Pachinko machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine that can easily grasp the game situation.SOLUTION: When a power outage occurs and power is restored afterwards, a main control CPU determines whether there is an abnormality on the basis of power interruption memory information generated before the power is restored. When the main control CPU detects an abnormality, it is possible to control to output a predetermined external signal. Furthermore, when detecting an abnormality, the main control CPU controls to make it impossible to continue the game. In particular, a first state signal among the external signals can be output on the condition that the game is in a special game state different from a normal state. The security signal among the external signals is output for a predetermined fixed time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Background Art

[0002] Among pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, there are those that perform control for outputting a signal capable of specifying the gaming situation. For example, in the pachinko gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, as signals capable of specifying the gaming situation, a jackpot signal 1 output during a jackpot game and during the operation of the opening extension function, and a jackpot signal 2 output during a jackpot game can be output.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Regarding such a gaming machine, in order to make it easier to grasp the gaming situation, further improvements are desired when outputting a signal capable of specifying the gaming situation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The gaming machine that solves the above problems includes control means for performing control related to the game, holding storage means in which information related to the game is stored and the stored information can be retained even when a power failure occurs, and output means capable of outputting a predetermined signal. When the power is restored after a power cut of the gaming machine, the control means includes Based on the specific storage information stored in the holding storage means before the power restoration of the gaming machine, the game technical A determination process is performed to determine whether it is possible. Among the signals that the output means can output, there are a first external signal and a second external signal different from the first external signal. When a positive determination is made in the determination process, the output means can output the first external signal, and the gaming machine is in a normal gaming state special gaming states that are more advantageous to the player than is sometimes able to output the second external signal, and the gist is that the first external signal is output over a predetermined fixed time.

Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to make it easier to grasp the gaming situation.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the pachinko game machine will be described. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions when viewed from the player.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko game machine 10 as a game machine includes a frame body 11. The frame body 11 includes an installation frame 11a for fixing the pachinko game machine 10 to island facilities such as a game parlor, and a mounting frame 11b for mounting various game components. The mounting frame 11b is pivotally supported on one side edge of the opening of the installation frame 11a so as to be openable and closable with respect to the installation frame 11a. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a locking device (not shown) for locking the mounting frame 11b so that it is not opened. The locking device is configured to be unlocked by inserting a key that fits the locking device and rotating it in a predetermined direction, and to allow the mounting frame 11b to be opened.

[0010] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a game board YB. The game board YB is mounted on a mounting frame 11b. On the front side of the game board YB, a game area YBa is formed where game balls, which are gaming media, flow down. In other words, the game board YB has a game area where game balls can flow down. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a firing handle HD. The firing handle HD is a means that is operated when hitting a game ball into the game area YBa. The firing handle HD is provided on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured such that the firing intensity of the game ball can be adjusted by adjusting the amount of rotation operation of the firing handle HD.

[0011] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a decorative lamp LA. The decorative lamp LA can perform various notifications and various effects by the light emission of a light-emitting body. In the following description, the effect by the light emission of the light-emitting body is referred to as a "light emission effect". That is, the decorative lamp LA can execute a light emission effect performed by causing the light-emitting body to emit light. Note that "light emission" in this specification includes lighting, blinking, and extinguishing. The decorative lamp LA is provided on the frame body 11, for example. In the following description, the fact that the light-emitting body of the decorative lamp LA emits light may be simply referred to as "the decorative lamp LA emits light".

[0012] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a speaker SP. The speaker SP can perform various notifications and various effects by the output of sound. In the following description, the effect by the output of sound is referred to as a "sound effect". That is, the speaker SP can execute a sound effect performed by outputting sound. In the following description, the effect performed by outputting sound is referred to as a "sound effect". Note that "sound" in this specification includes the voices of people and animals, sound effects, and music, etc. The speaker SP is provided on the frame body 11, for example.

[0013] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an information display device 12. For example, the information display device 12 is disposed at a position visible to the player on the game board YB. In the information display device 12, various information indicating the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is notified.

[0014] The information display device 12 includes a first special symbol display unit 12a and a second special symbol display unit 12b as display units capable of displaying a special game as a variable game in which symbols are varied. In the special game, a predetermined symbol is variably displayed, and finally the special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery (a special lottery described later). The first special symbol display unit 12a displays the first special game. The second special symbol display unit 12b displays the second special game. In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed and the type of the displayed symbol does not change. For a symbol, "fixed stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, the second special game is preferentially executed with respect to the first special game. The first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously in parallel. The special symbol includes a jackpot symbol as a jackpot display result and a losing symbol as a losing display result. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, when winning a jackpot in the special lottery, a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, and after the end of the special game of the jackpot, a jackpot game is awarded.

[0015] The information display device 12 includes a first special hold display unit 12c and a second special hold display unit 12d as display units capable of displaying information specifying the number of holds of the special game. The first special hold display unit 12c displays information capable of specifying the number of holds of the first special game (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The second special hold display unit 12d displays information capable of specifying the number of holds of the second special game (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number). For example, the upper limit values of the first special hold number and the second special hold number are 4.

[0016] The information display device 12 includes a normal symbol display unit 12e. The normal symbol display unit 12e displays a normal game. In the normal game, predetermined symbols are variably displayed, and finally the normal symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery (a normal lottery described later). The normal symbol includes a normal winning symbol as a normal winning display result and a normal losing symbol as a normal losing display result. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, when winning a normal win in the normal lottery, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and after the end of the normal game of the normal win, a normal winning game is awarded. The information display device 12 includes a normal hold display unit 12f. The normal hold display unit 12f displays information capable of specifying the number of normal game holds (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number).

[0017] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an effect display device EH. The effect display device EH is, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device. Note that the effect display device EH may be an organic EL display type display device or a display device configured to include a projector and a screen. The effect display device EH includes an image display unit GH on which an image is displayed. As one of the effects, the effect display device EH is capable of executing an effect (hereinafter referred to as a display effect) of displaying an image (pattern) imitating a predetermined character or character.

[0018] In the effect display device EH, as one of the display effects, an effect game as a variable game is displayed. In the effect game, a plurality of columns of effect symbols are variably displayed, and finally a combination of effect symbols (hereinafter referred to as a symbol combination) is derived. The effect symbol (decorative symbol) is a symbol decorated with decorations such as characters and patterns, and is a symbol for diversifying the display effect. As an example, the effect game of the present embodiment is performed by variably displaying (scrolling display) the effect symbols in the left symbol column, the middle symbol column, and the right symbol column in a predetermined direction respectively.

[0019] The performance game starts and ends together with the special game. In the performance game, a symbol combination corresponding to the special symbol derived in the special game is derived. When a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, a jackpot symbol combination is derived in the performance game. The jackpot symbol combination is a symbol combination in which all the performance symbols in a row are the same performance symbol, such as "777". When a losing symbol is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination is derived in the performance game. The losing symbol combination is, for example, a symbol combination in which at least some of the performance symbols in a row are different from the performance symbols in other rows, such as "778", "787", "368", etc. In this specification, "temporary stop display" refers to a temporary stop state before the performance symbol is definitely stopped and displayed, such as a swaying and fluctuating display. In the following description, the special game and the performance game may be collectively referred to as the "fluctuation game".

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, on the game board YB, a first start port 13 is formed as a winning port that opens to the game area YBa. The first start port 13 is always open so that a game ball can be entered. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 for detecting a game ball that has entered the first start port 13 (shown in FIG. 4). In the pachinko game machine 10, when a game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the reservation condition for the first special game may be satisfied, and the payout condition for a predetermined number of prize balls is satisfied.

[0021] On the game board YB, a second start port 14 is formed as a winning port that opens to the game area YBa. The pachinko game machine 10 is provided with a second start sensor SE2 for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start port 14 (shown in FIG. 4). In the pachinko game machine 10, when a game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the reservation condition for the second special game may be satisfied, and the payout condition for a predetermined number of prize balls is satisfied.

[0022] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a normal operation member 15 that can operate between an open state in which a game ball can enter the second start port 14 and a closed state in which it is more difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 14 than in the open state. As an example, in the present embodiment, the open state of the normal operation member 15 is a state in which the game ball is guided to the second start port 14, and the closed state of the normal operation member 15 in the present embodiment is a state in which the game ball is not guided to the second start port 14. Further, the closed state of the normal operation member 15 may be a state in which the game ball cannot enter the second start port 14, such as a state in which the opening of the second start port 14 is closed by an operating piece of the normal operation member 15. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a first actuator A1 that operates the normal operation member 15 (shown in FIG. 4). The normal operation member 15 is operated to the open state in a normal winning game.

[0023] In the following description, the state in which the game ball can enter the second start port 14 when the normal operation member 15 operates to the open state may be simply referred to as "opening the second start port 14". Similarly, in the following description, the state in which the game ball cannot enter or has difficulty entering the second start port 14 when the normal operation member 15 operates to the closed state may be simply referred to as "closing the second start port 14".

[0024] On the game board YB, a large winning port 16 is formed as a winning port that opens into the game area YBa. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a count sensor SE3 that detects a game ball that has entered the large winning port 16 (shown in FIG. 4). In the pachinko gaming machine 10, when a game ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, the payout condition of a predetermined number of prize balls is satisfied.

[0025] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a special operation member 17 that can be operated between an open state in which a game ball can enter the big winning opening 16 and a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter the big winning opening 16. The closed state may be a state in which a game ball can enter the big winning opening 16 but is less likely to enter than in the open state. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a second actuator A2 that operates the special operation member 17 (shown in FIG. 4). The special operation member 17 is operated to the open state during a big win game. In the following description, the state in which the game ball can enter the big winning opening 16 when the special operation member 17 is operated to the open state may be simply referred to as "opening the big winning opening 16". Similarly, in the following description, the state in which the game ball cannot enter or has difficulty entering the big winning opening 16 when the special operation member 17 is operated to the closed state may be simply referred to as "closing the big winning opening 16".

[0026] The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a gate 25 through which the game balls flowing down in the game area YBa can pass (enter). The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a gate sensor SE4 that detects the game balls passing through the gate 25 (shown in FIG. 4). In the pachinko gaming machine 10, when a game ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, the holding conditions for the normal game can be satisfied, while the payout conditions for the prize balls are configured not to be satisfied.

[0027] An out port 26 is formed in the game board YB. For example, the out port 26 opens to the game area YBa at the lower end of the game area YBa. The game balls that have been launched into the game area YBa and have not entered any of the winning openings are discharged outside the machine from the out port 26. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with an out port sensor SE5 that detects the game balls passing through the out port 26 (shown in FIG. 4).

[0028] Next, in this embodiment, the path along which the game balls flow down will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above has a plurality of paths for the game balls to flow down in the game area YBa, and these paths vary according to the firing intensity of the game balls. The paths for the game balls to flow down can also be regarded as the areas where the game balls flow down. Among the plurality of paths, there are a first path that flows down the left side of the effect display device EH and a second path that flows down the right side of the effect display device EH. The first path and the second path may partially overlap or may not overlap at all. In the following description, when the game board YB is viewed from the front, the area located on the left side of the center line CL that bisects the game area YBa into left and right is shown as the left area R1, and the area located on the right side of the center line CL is shown as the right area R2. That is, the game area of this embodiment includes a left area R1 and a right area R2. In this embodiment, the left area R1 corresponds to the first game area, and the right area R2 corresponds to the second game area. In this embodiment, the path that flows down the left area R1 is the first path, and the path that flows down the right area R2 is the second path.

[0029] Then, the player can distribute the game balls to the left area R1 and the right area R2 by operating the firing handle HD to adjust the firing intensity of the game balls. In this embodiment, a first starting port 13 is provided in the left area R1. Also, in this embodiment, a second starting port 14, a big winning port 16, and a gate 25 are provided in the right area R2. Therefore, when the firing intensity is adjusted to be weak and the game ball is fired, the game ball is likely to flow down the left area R1 and may enter the first starting port 13. On the other hand, when the firing intensity is adjusted to be strong and the game ball is fired, the game ball is likely to flow down the right area R2 and may enter the second starting port 14, the big winning port 16, or the gate 25.

[0030] In the following description, firing the game ball with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the left area R1 may be referred to as "left hitting". Also, firing the game ball with a firing intensity that makes it easy for the game ball to flow down the right area R2 may be referred to as "right hitting".

[0031] Next, the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a probability variation function that varies the jackpot probability to a high probability, a ball entry assistance function that assists the entry of game balls into the second start port 14, and a time shortening function that shortens the variation time of the special game. The gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured by combining the operating states (operating and non-operating) of these functions.

[0032] The probability variation function (hereinafter referred to as the probability change function) will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a plurality of probability states as states with different jackpot probabilities. The plurality of probability states include a low probability state and a high probability state in which the jackpot probability is higher than that of the low probability state. When the probability change function operates, the probability state shifts from the low probability state to the high probability state, increasing the possibility of winning the jackpot. Therefore, the high probability state becomes an advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is a so-called "probability variation state (probability change state)".

[0033] The ball entry assistance function will be described. The ball entry assistance function is a function that supports winning in the normal electric accessory, and is a so-called "electric support function". The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a plurality of ball entry rate states as states with different ball entry rates into the second start port 14. The plurality of ball entry rate states include a low ball entry rate state and a high ball entry rate state in which the ball entry rate is higher than that of the low ball entry rate state. When the ball entry assistance function operates, the ball entry rate state shifts from the low ball entry rate state to the high ball entry rate state, making it easier to satisfy the start condition of the second special game. Therefore, the high ball entry rate state becomes an advantageous state for the player.

[0034] For example, the high hitting rate state can be realized by executing any one of the three auxiliary controls described below, or by combining and executing a plurality of controls. The first auxiliary control is a control that makes the variation time of the normal game shorter than that in the low hitting rate state. The second auxiliary control is a control that varies the normal winning probability in the normal lottery to a higher probability than that in the low hitting rate state. The second auxiliary control may be a control that does not perform the normal lottery itself in the low hitting rate state, but performs the normal lottery at a predetermined winning probability in the high hitting rate state. The third auxiliary control is a control that makes the total opening time of the normal operation member 15 in one normal winning game longer than that in the low hitting rate state. Note that as the third auxiliary control, at least one of a control that increases the number of opening times of the normal operation member 15 in one normal winning game compared to the low hitting rate state, and a control that makes the opening time of the normal operation member 15 in one normal winning game longer than that in the low hitting rate state may be performed.

[0035] Next, the variation time shortening function (hereinafter referred to as the time shortening function) will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a plurality of variation time states as states in which the variation time (average variation time) of the special game is different. The plurality of variation time states include a long variation time state and a short variation time state in which at least the average variation time of the second special game is shorter than that in the long variation time state. When the time shortening function is activated, the variation time state shifts from the long variation time state to the short variation time state, and the number of special games that can be substantially executed per unit time increases. That is, the digestion efficiency of the reservation of the special game is improved. In the present embodiment, the time shortening function operates in association with the ball entry assistance function. That is, the time shortening function operates together with the ball entry assistance function and becomes inoperative together with the ball entry assistance function.

[0036] In this embodiment, there are three types of gaming states: the normal state, the first special gaming state, and the second special gaming state. The normal state is a gaming state in which none of the probability variation function, the ball entry assistance function, and the time shortening function operate. The first special gaming state is a gaming state in which all of the probability variation function, the ball entry assistance function, and the time shortening function operate. The second special gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability variation function does not operate while the ball entry assistance function and the time shortening function operate. In the following description, the first special gaming state and the second special gaming state may be collectively referred to as the "special gaming state".

[0037] Next, the jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment includes a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special symbols. Each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols has a defined type of jackpot game. The type of jackpot symbol can also be understood as the type of jackpot.

[0038] In this embodiment, the first special symbol jackpot symbols and the second special symbol jackpot symbols each have a plurality of types of jackpot symbols defined in advance. In this embodiment, the plurality of types of special symbol jackpot symbols are classified into three groups: symbol ZA, symbol ZB, and symbol ZC, at a predefined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, out of 100 types of first special symbol jackpot symbols, 50 types of jackpot symbols are classified into symbol ZA and 50 types of jackpot symbols are classified into symbol ZB, respectively. Also, in this embodiment, all 100 types of second special symbol jackpot symbols are classified into symbol ZC. In the following description, the jackpot based on the jackpot symbol classified into symbol ZA is referred to as "jackpot ZA", the jackpot based on the jackpot symbol classified into symbol ZB is referred to as "jackpot ZB", and the jackpot based on the jackpot symbol classified into symbol ZC is referred to as "jackpot ZC".

[0039] In this embodiment, in the jackpot games based on jackpots ZA and ZB, the upper limit number of rounds of the round game (indicated as the number of rounds in the figure) is set to 5. Also, in the jackpot game based on jackpot ZC, the upper limit number of rounds of the round game is set to 10. Further, in this embodiment, in the jackpot games based on jackpots ZA, ZB, and ZC, the upper limit time for each round game is set to 25 seconds.

[0040] In the jackpot game, first, a predetermined performance is carried out over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the opening time). For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that can identify the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the elapse of the opening time, the round game that opens the big winning opening 16 is carried out with the predetermined upper limit number of times as the upper limit. One round game ends when the first end condition that a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter or the second end condition that a predetermined upper limit time elapses is satisfied. In the round game, the big winning opening 16 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. In each round game, a round performance is carried out.

[0041] Then, in the jackpot game, when the last round game ends, a predetermined performance is carried out over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the ending time). For example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that can recognize the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends as the ending time elapses.

[0042] Next, the game state after the end of the jackpot game will be described. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is controlled according to the type of jackpot (type of jackpot symbol).

[0043] In this embodiment, in the big win ZA, it is defined that after the end of the big win game, it is controlled to the low probability state. Also, in the big win ZA, after the end of the big win game, until the end of the special game with a predetermined number of operations (100 times in this embodiment) or until the next big win game is awarded, it is defined that it is controlled to the high ball entry rate state. That is, in the big win ZA, after the end of the big win game, until the end of the special game with a predetermined number of times or until the next big win game is awarded, it is defined that it is controlled to the second special game state.

[0044] On the other hand, in this embodiment, in the big win ZB and big win ZC, after the end of the big win game, until the end of the special game with a predetermined number of probability variation operations (100 times in this embodiment) or until the next big win game is awarded, it is defined that it is controlled to the high probability state. Also, in the big win ZB and big win ZC, after the end of the big win game, until the end of the special game with a predetermined number of operations (100 times in this embodiment) or until the next big win game is awarded, it is defined that it is controlled to the high ball entry rate state. That is, in the big win ZB and big win ZC, after the end of the big win game, until the end of the special game with a predetermined number of times or until the next big win game is awarded, it is defined that it is controlled to the first special game state.

[0045] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 30. The main control board 30 performs predetermined processing and outputs a control signal such as a control command, which is an example of control information, according to the result of the processing. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a sub-control board 40. The main control board 30 and the sub-control board 40 are connected so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 30 to the sub-control board 40. The sub-control board 40 executes predetermined processing based on the control signal input from the main control board 30. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a power supply board 50. The power supply board 50 supplies power to the main control board 30 and the sub-control board 40.

[0046] First, the main control board 30 will be described in detail. The main control board 30 includes a main control CPU 30a, a main control ROM 30b, and a main control RAM 30c. The main control CPU 30a performs various processes by executing the main control program.

[0047] The main control ROM 30b stores the main control program, determination values used for a predetermined lottery, and the like. Further, the main control ROM 30b stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The variation pattern is information that can specify the variation time from when the special game starts until the special game ends. Also, the variation pattern of the present embodiment is information that can specify the production content of the production game.

[0048] The variation patterns of the present embodiment include a deviation variation pattern that can be determined when it is determined as a miss in the jackpot determination, and a jackpot variation pattern that can be determined when it is determined as a jackpot in the jackpot determination. In the deviation variation pattern, as the production content of the production game, production content for finally deriving the symbol combination of the miss is determined. In the jackpot variation pattern, as the production content of the production game, production content for finally deriving the symbol combination of the jackpot is determined.

[0049] The main control RAM 30c is configured to be able to store various information that can be rewritten during the operation of the pachinko game machine 10. The information stored in the main control RAM 30c is, for example, flags, counters, and timers. Also, the main control board 30 is configured to be able to generate random numbers. For example, the random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

[0050] The main control CPU 30a is connected to a first start sensor SE1, a second start sensor SE2, a count sensor SE3, a gate sensor SE4, and an output port sensor SE5. The main control CPU 30a is configured to be able to input detection signals output when each sensor detects a game ball. The main control CPU 30a is connected to an information display device 12 (a first special symbol display unit 12a, a second special symbol display unit 12b, a first special hold display unit 12c, a second special hold display unit 12d, a normal symbol display unit 12e, a normal hold display unit 12f). The main control CPU 30a is configured to be able to control the display content of the information display device 12. The main control CPU 30a is connected to a first actuator A1 and a second actuator A2. The main control CPU 30a can control the normal operation member 15 to operate in an open state by controlling the first actuator A1. Also, the main control CPU 30a can control the special operation member 17 to operate in an open state by controlling the second actuator A2.

[0051] Also, the main control board 30 is provided with a clear switch 30d. The clear switch 30d is an operation means configured to enable an operation for instructing the deletion (initialization) of various information stored in the main control RAM 30c. The clear switch 30d is configured to be in an on state when a pushing operation is performed, and in an off state when no pushing operation is performed. The operation of the clear switch 30d is, for example, a manual operation by the administrator of the pachinko parlor.

[0052] Next, the sub-control board 40 will be described. The sub-control board 40 is connected to the main control board 30. In the pachinko game machine 10, it is configured to be able to output control signals in one direction from the main control board 30 to the sub-control board 40.

[0053] The sub-control board 40 includes a sub-control CPU 40a, a sub-control ROM 40b, and a sub-control RAM 40c. The sub-control CPU 40a performs various processes (for example, processes related to effects) by executing a sub-control program.

[0054] The sub-control ROM 40b stores a sub-control program, determination values used for lottery, etc. The sub-control ROM 40b stores display effect data related to display effects, light emission effect data related to light emission effects, and voice effect data related to voice effects.

[0055] Also, the sub-control RAM 40c is configured to be able to store various information that can be rewritten as appropriate during the operation of the pachinko game machine 10. The information stored in the sub-control RAM 40c is, for example, flags, counters, and timers. Also, the sub-control board 40 is configured to be able to generate random numbers. The random numbers may be generated as hardware random numbers or as software random numbers.

[0056] The sub-control CPU 40a and the effect display device EH are connected. The sub-control CPU 40a is configured to be able to control the display content of the effect display device EH. The sub-control CPU 40a and the decorative lamp LA are connected. The sub-control CPU 40a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 40a and the speaker SP are connected. The sub-control CPU 40a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the voice by the speaker SP.

[0057] Next, the power supply board 50 will be described in detail. The power supply board 50 and the main control board 30 are connected. The power supply board 50 includes a power supply circuit 50a, a power-off monitoring circuit 50b, and a backup power supply 50c. The power supply circuit 50a converts the power supply of the game parlor into a predetermined voltage and supplies it to the main control board 30 and the sub-control board 40.

[0058] The power-off monitoring circuit 50b monitors the voltage of the power supply supplied from the power supply circuit 50a. Specifically, the power-off monitoring circuit 50b determines whether or not the voltage of the power supply supplied from the power supply circuit 50a has become less than a specific voltage. Here, the specific voltage is the minimum voltage required to operate the pachinko gaming machine 10 without causing any trouble to the game. The voltage of the power supply supplied from the power supply circuit 50a becomes less than the specific voltage, for example, when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is turned off or when a power failure occurs. In the following description, the situation where the voltage of the power supply supplied from the power supply circuit 50a becomes less than the specific voltage may be simply referred to as a power-off. When a power-off occurs, the power-off monitoring circuit 50b outputs a power-off signal indicating the occurrence of the power-off to the main control board 30.

[0059] The backup power supply 50c supplies power to the main control board 30 during a power-off. And in the main control board 30, during a power-off, based on the power supplied from the backup power supply 50c, the information stored in the main control RAM 30c can be stored and retained. Thereby, in the present embodiment, it is possible to back up the game state and game content during a power-off. On the other hand, the sub-control board 40 of the present embodiment is configured such that power is not supplied from the backup power supply 50c during a power-off, and the information stored in the sub-control RAM 40c is not stored and retained. In the present embodiment, the main control RAM 30c corresponds to a holding storage means in which information related to the game is stored and the stored information can be stored and retained even when a power failure occurs. Also, in the present embodiment, the sub-control RAM 40c corresponds to a special storage means in which information related to the game is stored and the stored information is not stored and retained when a power failure occurs.

[0060] Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is provided with an external terminal board 60 on the back side for outputting various external signals to the outside of the machine. The external terminal board 60 and the main control CPU 30a are connected. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is configured such that the output terminal of the external terminal board 60 and the input terminal of the external device are wired-connected, and the external signal instructed by the main control CPU 30a can be output to the outside of the machine.

[0061] Here, the main control RAM 30c and the sub-control RAM 40c will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 5, in the main control RAM 30c, the memory areas capable of storing information include a first main memory area and a second main memory area. The first main memory area and the second main memory area are memory areas with different addresses assigned in the main control RAM 30c and with different stored information. That is, in the present embodiment, the first main memory area and the second main memory area can also be grasped as different storage means.

[0062] In the present embodiment, various types of information necessary for advancing the game are stored in the first main memory area. For example, in the first main memory area, information during variation, information during hold, jackpot game information regarding the jackpot game in progress, game state information regarding the current game state, etc. related to the variation game in progress are stored. In the present embodiment, the game state information can also be recognized as information regarding a special game state. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first main memory area corresponds to the first holding memory means in which information regarding the special game state is stored. Also, in the present embodiment, in the second main memory area, information regarding the result of the game, which is various types of information not directly related to the progress of the game, is stored. For example, in the second main memory area, information regarding the number of paid-out prize balls, information regarding the number of out balls discharged outside the machine from the out port 26, etc. are stored. In the present embodiment, the second main memory area corresponds to the second holding memory means different from the first holding memory means.

[0063] Also, in the memory area capable of storing information in the sub-control RAM 40c, there is a sub-memory area. In the sub-memory area, effect information regarding effects is stored. Next, various processes (controls) executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.

[0064] First, the power-on main control process executed by the main control CPU 30a when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on will be described. In the present embodiment, the power-on main control process is also executed when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is restored after the power supply has been interrupted.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 6, in the power-on main control process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the clear switch 30d is in the on state (step S11). If the clear switch 30d is in the on state (step S11: YES), the main control CPU 30a performs a clear process on the main control RAM 30c (step S12). In the clear process of the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a erases (initializes) the stored contents of the main control RAM 30c. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a controls to a state where a special game can be executed based on the information initialized by the clear process of the main control RAM 30c. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the clear process of the main control RAM 30c and also ends the power-on main control process.

[0066] On the other hand, if the clear switch 30d is not in the on state (step S11: NO), the main control CPU 30a controls to restore the stored contents of the main control RAM 30c (step S13). Specifically, the main control CPU 30a controls to restore the stored contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area based on the information saved in the backup storage area in the power-off main control process described later. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a performs a main control abnormality determination process as an abnormality determination process for determining whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c (step S14).

[0067] Here, the main control abnormality determination process will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 7, in the main control abnormality determination process, the main control CPU 30a generates first restored storage information based on the stored contents of the first main storage area (step S21). The first restored storage information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the first main storage area at the time of execution of the main control abnormality determination process.

[0068] Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first return memory information does not match the first power-off memory information (step S22). Here, the first power-off memory information is information generated based on the stored content of the first main memory area in the power-off main control process executed when the pachinko gaming machine 10 experiences a power-off. The first power-off memory information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the first main memory area at the time of execution of the power-off main control process. The power-off main control process will be described in detail later. In the present embodiment, the process of step S22 corresponds to a first abnormality determination process for determining whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the first main memory area.

[0069] If the first return memory information does not match the first power-off memory information (step S22: YES), the main control CPU 30a sets the first main memory information abnormality flag stored in the second main memory area of the main control RAM 30c to the ON state (step S23). That is, in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 30a compares with the information stored in the first main memory area of the main control RAM 30c at the time of execution of the power-off main control process, and when there is an abnormality in the information of the first main memory area of the main control RAM 30c restored in the power-on main control process, the first main memory information abnormality flag is set to the ON state.

[0070] If the first return memory information matches the first power-off memory information (step S22: NO), and if the first main memory information abnormality flag is set to the ON state (step S23), the main control CPU 30a generates second return memory information based on the stored content of the second main memory area (step S24). The second return memory information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the second main memory area at the time of execution of the main control abnormality determination process.

[0071] Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the second return memory information is inconsistent with the second power-off memory information (step S25). Here, the second power-off memory information is information generated based on the stored content of the second main memory area in the power-off main control process. The second power-off memory information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the second main memory area at the time of execution of the power-off main control process. In the present embodiment, the process of step S25 corresponds to a second abnormality determination process for determining whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the second main memory area.

[0072] When the second return memory information is inconsistent with the second power-off memory information (step S25: YES), the main control CPU 30a sets the second main memory information abnormality flag stored in the second main memory area of the main control RAM 30c to the ON state (step S26). That is, in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 30a compares with the information stored in the second main memory area of the main control RAM 30c at the time of execution of the power-off main control process, and when there is an abnormality in the information in the second main memory area of the main control RAM 30c restored in the power-on main control process, the second main memory information abnormality flag is set to the ON state.

[0073] When the second return memory information is consistent with the second power-off memory information (step S25: NO), and when the second main memory information abnormality flag is set to the ON state (step S26), the main control CPU 30a ends the main control abnormality determination process and returns to the power-on main control process.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 6, when the main control CPU 30a finishes the main control abnormality determination process, it determines whether the second main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S15). If the second main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S15: YES), the main control CPU 30a determines whether it is in a special game state (step S16). In the process of step S16, the main control CPU 30a determines whether it is in a special game state based on the high probability flag and the operation flag stored in the first main memory area of the main control RAM 30c. Although it will be described in detail later, the high probability flag is a flag that is set to the ON state when controlled to the high probability state. Also, the operation flag is a flag that is set to the ON state when controlled to the high ball entry rate state. Then, when the main control CPU 30a identifies that it is controlled to either one or both of the high probability state and the high ball entry rate state based on the high probability flag and the operation flag, it determines that it is in the special game state.

[0075] If it is in the special game state (step S16: YES), the main control CPU 30a controls to output the first state signal to the outside of the machine via the external terminal board 60 (step S17). In the present embodiment, the first state signal is an external signal for notifying that an abnormality has been detected in the information stored in the second main memory area and that the current game state is the special game state. In the present embodiment, the first state signal corresponds to the specific signal and the first signal.

[0076] On the other hand, if it is not in the special game state (step S16: NO), and when the control to output the first state signal is executed (step S17), the main control CPU 30a controls to output the second state signal to the outside of the machine via the external terminal board 60 (step S18). In the present embodiment, the second state signal is an external signal for notifying that an abnormality has been detected in the information stored in the second main memory area. In the present embodiment, the second state signal corresponds to the second signal.

[0077] After that, the main control CPU 30a controls to output a security signal via the external terminal board 60 (step S19). In the present embodiment, the security signal is an external signal for notifying that an abnormality has been detected in either one or both of the information stored in the first main storage area and the information stored in the second main storage area of the main control RAM 30c. After executing the control to output the security signal, the main control CPU 30a ends the main control process at power-on.

[0078] On the other hand, when the second main storage abnormality flag is in the OFF state (step S15: NO), the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first main storage abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S20). When the first main storage abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S20: YES), the main control CPU 30a controls to output a security signal via the external terminal board 60 (step S19). Note that the security signal output at this time is the same signal as the security signal output when the second main storage abnormality flag is in the ON state. That is, in the present embodiment, the security signal output when an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the first main storage area during the main control process at power-on and the security signal output when an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main storage area during the main control process at power-on are the same signal.

[0079] After that, the main control CPU 30a ends the main control process at power-on. Also, when the first main storage abnormality flag is in the OFF state (step S20: NO), the main control CPU 30a ends the main control process at power-on without performing the control to output the security signal.

[0080] As described above, the main control CPU 30a generates the first return storage information and the second return storage information as information regarding the stored content of the main control RAM 30c in the main control process at power-on. That is, in the present embodiment, the first return storage information and the second return storage information correspond to special storage information. In particular, the first power-off storage information corresponds to the first special storage information, and the second power-off storage information corresponds to the second special storage information.

[0081] And, when the main control CPU 30a detects an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c during the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on, it can control to output various signals such as the first state signal, the second state signal, and the security signal. That is, when the main control CPU 30a detects an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process, it can control to output various external signals.

[0082] In the present embodiment, the first state signal is not output when an abnormality in the information stored in the first main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on. On the other hand, the first state signal can be output on the condition that it is in a special game state when an abnormality in the information stored in the second main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on.

[0083] Also, in the present embodiment, the second state signal is not output when an abnormality in the information stored in the first main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on. On the other hand, the second state signal can be output whether it is in a special game state or not when an abnormality in the information stored in the second main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on.

[0084] And, in the present embodiment, the security signal can be output whether an abnormality in the information stored in the first main storage area or an abnormality in the information stored in the second main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on. Also, the security signal can be output whether it is in a special game state or not when an abnormality in either one or both of the information stored in the first main storage area and the information stored in the second main storage area is detected during the main control process at power-on.

[0085] In addition, various external signals output in the main control process at power-on are stopped from being output by a process different from the main control process at power-on. Specifically, when the main control CPU 30a outputs a first state signal in the main control process at power-on, the main control CPU 30a stops outputting the first state signal when the special game state ends thereafter. That is, in the present embodiment, the first state signal continues to be output throughout the period during which the special game state is in progress. Further, when the main control CPU 30a outputs a second state signal in the main control process at power-on, the main control CPU 30a stops outputting the second state signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since the second state signal was output. That is, in the present embodiment, the second state signal is output for a predetermined fixed time. Furthermore, when the main control CPU 30a outputs a security signal in the main control process at power-on, the main control CPU 30a stops outputting the security signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since the security signal was output. That is, in the present embodiment, the security signal is output for a predetermined fixed time. Note that in the present embodiment, the time during which the second state signal is output is different from the time during which the security signal is output. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the time during which the second state signal is output is shorter than the time during which the security signal is output.

[0086] Next, the power-off main control process executed by the main control CPU 30a when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered off will be described. The main control CPU 30a executes the power-off main control process when it receives a power-off signal from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 8, in the power-off main control process, the main control CPU 30a generates first power-off storage information based on the stored content of the first main storage area (step S31). The first power-off storage information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the first main storage area at the time of execution of the power-off main control process. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a saves the stored content of the first main storage area to a backup storage area within the first main storage area (step S32).

[0088] Next, the main control CPU 30a generates second power-off storage information based on the stored content of the second main storage area (step S33). The second power-off storage information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the second main storage area at the time of execution of the power-off main control process. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a saves the stored content of the second main storage area to a backup storage area within the second main storage area (step S34). Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the power-off main control process.

[0089] As described above, in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 30a generates first power-off storage information and second power-off storage information as information regarding the stored content of the main control RAM 30c in the power-off main control process. That is, in the present embodiment, the first power-off storage information and the second power-off storage information correspond to specific storage information. In particular, the first power-off storage information corresponds to the first specific storage information, and the second power-off storage information corresponds to the second specific storage information.

[0090] Next, various processes performed by the main control CPU 30a will be described as timer interrupt processes performed every predetermined control cycle (for example, 4 ms). Based on the main control program, the main control CPU 30a executes various processes such as special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing as timer interrupt processes.

[0091] First, the special symbol input processing will be described. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a game ball has entered the first start port 13. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a game ball has entered the first start port 13 by inputting a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1. When a game ball enters the first start port 13, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the first special reservation number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a adds 1 to the first special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 30c and updates it. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the first special reservation display unit 12c to display the updated first special reservation number. In this way, in this embodiment, when the first special reservation number is less than the upper limit number, a game ball enters the first start port 13, and the entered game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, so that the reservation condition for the first special game is satisfied.

[0092] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires a random number generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RAM 30c. For example, the random numbers are special winning random numbers used for special lotteries (big win lotteries), winning symbol random numbers used for determining winning symbols, and variable pattern random numbers used for determining variable patterns. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 30c, the execution of the first special game can be reserved. Note that the random number information may be the acquired random number itself or information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. Further, the main control CPU 30a generates a reservation number command that can specify the first special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 30c and sets it in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the command set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40 in a predetermined output process.

[0093] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a game ball has entered the second start port 14. Also, when no game ball has entered the first start port 13 and when the first special hold count is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 30a also determines whether a game ball has entered the second start port 14. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a game ball has entered the second start port 14 by inputting a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2. When no game ball has entered the second start port 14, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, when a game ball has entered the second start port 14, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the second special hold count is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, when the second special hold count is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 30a adds 1 to the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 30c and updates it. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the second special hold display unit 12d to display the updated second special hold count. Thus, in this embodiment, when the second special hold count is less than the upper limit number, a game ball enters the second start port 14, and the entered game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, thereby satisfying the hold condition for the second special game.

[0094] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires a random number generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RAM 30c. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information so that it is random number information for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information can be specified. In this embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 30c, the execution of the second special game can be held. Also, the main control CPU 30a generates a hold count command that can specify the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 30c and sets it in the output buffer. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol input process.

[0095] Next, the special symbol start process will be described. In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the start condition of the special game is satisfied. The main control CPU 30a makes an affirmative determination when it is not during a big win game and not during the execution of a special game, while making a negative determination when it is during a big win game or during the execution of a special game. If the start condition of the special game is not satisfied, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process. If the start condition of the special game is satisfied, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the second special reservation number is greater than zero. If the second special reservation number is zero, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first special reservation number is greater than zero.

[0096] If the first special reservation number is zero, the main control CPU 30a determines whether an output completed flag is set in a predetermined storage area in the main control RAM 30c. The output completed flag is information that can identify that a standby state command that can identify that it is in a standby state has been output. The standby state is a state when no special game is being executed, no big win game is being awarded, and no special game is reserved. If the output completed flag is not set, the main control CPU 30a generates a standby state command and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40, and sets the output completed flag in the main control RAM 30c. Then, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the output completed flag is set, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process without newly generating a standby state command. In the following description, the period when it is not in the standby state is referred to as the "game period". In other words, in the present embodiment, the game period is a period during the execution of a special game, during the execution of a big win game, or during the interval time after the end of a special game (hereinafter referred to as variable standby).

[0097] When the first special reservation number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 30a performs a process of executing the first special game. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a subtracts 1 from the first special reservation number and updates it. The main control CPU 30a controls the first special reservation display unit 12c to display information that can identify the updated first special reservation number. Also at this time, if the output flag is set in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a erases the output flag.

[0098] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires, from the main control RAM 30c, the random number information that was stored first among the random number information for the first special game. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a performs a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) as to whether or not to win the jackpot using the jackpot random number specified from the acquired random number information. The main control CPU 30a performs the jackpot lottery with a jackpot probability corresponding to the current probability state (presence or absence of the operation of the probability variation function).

[0099] When winning the jackpot, the main control CPU 30a performs a jackpot variation process. In the jackpot variation process, the main control CPU 30a performs a jackpot symbol lottery using the jackpot symbol random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot symbol to be derived in the first special game. Also, the main control CPU 30a performs a variation pattern determination lottery using the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot variation pattern. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0100] When not winning the jackpot, the main control CPU 30a performs a losing variation process. In the losing variation process, the main control CPU 30a determines the losing symbol to be derived in the first special game. Also, the main control CPU 30a performs a variation pattern determination lottery using the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the losing variation pattern. Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the special symbol start process.

[0101] Also, when the second special reservation number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 30a performs processing for executing the second special game. Since the processing for executing the second special game is the processing in which "the first special game" is replaced with "the second special game" and "the first special reservation number" is replaced with "the second special reservation number" with respect to the processing for executing the first special game, a detailed description thereof is omitted. That is, after the main control CPU 30a performs subtraction of the second special reservation number, jackpot lottery, and any variation processing based on the result of the jackpot lottery, the special symbol start processing ends.

[0102] In the jackpot variation processing and the losing variation processing, the main control CPU 30a generates a variation start command and a special symbol command and outputs them to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. The variation start command is a control command that can specify the variation pattern determined in each variation process and the start of the special game (production game). The special symbol command is a control command that can specify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in each variation process. Note that the variation start command and the special symbol command are different control commands when the variation process of the first special game is executed and when the variation process of the second special game is executed.

[0103] When the special symbol start processing ends, the main control CPU 30a executes the first special game or the second special game by a process different from the special symbol start processing. That is, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the start condition of the special game is satisfied, the main control CPU 30a performs the following processing to start the special game in progress.

[0104] Specifically, when the main control CPU 30a executes the first special game, it controls the first special symbol display unit 12a to start the variable display of a predetermined symbol. The main control CPU 30a measures the variable time defined in the variable pattern. When the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a controls the first special symbol display unit 12a to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Further, when the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a generates a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variable end command) that can specify the end of the special game (production game) and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40.

[0105] On the other hand, when the main control CPU 30a executes the second special game, it controls the second special symbol display unit 12b to start the variable display of a predetermined symbol. The main control CPU 30a measures the variable time defined in the variable pattern. When the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a controls the second special symbol display unit 12b to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Further, when the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a generates a variable end command and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40.

[0106] Next, the jackpot game process will be described. The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the main control CPU 30a causes a jackpot symbol to be derived in the special game, it executes the jackpot game process after the end of the jackpot special game. The main control CPU 30a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. The main control CPU 30a awards the specified type of jackpot game.

[0107] First, the main control CPU 30a generates a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a performs processing for executing a round game.

[0108] At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the second actuator A2 to operate the special operation member 17 to the open state, thereby controlling to open the big winning port 16. After that, the main control CPU 30a controls to close the big winning port 16 when the number of detected game balls by the count sensor SE3 reaches the upper limit number or when the upper limit time of the round game has elapsed, thereby ending the round game. The main control CPU 30a repeatedly performs such processing for executing a round game until the round games up to the upper limit number determined for the big win game are completed.

[0109] Each time the main control CPU 30a starts a round game, it generates a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) that can specify the start of the round game and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. When the final round game ends, the main control CPU 30a generates a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending command) that can specify the start of the ending time and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. When the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a ends the big win game. Also, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a generates a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) that can specify the elapse of the ending time and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40.

[0110] Through the big win game processing as described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the result of the special game is a big win result, a big win game is granted. Next, the processing for shifting the game state will be described.

[0111] When the main control CPU 30a finishes a jackpot game based on jackpot ZB or jackpot ZC, it controls to the high probability state by setting a high probability flag in the main control RAM 30c. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 30a finishes a jackpot game based on jackpot ZA, it does not set the high probability flag in the main control RAM 30c. That is, the main control CPU 30a controls to the low probability state. Also, when the jackpot game ends, the main control CPU 30a controls to the high ball entry rate state by setting an operation flag in the main control RAM 30c.

[0112] And after the jackpot game ends, each time the main control CPU 30a starts a special game, it counts the number of executions of the special game after the jackpot game ends by updating the value of the execution counter stored in the main control RAM 30c. When the number of executions of the special game after the jackpot game ends reaches the probability change number, the main control CPU 30a erases the high probability flag stored in the main control RAM 30c. That is, the main control CPU 30a controls to the low probability state when the special game of the probability change number ends after the jackpot game based on jackpot ZB or jackpot ZC ends. Also, when the number of executions of the special game after the jackpot game ends reaches the operation number, the main control CPU 30a erases the operation flag stored in the main control RAM 30c. That is, the main control CPU 30a controls to the low ball entry rate state when the special game of the operation number ends after the jackpot game ends. In this embodiment, the probability change number and the operation number are the same number. Therefore, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a controls to the low probability state and the low ball entry rate state when the special game of the probability change number ends after the jackpot game based on jackpot ZB or jackpot ZC ends.

[0113] When the main control CPU 30a starts a big win game and the high probability flag is set, it clears the high probability flag. Similarly, when the main control CPU 30a starts a big win game and the activation flag is set, it clears the activation flag. That is, during a big win game, the main control CPU 30a controls the machine to be in a low probability state and a low ball entry rate state. Note that when the main control CPU 30a controls the machine to be in a high ball entry rate state, it controls the machine to be in a short variation time state, and when it controls the machine to be in a low ball entry rate state, it controls the machine to be in a long variation time state.

[0114] Also, when setting the high probability flag, the main control CPU 30a generates a high probability command that can specify controlling the machine to be in a high probability state and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. Further, when clearing the high probability flag, the main control CPU 30a generates a low probability command that can specify controlling the machine to be in a low probability state and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. Similarly, when setting the activation flag, the main control CPU 30a generates an activation command that can specify controlling the machine to be in a high ball entry rate state and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40. Then, when clearing the activation flag, the main control CPU 30a generates a non-activation command that can specify controlling the machine to be in a low ball entry rate state and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40.

[0115] Through the above processing, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, the main control CPU 30a can generate a high probability state and a high ball entry rate state after the end of a big win game. That is, in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 30a corresponds to control means that can generate a special gaming state advantageous to the player after the end of a big win game.

[0116] In addition to the above-described processing, the main control CPU 30a also performs the processing described below. For example, the main control CPU 30a also performs processing related to normal symbols and processing related to errors. In the processing related to normal symbols, the main control CPU 30a performs processing such as inputting a detection signal from the gate sensor SE4 and starting a normal symbol variation game.

[0117] Further, each time the main control CPU 30a inputs detection signals from the first start sensor SE1, the second start sensor SE2, and the count sensor SE3, it executes processing for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls, and stores, in the second main storage area of the main control RAM 30c, prize ball number information that can identify the number of paid-out prize balls. Also, each time the main control CPU 30a inputs a detection signal from the out port sensor SE5, it stores, in the second main storage area of the main control RAM 30c, out ball number information regarding the number of game balls discharged outside the machine from the out port 26.

[0118] Next, various processes executed by the sub-control CPU 40a of the sub-control board 40 will be described based on the sub-control program. When the sub-control CPU 40a inputs a control signal from the main control CPU 30a, it executes various processes according to the control signal.

[0119] First, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described. In the effect symbol variation process, when the sub-control CPU 40a inputs a special symbol command, it determines the combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the special symbol specified from the special symbol command. When the sub-control CPU 40a specifies the jackpot symbol of the special symbol, it determines the symbol combination of the jackpot by the effect symbols. Also, when the sub-control CPU 40a specifies the losing symbol of the special symbol, it determines the symbol combination of the loss by the effect symbols.

[0120] Further, when the sub-control CPU 40a inputs a variation start command, it determines the effect to be executed during the execution of the special game based on the variation pattern specified from the input variation start command. In the present embodiment, the determination ratio of the effect to be executed during the execution of the special game varies according to the variation pattern specified from the variation start command. Then, the sub-control CPU 40a controls the display content of the effect display device EH so as to execute the determined effect.

[0121] After that, upon receiving the input of the variation end command, the sub-control CPU 40a ends the effect game and controls the display content of the effect display device EH so as to derive the combination of the effect symbols. Note that the sub-control CPU 40a may start measuring the variation time upon receiving the input of the variation start command, and end the effect game when the variation time defined in the variation pattern specified from the variation start command has elapsed. That is, the end of the effect game may be controlled without outputting the variation end command from the main control board 30.

[0122] Next, the processing related to the big win game will be described. When the sub-control CPU 40a receives the input of the opening command, it controls the effect display device EH to perform the opening effect. Also, when the sub-control CPU 40a receives the input of the round command, it controls the effect display device EH to perform the round effect. Further, when the sub-control CPU 40a receives the input of the ending command, it controls the effect display device EH to perform the ending effect.

[0123] Hereinafter, a specific example of the output mode of the external signal in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment will be described. In the example of FIG. 9, it is assumed that a power failure occurs when it is not in the special game state, the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, and then an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the first main storage area when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed. In this case, upon receiving the power-off signal from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b along with the power failure, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at the time of power-off to generate the first power-off storage information and the second power-off storage information, and evacuates the stored contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area to the backup storage area (time point t1).

[0124] Subsequently, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-on (time point t2). In this example, the clear switch 30d is not operated in the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on, and it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the first main memory area in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on. In this case, the main control CPU 30a sets the first main memory information abnormality flag to the on state in the main control abnormality determination process. Then, the main control CPU 30a controls to start the output of the security signal in the main control process at power-on.

[0125] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the security signal (time point t3) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the output of the security signal.

[0126] Also, in the example of FIG. 10, when a power failure occurs when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is not in a special gaming state and the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, and then the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main memory area. In this case, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-off by inputting a power-off signal from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b with the power failure as an opportunity, thereby generating the first power-off stored information and the second power-off stored information, and evacuating the stored contents of the first main memory area and the second main memory area to the backup storage area (time point t11).

[0127] Subsequently, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-on (time point t12). In this example, the clear switch 30d is not operated to the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on, and it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main memory area in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on. In this case, the main control CPU 30a sets the second main memory information abnormality flag to the on state in the main control abnormality determination process. Then, the main control CPU 30a controls to start the output of the security signal and the second state signal in the main control process at power-on.

[0128] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the second state signal (time point t13) when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the output of the second state signal. Further, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the security signal (time point t14) when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the output of the security signal.

[0129] Although not shown in the figure, when a power failure occurs when the main control CPU 30a is not in the special game state and then the power is restored, and an abnormality is detected in both the information stored in the first main memory area and the information stored in the second main memory area, the main control CPU 30a controls to output the security signal and the second state signal in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 10.

[0130] As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on, control is performed to output an external signal in different combinations according to which of the first main storage area and the second main storage area the abnormality has occurred in. Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on, control is performed to output a security signal regardless of which of the first main storage area and the second main storage area the abnormality has occurred in.

[0131] In the example of FIG. 11, it is assumed that a power failure occurs during a special gaming state and the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, and then when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main storage area. In this case, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-off by taking the power-off signal input from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b along with the power failure as an opportunity, generates the first power-off storage information and the second power-off storage information, and saves the storage contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area to the backup storage area (time point t21).

[0132] Subsequently, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-on (time point t22). In this example, it is assumed that the clear switch 30d is not operated in the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on, and an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main storage area in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on. In this case, the main control CPU 30a sets the second main storage information abnormality flag to the on state in the main control abnormality determination process. Then, the main control CPU 30a controls to start outputting the security signal, the first state signal, and the second state signal in the main control process at power-on.

[0133] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the second state signal (time point t23) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the output of the second state signal. Further, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the first state signal (time point t24) when the special game state ends. Furthermore, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop the output of the security signal (time point t25) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the output of the security signal.

[0134] Although not shown in the drawings, when a power failure occurs during the special game state and power is restored thereafter, and an abnormality is detected in both the information stored in the first main storage area and the information stored in the second main storage area, the main control CPU 30a controls to output the security signal, the first state signal, and the second state signal in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 11.

[0135] On the other hand, when a power failure occurs during the special game state and power is restored thereafter, and an abnormality is not detected in the information stored in the second main storage area but an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the first main storage area, the main control CPU 30a controls to output the security signal in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 9. In other words, even when a power failure occurs during the special game state and power is restored thereafter, the main control CPU 30a does not output the first state signal and the second state signal when no abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main storage area.

[0136] As described above, in the present embodiment, when a power failure occurs during the special game state and power is restored, the main control CPU 30a performs the main control process at power-on. Then, when the main control CPU 30a detects an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process, it can control to output various external signals.

[0137] In particular, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the information stored in the second main storage area of the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process during the main control process at power-on, control is performed to output an external signal in different combinations according to whether or not it is in a special gaming state.

[0138] The effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1-1) In the present embodiment, when the main control process at power-on is executed, depending on whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c, in which storage area of the first main storage area and the second main storage area of the main control RAM 30c the information stored has an abnormality, and whether or not it is in a special gaming state, various external signals can be output in different combinations. According to this, in the present embodiment, since it becomes easy to grasp the gaming situation through the output of various external signals, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can be operated appropriately.

[0139] (1-2) In particular, in the present embodiment, when an abnormality occurs in the main control RAM 30c, different combinations of various external signals can be output depending on whether an abnormality has occurred in the second main storage area and it is in a special gaming state, whether an abnormality has occurred in the second main storage area and it is not in a special gaming state, and whether an abnormality has occurred in the second main storage area or not. According to this, in the present embodiment, since it becomes easier to grasp the gaming situation in more detail through the output of various external signals, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can be operated appropriately.

[0140] (1-3) In the present embodiment, since the security signal, the first state signal, and the second state signal each have a different output period, it is possible to suppress the mixing of various external signals.

[0141] (1-4) In the present embodiment, when an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control process at power-on, by outputting the security signal regardless of whether it is in a special gaming state, it is possible to suppress overlooking the abnormality of the information stored in the main control RAM 30c.

[0142] (1-5)According to this embodiment, while suppressing the complication of the types of security signals, it is possible to grasp which of the first main memory area and the second main memory area has an abnormality in the information stored therein by combining the first state signal and the second state signal.

[0143] (1-6)In this embodiment, various external signals can be output according to whether the power-off storage information generated by the main control process at the time of power-off and the return storage information generated by the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at the time of power-on match. According to this, in this embodiment, when grasping the state of the game through the output of various external signals, it is possible to more appropriately determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c.

[0144] (1-7)In this embodiment, when detecting whether an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a individually determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the first main memory area and whether an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the second main memory area. According to this, in this embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine in which of the first main memory area and the second main memory area an abnormality has occurred in the information stored therein.

[0145] (Second Embodiment) Next, the pachinko gaming machine of the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components and the same controls as those in the already described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the overlapping descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 12, in the main control RAM 30c of the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the second embodiment, there are a first main storage area, a second main storage area, and a third main storage area in the storage area where information can be stored. The third main storage area is a storage area different from the first main storage area and the second main storage area in terms of the address assigned in the main control RAM 30c and stores different information. In the present embodiment, past error information and the like regarding errors that occurred in the past are stored in the third main storage area.

[0147] Hereinafter, the main control process at power-on in the second embodiment will be described. Note that the description of the control common to the main control process at power-on in the first embodiment will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 13, in the main control process at power-on, when the clear switch 30d is not in the ON state (step S11: NO), the main control CPU 30a erases (clears) the information stored in the third main storage area of the main control RAM 30c (step Sa1). That is, in the present embodiment, the process of step Sa1 corresponds to an erasing process of erasing the information stored in the third main storage area.

[0148] Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a controls to restore the stored contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area in the main control RAM 30c (step Sa2). At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls to restore the stored contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area based on the information saved in the backup storage area in the main control process at power-off, in the same manner as when restoring the stored contents of the main control RAM 30c in the main control process at power-on in the first embodiment. That is, in the present embodiment, the first main storage area and the second main storage area function as holding storage means capable of holding the stored information even when a power failure occurs, while the third main storage area functions as special storage means in which the stored information is not held when a power failure occurs.

[0149] Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a performs main control abnormality determination processing as abnormality determination processing for determining whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c (step S14). Here, the main control abnormality determination processing in the second embodiment will be described in detail. Note that descriptions of the control common to the main control abnormality determination processing in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 14, in the main control abnormality determination processing, when the second return storage information matches the second power-off storage information (step S25: NO) and when the second main memory information abnormality flag is set to the ON state (step S26), the main control CPU 30a generates third return storage information based on the stored content of the third main memory area (step Sb1). The third return storage information is, for example, checksum data generated based on the information stored in the third main memory area at the time of execution of the main control abnormality determination processing.

[0151] Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the third return storage information does not match the third initialization information (step Sb2). Here, the third initialization information is information that can identify the stored content when the stored content of the third main memory area is normally erased. When the third return storage information does not match the third initialization information (step Sb2: YES), the main control CPU 30a sets the third main memory information abnormality flag stored in the third main memory area of the main control RAM 30c to the ON state (step Sb3). That is, in the present embodiment, when the stored content of the third main memory area of the main control RAM 30c is not normally erased during the main control processing at power-on, the main control CPU 30a sets the third main memory information abnormality flag to the ON state.

[0152] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a ends the main control abnormality determination processing and returns to the main control processing at power-on. As shown in FIG. 13, when the main control CPU 30a finishes the main control abnormality determination process, it determines whether or not the second main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S15). When the second main memory abnormality flag is in the OFF state (step S15: NO), the main control CPU 30a determines whether or not the first main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step S20). When the first main memory abnormality flag is in the OFF state (step S20: NO), it determines whether or not the third main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step Sa3). When the third main memory abnormality flag is in the ON state (step Sa3: YES), the main control CPU 30a determines whether or not it is in a special game state (step Sa4). In the process of step Sa4, when the main control CPU 30a specifies that it is controlled to be in either one or both of the high probability state and the high ball entry rate state based on the high probability flag and the operation flag, it determines that it is in the special game state.

[0153] When it is in the special game state (step Sa4: YES), the main control CPU 30a controls to output the first state signal to the outside of the machine via the external terminal board 60 (step Sa5). On the other hand, when it is not in the special game state (step Sa4: NO), and when the control to output the first state signal is executed (step Sa5), the main control CPU 30a controls to output the second state signal to the outside of the machine via the external terminal board 60 (step Sa6). After that, the main control CPU 30a ends the main control process at power-on without performing the control to output the security signal.

[0154] As described above, when the main control CPU 30a detects an abnormality in the information stored in the third main storage area of the main control RAM 30c during the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on, it controls to be able to output the first state signal and the second state signal, while controlling not to output the security signal. In other words, in the second embodiment, the first state signal and the second state signal can be output even when an abnormality in the information stored in the third main storage area of the main control RAM 30c is detected during the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on. On the other hand, the security signal is not output when an abnormality in the information stored in the third main storage area of the main control RAM 30c is detected during the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on.

[0155] Hereinafter, a specific example of the output mode of the external signal in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the second embodiment will be described. In the example of FIG. 15, when a power failure occurs when it is not in a special game state and the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, and then the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the third main storage area. In this case, the main control CPU 30a executes the main control process at power-off by inputting a power-off signal from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b along with the power failure, thereby generating the first power-off storage information and the second power-off storage information, and evacuating the stored contents of the first main storage area and the second main storage area to the backup storage area (time point t31).

[0156] Subsequently, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, the main control CPU 30a executes the power-on main control process (time point t32). In this example, the clear switch 30d is not operated in the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on, and it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the third main memory area in the main control abnormality determination process in the power-on main control process. In this case, the main control CPU 30a sets the third main memory information abnormality flag in the on state in the main control abnormality determination process. Then, the main control CPU 30a controls to start outputting the second state signal in the power-on main control process.

[0157] Thereafter, the main control CPU 30a controls to stop outputting the second state signal (time point t33) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of outputting the second state signal.

[0158] Also, in the example of FIG. 16, a power failure occurs during the special game state and the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off, and then when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, it is assumed that an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the third main memory area. In this case, the main control CPU 30a executes the power-off main control process when a power-off signal is input from the power-off monitoring circuit 50b due to the power failure, thereby generating the first power-off storage information and the second power-off storage information, and evacuating the stored contents of the first main memory area and the second main memory area to the backup storage area (time point t41).

[0159] Next, when the supply of power to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is resumed, the main control CPU 30a executes the power-on main control process (time t42). In this example, it is assumed that the clear switch 30d was not operated to the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 was powered on, and an abnormality was detected in the information stored in the third main memory area in the main control abnormality determination process in the power-on main control process. In this case, the main control CPU 30a sets the third main memory information abnormality flag to the on state in the main control abnormality determination process. Then, the main control CPU 30a controls the power-on main control process to start outputting the first status signal and the second status signal.

[0160] After that, the main control CPU30a performs control so as to stop the output of the second status signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the output of the second status signal (time t43).The main control CPU30a also performs control so as to stop the output of the first status signal when the special game state ends (time t44).

[0161] Although not shown, when an abnormality is detected in either or both of the information stored in the first main memory area and the information stored in the second main memory area in addition to the information stored in the third main memory area, the main control CPU 30a controls the output of a security signal in addition to the various external signals shown in the examples of Figures 15 and 16.

[0162] As described above, in this embodiment, when power is restored after a power outage occurs, the main control CPU 30a is capable of controlling the output of various external signals depending on whether the contents of the third main memory area have been erased successfully.

[0163] The effects of the second embodiment will be described. (2-1) According to this embodiment, the output manner of various external signals can be made different depending on whether an abnormality in the stored information is detected in the first main memory area or the third main memory area, or in the third main memory area, thereby enabling the player to more appropriately grasp the game situation.

[0164] (2-2) In this embodiment, not only whether there is an abnormality in the stored contents of the first main memory area and the second main memory area where the stored contents are restored in the main control process at power-on, but also whether there is an abnormality in the stored contents of the third main memory area where the stored contents are not restored in the main control process at power-off can be used to vary the output modes of various external signals.

[0165] Each of the above-described embodiments can be implemented with the following modifications. Note that each of the above-described embodiments and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically non-conflicting range.

[0166] · The output conditions of the security signal may be changed as appropriate. For example, the main control CPU 30a may be controlled to output a security signal when it is determined that the clear switch 30d is in the on state in the main control process at power-on (step S11: YES in FIGS. 6 and 13). That is, the security signal may be output when it is determined that the clear switch 30d is in the on state, even if no abnormality is detected in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process in the main control process at power-on. In this case, the fact that the clear switch 30d is operated to the on state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is powered on corresponds to the establishment of a specific condition.

[0167] ·The output condition of the first state signal may be changed as appropriate. For example, the first state signal may be output when in a high-probability state, while not being output even when in a high ball-in rate state during a low-probability state. In this case, the high-probability state corresponds to a special game state. Also, the first state signal may be output when in a high ball-in rate state, while not being output even when in a high-probability state during a low ball-in rate state. In this case, the high ball-in rate state corresponds to a special game state. Also, the first state signal may be output even during a period when not in a special game state. For example, the first state signal may be output not only when in a special game state but also when in a jackpot game. Also, the main control CPU 30a may be capable of executing control to output the first state signal upon determining that it is controlled to a special game state in a process separate from the main control process at power-on. In this case, for example, the first state signal may be output at all times when controlled to a special game state, not limited to when it was in a special game state during the execution of the main control process at power-on.

[0168] ·The output condition of the second state signal may be changed as appropriate. For example, the second state signal may be output on the condition that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the first main storage area, even if no abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the second main storage area. Also, the second state signal may not be output when an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the first main storage area, even when an abnormality has occurred in the second main storage area. Also, the second state signal may be output when a predetermined condition is met upon an abnormality occurring in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c. For example, the second state signal may be output upon a game ball winning a prize at a predetermined winning port or out port. According to this, when an external device inputs the second state signal, it becomes possible to specify that the game is being played in a state where an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c.

[0169] ·The number and types of outputtable external signals may be changed as appropriate. For example, the main control CPU 30a may output different security signals when an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the first main memory area and when an abnormality is detected in the information stored in the second main memory area. Also, when the main control CPU 30a outputs a security signal triggered by the determination that the clear switch 30d is in the ON state during the main control process at power-on, it may output a different security signal from when it outputs a security signal triggered by the detection of an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c.

[0170] ·The conditions for stopping the output of each external signal may be changed as appropriate. For example, the main control CPU 30a may continue to output each external signal until the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off. Also, for the first state signal, the main control CPU 30a may stop the output when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the output even during a special gaming state. Further, for the second state signal and the security signal, the main control CPU 30a may not stop the output until a predetermined condition is satisfied even when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the output. Note that as the predetermined condition, for example, the operation of a predetermined operation means may be adopted.

[0171] · Instead of or in addition to the security signal, the main control CPU 30a may output a predetermined control signal to another control board inside the pachinko gaming machine 10 under the same conditions as those under which the security signal is output. Similarly, instead of or in addition to the first state signal, the main control CPU 30a may output a predetermined control signal to another control board inside the pachinko gaming machine 10 under the same conditions as those under which the first state signal is output. Further, instead of or in addition to the second state signal, the main control CPU 30a may output a predetermined control signal to another control board inside the pachinko gaming machine 10 under the same conditions as those under which the second state signal is output. That is, in the above-described embodiment, the external signal output by the main control CPU 30a may be realized as an internal signal output to another control board inside the pachinko gaming machine 10. Also, each of the security signal, the first state signal, and the second state signal may be realized as a test signal used in the test of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

[0172] · The information stored in each storage area of the main control RAM 30c may be changed as appropriate. For example, the information stored in the first main storage area may include information that is not directly related to the progress of the game but is related to the result of the game. Also, the information stored in the second main storage area may include information necessary for the progress of the game.

[0173] · In the main control process during power failure, the main control CPU 30a may not process the information stored in the main control RAM 30c as backup information. That is, in the main control RAM 30c, the information stored at the time of power failure may be stored and held as it is by the power supplied from the backup power supply 50c. In this case, the main control CPU 30a does not need to perform control (FIG. 6: step S13, FIG. 13: step Sa2) to restore the stored content of the main control RAM 30c in the main control process at power-on.

[0174] · The backup power supply 50c may supply power to the sub-control board 40 at the time of power failure. In this case, the sub-control RAM 40c may store and hold part or all of the stored information even during power failure.

[0175] · The process of determining whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c may be changed as appropriate. For example, the main control CPU 30a may determine whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c by comparing the return storage information generated in the main control abnormality determination process with the abnormality determination information stored in the main control ROM 30b. Further, the main control CPU 30a may generate power-off storage information and return storage information based on the information stored in the main control RAM 30c without distinguishing each storage area in the main control RAM 30c, and determine whether there is an abnormality in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c by comparing these.

[0176] · When the main control CPU 30a determines that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c in the main control abnormality determination process at power-on, the main control CPU 30a may control to erase the stored content of the main control RAM 30c. In this case, for each storage area of the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a may erase the stored content only for the storage area determined to have an abnormality in the stored information, or may erase the stored content for all storage areas including the storage areas where no abnormality has occurred.

[0177] · Each storage area of the main control RAM 30c may be realized as physically separate storage means. That is, the first main storage area and the second main storage area in the first embodiment may be physically different storage means.

[0178] The main control CPU 30a may control the game to be unable to continue if it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the main control RAM 30c during the main control process at power-on. At this time, the main control CPU 30a may control the game to be unable to continue if it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the first main storage area among the storage areas of the main control RAM 30c, while it may control the game to be continued if it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in the second main storage area. In addition, the main control CPU 30a may control the game to be unable to continue even if it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the information stored in any of the storage areas of the main control RAM 30c.

[0179] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having three or more types of probability states as its probability state. Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having one type of probability state as its probability state. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine that does not have a probability variation function.

[0180] The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having three or more types of winning rate states as a base state of the pachinko gaming machine 10. Also, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine having one type of winning rate state as a winning rate state of the pachinko gaming machine 10. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as a gaming machine that does not have a winning assist function.

[0181] The sub-control board 40 may be a sub-general control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the performance display device EH, an audio control board that specializes in controlling the speaker SP, and a lamp control board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps LA may be provided separately from the sub-control board 40. Also, some or all of the display control board, audio control board, and lamp control board may be the same board. Also, the sub-control CPU 40a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0182] · The pachinko gaming machine 10 may include a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 30 and the sub-control board 40. Also, the functions of the main control board 30 may be realized by being divided among a plurality of boards. The main control CPU 30a may be composed of a plurality of CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0183] · The first special game and the second special game may be executed according to the order in which game balls enter the respective start openings 13, 14, or may be executed simultaneously in parallel. Also, the second special game may be omitted.

[0184] · It may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine that does not execute a production game. In this case, a special symbol may be displayed on the production display device EH. The technical idea that can be grasped from this embodiment and the modified example will be described.

[0185] (a) The security signal may be output when a specific condition is satisfied, even if no abnormality is detected in the information stored in the holding storage means during the restart process.

[0186] (B) In a gaming machine provided with control means for awarding a winning game when the result of the game is a winning result and capable of generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player after the end of the winning game, information related to the game is stored, and there is provided holding memory means capable of holding the stored information even when a power failure occurs. The holding memory means includes a first holding memory means for storing information related to the special gaming state and a second holding memory means different from the first holding memory means. The control means performs a restart process when power is restored after a power failure, and is capable of controlling to output various signals when an abnormality in the information stored in the holding memory means is detected during the restart process. The signals that can be output when an abnormality in the information stored in the holding memory means is detected during the restart process include a first external signal for notifying the abnormality, a second external signal different from the first external signal, and a third external signal different from both the first external signal and the second external signal. When an abnormality in the information stored in the first holding memory means is detected during the restart process, the first external signal can be output and the second external signal is not output. When an abnormality in the information stored in the second holding memory means is detected during the restart process, the first external signal can be output and the second external signal can be output when in the special gaming state, and the second external signal continues to be output throughout the period of the special gaming state. The third external signal is output for a predetermined fixed time when a predetermined condition is satisfied, regardless of whether it is during the special gaming state or not, when an abnormality in the information stored in the second holding memory means is detected during the restart process. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

Explanation of Signs

[0187] A1…First actuator A2…Second actuator CL…Center line EH…Effect display device GH…Image display unit HD…Launch handle LA…Decoration lamp R1…Left area R2…Right area SE1…First start sensor SE2…Second start sensor SE3…Count sensor SE4…Gate sensor SE5…Outlet sensor SP…Speaker YB…Pachinko game board YBa…Game area 10…Pachinko game machine 11…Frame 11a…Installation frame 11b…Mounting frame 12…Information display device 12a…First special symbol display section 12b…Second special symbol display section 12c…First special hold display section 12d…Second special hold display section 12e…Normal symbol display section 12f…Normal hold display section 13…First start port 14…Second start port 15…Normal operation member 16…Big winning port 17…Special operation member 25…Gate 26…Outlet 30…Main control board 30a…Main control CPU (control means) 30b…Main control ROM 30c…Main control RAM (holding memory means, first holding memory means, second holding memory means, special memory means) 30d…Clear switch 40…Sub-control board 40a…Sub-control CPU 40b…Sub-control ROM 40c…Sub-control RAM (special memory means) 50…Power supply board 50a…Power supply circuit 50b…Power-off monitoring circuit 50c…Backup power supply 60…External terminal board

Claims

[Claim 1] A control means for controlling a game; A storage means for storing information related to games and capable of storing and storing the stored information even if a power outage occurs; An output means capable of outputting a predetermined signal, the control means, when power is restored to the gaming machine after a power outage, performs a determination process for determining whether or not to make the gaming machine unplayable based on the specific stored information stored in the retention storage means before the power is restored; The signals that the output means can output include a first external signal and a second external signal that is different from the first external signal, The output means includes: When a positive determination is made in the determination process, the first external signal can be output. When the gaming machine is in a special gaming state which is more advantageous to a player than a normal gaming state, the second external signal can be outputted; A gaming machine characterized in that the first external signal is output for a predetermined fixed period of time.

Images