, the standby image 430 that is displayed when in a standby state where no game is being played is displayed in a different manner depending on whether it is displayed after power is turned on with RWM initialization (hereinafter also referred to as power on with initialization), when the power is turned on by operating only the power SW 155, or when a predetermined time has passed since game play was ended without game resumption, making it possible to determine from which of the above states the pachinko machine 1 entered the standby state. In the first modification, a configuration in which not only the standby image 430 is changed, but the standby mode including the standby image and the demo movie is changed will be described.

[0243] 41(a) shows the standby image A430a that is displayed when the power is turned on to initialize the RWM. The standby image A430a displays the performance symbols arranged from left to right as "3", "5", and "7" in front of a background image. In the standby image of the first modification, only the standby image A430a displays the performance symbols, so that hall employees can tell that the gaming machine has been initialized by looking at the standby image A430a. 41(b) shows a standby image B430b that is displayed when the power is turned on by operating only the power switch 155 without initializing the RWM. The standby image B430b displays only a background image. Therefore, by looking at the standby image B430b, a hall employee can determine that the gaming machine has been turned on by operating only the power switch 155. The standby image C430c shown in FIG. 41(c) is a standby image displayed when a predetermined time has passed since the game was ended without the game being restarted. The standby image C430c displays a background image and also displays the version name of the gaming machine in strips at the top and bottom of the screen. The version name is a name given to distinguish between machines that have almost the same content of the performance display but have different winning probabilities and gameplay, and is displayed so that the player does not misunderstand the gaming machine performance. It is also called the specification name or series name. By looking at the standby image C430c, it is possible to determine that the gaming machine that was being played has gone into standby and is displayed.

[0244] In addition, the location is not limited to the top and bottom of the screen, but can be the left or right edge, or it can be displayed on only one side, or it can be in the center of the bottom or top of the screen, etc., as long as the location and size do not interfere with the presentation of the presentation. Furthermore, the limitation on the display content of the above standby images is merely to make the display content different in order to distinguish between the standby state from power-on with initialization, the standby state from power-on without initialization, and the standby state after game play ends. For example, the standby image displayed when power is turned on with initialization may be standby image B430b or standby image C430c. In short, it is sufficient that the standby images displayed in the standby state from each state are different, and the standby image displayed in each state is not limited. Also, although the standby image is configured to be displayed for a predetermined period of time, the duration of display may differ depending on the standby image. For example, in the case of a game configuration with a setting function, there is a risk in displaying the standby image A430a, which indicates that the power has been turned on with initialization, for a long period of time (informing the player that the settings may have been changed), so it is possible to take measures such as displaying the standby image A430a for a shorter period of time than the others.

[0245] The standby image D430d shown in FIG. 42(d) is a standby image that is displayed when the standby mode is entered into a loop state of the demo movie and standby images. The standby image D430d displays a background image different from the background images used in the standby images A430a, B430b, and C430c. Therefore, it is possible to determine that the standby mode is in a loop state due to the difference in the background image. If it is not necessary to determine that the standby mode is in a loop state, the standby image C430c may be displayed instead of the standby image D430d. In this case, the standby mode can be configured with less image data. The standby mode of the first modification refers to a presentation mode in which a standby image indicating that the game is in standby mode and a demo movie in which a moving image is played to attract the attention of a player who has not yet decided which gaming machine to play are alternately executed during the standby mode. Of course, the standby mode is not limited to a combination of a standby image and a demo movie, and may be composed of only a plurality of standby images or only a plurality of demo movies.

[0246] In addition, in the first modified example, the configuration is such that it is possible to distinguish between three states: power-on with initialization, power-on without initialization, and standby state due to the end of play, but it may be such that it is possible to distinguish only the difference when the power is turned on, or it may be such that it is possible to have three or more configurations in which different standby images are displayed when play ends in a normal play state and when play ends in a bonus play state (a play state in which a special bonus function or an extended open function has been activated). If the standby mode is provided with a pattern according to the state to be distinguished as a game configuration, both the game establishment and the player can distinguish by looking at the standby mode, and the state of the gaming machine can be grasped.

[0247] There are several possible configurations for the standby mode, and in the standby mode 1 shown in FIG. 43, pattern A is selected when power is turned on with initialization. In pattern A, when the power is turned on and the machine goes into standby mode, standby image A430a is displayed on the performance pattern display device 54. After the standby image A430a is displayed for a predetermined time (for example, 120 seconds), the display of a demo movie begins. When playback of the demo movie ends, standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After this, the demo movie and standby image D430d are looped. Therefore, the standby image A430a is only displayed the first time. The reason for only doing it the first time is that in gaming establishments, the power to multiple gaming machines on an island is often turned on all at once, so it is sufficient to be able to determine after power-on whether the power-on is accompanied by initialization or not. In addition, the reason why the standby image A430a is not displayed during the loop is that, in the case of a setting function (a function that has multiple winning probabilities for special charts, and one of the winning probabilities is set by selecting a setting value by an employee of the game arcade), the RWM is always initialized when the setting is changed (for example, if the winning probability is changed while reserved memory remains, the winning probability at the time of winning the start port and the winning probability at the time when the fluctuation actually starts will differ, and it cannot be said to be a fair game), so the standby image A430a will be displayed, and if it is displayed in a loop, it will be possible to identify the gaming machine whose setting has been changed even if the player does not play. For this reason, it is desirable to display the standby image D430d so that it is identifiable whether the state has changed from the first time state to the standby state, but not to identify it thereafter.

[0248] In pattern B, when the power is turned on and the machine goes into standby mode, standby image B430b is displayed on the performance pattern display device 54. After standby image B430b is displayed for a predetermined time (for example, 120 seconds), a demo movie starts to be displayed. When playback of the demo movie ends, standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After this, the demo movie and standby image D430d are looped. Therefore, standby image B430b is only displayed the first time. In pattern C, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the pattern variation has ended (since the game has ended), standby image C430c is displayed on performance pattern display device 54. After standby image C430c has been displayed for a predetermined time (for example, 120 seconds), a demo movie begins to be displayed. When the demo movie has finished playing, standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After this, the demo movie and standby image D430d are looped. Unlike patterns A and B, there is no need to indicate that the game has entered standby mode after the game has ended, but if standby image D430d is displayed without displaying standby image C430c, it becomes difficult to distinguish that the loop has begun from standby image A430a or standby image B430b, so the standby image C430c is displayed the first time to indicate that it is not pattern A or pattern B.

[0249] The above is the configuration of standby mode 1. With this configuration, when the power is turned on and when playing ends it is possible to identify from the standby image what state the machine entered standby from the first time, but from the first time onwards it becomes impossible to identify by displaying a common demo movie and standby image. This makes it possible to provide accurate information when the power is turned on, but by the time business has started (which will likely be after the initial display), no information can be provided from the standby image.

[0250] Next, in the standby mode 2 shown in FIG. 43, the pattern A is the same as the standby mode 1, but in the pattern B, when the power is turned on and the standby state is entered, the standby image is not displayed and the demo movie is started to be displayed. When the playback of the demo movie ends, the standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. When the standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time, the demo movie is started to be displayed again. After that, the standby image D430d and the demo movie are looped. In this way, it can be determined that the gaming machine that displayed the standby image after the power was turned on and was powered on with initialization, and the gaming machine that played the demo movie was powered on only with the power switch 155. In particular, the demo movie is often accompanied by sound and LED lighting in addition to the performance pattern display device 54, so it can be identified even from a distance. The pattern C is also the same as the standby mode 1. With this configuration, when the power is turned on with or without initialization, the difference is between displaying a standby image or a demo movie, making it possible to clearly distinguish between the two. Also, when the game ends and the standby state is in effect, a dedicated standby image is displayed, making it possible to distinguish the difference from the standby state after power is turned on. Although the first time of pattern A is made a standby image and the first time of pattern B is made a demo movie so as to enable discrimination, the first time of pattern A may be made a demo movie and the first time of pattern B may be made a standby image. The same effect can be achieved by the reverse configuration.

[0251] 44, in pattern A, which is selected when the power is turned on with initialization, first displays standby image A430a, and after a predetermined time has elapsed displays standby image B430b. After standby image B430b is displayed for the predetermined time, a loop is performed in which a demo movie and standby image D430d are alternately displayed, as in the other modes. In pattern B, which is selected when the power is turned on without initialization, standby image B430b is displayed first, and standby image A430a is displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed. After standby image A430a is displayed for the predetermined time, a loop is performed in which a demo movie and standby image D430d are alternately displayed, as in the other modes. Pattern C, which is selected during the standby state to which the game is transitioned after the game ends, is the same as standby mode 1. With this configuration, even though both pattern A and pattern B use the same standby image, it is possible to determine whether or not the power-on involved initialization based on the difference in the order in which they are displayed.

[0252] In standby mode 4 shown in Fig. 44, in pattern A selected when the power is turned on with initialization, standby image A430a is displayed first, and after a predetermined time has passed, the display switches to demo movie A430e. As shown in Fig. 42(e), demo movie A430e shows a karate-ka character running through a grassland searching for an enemy. When the display of demo movie A430e ends, standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After that, a loop is entered in which demo movie A430e and standby image D430d are alternately displayed. In pattern B, which is selected when the power is turned on without initialization, a standby image B430b is displayed first, and after a predetermined time has passed, the display switches to a demo movie B430f. As shown in FIG. 42(f), the demo movie B430f shows a karate-fighting character facing an enemy character, and a fight ensues. When the display of the demo movie B430f ends, a standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After this, a loop is entered in which the demo movie B430f and the standby image D430d are alternately displayed.

[0253] In pattern C, which is selected after the game is finished, first the standby image C430c is displayed, and after a predetermined time has passed, the display switches to demo movie A430e. When the display of demo movie A430e ends, standby image D430d is displayed for a predetermined time. After the predetermined time has passed, the display switches to demo movie B430f. Thereafter, the transition between demo movie A430e, standby image D430d, and demo movie B430f is repeated. This configuration is suitable for gaming machines that do not have a setting function that does not affect the game advantage even if the player can tell that the power is turned on with initialization, and even if the standby mode transitions to a loop state, it is possible to tell from which state the standby mode started by the difference in the demo movie. Furthermore, a variety of demo movies can be watched, which can attract the attention of the player. Although demo movie A430e is used for pattern A and demo movie B430f is used for pattern B, demo movie B430f may be used for pattern A and demo movie A430e for pattern B. Also, the first standby image is different between pattern A and pattern B, but the first standby image may be the same (e.g., standby image C430c) so that it is possible to distinguish when the loop state is entered. The configuration of the first modified example has been described above. With this configuration, it is possible to determine from what state the device entered the standby state, based on the pattern of the standby mode when the device entered the standby state. The demo movie shown in the standby modes 1 to 3 may be either the demo movie A430e or the demo movie B430f.

[0254] <Other embodiments> The configurations of the above embodiments may be applied to a reel type gaming machine (more specifically, a slot gaming machine or a Parrot gaming machine). That is, in a reel type gaming machine, a sub-integrated control device that displays an effect image on an effect pattern display device in response to a command from a main control device may display an image on the effect pattern display device in the same manner as in the first and second embodiments when power supply to the reel type gaming machine starts. Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained.

[0255] <Correspondence to claims> The correspondence between the terms used in the above description of the embodiment and the terms used in the claims will be described below. The pachinko machine 1 corresponds to an example of an amusement machine, the performance pattern display device 54 (more specifically, the LCD display of the performance pattern display device 54) corresponds to an example of a performance screen, and the sub-integrated control device 120 corresponds to an example of a sub-control device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0256] 1... Pachinko machine, 54... Performance pattern display device, 100... Main control device, 120... Sub integrated control device, 155... Power supply switch, 430a... Standby image A, 430b... Standby image B, 430c... Standby image C, 430d... Standby image D, 430e... Demo movie A, 430f... Demo movie B.

Claims

[Claim 1] A gaming machine comprising a main control means for controlling a game and a performance control means for performing a performance in response to an instruction from the main control means, The performance control means is configured to execute a standby mode when the game is not being played and the game is in a standby state, The gaming machine is characterized in that different standby modes are executed when the standby state is entered after power return accompanied by initialization, when the standby state is entered after power return without initialization, and when the standby state is entered after a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of a game.

Images