Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of appropriately operating each device, when multiple devices are used in combination.SOLUTION: An overall control CPU is capable of performing: control pattern specific processing for determining a performance pattern of a specific performance; time measurement processing for measuring the time that has elapsed since the start of a variation game; and information output processing for outputting a control signal to a control CPU that is determined as an output destination for the performance pattern determined in the control pattern specific processing. The overall control CPU is capable of outputting control signals to multiple control CPUs in one information output processing. When the time measured in the time measurement processing reaches the time determined for the performance pattern determined in the control pattern specific processing, the overall control CPU outputs control information to each control CPU.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, among pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, there are some that are provided with control boards for specifically controlling each of a plurality of devices. For example, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 includes a display control board for controlling a variable display, a lamp control board for controlling a decorative lamp, and an audio control board for controlling a speaker. According to this, compared with the case where a plurality of devices are comprehensively controlled by a single control board, the control burden on each control board can be reduced.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in such a gaming machine, when a plurality of devices are used in combination, there is room for improvement in the control of each control board when appropriately operating each device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A gaming machine that solves the above problems is a gaming machine capable of executing a variable game by changing symbols, comprising: an output-side control means capable of various controls including the output of one or more control information; an input-side control means capable of operating based on the control information input from the output-side control means; and a storage means for storing various information, wherein the storage means stores a plurality of control patterns that define various control modes, the output-side control means is capable of a control pattern identification process that identifies one of the plurality of control patterns, a time measurement process that measures the time elapsed since a predetermined time measurement condition was met, and an information output process that outputs the control information to a predetermined input-side control means, and the input-side control means comprises a plurality of input-side control means. 、1 The above information output process 、 The first input-side control means is capable of outputting control information corresponding to the first input-side control means. Furthermore, it is possible to output control information corresponding to the second input-side control means to the second input-side control means, When the time measured in the aforementioned time measurement process becomes the time specified in the control pattern identified by the aforementioned control pattern identification process, control information corresponding to the first input-side control means is output. ,before The gist of this is that when the time measured in the time measurement process becomes the time specified in the control pattern identified by the control pattern identification process, control information corresponding to the second input-side control means is output. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, when multiple devices are used in combination, each device can be operated appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko game machine. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view showing the game board. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko game machine. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of performance patterns for specific effects. [Figure 5] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are explanatory diagrams illustrating specific examples of the output patterns of each control signal when executing a particular effect. [Figure 6] Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are explanatory diagrams illustrating specific examples of the output patterns of each control signal when executing a particular performance. [Figure 7] Figures 7(a) and 7(b) are explanatory diagrams illustrating specific examples of the output patterns of each control signal when executing a particular effect. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes one embodiment of a pachinko game machine. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) refer to the directions as seen from the player's perspective. As shown in Figure 1, the pachinko game machine 10, as a gaming machine, comprises a frame 11. The frame 11 includes an installation frame 11a for fixing the pachinko game machine 10 to island equipment such as a gaming parlor, and a mounting frame 11b for mounting various gaming 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 relative to the installation frame 11a. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a locking device 11c that locks the mounting frame 11b to prevent it from being opened. The locking device 11c is configured to be unlocked by inserting a key that fits the locking device 11c and rotating it in a predetermined direction, thereby allowing the mounting frame 11b to be opened.

[0009] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a game board YB. The game board YB is mounted on a mounting frame 11b. A game area YBa is formed on the front side of the game board YB, through which game balls, which serve as the game medium, flow. The game board YB has an opening window YBb in the approximate center when viewed from the front. A center frame W, which is decorated with various designs, is assembled to the opening window YBb. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a launch handle HD. The launch handle HD is a means of launching game balls into the game area YBa. The launch handle HD is located on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The pachinko game machine 10 is configured so that the launch strength of the game balls can be adjusted by adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle HD.

[0010] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a decorative lamp La as an example of a device capable of performing predetermined operations. The decorative lamp La can perform various notifications and various effects by emitting light from a light-emitting element. That is, the decorative lamp La in this embodiment is an example of an effect device that performs effects. In the following description, an effect caused by the emission of light from a light-emitting element will be referred to as a "light-emitting effect". That is, the decorative lamp La can perform a light-emitting effect by emitting light from a light-emitting element. In this specification, "light emission" includes turning on, flashing, and turning off. In the following description, the emission of light from the light-emitting element of the decorative lamp La may be simply referred to as "the decorative lamp La emits light".

[0011] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a speaker Sp as an example of a device capable of performing predetermined operations. The speaker Sp can perform various notifications and various effects by outputting sound. That is, the speaker Sp in this embodiment is an example of an effect device that performs effects. In the following description, effects performed by outputting sound will be referred to as "sound effects". In this specification, "sound" includes human and animal voices, sound effects, and music. The speaker Sp is provided, for example, on the frame 11.

[0012] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a performance display device 12 as an example of a device capable of performing predetermined operations. The performance display device 12 is assembled to the game board YB such that, when viewed from the front, the image display unit GH is visible through the opening window YBb (center frame W) of the game board YB. The performance display device 12 can perform various notifications and various performances by displaying images. That is, the performance display device 12 in this embodiment is an example of a performance device that performs performances. The performance display device 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device. The performance display device 12 may also be an organic EL display type display device, or a display device that includes a projector and a screen. The performance display device 12 includes an image display unit GH that displays images. As one of the performances, the performance display device 12 can perform a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays images (patterns) that imitate predetermined characters or letters.

[0013] As shown in Figure 2, the pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with an information display device 13, which is an example of a device capable of performing predetermined operations. For example, the information display device 13 is positioned on the game board YB in a location visible to the player. The information display device 13 provides various information indicating the control status of the pachinko game machine 10.

[0014] The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display unit 13a and a second special symbol display unit 13b, which are display units capable of displaying a special game as a variable game played by changing symbols. In the special game, predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and finally a special symbol is displayed in a fixed stop manner. The special symbol is a symbol used to notify the result of an internal lottery (a winning lottery described later). The first special symbol display unit 13a displays the first special game. The second special symbol display unit 13b displays the second special game. In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is displayed in a fixed stop manner and the type of displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "fixed stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning. In the pachinko game machine 10, the second special game is executed preferentially over the first special game. The first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously or in parallel. Special symbols include winning symbols as a result of a win and losing symbols as a result of a loss. In the pachinko game machine 10, if a win is achieved in the win lottery, a winning symbol is derived in a special game, and after the completion of the corresponding special game, a winning game is awarded. In this embodiment, all wins are jackpots, and all winning symbols are jackpot symbols. Therefore, in this embodiment, a jackpot game is awarded after the completion of the special game for a win.

[0015] The information display device 13 includes a first special game hold display unit 13c and a second special game hold display unit 13d as display units that display information that allows for the identification of the number of special games held. The first special game hold display unit 13c displays information that allows for the identification of the number of special games held (hereinafter referred to as the first special game hold). The second special game hold display unit 13d displays information that allows for the identification of the number of special games held (hereinafter referred to as the second special game hold). For example, the upper limit for both the first and second special game hold is 4.

[0016] The information display device 13 includes a normal symbol display unit 13e. The normal symbol display unit 13e displays a normal game. In the normal game, a predetermined symbol is 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 with the normal win, a normal winning game is awarded. The information display device 13 includes a normal hold display unit 13f. The normal hold display unit 13f displays information capable of specifying the number of normal game holds (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number).

[0017] A plurality of winning openings into which game balls can enter are formed in the game board YB. The plurality of winning openings open into the game area YBa. The plurality of winning openings include a first start winning opening 14, a second start winning opening 15, and a big winning opening 17. The plurality of winning openings may include winning openings different from these winning openings.

[0018] The first start winning opening 14 is a winning opening for entering a game ball to satisfy the condition for awarding prize balls and the hold condition for the first special game. As an example, the first start winning opening 14 is below the effect display device 12. The first start winning opening 14 is always opened so that a game ball can enter. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a first start winning sensor SE1 for detecting a game ball that has entered the first start winning opening 14 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1, the condition for awarding prize balls is satisfied.

[0019] The second start winning opening 15 is a winning opening for entering a game ball to satisfy the condition for awarding prize balls and the hold condition for the second special game. As an example, the second start winning opening 15 is in the lower right of the effect display device 12. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a second start winning sensor SE2 for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start winning opening 15 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2, the condition for awarding prize balls is satisfied.

[0020] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a normally movable piece 16 that can take on an open state in which the second starting prize entry opening 15 is opened so that game balls can be entered, and a closed state in which the second starting prize entry opening 15 is closed so that game balls cannot be entered or so that it is more difficult for game balls to be entered compared to the open state. For example, the normally movable piece 16 may be a door-shaped member that opens and closes the second starting prize entry opening 15. The normally movable piece 16 is normally in the closed state and operates to the open state when a normal win occurs. That is, when a normal win occurs, the second starting prize entry opening 15 becomes able to accept game balls. The game board YB is equipped with a first solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normally movable piece 16 (see Figure 3).

[0021] The large prize slot 17 is a slot into which game balls are entered in order to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls. For example, the large prize slot 17 is located to the upper right of the second starting prize slot 15. The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that have entered the large prize slot 17 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, the conditions for awarding prize balls are fulfilled.

[0022] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a special opening / closing piece 18 that can take two states: an open state in which the large prize opening 17 is opened to allow game balls to enter, and a closed state in which the large prize opening 17 is closed so that game balls cannot enter or so that it is more difficult for game balls to enter compared to the open state. For example, the special opening / closing piece 18 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the large prize opening 17. The special opening / closing piece 18 is normally in the closed state and operates to the open state when a jackpot game occurs. That is, when a jackpot game occurs, the large prize opening 17 is opened so that game balls can be entered. The game board YB is equipped with a second solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the special opening / closing piece 18 (see Figure 3).

[0023] The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a gate 25 through which game balls flowing down the game area YBa can pass (enter). The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a gate sensor SE4 that detects game balls passing through the gate 25 (see Figure 3). In the pachinko game machine 10, when a game ball is detected by the gate sensor SE4, the conditions for holding a normal game may be met, while the conditions for paying out prize balls are not met.

[0024] Next, we will describe the performance games that can be played using the performance display device 12. The performance display device 12 displays a performance game as a variable game as one of the display performances. In the performance game, multiple rows of performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and finally a combination of performance symbols is derived. Performance symbols (decorative symbols) are symbols that are decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are symbols used to diversify the display performance. As an example, the performance game of this embodiment is performed by displaying (scrolling) the performance symbols of the left symbol row, middle symbol row, and right symbol row in a predetermined direction.

[0025] The performance game begins and ends with the special game. In the performance game, a combination of performance symbols is derived corresponding to the special symbols derived in the special game. The combination of performance symbols includes a losing combination as a result of displaying a loss, and a winning combination as a result of displaying a jackpot. When a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, a jackpot symbol combination is derived in the performance game. Also, when a losing symbol is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination is derived in the performance game. In this specification, "temporary stop display" refers to a temporary stop state before the performance symbols are displayed as a confirmed stop, such as a fluctuation display. Note that in the following explanation, the special game and the performance game may be collectively referred to as the "fluctuation game".

[0026] Next, we will explain the game state of the pachinko machine 10. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment includes a non-time-saving state and a time-saving state as multiple game states with different degrees of advantage for the player. In this embodiment, the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state are game states with different average fluctuation times for special games. Specifically, the time-saving state of this embodiment is a state in which the average fluctuation time for special games is shorter compared to the non-time-saving state. Also, in this embodiment, the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state are game states with different probabilities of game balls entering the second starting prize entry point 15. Specifically, the time-saving state of this embodiment is a state in which the probability of game balls entering the second starting prize entry point 15 is higher compared to the non-time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the time-saving state is a state of improved ball entry rate in which the rate of game balls entering the second starting prize entry point 15 is improved compared to the non-time-saving state. For this reason, in this embodiment, the time-saving state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the non-time-saving state.

[0027] For example, the rate at which game balls enter the second starting prize entry point 15 can be improved by performing one of the three controls described below, either by selecting one arbitrarily or by combining multiple controls. The first control is a control that shortens the variation time of the normal symbols, which shortens the variation time of the normal game. The second control is a control that changes the probability of winning a normal win in the normal lottery (normal win probability) to a high probability, which is a control that changes the probability of winning a normal win (normal win probability) to a high probability. The third control is an operation time extension control that increases the total operation time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates to the second operation state in one normal win game. The operation time extension control should be at least one of the following: a control that increases the number of times the normal movable piece 16 operates to the second operation state in one normal win game, and a control that increases the operation time of one operation when the normal movable piece 16 operates to the second operation state in a normal win game.

[0028] Next, we will explain the concept of a jackpot in the pachinko game machine 10. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with multiple types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The type of jackpot symbol is also the type of jackpot. Jackpot symbols are classified into one or more types. In the pachinko game machine 10, a jackpot game is assigned according to the type of jackpot symbol (type of jackpot).

[0029] In a jackpot game, a predetermined sequence of events is performed for a set period of time (hereinafter referred to as the opening time). For example, this sequence of events is an opening sequence that identifies the start of the jackpot game. In a jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round of games is played up to a predetermined maximum number of times, during which the large prize slot 17 is opened. Each round of games ends when a predetermined maximum number of game balls enter or when a predetermined maximum time has elapsed. In the round of games, the large prize slot 17 is opened in a predetermined opening pattern. A round sequence of events is performed during each round of games. In a jackpot game, once the final round of games has ended, a predetermined sequence of events is played for a set period of time (hereinafter referred to as the ending time). For example, this sequence of events is an ending sequence that identifies the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends as the ending time elapses.

[0030] In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, after the end of a jackpot game, the machine is controlled to be in a time-saving state until a predetermined number of special games (100 times in this embodiment) are completed, or until the next jackpot game is awarded.

[0031] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine 10 will be explained. As shown in Figure 3, the pachinko game machine 10 comprises a main control board 30, an integrated control board 31, a display control board 32, a sound control board 33, and a lamp control board 34. The main control board 30 comprises a main control CPU 30a, a main control ROM 30b, and a main control RAM 30c. The integrated control board 31 comprises an integrated control CPU 31a, an integrated control ROM 31b, and an integrated control RAM 31c. The display control board 32 comprises a display control CPU 32a. The sound control board 33 comprises a sound control CPU 33a. The lamp control board 34 comprises a lamp control CPU 34a.

[0032] The main control board 30 will be explained in detail. The main control CPU 30a of the main control board 30 executes various processes by running a program for main control.

[0033] The main control ROM 30b of the main control board 30 stores judgment values ​​and tables used for various judgments and lotteries. The main control ROM 30b stores multiple types of variation patterns. A variation pattern is variation information that can identify the content of a variation game. In particular, in this embodiment, a variation pattern is information that can identify the variation time from the start to the end of a special game. A variation pattern may also be information that can identify the content of the performances performed during the execution of the special game.

[0034] The main control RAM 30c of the main control board 30 stores various information that is rewritten according to the results of processing by the main control CPU 30a. For example, the information stored in the main control RAM 30c may include flags, counters, and timers. The main control board 30 includes a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The main control board 30 may also be capable of generating software random numbers through random number generation processing by the main control CPU 30a.

[0035] The main control board 30 is connected to various control components. Specifically, the main control board 30 is connected to the first start prize sensor SE1, the second start prize sensor SE2, the count sensor SE3, and the gate sensor SE4. The main control CPU 30a is configured to receive detection signals output by each sensor when it detects a game ball. The main control board 30 is also connected to the information display device 13. The main control CPU 30a is configured to control the display content of the information display device 13 by outputting predetermined control signals to the information display device 13.

[0036] The main control board 30 is connected to the first solenoid SL1 and the second solenoid SL2. The main control CPU 30a is configured to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by outputting a predetermined control signal to the first solenoid SL1. The main control CPU 30a is also configured to control the operation of the special opening / closing piece 18 by outputting a predetermined control signal to the second solenoid SL2.

[0037] Furthermore, the main control board 30 is connected to the integrated control board 31. Specifically, the main control board 30 and the integrated control board 31 are connected in such a way that control signals can be output in one direction from the main control board 30 to the integrated control board 31. That is, the main control CPU 30a is configured to output predetermined control signals to the integrated control CPU 31a of the integrated control board 31.

[0038] Next, the main control board 31 will be explained in detail. The integrated control CPU 31a of the integrated control board 31 performs various processing related to the performance by executing an integrated control program based on various control signals input from the main control CPU 30a.

[0039] The integrated control ROM 31b of the integrated control board 31 stores the integrated control program and judgment values ​​used for predetermined lotteries. The integrated control ROM 31b also stores multiple performance patterns that define the content of the performances to be performed during the execution of the special game. In this embodiment, the integrated control ROM 31b corresponds to a storage means for storing various types of information. In this embodiment, the performance pattern is an example of a control pattern that defines various control modes.

[0040] The integrated control RAM 31c of the integrated control board 31 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko game machine 10. For example, the information stored in the integrated control RAM 31c includes flags, counters, and timers. In this embodiment, the integrated control board 31 is also configured to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the integrated control CPU 31a. The integrated control board 31 may also be equipped with a random number generation circuit and capable of generating hardware random numbers.

[0041] The control board 31 is connected to various control components. Specifically, the control board 31 is connected to the display control board 32. That is, the control CPU 31a is configured to output a predetermined control signal to the display control CPU 32a of the display control board 32. The control board 31 is connected to the sound control board 33. That is, the control CPU 31a is configured to output a predetermined control signal to the sound control CPU 33a of the sound control board 33. The control board 31 is connected to the lamp control board 34. That is, the control CPU 31a is configured to output a predetermined control signal to the lamp control CPU 34a of the lamp control board 34.

[0042] Next, the display control board 32, the sound control board 33, and the lamp control board 34 will be described in detail. The display control CPU 32a of the display control board 32 controls the performance display device 12 by executing various controls based on various control signals input from the overall control CPU 31a. The sound control CPU 33a of the sound control board 33 controls the speaker Sp by executing various controls based on various control signals input from the overall control CPU 31a. The lamp control CPU 34a of the lamp control board 34 controls the decorative lamp La by executing various controls based on various control signals input from the overall control CPU 31a.

[0043] In this embodiment, various control signals correspond to control information. In this embodiment, the overall control CPU 31a corresponds to an output-side control means capable of various controls, including the output of control information. In this embodiment, the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a each correspond to an input-side control means that can operate based on control information input from the output-side control means. That is, in this embodiment, the input-side control means comprises a plurality of input-side control means.

[0044] Next, we will explain the various processes (controls) performed in the pachinko game machine 10. The main control CPU 30a executes various processes, such as special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing, as timer interrupt processing performed at predetermined control cycles (e.g., 4ms) based on the main control program.

[0045] First, let's explain the special symbol input process. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a game ball has entered the first starting prize slot 14. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a game ball has entered the first starting prize slot 14 by receiving a detection signal from the first starting prize sensor SE1. If a game ball has entered the first starting prize slot 14, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the number of first special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit (4 in this embodiment). If the number of first special reserved balls is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 30a updates the number of first special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the information display device 13 to display the updated number of first special reserved balls. Thus, in this embodiment, when the number of first special reserved balls is less than the upper limit, a game ball enters the first start prize entry opening 14, and the entered game ball is detected by the first start prize entry sensor SE1, thereby fulfilling the reservation condition for the first special game.

[0046] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. For example, the random numbers may be winning random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, variation pattern random numbers, etc. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information in such a way that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and that the storage order of the random number information can be identified. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or it may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method. 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 suspended until the start conditions for the first special game are met. That is, in this embodiment, by the main control CPU 30a 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 suspended when the suspension conditions for the first special game are met. At this time, the main control CPU 30a generates a hold count command, which is a control signal capable of identifying the first special hold count 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 overall control CPU 31a in a predetermined output process.

[0047] Furthermore, if no game balls have entered the first starting prize slot 14, and the number of first special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 30a determines whether a game ball has entered the second starting prize slot 15. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines that a game ball has entered the second starting prize slot 15 by receiving a detection signal from the second starting prize sensor SE2. If no game balls have entered the second starting prize slot 15, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if a game ball has entered the second starting prize slot 15, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c is less than the upper limit (4 in this embodiment). If the number of second special reserved balls is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the number of second special reserved balls is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 30a updates the number of second special reserved balls stored in the main control RAM 30c by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 30a controls the information display device 13 to display the updated number of second special reserved balls. Thus, in this embodiment, when the number of second special reserved balls is less than the upper limit, a game ball enters the second start prize entry opening 15, and the entered game ball is detected by the second start prize entry sensor SE2, thereby fulfilling the reservation condition for the second special game.

[0048] Next, the main control CPU 30a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 30 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 30c. At this time, the main control CPU 30a stores the random number information in such a way that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the second special game and that the storage order of the random number information is identifiable. 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 suspended until the start conditions for the second special game are met. That is, in this embodiment, by the main control CPU 30a 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 suspended when the suspension conditions for the second special game are met. The main control CPU 30a also generates a hold count command as a control signal that can identify the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 30c and sets it in the output buffer. After that, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol input processing.

[0049] Next, we will explain the process for initiating the special pattern. In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the conditions for starting a special game are met. The main control CPU 30a makes a positive determination if it is neither in a jackpot game nor in the execution of a special game, and a negative determination if it is in a jackpot game or in the execution of a special game. If the conditions for starting a special game are not met, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol start process. If the conditions for starting a special game are met, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the second special reserve number is greater than zero. If the second special reserve number is zero, the main control CPU 30a determines whether the first special reserve number is greater than zero.

[0050] If the first number of reserved special symbols is zero, the main control CPU 30a determines whether an output flag has been set in a predetermined memory area within the main control RAM 30c. The output flag is information that identifies whether a standby state command, which is a control signal that identifies the standby state, has been output. The standby state is the state when a special game is not being executed, a jackpot game has not been awarded, and no special games are reserved. If the output flag is not set, the main control CPU 30a generates a standby state command and outputs it to the overall control CPU 31a, and also sets the output flag in the main control RAM 30c. After that, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the output flag is set, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol start process without generating a new standby state command. In the following description, the period when the system is not in the standby state is referred to as the "game period". In other words, in this embodiment, the game period is the period during which a special game or a jackpot game is being executed.

[0051] If the first special reserve number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 30a performs a process to execute the first special game. Specifically, the main control CPU 30a decrements the first special reserve number by 1 and updates it. The main control CPU 30a controls the first special reserve display unit 13c to display information that allows identification of the updated first special reserve number. At this time, if an output flag is set in the main control RAM 30c, the main control CPU 30a clears the output flag.

[0052] Next, the main control CPU 30a retrieves the first stored random number information for the first special game from the main control RAM 30c. Subsequently, the main control CPU 30a uses the winning random number identified from the retrieved random number information to perform a win lottery (win determination) to determine whether or not the result is a win. As described above, all wins in this embodiment are jackpots. Therefore, in this embodiment, the win lottery can be understood as a jackpot lottery to determine whether or not the result is a jackpot.

[0053] If a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 30a performs the jackpot variation process. In the jackpot variation process, the main control CPU 30a uses a random number that can be determined from the random number information to draw jackpot symbols and determines the jackpot symbols to be derived in the first special game. The main control CPU 30a also uses a random number that can be determined from the random number information to draw a variation pattern and determines the jackpot variation pattern. After that, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol start process.

[0054] If a jackpot is not won, the main control CPU 30a performs a losing spin process. In the losing spin process, the main control CPU 30a determines the losing symbols to be derived in the first special game. The main control CPU 30a also performs a spin pattern determination lottery using random numbers that can be determined from the random number information to determine the losing spin pattern. At this time, the main control CPU 30a determines the losing spin pattern with different determination ratios depending on the current number of reserved symbols in the first special game. After that, the main control CPU 30a terminates the special symbol start process.

[0055] If the second special reserve number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 30a performs processing to execute the second special game. The processing to execute the second special game is the same as the processing to execute the first special game, but with "first special game" replaced by "second special game" and "first special reserve number" replaced by "second special reserve number," so a detailed explanation is omitted. In other words, the main control CPU 30a performs subtraction of the second special reserve number, a jackpot lottery, and one of the variation processes based on the result of the jackpot lottery, and then terminates the special symbol start processing.

[0056] The main control CPU 30a outputs a variation pattern specification command and a special symbol command to the overall control CPU 31a during the jackpot variation processing and the loss variation processing. The variation pattern specification command is a control signal that can identify the variation pattern determined in each variation processing and the start of a special game (performance game). The special symbol command is a control signal that can identify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or loss symbol) determined in each variation processing. Note that the variation pattern specification command and the special symbol command are different control signals when the variation processing of the first special game is executed and when the variation processing of the second special game is executed.

[0057] When the special symbol start process is completed, the main control CPU 30a executes the first special game or the second special game through a process separate from the special symbol start process. That is, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the conditions for starting a special game are met, the main control CPU 30a starts any pending special games by performing the following process.

[0058] Specifically, when the main control CPU 30a executes the first special game, it controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to start displaying a predetermined symbol variation. The main control CPU 30a measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Furthermore, when the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a outputs a variation end command to the overall control CPU 31a, which is a control signal that can identify the end of the special game (performance game).

[0059] Meanwhile, when the main control CPU 30a executes the second special game, it controls the second special symbol display unit 13b to start displaying the predetermined symbols in a variable pattern. 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 13b to derive the special symbols determined in the special symbol start process. Furthermore, when the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a outputs a variable end command to the overall control CPU 31a.

[0060] Next, we will explain the processing of jackpot wins. The jackpot game processing is the process for granting a jackpot game. When the main control CPU 30a derives a jackpot symbol in a special game, it executes the jackpot game processing after the special game for the jackpot has ended. Based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start processing, the main control CPU 30a identifies the type of jackpot game. The main control CPU 30a then grants the identified type of jackpot game.

[0061] First, the main control CPU 30a outputs an opening command to the overall control CPU 31a, which is a control signal that can identify the start of the opening time. Once the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a performs processing to execute a round game. That is, the main control CPU 30a controls the second solenoid SL2 using the opening control data for the jackpot game that it has identified, and sets the jackpot opening 17 to the open state. The main control CPU 30a terminates the round game by controlling the second solenoid SL2 to close the jackpot opening 17 when the number of game balls detected by the count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit, or when the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed. The main control CPU 30a repeats this processing to execute a round game until the maximum number of round games specified for the jackpot game have been completed. Each time a round game is started, the main control CPU 30a outputs a round command to the overall control CPU 31a, which is a control signal that can identify the start of a round game. When the final round of gameplay ends, the main control CPU 30a outputs an ending command to the overall control CPU 31a, which is a control signal that can identify the start of the ending time. When the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 30a terminates the jackpot game. The main control CPU 30a may also be configured to output an ending end command to the overall control CPU 31a, which is a control signal that can identify the elapsed time of the ending.

[0062] Next, we will explain the process of transitioning between game states. When a jackpot game ends, the main control CPU 30a controls the game to a time-saving state by setting an activation flag in the main control RAM 30c. After a jackpot game based on normal symbols ends, the main control CPU 30a counts the number of times a special game has been played since the jackpot game ended by updating the value of the execution counter stored in the main control RAM 30c each time a special game is started. When a special game ends after the number of special games played since the jackpot game has reached the activation count, the main control CPU 30a erases the activation flag stored in the main control RAM 30c. In other words, after a jackpot game based on normal symbols ends, the main control CPU 30a controls the game to a non-time-saving state when the activation count of the special game ends. When a jackpot game is started and the activation flag is set, the main control CPU 30a erases the activation flag. In other words, the main control CPU 30a controls the game to a non-time-saving state during a jackpot game. Then, when the main control CPU 30a changes the game state, it generates a game state command, which is a control signal that can identify the current game state, and outputs it to the overall control CPU 31a.

[0063] Through this process, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 30a functions as a state control means for controlling the state of the game. In addition to the processes described above, the main control CPU 30a also performs the processes described below. For example, the main control CPU 30a also performs processes related to the regular symbols. In the processes related to the regular symbols, the main control CPU 30a performs processes such as inputting the detection signal from the gate sensor SE4, performing a regular lottery to determine whether or not it is a regular win, and starting the regular symbol variation game.

[0064] Next, we will explain the various processes that the integrated control CPU 31a of the integrated control board 31 executes based on the integrated control program. When the integrated control CPU 31a receives a control signal from the main control CPU 30a, it executes various processes according to that control signal.

[0065] First, let's explain the process of changing the symbols used in the game's presentation. In the process of changing the symbols used for the performance, when the integrated control CPU 31a receives a special symbol command, it determines the combination of performance symbols to be derived in the performance game based on the special symbol identified from the special symbol command. If the integrated control CPU 31a identifies a winning symbol for the special symbol, it determines the combination of symbols for the winning symbol using the performance symbols. Also, if the integrated control CPU 31a identifies a losing symbol for the special symbol, it determines the combination of performance symbols to be derived in the performance game based on the variation pattern identified from the variation pattern specification command.

[0066] Furthermore, when the overall control CPU 31a receives a variable pattern specification command, it determines the effects to be executed during the execution of the special game based on the variable pattern identified from the input variable pattern specification command. In this embodiment, the determination rate of the effects to be executed during the execution of the special game varies depending on the variable pattern identified from the variable pattern specification command. The overall control CPU 31a then outputs various control signals to the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a to execute the determined effects.

[0067] Subsequently, upon receiving the input of the variation termination command, the overall control CPU 31a outputs a control signal to the display control CPU 32a instructing it to terminate the performance game and derive the combination of performance symbols.

[0068] Next, we will explain the control system related to jackpot games. When the overall control CPU 31a receives an opening command, it outputs various control signals to the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a to execute the opening sequence of the jackpot game. Furthermore, when the overall control CPU 31a receives a round command, it outputs various control signals to the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a to execute the round sequence of the jackpot game. Furthermore, when the overall control CPU 31a receives an ending command, it outputs various control signals to the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a to execute the ending sequence of the jackpot game.

[0069] Next, we will explain the control related to the standby state. When the overall control CPU 31a receives a standby command, it outputs various control signals to the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a to execute the effects that occur during the standby state.

[0070] Then, the display control CPU 32a of the display control board 32, the sound control CPU 33a of the sound control board 33, and the lamp control CPU 34a of the lamp control board 34 receive control signals from the overall control CPU 31a and execute various processes according to those control signals.

[0071] Specifically, the display control CPU 32a performs processes such as displaying a predetermined image on the performance display device 12 and hiding the image displayed on the performance display device 12, in response to a control signal input from the overall control CPU 31a. The sound control CPU 33a performs processes such as outputting a predetermined sound from the speaker Sp and stopping the sound being output from the speaker Sp, in response to a control signal input from the overall control CPU 31a. The lamp control CPU 34a performs processes such as illuminating the decorative lamp La in a predetermined light emission pattern and ending the illumination of the decorative lamp La, in response to a control signal input from the overall control CPU 31a.

[0072] Next, we will describe the performances that the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can perform. The pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment is capable of executing specific effects during the execution of a variable game. In this embodiment, the content of the specific effects includes multiple types of effects that differ in at least some of the following: the combination of effect devices used, the content of the effects produced by each effect device, and the timing of the execution of the effects produced by each effect device.

[0073] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the performance devices used for a specific performance are the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La. Of these, the performance display device 12 and the speaker Sp are performance devices that are used regardless of the content of the specific performance. The decorative lamp La is a performance device that may or may not be used depending on the content of the specific performance. In other words, the specific performance in this embodiment is a performance that includes at least a display performance by the performance display device 12 and an audio performance by the speaker Sp, and may further include a light emission performance by the decorative lamp La.

[0074] The following describes the control of each control CPU required to execute specific effects. As shown in Figure 5(a), the overall control CPU 31a determines whether or not to execute a specific performance by performing a predetermined lottery based on the variation pattern identified from the variation pattern specification command input from the main control CPU 30a. If the overall control CPU 31a decides to execute the specific performance, it selects one of several performance patterns that define the content of the specific performance. In this embodiment, the process of selecting a performance pattern that defines the content of the specific performance corresponds to a control pattern identification process that identifies one of several control patterns. That is, in this embodiment, the overall control CPU 31a can execute the control pattern identification process as a trigger for deciding to execute the specific performance.

[0075] Furthermore, when the overall control CPU 31a receives a variable pattern specification command from the main control CPU 30a, it updates a predetermined timer in the overall control RAM 31c to perform a process to measure the variable time of the variable game. In this embodiment, the process of measuring the variable time of the variable game corresponds to a time measurement process that measures the time elapsed since the start of the variable game. In this embodiment, the start of the variable game corresponds to the fulfillment of the time measurement condition. That is, in this embodiment, the overall control CPU 31a can execute the time measurement process in conjunction with the start of the variable game.

[0076] Here, we will explain in detail the types of performance patterns for the specific performance in this embodiment and the performance content of the specific performance identified by each performance pattern. As shown in Figure 4, the performance patterns for a specific performance in this embodiment include multiple performance patterns in which at least some of the output destination of the control signal, the type of control signal to be output, and the output timing of each control signal are different.

[0077] The first performance pattern EP1 is a performance pattern that specifies the first performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the first performance pattern EP1 is a performance pattern in which a display control CPU 32a and a sound control CPU 33a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0078] In particular, in the first performance pattern EP1, it is stipulated that a first display command and a first sound command are output at a first timing during the execution of the variable game, before the special symbols stop. In this embodiment, the first timing is the timing when one hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game. The first display command is a control signal output to the display control CPU 32a, which instructs the performance display device 12 to display the first performance image. The first sound command is a control signal output to the sound control CPU 33a, which instructs the speaker Sp to output the first sound. That is, the first performance content is a performance content performed using the performance display device 12 and the speaker Sp, and at the first timing, the performance content performs the display of the first performance image by the performance display device 12 and the output of the first sound by the speaker Sp.

[0079] The second performance pattern EP2 is a performance pattern that specifies the second performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the second performance pattern EP2 is a performance pattern in which the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0080] In particular, in the second performance pattern EP2, it is stipulated that a first display command, a first sound command, and a first light emission command are output at the first timing. The first light emission command is a control signal output to the lamp control CPU 34a, which instructs the decorative lamp La to emit light in the first light emission mode. That is, the second performance content is a performance content performed using the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La, and at the first timing, the performance content is performed by displaying the first performance image on the performance display device 12, outputting the first sound from the speaker Sp, and emitting light from the decorative lamp La in the first light emission mode.

[0081] The third performance pattern EP3 is a performance pattern that specifies a third performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the third performance pattern EP3 is a performance pattern in which the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0082] In particular, in the third performance pattern EP3, it is stipulated that a second display command, a second sound command, and a second light emission command are output at the first timing. The second display command is a control signal output to the display control CPU 32a, which instructs the performance display device 12 to display the second performance image. The second sound command is a control signal output to the sound control CPU 33a, which instructs the speaker Sp to output the second sound. The second light emission command is a control signal output to the lamp control CPU 34a, which instructs the decorative lamp La to emit light in the second light emission mode. That is, the third performance content is a performance content performed using the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La, and at the first timing, it is a performance content that performs the display of the second performance image by the performance display device 12, the output of the second sound by the speaker Sp, and the emission of the decorative lamp La in the second light emission mode.

[0083] The fourth performance pattern EP4 is a performance pattern that specifies the fourth performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the fourth performance pattern EP4 is a performance pattern in which the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0084] In particular, in the fourth performance pattern EP4, it is stipulated that the second display command is output at the first timing, and that the second audio command and the second light-emitting command are output at the second timing, which is after the first timing but before the special symbols stop. In this embodiment, the second timing is the timing when a second time has elapsed, which is longer than the first time, since the start of the variable game. That is, the fourth performance content is a performance content performed using the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La, and at the first timing, the performance display device 12 displays the second performance image, and at the second timing, the speaker Sp outputs the second audio and the decorative lamp La lights up in the second light-emitting mode.

[0085] The fifth performance pattern EP5 is a performance pattern that specifies the fifth performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the fifth performance pattern EP5 is a performance pattern in which the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0086] In particular, in the fifth performance pattern EP5, it is stipulated that a second display command, a second sound command, and a second light emission command are output at the second timing. That is, the fifth performance content is a performance content performed using the performance display device 12, speaker Sp, and decorative lamp La, and at the second timing, the performance content is performed by displaying a second performance image by the performance display device 12, outputting a second sound by speaker Sp, and illuminating the decorative lamp La in a second light emission mode.

[0087] The sixth performance pattern EP6 is a performance pattern that specifies the sixth performance content as the performance content of a specific performance. Specifically, the sixth performance pattern EP6 is a performance pattern in which the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a are defined as control CPUs that output control signals instructing the execution of a specific performance.

[0088] In particular, in the sixth performance pattern EP6, it is stipulated that at the first timing, the second display command, the second sound command, and the second light-emitting command are output, and at the third timing, which is after the second timing but before the special symbols stop, the third sound command and the third light-emitting command are output. In this embodiment, the third timing is the timing when the third time has elapsed, which is longer than the second time since the start of the variable game. That is, the sixth performance content is a performance content that is performed using the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La. Furthermore, the sixth performance content is a performance content that, at the first timing, displays the second performance image by the performance display device 12, outputs the second sound by the speaker Sp, and illuminates the decorative lamp La in the second light-emitting mode, and at the third timing, outputs the third sound by the speaker Sp and illuminates the decorative lamp La in the third light-emitting mode.

[0089] Furthermore, once the overall control CPU 31a determines the performance pattern for a specific performance, it outputs a predetermined control signal to the CPU that controls the predetermined performance device at a predetermined timing, based on the performance content identified from the determined performance pattern. Then, the display control CPU 32a, sound control CPU 33a, and lamp control CPU 34a, upon receiving a control signal from the overall control CPU 31a, control their respective performance devices to execute the performances that constitute the specific performance according to the control signal.

[0090] For example, as shown in Figure 5(b), if the first performance pattern EP1 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the overall control CPU 31a determines whether or not 1 hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game, based on the time measured by the time measurement process. If 1 hour has elapsed, the overall control CPU 31a controls the output of the first display command, the first sound command, and the first light emission command to each control CPU. The display control CPU 32a controls the performance display device 12 to display the first performance image when the first display command is input. The sound control CPU 33a controls the speaker Sp to output the first sound when the first sound command is input. The lamp control CPU 34a controls the decorative lamp La to emit light in the first light emission mode when the first light emission command is input.

[0091] With this control, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the first performance pattern EP1 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the first performance image can be displayed by the performance display device 12, the first sound can be output by the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La can be illuminated in the first light emission mode can be performed at the first timing.

[0092] For example, as shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), if the fourth performance pattern EP4 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the overall control CPU 31a determines whether or not the first hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game, based on the time measured by the time measurement process. If the first hour has elapsed, the overall control CPU 31a controls the display control CPU 32a to output the second display command. The display control CPU 32a controls the performance display device 12 to display the second performance image, triggered by the input of the second display command. Furthermore, the overall control CPU 31a determines whether or not the second hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game, based on the time measured by the time measurement process. If the second hour has elapsed, the overall control CPU 31a controls the output of the second audio command and the second light emission command to each control CPU. The sound control CPU 33a controls the speaker Sp to output the second audio, triggered by the input of the second audio command. Upon receiving the second light emission command, the lamp control CPU 34a controls the decorative lamp La to emit light in the second light emission mode.

[0093] With this control, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the fourth performance pattern EP4 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the performance display device 12 can display the second performance image at the first timing. Furthermore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the fourth performance pattern EP4 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the speaker Sp can output a second sound and the decorative lamp La can light up in a second light emission mode at the second timing.

[0094] For example, as shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), if the sixth performance pattern EP6 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, the overall control CPU 31a determines, based on the time measured by the time measurement process, whether or not the first hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game. If the first hour has elapsed, the overall control CPU 31a controls the output of the second display command, the second sound command, and the second light emission command to each control CPU. The display control CPU 32a controls the performance display device 12 to display the second performance image when the second display command is input. The sound control CPU 33a controls the speaker Sp to output the second sound when the second sound command is input. The lamp control CPU 34a controls the decorative lamp La to emit light in the second light emission mode when the second light emission command is input. Furthermore, the overall control CPU 31a determines, based on the time measured by the time measurement process, whether or not the third hour has elapsed since the start of the variable game. When the third time has elapsed, the overall control CPU 31a controls the system to output the third voice command and the third light emission command to each control CPU. The sound control CPU 33a controls the speaker Sp to output the third voice command upon receiving the input. The lamp control CPU 34a controls the decorative lamp La to emit light in the third light emission mode upon receiving the input of the third light emission command.

[0095] With this control, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the sixth performance pattern EP6 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, at the first timing, the second performance image can be displayed by the performance display device 12, the second sound can be output by the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La can be illuminated in the second light emission mode. Furthermore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the sixth performance pattern EP6 is determined as the performance pattern for a specific performance, at the third timing, the third sound can be output by the speaker Sp and the decorative lamp La can be illuminated in the third light emission mode.

[0096] In this embodiment, the process of outputting a control signal to the CPU that controls the performance device based on the performance content identified from the determined performance pattern corresponds to an information output process that outputs control information to the input-side control means designated as the output destination for the control pattern identified by the control pattern identification process. That is, in this embodiment, the overall control CPU 31a can execute an information output process based on the performance content identified from the determined performance pattern. In this embodiment, a series of information output processes performed to execute one specific performance corresponds to one information output process.

[0097] In particular, as described above, in this embodiment, control signals can be output to multiple control CPUs with a single information output process. At this time, the central control CPU 31a can output control signals to each control CPU when the time measured in the time measurement process becomes the time specified in the performance pattern determined by the control pattern determination process.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first timing, second timing, and third timing are all timings that occur during the execution of the variable game, but before the special symbols stop. That is, in the information output processing, the overall control CPU 31a of this embodiment can output control signals to multiple control CPUs at timings different from the timing when the special symbols stop in the variable game.

[0099] Furthermore, as described above, the performance patterns for specific performances in this embodiment include multiple performance patterns that define different performance content based on the combination of control CPUs that output control signals. For example, the combination of control CPUs that output control signals differs between the first performance pattern EP1 and each of the second to sixth performance patterns EP2 to EP6.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are multiple performance patterns for a specific performance where the combination of control CPUs that output control signals is the same, but the type of control signal output to each control CPU is different. For example, in the second performance pattern EP2 and the third performance pattern EP3, the combination of control CPUs that output control signals is the same, but the type of control signal output to each control CPU is different.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the specific performance patterns include multiple performance patterns in which the combination of control CPUs that output control signals and the type of control signals output to each control CPU are the same, but the timing of outputting each control signal is different. For example, in the third performance pattern EP3, the fourth performance pattern EP4, and the fifth performance pattern EP5, the combination of control CPUs that output control signals and the type of control signals output to each control CPU are the same, but the timing of outputting each control signal is different.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are performance patterns for specific performances in which control signals are output to the same control CPU multiple times at different timings during a single information output process. For example, in the sixth performance pattern EP6, an audio command is output to the sound control CPU 33a and a light emission command is output to the lamp control CPU 34a at both the first and third timings.

[0103] The effects of this embodiment will now be explained. (1) The central control CPU 31a outputs various control signals to each control CPU at predetermined timings based on the time measured in the time measurement process. Each control CPU then performs predetermined control in response to receiving the various control signals, thereby executing a specific performance at a predetermined timing. This method suppresses timing discrepancies between multiple performance devices, compared to a case where the central control CPU 31a outputs control signals to each control CPU in advance of the timing to execute a specific performance, such as at the start of a variable game, and each control CPU performs its own time measurement process to determine the timing of the execution of the specific performance. Therefore, in this embodiment, when multiple devices are used in combination, each device can be operated appropriately.

[0104] (2) The performance patterns for a specific performance include multiple performance patterns in which at least some of the following differ: the output destination of the control signal, the type of control signal to be output, and the output timing of each control signal. This allows for diversification of the performance modes of a specific performance, which is carried out using multiple performance devices in combination, while also allowing for appropriate control of the timing at which each performance device executes the specific performance.

[0105] (3) A specific performance pattern has multiple performance patterns in which the combination of output destinations for control signals is the same, but the type of control signal output is different. This makes it possible to suppress discrepancies in the timing of when each performance device executes a specific performance, even when different control signals are output to the same control CPU according to the performance pattern.

[0106] (4) Some performance patterns for specific effects specify that control signals are output to the same control CPU multiple times at different timings during a single information output process. This makes it possible to suppress timing discrepancies in the execution of specific effects by each performance device, even when multiple operations are instructed to a single control CPU.

[0107] (5) In the information output processing, the timing at which the control signal is output is before the special symbol stops in the variable game. Therefore, in this embodiment, even when multiple performance devices are operated during the execution of the variable game, it is possible to suppress discrepancies in the timing at which each performance device executes a specific performance.

[0108] The embodiments described above can be implemented with the following modifications. Furthermore, the embodiments described above and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0109] The content and types of the performance patterns for specific performances may be changed as appropriate. For example, it is not necessary to have a performance pattern that specifies outputting control signals to the same control CPU multiple times at different timings. Also, it is not necessary to have multiple control patterns that have the same combination of control CPUs to which the control signals are output, but with different types of control signals output.

[0110] The content defined in the performance patterns of a specific performance may be changed as appropriate. For example, the output destination of the control signal does not need to be defined in the performance pattern of a specific performance. In this case, the output destination of the control signal may be the same regardless of which performance pattern is determined. That is, the overall control CPU 31a may cause the system to output a control signal of the type defined in the determined performance pattern to a predetermined output destination at the timing defined in the determined performance pattern. Also, the type of control signal to be output does not need to be defined in the performance pattern of a specific performance. In this case, the type of control signal to be output may be the same regardless of which performance pattern is determined. That is, the overall control CPU 31a may cause the system to output a predetermined control signal to the control CPU defined in the determined performance pattern at the timing defined in the determined performance pattern.

[0111] The timing of when a specific effect is performed may be changed as appropriate. For example, it may be performed at the start of a variable game, or when a special symbol stops during a variable game.

[0112] The overall control CPU 31a may output a control signal to each control CPU instructing them to terminate the performance game when the time measured by the time measurement process reaches the variation time specified for the variation pattern identified from the variation pattern specification command. In other words, the overall control CPU 31a may control the termination of the performance game without waiting for input of a variation termination command from the main control CPU 30a. In this case, the main control CPU 30a may choose not to output a variation termination command.

[0113] A control device that operates based on control signals output from the overall control CPU 31a does not necessarily have a CPU, and may simply be a control device controlled by the overall control CPU 31a.

[0114] The pachinko game machine 10 may be equipped with a performance control board that controls the performance display device 12, speaker Sp, and decorative lamp La, instead of the control boards 31, display control board 32, sound control board 33, and lamp control board 34. In this case, the control CPU of the performance control board controls the display content of the performance display device 12 by outputting a predetermined control signal to the performance display device 12 without going through the display control CPU 32a. Similarly, the control CPU of the performance control board may control speaker Sp by outputting a predetermined control signal to speaker Sp without going through the sound control CPU 33a, or control decorative lamp La by outputting a predetermined control signal to decorative lamp La without going through the lamp control CPU 34a. In these cases, the control CPU of the performance control board corresponds to the output-side control means, and the performance display device 12, speaker Sp, and decorative lamp La each correspond to the input-side control means.

[0115] The main control CPU 30a may, when it has determined a variation pattern, output a predetermined control signal to a predetermined control device at a predetermined timing based on the determined variation pattern. For example, the main control CPU 30a may output a variation end command to the overall control CPU 31a and a control signal to the information display device 13 instructing it to stop the special symbols when the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed. In this case, the main control CPU 30a corresponds to the output-side control means, while the overall control CPU 31a and the information display device 13 correspond to the input-side control means. Furthermore, the main control board 30 may be equipped with an external signal output unit capable of outputting external signals to an external device connected to the pachinko game machine 10. The main control CPU 30a may, when it has determined a variation pattern, output a control signal to the external signal output unit instructing it to output an external signal to a predetermined external device at a predetermined timing. In this case, the external signal output unit corresponds to the input-side control means. In these cases, instead of the control boards 31, 32, 33, and 34, the system may be equipped with a performance control board that controls the performance display device 12, speaker Sp, and decorative lamp La. In this case, the control CPU of the performance control board corresponds to the input-side control means.

[0116] The probability state that determines the probability of winning the jackpot lottery may be embodied in a pachinko game machine 10 that has two or more probability states. That is, it may be embodied in a pachinko game machine 10 that has a probability variation function.

[0117] The time-saving state of the pachinko game machine 10 may be implemented in a pachinko game machine 10 that has two or more types of time-saving states. Alternatively, it may be implemented in a pachinko game machine 10 that does not have a time-saving state. In other words, it may be implemented in a pachinko game machine 10 that does not have a function to shorten the average fluctuation time of the special game.

[0118] The overall control CPU 31a, the display control CPU 32a, the sound control CPU 33a, and the lamp control CPU 34a may be mounted on the same board. That is, they may be implemented in a pachinko game machine 10 that has one board integrating the overall control board 31, the display control board 32, the sound control board 33, and the lamp control board 34.

[0119] The first and second special games may be executed according to the order in which the game balls enter the respective starting prize slots 14 and 15, or they may be executed simultaneously in parallel. The second special game may also be omitted.

[0120] This may be implemented in a pachinko game machine 10 that does not perform a special effects game. In this case, it is preferable to display special symbols on the effects display device 12. In this embodiment, the gaming machine was a pachinko machine, but it is not limited to this and may be configured as a slot machine.

[0121] This section describes the technical concepts that can be understood from this embodiment and its modifications. (Note 1) A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game performed by changing the symbols, comprising: an output-side control means capable of various controls including outputting control information; an input-side control means capable of operating based on the control information input from the output-side control means; and a storage means for storing various information, wherein the storage means stores a plurality of control patterns that define various control modes, the output-side control means is capable of a control pattern identification process that identifies one of the plurality of control patterns, a time measurement process that measures the time elapsed since a predetermined time measurement condition was met, and an information output process that outputs the control information to a predetermined input-side control means, the input-side control means comprises a plurality of input-side control means, the information output process is capable of outputting the control information to a plurality of input-side control means with a single information output process, and the control information is output when the time measured in the time measurement process becomes the time defined in the control pattern identified by the control pattern identification process.

[0122] (Note 2) The gaming machine as described in Note 1, wherein the control pattern includes multiple control patterns in which the combination of multiple input-side control means that output the control information is the same, but the content of the output control information is different.

[0123] (Note 3) The gaming machine according to Note 1 or Note 2, wherein the control pattern includes a control pattern which specifies that the control information is output multiple times to the same input-side control means at different timings during a single information output process.

[0124] (Note 4) The gaming machine according to any one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the information output processing is capable of outputting the control information to a plurality of input-side control means at a timing different from the timing at which the symbols stop in the variable game. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0125] EP1~EP6…Performance Pattern (Control Pattern) GH…Image Display Unit HD…Launch Handle La…Decorative Lamp SE1…First Start Prize Sensor SE2…Second Start Prize Sensor SE3…Count Sensor SE4…Gate Sensor SL1…First Solenoid SL2…Second Solenoid Sp…Speaker YB…Game Board YBa…Game Area YBb…Opening Window 10…Pachinko Game Machine 11…Frame 11a…Installation Frame 11b…Mounting Frame 11c…Locking Device 12…Performance Display Device 13…Information Display Device 13a…First Special Symbol Display Unit 13b…Second Special Symbol Display Unit 13c…First Special Reserve Display Unit 13d…Second Special Reserve Display Unit 13e…Normal Symbol Display Unit 13f…Normal Reserve Display Unit 14…First Start Prize Entrance 15…Second Start Prize Entrance 16…Normal Movable Piece 17…Large Prize Entrance 18…Special opening / closing piece 25…Gate 30…Main control board 30a…Main control CPU 30b…Main control ROM 30c…Main control RAM 31…Overall control board 31a…Overall control CPU (output side control means) 31b…Overall control ROM (storage means) 31c…Overall control RAM 32…Display control board 32a…Display control CPU (input side control means) 33…Sound control board 33a…Sound control CPU (input side control means) 34…Lamp control board 34a…Lamp control CPU (input side control means)

Claims

[Claim 1] In a gaming machine capable of performing a variable game by changing the symbols, An output-side control means capable of various controls including the output of one or more control information, An input-side control means that can operate based on the control information input from the output-side control means, It is equipped with a storage means for storing various types of information, The storage means stores a plurality of control patterns that define various control modes. The output-side control means is A control pattern identification process that identifies one of the control patterns from among the multiple control patterns, A time measurement process that measures the time elapsed since a predetermined time measurement condition was met, It is possible to perform an information output process that outputs the control information to a predetermined input-side control means, The aforementioned input-side control means includes a plurality of input-side control means, In one of the above information output processes, It is possible to output control information corresponding to the first input-side control means to the first input-side control means, It is possible to output control information corresponding to the second input-side control means to the second input-side control means, When the time measured in the time measurement process reaches the time specified in the control pattern identified by the control pattern identification process, control information corresponding to the first input-side control means is output. A gaming machine characterized in that control information corresponding to the second input-side control means is output when the time measured in the time measurement process becomes the time specified in the control pattern identified by the control pattern identification process.

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