JP2003135766A - Pachinko game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the amusement of a game by performance by the combination of display on a display surface and the operation of a shielding means without giving a control burden on a main controller for controlling each part of a game machine in the pachinko game machine having an image display device for displaying pattern drawing, etc., and a shielding means for shielding the display surface. SOLUTION: By constituting an image controller 643 controlling the image display device 641 to control the shielding means 8 together with the image display device 641, cooperation between the progress of display on the image display device 641 and the shielding means 8 is facilitated without increasing the control burden on the main controller 61.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a ball game machine,
In particular, it relates to control of game production and the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A ball game machine is a game for paying out a game ball as a prize ball when a game ball fired by a player's operation enters a ball entrance such as a prize hole provided on a board surface of a game board. Pachinko machines are widely used. For pachinko machines,
A firing handle is provided below the game board, and when this is rotated by a predetermined angle by the player's operation, the game balls are continuously launched onto the surface of the game board.

In recent years, the content of the game has changed from a simple game in which a predetermined number of game balls are paid out when the game balls enter the winning opening, to a game in which the game progresses in a more complicated manner. For example, there is one in which a plurality of symbols such as numbers and pictures are displayed on the game board surface, and when the game ball enters a predetermined starting opening, the display symbol is changed, and then a symbol lottery for stationary is performed. Then, if the combination of symbols is a predetermined jackpot symbol, this is a jackpot and the game shifts to a special game different from the normal game until then. In the special game, for example, a large winning opening with a wide opening and a large number of prize balls can be opened, which is advantageous to the player in terms of ease of winning. The main control device performs a big hit determination process of whether or not to give a big hit to a ball entering the starting opening. The main controller is usually
Consists mainly of a microcomputer, in addition to jackpot determination processing, monitoring the presence or absence of a ball at the ball entrance and the payout of prize balls, monitoring the operating state of each part of the gaming machine such as the above-mentioned firing handle, for role objects and performance The command command is transmitted to a drive circuit or the like that drives the light emitting elements and the like.

In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-123438, three rotary drums each having a design are used for drawing lots of designs.
Arranged in 3 rows, 3 jacks arranged in any of the rows, columns, or diagonal lines to be a big hit when the display symbols are in a predetermined combination. It is disclosed that a liquid crystal plate capable of switching between states is provided. With this one, there is no possibility of a big hit each time the rotation of the drum stops,
By switching the liquid crystal plate to the transmissive state for the three drums located in rows, columns, or diagonal lines, and keeping the liquid crystal plate in the light-shielded state for the possibility of a big hit, the result of the symbol lottery It is intended to make the discrimination easier and increase the player's expectation for the jackpot.

In recent years, as the display of the symbol lottery, animation display has been widely used in combination with a liquid crystal display and an image control device configured by a dedicated microcomputer to control the liquid crystal display. The display modes are diversified. By making use of the features of animation display and allowing characters to appear in the image and phrases for production to be displayed, it is possible to provide the player with more thrilling excitement.

[0006]

However, like the gaming machine described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-123438, a shielding means for shielding the display portion is provided so that the shielding state and the open state can be switched. However, by combining the operation of the shielding means, the possibility of more complicated game production expands, but there are the following problems. That is, in order for the combination of the operation of the shielding means to succeed as a game effect, it is necessary for the operation of the shielding means to smoothly follow the complicated movement such as the animation display. The control load of the main controller may be overloaded. Therefore, after all, the operation content of the shielding means must be designed in consideration of the balance of the entire functions of the gaming machine, and the effect function of the shielding means cannot be sufficiently brought out. In the worst case, the player
The operation of the shielding means looks like an unnatural thing that diminishes the effect of the high-level animation display, and rather reduces the interest.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a ball game machine that can sufficiently bring out the effect function of the shielding means.

[0008]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ball-and-ball game machine in which prize balls are paid out by the return of the game balls launched on the game board surface. A display device provided with a display surface, an image control device for controlling the display device to display a predetermined image on the display surface, a state of each part of the gaming machine, and each part of the gaming machine including the image control device. In a ball game machine including a main control device that transmits a command command, and at least a part of a display image on the display surface can be shielded, and a shield means configured to be switchable between a shielded state and an open state, The image control device is set to control the shielding means together with the display device so as to switch the visual recognition state of the display image in cooperation with the display of the image on the display surface.

Since both the display of the image on the display surface and the visual recognition state of the display surface proceed under the control of the image control device, it is possible to smoothly operate the shielding means following the display. As a result, the degree of freedom in operating the shielding means increases. Moreover, the control load on the main controller is not increased.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first aspect of the invention, the main control device executes a big hit determination process for determining whether or not there is a big hit when a ball enters a predetermined entrance. However, in accordance with the result of the jackpot determination process, a command command that constitutes at least a part of the control condition that specifies the display mode to be displayed on the display surface to notify whether or not the game content is switched Is the game content set to be transmitted to the image control device, and the game content displayed in the display area which can be shielded by the shielding means is switched based on the return of the game ball that has been launched? It is set to display an image of a game effect display or a game guide display other than the display for notifying whether or not.

A display that is displayed on the basis of the outcome of the game balls that have been launched to inform whether or not the game content is switched, for example, whether or not the game content is switched from a normal game to a special game in which a large number of prizes can be expected. In addition to the display such as the above-mentioned symbol lottery to be informed, when displaying an image of a game effect display or a game guide display, this effect display or guide display can be combined with the operation of the shielding means. Therefore,
Even if the display is not directly connected to the player's profit and integrated with the progress of the game, such as a display notifying whether the game content is switched or not, for example, a phrase or an error that merely excites the game has occurred. Even if it is an error message indicating that, the player's attention can be paid and the expectation for the display content can be enhanced, and the display content can be noticeably notified to the player. Then, each time the shielding means is activated, the player refocuses on the display surface, so that the limited display area can be effectively used for various notifications.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the second aspect of the invention, the display surface includes a first area which is not shielded by the shielding means and a second area which can be shielded by the shielding means. Other than the display for notifying whether or not the game content is switched, the display image for notifying whether or not the game content is switched is assigned only to the first area, and the second area is notified of whether or not the game content is switched. The image of the effect display of the game or the guide display of the game is assigned.

Since the display for notifying whether or not the game contents are switched is made only in the first area, it is notified whether or not the game contents are switched even if the shielding means is not operated. It is possible to continue the game as it is without affecting the visual recognition state of the display. On the side of the player or the game hall,
Substantial reliability of the gaming machine is improved. Further, as a shielding means, a precise structure having a high effect of effect even if the failure frequency is somewhat higher than that of a liquid crystal plate, for example, a structure in which a mechanical structure appears in front of the display surface. Can be taken.

Further, by specializing the second area for the effect display and the guide display, when some error occurs during the game, the display content is informed whether the game content is switched or not. An error message indicating that an error has occurred can be displayed without switching the display. In this case, if the error is such a minor error that it is sufficient to inform the player that an error has occurred, it is possible to continue the display notifying whether or not the game content is switched while displaying the error message. It is possible to avoid the player's disfavor.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first to third aspects of the invention, the main control device determines whether or not a big hit is made when there is a ball entering a predetermined ball entrance. According to the result of the jackpot determination process, a command command that constitutes at least a part of the control condition for specifying the aspect of the symbol lottery to be displayed on the display surface is set to be transmitted to the image control device. The image control device is set so as to determine the operation mode of the shielding means in association with the variation pattern included in the command command and defining the time for the symbol lottery.

The operation mode of the shielding means is associated with the variation pattern, and the movement of the shielding means changes in a variety of ways according to the progress of the symbol lottery. As a result, even in a similar variation pattern, the progression of the symbol lottery becomes expressive due to the difference in the operation mode of the shielding means, and the player can be attracted to the game without getting tired.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the structure of the first to fourth aspects of the invention, the main control device determines whether or not a big hit is made when there is a ball entering a predetermined ball entrance. According to the result of the jackpot determination process, a command command that constitutes at least a part of the control condition for specifying the aspect of the symbol lottery to be displayed on the display surface is set to be transmitted to the image control device. The image control device is set so as to determine the operation mode of the shielding means in association with the fixed symbol of the symbol lottery included in the command command.

The operation mode of the shielding means is associated with the definite symbol, and the player is formed with an empirical rule about the correlation between the operation mode of the shielding means and the definite symbol. Since the player will keep an eye on the transition of the symbol lottery in consideration of such empirical rule, the player can be attracted to the game without getting tired.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, in the configuration of the first to fifth aspects of the invention, the image control device is set so as to determine the operation mode of the shielding means in association with a random number.

By associating the operation mode of the shielding means with a random number, the operation of the shielding means is given randomness, and a deep effect is produced in the game production. For example, in the case of having the structure of the invention of claim 5, the player's thrilling feeling can be further increased and the game can be made more entertaining when the player unexpectedly differs from the rule of thumb of the player. . This random number is
For example, a random number extracted by the image control device triggered by receiving a command command from the main control device can be preferably used.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first to third aspects of the invention, the main control device determines a command command for specifying an operation mode of the shielding means, and sends the command command to the image control device. Thus, the image control device is set to control the shielding means based on the command command.

The main control unit need only output a command command, while the image control unit may output a control signal to the shielding means based on an instruction from the main control unit.
The processing in the image control device can be reduced without increasing the control load of the main control device. Moreover, since the main control device has information about the operation mode of the shielding means, the operation of the production means controlled by the main control device can be linked with the operation of the shielding means.

[0023]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows the whole of a pachinko gaming machine which is a ball game machine to which the present invention is applied. The pachinko gaming machine has a rectangular outer frame 111 and a front frame 112, and the front frame 112 is located at the upper and lower left ends. The hinge 116 is rotatably attached to the outer frame 111 in a horizontal direction, and each part integrated with the front frame 112 can be brought out to the front side at the time of maintenance or the like. Pachinko machines are usually framed on the island where game machines are installed in multiple rows.
It is attached at 11 and arranged alternately with the prepaid card unit.

Inside the front frame 112, there is a metal frame 11 that covers the upper half of the front frame 112 in the height direction.
3 is attached, and a glass frame 114 that borders the inner periphery of the metal frame 113 is hinged to be openable and closable with the left side of the metal frame 113 as a spindle. A glass plate 115 is doubly loaded in the glass frame 114. The game board 21 is housed inside the front frame 112 on the back side of the glass plate 115, and is arranged to face the player across the glass plate 115.

The distance between the glass plates 115 is such that the influence of the magnets from the outside does not affect the game balls on the board surface of the game board 21 which will be described later, and when the surface of the glass plate 115 is pressed. And the glass plate 1 from above
It is set so as not to come into contact with the game nail protruding in 15 directions.

Inside the front frame 112, a metal frame 113 is also provided.
An upper plate 121 and a lower plate 124, which are in the shape of a bathtub, are provided below the table so as to project toward the front side. The main body of the upper plate 121 is made of an ebonide or the like that is resistant to dirt. A discharge port 122 for paying out prize balls is provided on the side surface of the upper plate 121.
Is open.

The upper plate 121 has a bulging portion that bulges to the left and right, and a balance display portion 133 that displays the balance of the prepaid card inserted in the prepaid card unit at the top of the left bulging portion. A ball lending button 131 to be pressed when a game ball is rented and a settlement button 132 for settlement are provided.

An overflow ball discharge port 125 is opened on the side surface of the lower plate 124, and serves as an outlet for the return ball that fails to be fired while the overflow ball when the upper plate 121 is full flows in. Also,
The player operates the upper plate ball removing lever 123 to communicate with the upper plate 121 through the overflow ball outlet 125, and the game ball of the upper plate 121 can be moved to the lower plate 124. Is. Also, when the lower plate 124 is full of game balls, the bottom plate 124 can be opened and discharged below the lower plate 124 by operating the lower plate ball removing lever 126, and the game balls can be placed in a separate box. Can be transferred.

A firing handle 141 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 124.
Is provided. The firing handle 141 is provided with a ring-shaped turning ring 143 coaxially on the outer periphery of the grip portion 142 that is attached so as to project toward the front side. If the player turns the turning ring 143 clockwise, The game balls supplied from the plate 121 can be shot on the board surface of the game board 21.

Next, the game board 21 will be described with reference to FIG. On the board surface of the game board 21, strip-shaped rails 22 and 23 are provided perpendicularly to the board surface so as to frame the board surface in a substantially circular shape. The rails 22 and 23 are partially doubled on the left side in the drawing, and a game ball is launched along the outer rail 23 by the operation of the launch handle 141, and a substantially circular area of the board surface surrounded by the rails 22 and 23. Get in An image display device 641, which is a display device to be described later, is provided in the center of the substantially circular area, and various prize holes 31, 35, a special prize unit 32, a large number of game nails 25, windmills 26, 27, etc. are provided around the image display device 641. Is provided.

The image display device 641 is an LCD panel, and the image display frame 2 fitted in the opening at the center of the game board 21.
It is provided in 4.

3A and 3B show the image display device 6.
41 shows the details around 41.
The display surface of the display surface 641a facing the player has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The left approximately 3/4 range is the main display area D1 which is the first display area for displaying three symbols in the horizontal direction, and the remaining right approximately ¼ range is the second display area. It is provided as a display area D2.

Here, the image display device 641 is fitted so that the display surface 641a is located slightly behind the image display frame 24, and the image display frame 24 is provided on the right side edge of the image display device 641. The continuous portion is constituted by a movable piece 81 which constitutes the shielding portion 8 which is the shielding means. Movable piece 81
Is a fan-shaped member in cross section, and is rotatable about a shaft 811 which is inserted through a required position. Shaft 81
1 is provided in the vertical direction along the right side edges of the substantially display areas D1 and D2, and the movable piece 81 is located on the right hand side of the sub display area D2 due to the rotational position of the movable piece 81 (FIG. 3).
It is possible to switch between (a)) and the state in which the movable piece 81 is located in front of the sub-display area D2 (FIG. 3 (b)).
The rectangular side surface 81a of the movable piece 81 has a substantially sub-display area D.
Same as 2, the sub display area D2 can be visually recognized by the player in the former state (FIG. 3 (a)) (hereinafter, the sub display area D2 is appropriately movable when the sub display area D2 is in an open state visible to the player). This state of the piece 81 is called an open state, and the latter state (FIG. 3).
In (b), the sub display area D2 is not visually recognized by the player (hereinafter, this state of the movable piece 81 when the sub display area D2 is in a shielded state not visually recognized by the player is referred to as a closed state).

The shaft 811 is connected to an actuator (not shown) (see FIG. 5) so that the movable piece 81 can be switched between an open state and a closed state.

In the image display frame 24, a normal image display section 41 having 7-segment LEDs and four LEs each are provided.
A reserved display portion 42 for special symbols having D and a reserved display portion 43 for normal symbols are provided.

Below the image display frame 24, an ordinary electric accessory 31 is provided as a winning opening of the first kind which is a winning opening. The ordinary electric accessory 31 is an electric tulip operated by a solenoid.

A special winning opening unit 32 is provided below the ordinary electric accessory 31. The special winning opening unit 32 is provided with a winning opening 322 on each side of the attacker door 321, and the attacker door 321 is electrically operated to open and close the wide entrance opening. Can be expected.

Further, the normal image operating gate 34 is provided on the left and right of the image display frame 24, and when the game ball passes through this, the display image of the normal image display section 41 changes. The game ball that entered the normal image operating gate 34 is again the game board 21.
Appear on top.

Further, an out port 37 is opened at the bottom of the board surface of the game board 21, and among the game balls shot on the board surface of the game board 21, the respective prize holes 31, 35, and the large prize hole. The game ball that has not entered the attacker door 321 is taken in as an out ball.

Some of the wind turbines 27 are made of colored transparent plastic and are provided with a lamp (not shown) behind them so as to shine, and together with the side lamps 28 which blink intricately, a decorative effect of the game board 21 during the game. Exert. Furthermore, a speaker (not shown) generates a sound in accordance with the progress of the game to enhance the sense of presence during the game.

FIG. 4 shows the back side of the pachinko gaming machine. The gaming board 21 has a mechanism board 5 along its back surface.
1 is detachably installed. The mechanism board 51 is provided with a ball tank 52 on the upper part, and a game ball passage 53 is provided below the ball tank 52. The tank rail 54 and the curve rail 5 are provided.
It is possible to supply game balls to the prize ball payout device 56 and the ball rental payout device 57 via 5.

When a game ball enters each of the above prize holes 31 of the game board 21, the prize ball payout device 56 operates according to the control by a prize ball control device 62 described later, and a predetermined number of game balls are discharged from the discharge port 122. Is dispensed into the upper plate 121.

A game ball launching device 58 having a launching motor and the like built therein is provided.

On the game board 21 and the mechanism board 51, a main controller 61 that controls each part of the game machine by monitoring each part of the game machine and controlling the respective parts of the game machine, and the main controller 6 is also provided.
Various sub-devices 62, 6 which are allowed one-way communication with
3, 64, 65, 66 are attached. Sub device 62
Up to 66, those for controlling payout of prize balls and lending balls (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as prize ball control device) 62, those for controlling the launch of game balls (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as launch control device)
63, a display for special symbols and the like (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a special image display device) 64, a device for controlling the light emission of various display lamps (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a lamp control device) 65, There is one that controls the output sound of the speaker (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a sound control device) 66.

FIG. 5 shows the electrical construction of the pachinko gaming machine constituted by the above-mentioned devices 61 to 66. The main controller 61 is a ROM storing a game control program.
And a built-in RAM that works as a work area for operations, etc.
Each of the devices 62 to 66 and various switches 71 is configured as a logical operation circuit centered on a bit one-chip microcomputer.
1-718 and various actuators 719-721
An external input / output circuit for inputting / outputting data to / from is also provided.

Various switches 711 to 718 to which the main controller 61 receives a signal input will be described.

The full tank switch 711 is a pressure sensor provided in the lower plate 124, and detects that the lower plate 124 is full of game balls. Out of ball switch 712
Is a pressure sensor provided in the ball tank 52, and detects that there is a shortage of game balls in the ball tank 52.

The first type starting opening switch 713 is provided in the ordinary electric accessory 31, and the ordinary image operating switch 714 is provided in the ordinary image operating gate 34 to detect a game ball, respectively. When the normal electric prize 31 is won, the main control device 61 sends a command command requesting the special image display device 64 to display whether or not it is a big hit on the image display device 641 by the variable display of symbols as described above. Further, the number of reserved memories for retaining the right of the jackpot determination process is stored with an upper limit of 4.

The accessory continuous operation switch (V switch) 715 is provided in the special winning opening unit 32, and detects that the game ball entered from the attacker door 321 has passed through the special area. The count switch 716 detects all the filled game balls.

The touch switch 718 is the firing handle 14
It is built in 1 and detects whether or not the player is touching the firing handle 141, and it is known whether or not the gaming table is in operation.

The actuators 719 to 721 driven by the main controller 61 will be described. The special winning opening solenoid 719 opens and closes the attacker door 321, the V solenoid 720 opens and closes the special area in the special winning opening unit 32, and the normal character solenoid 721 is the normal electric character object 3.
Used to open and close 1. Attacker door 321
Is opened when the main controller 61 determines that it is a big hit, and a basic opening time (usually 28 seconds) is set, and it is detected by the count switch 716 before the opening time is counted up. When the number of playing balls reaches a predetermined number (usually 10), it is closed. This is executed up to a predetermined number of times (rounds). That is, due to the big hit, the game content is switched from the normal game to a special game in which a large number of prizes can be expected.

The prize ball control device 62 is configured as a logic operation circuit using a one-chip microcomputer, and when a prize is won according to a command command from the main control device 61, the ball cutting motor 722 is operated to pay out the prize balls. The pre-paid card unit 723 and the above C
The bidirectional communication is performed with the R settlement display device 724 to control the supply of the rental ball. The CR settlement display device 724 is the upper plate 12 described above.
1 push button 131, 132 and a balance display section 133 built-in position, a ball lending switch that is turned on by pressing the ball lending button 131, a settlement switch that is turned on by pressing the settlement button 132, and a numerical value display on the balance display section 133 LED
It consists of

The firing control device 63 drives and controls the firing motor 727 according to the rotation amount from the rotation amount sensor 725 of the firing handle operated by the player.
It consists of U. The firing control device 63 includes a firing stop switch 7
When 26 is connected and operated by the player, the firing can be temporarily stopped. Further, a touch lamp 728 that indicates that the touch switch 718 is turned on is connected.

The special image display device 64 is the image display device 6
41 and four special image holding LEDs 642, and an image control device 643 that controls these based on a command command from the main control device 61. Image control device 64
3 is mainly composed of a one-chip microcomputer or the like, and outputs an image control signal for displaying an image such as a symbol lottery in the display areas D1 and D2 of the image display device 641. In the symbol lottery, as will be described later, the symbol changes with the entry of the ball into the ordinary electric accessory 31 as a trigger. The fluctuation of the pattern is performed in a manner imitating that the pictures shown on the surfaces of the three rotating drums appear in sequence due to the rotation of the drums, like a throttle machine. Then, the fixed symbol when the fluctuation of the symbol is stationary is "111" or "22".
When the same three symbols, such as "2", become a symbol, it becomes a big hit. As the design, various ones such as the above numbers and pictures are used.

Further, the image control device 643 outputs a drive signal to the actuator 82 which drives the movable piece 81. The actuator 82 includes a motor 821 capable of rotating in the forward and reverse directions, and the movable piece 81 is connected to the shaft 8
Rotate around 11. A potentiometer 822 is coaxially attached to the motor 821.
Potentiometer 822 that changes in accordance with the amount of rotation of 21.
The detection signal of the resistance value is input to the image control device 643. This input signal voltage becomes a position detection signal indicating the rotational position of the movable piece 81. It is needless to say that the motor 821 may have a gearbox connected to the shaft end of the rotor.

The lamp control device 65 has a one-chip microcomputer, an IC chip for short circuit prevention is provided in the lamp output section, and in response to a command command from the main control device 61, an LED 729 for displaying a normal image and a normal image are displayed. In addition to the LED 730 for holding storage, various lamps 7 for decoration, etc.
31 and the LEDs 732 are driven to light.

The sound control device 66 is composed of a one-chip microcomputer with a built-in mask ROM that stores a large number of voice data, a sound source IC and an amplifier controlled by the microcomputer, and the main control device 61 and the image control device 643. In response to a command, the recorded sound source is assembled into a phrase Speaker 7
33 is driven and controlled.

The transmission / reception circuit between the main control device 61 and each of the devices 62 to 66 is configured as a one-way communication circuit for transmitting only from the main control device 61. This one-way communication configuration can be configured using an inverter circuit or a latch circuit.

The operation of the pachinko gaming machine will be described. A game ball is launched according to the amount of rotation of the launch handle 141,
If a ball is entered into the winning opening 31, 321, 322, 35, it becomes a prize and a predetermined prize ball is paid out. When aiming for a high number of award balls, usually, the player will aim at the ordinary electric accessory 31. Then, if there is a ball entering the normal electric accessory 31 before the special symbol comes to rest, the main control device 61 counts the number of holdings up to a predetermined value (4) as an upper limit according to the number of balls entered. This data is reflected in the number of lighting of the special image hold storage LED 642.

The main control device 61 is basically the same as the conventional device, and when it is judged that there is a ball entering the ordinary electric accessory 31 in the main routine which is started at a predetermined cycle by a hard interrupt. , The jackpot determination process is executed, whether the jackpot or the jackpot, the type of the symbol, the variation pattern that defines the variation time from when the variation display of the symbol is started until the symbol is fixed is randomly determined, and these data are included. The command command is transmitted to the image controller 643. Whether it is reach or not is defined by a fluctuation pattern. Further, in the case of reach, in order to make the off symbol correspond to the reach, the out symbol in that case is also randomly determined from the predetermined symbols. In addition, as for the 12 types of jackpot patterns, for about half of them, the main controller 61 increases the probability of being a jackpot for a predetermined period in the jackpot determination process after the end of the special game (probability variation). Hereinafter, a jackpot symbol to which such a bonus game is given after the end of the special game is appropriately referred to as a probability variation symbol.

Well-known means are used to generate a random number for determining whether or not the jackpot is hit. For example, a counter capable of counting up to a predetermined maximum value corresponding to the type of the random number is prepared, and the main routine is prepared. A random number is obtained by incrementing the count value by one each time when rises toward. The rising cycle of the main routine is as short as 2 ms, and random numbers are extracted at substantially the same appearance rate. Also, in order to avoid synchronization between different types of random numbers,
It is equipped with a counter that generates an initial random number. For example, when the counter corresponding to the fluctuation time reaches the maximum value, it does not always become "0" next, but it becomes the number designated by the initial random number. From there, it increments towards the maximum value.

6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8 and FIG.
23 is a flowchart showing a control program executed by the CPU of 43, which is activated by a hard interrupt of a predetermined cycle like the CPU of the main controller 61.

6 and 7 show a control program for controlling the movable piece 81. In FIG. 6, first,
It is determined whether or not the opening drive of the movable piece 81 is instructed (step S101). This is determined based on a table, which will be described later, that defines the operation mode of the movable piece 81 during the display of the symbol lottery. If the determination is affirmative, the drive flag is set to "1".
Is set to (step S102) and a negative determination is made,
The drive flag is set to "0" (step S103),
Return to return.

FIG. 7 shows a control program for operating the actuator 82 based on the set drive flag. First, it is determined whether the drive flag set on the RAM of the CPU is "1". The determination is made (step S201). If an affirmative determination is made, an open signal is transmitted (step S202), and if a negative determination is made, a closed signal is transmitted (step S203). The open signal indicates the movable piece 81 as shown in FIG.
In (a), it is a drive signal for rotating clockwise to switch from the closed state to the open state, and the close signal is the movable piece 81.
3B is a drive signal in the direction of switching from the open state to the closed state by rotating counterclockwise in FIG.

In a succeeding step S204, it is determined whether or not the position detection signal has reached a predetermined voltage value. Here, the movable piece 81 has a predetermined voltage value with respect to the open signal output as shown in FIG.
Is the voltage value of the position detection signal when it is in the open state as described below (hereinafter, the predetermined voltage value at this time is "open" as appropriate).
Movable voltage 8 for a closed signal output.
1 is the voltage value of the position detection signal when it is in the closed state as shown in FIG. 3B (hereinafter, the predetermined voltage value at this time is appropriately referred to as the “closed” predetermined voltage value). When the position detection signal reaches the predetermined voltage value, the process returns. As a result, the open signal and the close signal stop, and the movable piece 81 maintains the predetermined position in the open state or the closed state.

FIG. 8 shows a control program for the movable piece 81 when the power is restored after the power is cut off due to a power failure or the like. First, it is determined whether or not the power is restored (step S301). This determination is made based on the detected voltage value of the power supply and the like.

When step S301 is positively determined, it is determined whether the drive flag is "1" (step S30).
2). When an affirmative determination is made, it is determined whether or not the position detection signal has a predetermined voltage value of "open" (step S303). If the opening operation of the movable piece is completed before the power failure, step S304
Is answered in the affirmative, and returns.

If the opening operation of the movable piece 81 has not been completed before the power failure, a negative determination is made in step S303, an open signal is transmitted (step S304), and the process returns to step S303.

On the other hand, if the drive flag is "0", step S3
When the determination result of 02 is negative, it is determined whether or not the position detection signal has the predetermined voltage value of "closed" (step S305). If the closing operation of the movable piece 81 has been completed before the power failure, step S3
Since affirmative judgment is made for 05, it is possible to return.

If the closing operation of the movable piece 81 has not been completed before the power failure, a negative determination is made in step S305, a closing signal is transmitted (step S306), and the process returns to step S305.

Thus, prior to resuming the game after the power is restored, the matching between the drive flag and the actual operating state of the movable piece 81 is confirmed. If they do not match, an open signal or a closed signal is output. The actual operating state of the movable piece 81 matches the drive flag.

FIG. 9 shows a control program for determining the table defining the operation mode of the movable piece 81 during the period in which the symbol lottery is carried out in the main display area D1. It is determined based on a command command or the like. First, it is determined whether or not a command command defining a jackpot determination symbol or the like has been received from the main control device 61 (step S401), and if an affirmative determination is made, a random number is extracted (step S402). This random number is a random number that takes any one of “0” to “7” and is generated by the same calculation as the random number generated by the main controller 61.

Next, it is determined whether or not the received fluctuation pattern is a predetermined one (step S403). If an affirmative determination is made, it is determined whether the random number is not "0" (step S404). If a positive determination is made, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit (step S405). If an affirmative determination is made, it is determined whether or not the confirmed symbol is a probability variation symbol (step S40).
6). If an affirmative decision is made, the operation proceeds to step S407. This is the first classification. The fixed symbol is a normal symbol and step S
When a negative determination is made in 406, the process proceeds to step S408.
This is the second category. In addition, in step S40
If the determination result of 5 is negative, the process proceeds to step S409. This is the third category. If the random number is "0", step S
When a negative determination is made in 404, the process proceeds to step S410.
This is the fourth category. Note that steps S401 and S
Even when a negative determination is made in 403, the process proceeds to step S410.

The ROM of the image controller 643 has a movable piece 8
A table defining the operation mode of No. 1 is stored, and the corresponding one is selected in steps S407 to S410. In step S407, the table with the address "00H" is selected, and in step S408, the address "01" is selected.
Any one is selected from the table of “H” to “07H”, one is selected from the table of addresses “08H” to “0EH” in step S409, and a table of address “0FH” is selected in step S410. Step S40
8. In S409, a corresponding one is selected from the seven tables according to the correspondence relationship of FIG. 10 described later depending on which of the above random numbers is 1 to 7.

FIG. 10 is a list of the above-mentioned tables and shows the open / closed state of the movable piece 81 during the period from the start of the symbol lottery to the confirmation of the symbol. As the symbol lottery progresses, the process proceeds from (a) to (d). As shown in FIG. 11A, (a) in the table is a state in which all the symbols are changed in the main display area D1, and (b) is shown in FIG.
As shown in (b), when the fluctuation is stopped and confirmed for one symbol, (c) is as shown in FIG. 11 (c), when the fluctuation is stopped and confirmed for two symbols, As shown in FIG. 11 (d), (d) shows the time when the fluctuation is stopped and confirmed for all the symbols.
And, in the table, ○ means that the movable piece 81 is in the open state,
A cross indicates that the movable piece 81 is in a closed state, and the movable piece 81 is opened and closed as shown in the table in each of the progression stages (a), (b), (c) and (d) of the symbol lottery. Then, a drive flag is set, a drive signal is output corresponding to the drive flag, and the movable piece 81 operates.

The display contents of the sub-display area D2 in (a) to (d) at different stages of progression are shown in FIGS.
This will be described with reference to (d). The figure is a case where the random number is a big hit with the probability variation pattern "111" instead of "0". In each of FIGS. 11A to 11C showing a stage before the symbol is fixed, a phrase that makes the player have an expectation is displayed as a display of the effect of the game. The phrases will be switched in sequence to match each stage. That is, in FIG. 11A in the state where all the symbols are changed, the phrase is "... may ...". Although this phrase is vague, the player exerts imagination such as "big hit" or "probability change", and in addition to the display of the symbol in the main display area D1, the movable piece 81 which has been closed until then is displayed. The appearance of such a phrase when opened opens the expectation for jackpots and probability fluctuations.

Next, in FIG. 11 (b) in a state where the fluctuation is stopped and confirmed for one symbol, the phrase "reach 50%" is a phrase indicating the possibility of reaching. Players will feel uplifted, similar to prayers trying to attract reach with their own will. This exhilarating mood is shown in FIG. 11 (c) in a state in which the fluctuation has stopped for the two symbols and the reach has been realized, and the phrase is a jackpot 70 "big hit 70".
%, And it will be further enhanced.

Then, the last symbol stops changing and all three symbols are fixed, and it is a big hit in FIG.
In 1 (d), the phrase is switched to the display of the guidance of the game, and becomes a “probability change” that guides that the definite symbol “111” is a probability variation symbol.

In this way, game effects and guidance can be displayed at each stage of the symbol lottery.

Here, as is known from FIG. 10, the movable piece 81 does not always become open at each stage as described above, depending on the selected table. If the variation pattern is a predetermined pattern, "00H" to "0EH" can be selected as the table, whereas if the variation pattern is other than the predetermined pattern, only "0FH" is selected as the table. In this way, since the operation mode of the movable piece 81 is determined in association with the variation pattern that defines the progress of the symbol lottery, the movable piece 81 moves differently according to the progress of the symbol lottery. This makes the progression of the symbol lottery expressive.

Further, it is divided into three table groups depending on whether or not the confirmed symbol is a jackpot symbol, and whether it is a probability variation symbol or a regular symbol. Thus, since the operation mode of the movable piece 81 is determined in association with the definite symbol that defines the progress content of the symbol lottery, the movable piece 81 moves differently depending on the progress content of the symbol lottery. This makes the progression of the symbol lottery expressive. In addition, as the player experiences the symbol lottery many times, an empirical rule is formed regarding the correlation between the operation mode of the movable piece 81 and the progress of the symbol lottery such as the outcome. With this empirical rule in mind, the player will watch the transition of the symbol lottery.

In this way, by determining the operation mode of the movable piece 81 in association with the variation pattern and the fixed symbol, the player can be attracted to the game without getting tired.

It is needless to say that the variation pattern and the definite pattern may be further divided.

Further, as is known from the contents of "01H" to "07H" which are selected when the random number is 1 to 7 and the definite symbol is a big hit with a big hit symbol other than the probability variation symbol, depending on the value of the random number. , The movable piece 81 was in the open state when all the symbols were changing (advancing stage (a)), but when the change of one symbol stopped (advancing stage (b)), it was switched to the closed state. When the progressing stage (a) is closed, the closed state is switched to the open state when the progressing stage (b) is reached (“03H”) (“03H”).
H ”). In this way, the operating mode of the movable piece 81 changes.

The table of "0FH" which is selected when the variation pattern is predetermined and the random number is "0" is
As is known from FIG. 10, the movable piece 81 is in the closed state in all the progression stages (a) to (d), and even if the variation pattern and the definite pattern are the same, for example, the definite pattern is “1”.
11 ", even if the same in FIG.
As in (b), FIG. 12 (c), and FIG. 12 (d), the symbol lottery will be displayed in the main display area D1 while the sub display area D2 is shielded by the movable piece 81.

As described above, depending on the value of the random number, the same table is not always selected even if the fluctuation pattern and the fixed symbol are the same, and the operation mode of the movable piece 81 is given randomness. As a result, the effect of the game is deepened, and the game can be made more interesting.

Further, due to this randomness, an uncertain portion always remains in the above-mentioned player's empirical rule, so an unexpected big hit may occur. This further enhances the thrilling feeling of the player.

As described above, in the image control device 643, the operation mode of the movable piece 81 is determined based on the command command from the main control device 61, and the image control device 64 is determined.
3, the output control of the image control signal and the output control of the open signal and the close signal of the movable piece 81 are performed.
The movement of the image and the movable piece 81 is smooth. Moreover, the control load on the main controller 61 can be reduced.

Moreover, the main controller 61 is extremely easy to implement because it does not involve any modification in control.

Further, since the effect display or guide display in the sub display area D2 is displayed in combination with the opening / closing operation of the movable piece 81, the player is first attracted to the operation of the movable piece 81 and pays attention to the sub display area D2. However, it has the effect of increasing the expectation for the next display content. Thereby, even if the display is not directly connected to the player's profit and integrated with the progress of the game like the symbol lottery, the display content can be noticed to the player with a strong impression.

When the movable piece 81 moves, it is noticed by the player each time, so it is displayed for each type of notification, such as reach probability, jackpot probability, and guide for the fact that it is a probability variation pattern. Even if it does not have an area, the limited display area D2 is used for game performance and game guidance.
It can be effectively used for various notifications.

Since the symbol lottery is displayed in the main display area D1 which is not shielded by the movable piece 81, even if the movable piece 81 does not operate due to a failure, it does not affect the display of the symbol lottery and the game is played as it is. It is possible to continue. As a result, the substantial reliability of the game machine on the part of the player or the game hall is improved.

Further, in this embodiment, the movable piece 81, which is a mechanical structure, is rotated by the motor 821 to appear in front of the sub display area D2 and physically shields the sub display area D2. The rotating operation of the movable piece 81 increases the sense of presence when the sub-display area D2 appears. In addition, the movement on the game board surface is sharpened, further enriching the entertainment. in this way,
As a means for shielding the sub-display area D2, not a less interesting means such as a liquid crystal plate, but a means having a high precision effect with a precise structure even if the failure frequency is somewhat high can be used. As described above, the sub display area D2 shielded by the movable piece 81 is specialized for performance or guidance, and the main display area D1 for symbol lottery is not shielded.

Further, by specializing the sub-display area D2 for effect display and guidance display, when any error occurs during the game, guidance is provided without disturbing the display of the symbol lottery in the main display area D1. As a display, an error message indicating that the above error has occurred can be displayed. In this case, if the error is so slight that it is sufficient to inform the player that an error has occurred, the symbol lottery can be continued as it is, and the player will not be dismayed.

The operation mode of the movable piece 81 is determined by the main controller 61 from the fluctuation pattern, the definite pattern, the random number, etc., and the command command from the main controller 61 to the image controller 643 is changed by the fluctuation pattern etc. May be specified. In this case as well, the main controller 61 does not need to detect the position of the movable piece 81 or transmit the drive signal, so that the control load can be reduced accordingly. On the other hand, the image control device 643 does not need to store the table (FIG. 10) of the operation mode of the movable piece 81 and does not need to execute the program procedure of FIG. Less than. Moreover, since the main control device 61 has the information about the operation mode of the movable piece 81, the effect lamp 731 controlled by the main control device 61 is within a range in which the control load of the main control device 61 does not become an overload.
Also, the operation of the speaker 733 and the like can be linked with the operation of the movable piece 81.

The movable piece 81 does not have to be a single piece, and the upper half part and the lower half part of the sub-display area D2 may be shielded by separate movable pieces, or the sub-display area may be patterned. It may be provided on both left and right sides of the main display area for lottery, and the two sub display areas may be shielded by separate movable pieces. In this case, if the display content is the probability of reach, etc., by dedicating one to a low-probability display and the other to a high-probability display, the player will be delighted and entertaining depending on which one opens. It will be. Alternatively, a movable piece capable of shielding each symbol or all three symbols in the main display area D1 may be provided and opened / closed according to the progress of the symbol lottery. Alternatively, a single movable piece may be configured to shield the entire display area of the image display device.

Further, when the progress stage of the symbol extraction changes, a mode different from the current mode of the movable piece 81 (open → close,
By randomly providing the period of closing → opening, the operation of the movable piece 81 can be made unpredictable to the player. For example, even when the open state is continuous as in the above-mentioned “00H” table, the joy can be increased when the open state is achieved by temporarily closing the table, and the “0FH” table is also provided. Even when the closed state continues as described above, it is possible to increase the expectation for the open state by temporarily opening the closed state. In this case, the symbol lottery progresses by making it possible to selectively take both operating states of the closed state and the open state with and without the period according to the variation pattern or random number. With this, the combination with the operation of the movable piece 81 is further diversified, and the player can be further encouraged.

Further, the movable piece 81 does not have a structure in which the open state and the closed state are switched by rotating as shown in FIG.
It may have a sliding door shape or a shutter shape. Alternatively, a liquid crystal plate that can switch between a light-transmitting state and a light-shielding state may be used. In a simple manner, the shielding means may be realized on the display surface by the image of opening and closing the door. In addition, the display surface 641 from the player
It is not necessary that the upper part of a is not visually recognized, and it may be substantially shielded.

Further, the display content is not limited to the one directly connected to the game described in the above embodiment, and various effect and guide images can be displayed. For example,
It may be something like "Today's luck", and the player can enjoy thrilling excitement by entwining the luck's display contents and the outcome of the design lottery.

Further, the display for effect is not limited to the one related to the symbol lottery, and it is of course possible to display, for example, the ordinary image display section or the like for effect. Moreover, it is also possible to display for production in the main display area except at the time of the symbol lottery.

The position of the movable piece 81 may be detected by a linear encoder or a rotary encoder instead of the potentiometer 822. Further, the means for generating the driving force of the movable piece 81 is not limited to the above-mentioned motor, and electromagnetic suction drive by a solenoid may be used. In this case, the solenoid can be switched between "open" and "closed" depending on whether the solenoid is on or off, so control is easy and when the solenoid is not energized, the spring force is applied in the direction opposite to the electromagnetic attraction direction. When the power goes out, the power returns to the original position, so that the control after the power return as shown in FIG. 8 becomes unnecessary.

Further, a symbol lottery is displayed in response to the entry into the ordinary electric accessory 31, so that the player is informed whether or not the game content is switched from the normal game to the special game. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be applied to a ball game machine in which the game contents to be switched and the contents of the display for notifying whether or not the game contents are switched are of another type. Further, as long as it does not violate the spirit of the present invention, it can also be applied to a ball game machine having different specifications such as the type of privilege game, the presence or absence of a symbol lottery for notifying whether or not the game content is switched.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a pachinko gaming machine to which the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a game board of the pachinko gaming machine.

3 (a) and 3 (b) are perspective views showing different operating states of a portion centering on the image display device of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 6 is a first flowchart of a control program executed by the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 7 is a second flowchart of a control program executed by the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 8 is a third flowchart of a control program executed by the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 9 is a fourth flowchart of a control program executed by the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 10 is a list of tables that define the operating modes of the movable pieces of the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 11 (a), (b), (c), (d) is a diagram of a main part on the game board surface of the pachinko gaming machine at different timings during the symbol lottery.

FIG. 12 (a), (b), (c), (d) is another view of the main part on the game board surface of the pachinko gaming machine at different timings during the symbol lottery.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Pachinko machine (ball game machine) 21 game board 31 Ordinary electric accessory (predetermined entrance) 61 Main controller 641 Image display device (display) 641a display surface 643 image control device 8 Shield (shielding means) 81 movable pieces 82 Actuator D1 main display area (first display area) D2 Sub display area (second display area)

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] April 17, 2002 (2002.4.1)
7)

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be amended] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Claims]

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0008

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[0008]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a game ball shot on a game board surface is inserted into a ball entrance.
A ball-and-ball game machine for playing a game by a display device having a display surface facing the front on the game board surface, and an image control device for controlling the display device and displaying a predetermined image on the display surface. A main controller that monitors the state of each part of the gaming machine and sends a command command to each part of the gaming machine including the image control device, and the main control device has a game ball at a predetermined entrance.
A big hit that determines whether it is a big hit by entering the ball
Judgment processing is executed, and the above display is displayed by the above image control device.
In a ball game machine that displays whether or not it is a big hit on the surface, at least a part of the display image on the display surface can be shielded , and a shield means configured to be switchable between a shielded state and an open state is provided, and , The above main controller,
Each time the jackpot determination process is executed, the
The variation pattern and the fixed symbol that define the time for the symbol lottery
A command command to instruct is sent to the image control device.
And the image control device as a control device for controlling the shielding means together with the display device, and the main control device
Design lottery according to the above fluctuation pattern sent from
By selecting the mode, the variable display is performed in the pattern lottery mode.
After that, to display the transmitted confirmed symbol,
From the start of the above design lottery until the design is confirmed
During the period of, depending on the progress of the symbol lottery, the shielding means
It is set to switch between the shielded state and the open state .

[Procedure 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0009

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

The symbol is fixed after the symbol lottery is started.
During the period until the
The shielding state and the open state of the shielding unit are switched. this
At this time, since both the display of the image on the display surface and the visual recognition state of the display surface proceed under the control of the image control device, it is possible to smoothly operate the shielding means following the display of the symbol lottery . In addition, the degree of freedom of the operation of the shielding means increases accordingly. Therefore, if you get the attention of the player
In fact, it has the effect of increasing the sense of expectation for the displayed contents.
It is possible to inform the player of the displayed content with a strong impression. That
Each time the shielding means is activated, the player makes a new display surface.
Therefore, the limited display area is used for various notifications.
It can be used effectively. Moreover, the control load on the main controller is not increased. In addition, the operation mode of the shielding means may vary.
Associated with the turn, depending on the progress of the symbol lottery,
The movement of the shielding means changes. This allows similar changes
Even in the dynamic pattern, due to the difference in the operation mode of the shielding means
The progress becomes expressive, and you can play without getting tired of the player.
Can be attracted to the technique. In addition, the operation of the shielding means
The mode is associated with the definite pattern, and the player is provided with the shielding means.
The empirical rule is formed about the correlation between the operation mode and the definite pattern.
Will be made. With such empirical rules in mind, the player draws a symbol
As we will be watching the transition of
Can be attracted to the game.

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0010

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

The actuator of each part of the game machine is defined in claim 2.
As in the invention described above, the actuator of the shielding means is
Other actuators controlled by the image control device
The controller can be configured to be controlled by the main controller.
Wear.

[Procedure Amendment 5]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0011

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure correction 6]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0012

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first or second aspect of the invention, the display surface has a first region which is not shielded by the shielding means and a second region which can be shielded by the shielding means. A region is provided, and an image of a display for notifying whether or not to be a big hit is assigned only to the first region, and a game effect other than a display for notifying whether or not to be a big hit is given to the second region. Allocate the image of the display or the guide display of the game.

[Procedure Amendment 7]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0013

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

Since the display for notifying whether or not the jackpot will be given is made only in the first area, the visible state of the display for notifying whether or not the jackpot is given even if the shielding means does not operate. It is possible to continue playing the game without affecting the. Substantial reliability of the game machine by the player or the game hall is improved. Further, as a shielding means, a precise structure having a high effect of effect even if the failure frequency is somewhat higher than that of a liquid crystal plate, for example, a structure in which a mechanical structure appears in front of the display surface. Can be taken.

[Procedure Amendment 8]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0014

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

Further, by specializing the second area for the above-mentioned effect display and guide display, when any error occurs during the game, the display contents are displayed from the display for notifying whether or not the jackpot is the big hit. An error message indicating that an error has occurred can be displayed without switching. In this case, if the error is so small that it is sufficient to notify the player that an error has occurred, it is possible to continue the display for notifying whether or not the jackpot will be achieved while displaying the error message, It is possible to avoid buying a player's disfavor.

[Procedure Amendment 9]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] 0015

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 10]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0016

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 11]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0017

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 12]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0018

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 13]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0019

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 14]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0020

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 15]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0021

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure Amendment 16]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] 0022

[Correction method] Delete

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A ball-and-ball game machine in which prize balls are paid out by the return of game balls launched on the game board surface, and a display device provided with a display surface facing the front on the game board surface, and the display. An image control device that controls the game machine to display a predetermined image on the display surface, a main control device that monitors the state of each part of the gaming machine and sends a command command to each part of the gaming machine including the image control device, and the above display. In a ball game machine capable of shielding at least a part of a display image on a surface and comprising shielding means configured to be switchable between a shielded state and an open state, the image control device includes the display unit, and the shield unit. A ball game machine, characterized in that the means is controlled so as to switch the visual recognition state of the display image in cooperation with the display of the image on the display surface. 2. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the main control device executes a jackpot determination process for determining whether or not there is a jackpot to a predetermined entrance, and the jackpot. Depending on the result of the determination process, the image control device may include a command command that constitutes at least a part of a control condition that specifies a display mode to be displayed on the display surface to notify whether or not the game content is switched. It is set to be transmitted to, and the image control device is informed in the display area that can be shielded by the shielding means whether or not the game content displayed based on the return of the game ball that has been launched is switched. A ball game machine set to display an image of a game effect display or a game guide display other than the display. 3. The ball game machine according to claim 2, wherein the display surface is provided with a first area which is not shielded by the shielding means and a second area which can be shielded by the shielding means. An image of a display for notifying whether or not the game content is switched is assigned only to the first area, and a game effect other than the display for notifying whether or not the game content is switched is assigned to the second area. A ball game machine to which an image of a display or a game guide display is assigned. 4. The ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main control device executes a jackpot determination process for determining whether or not a jackpot has been made when a ball enters a predetermined ball entrance. However, according to the result of the jackpot determination process, it is set to send a command command forming at least a part of the control condition for specifying the aspect of the symbol lottery to be displayed on the display surface to the image control device. A ball-and-ball game machine in which the image control device is set to determine the operation mode of the shielding means in association with a variation pattern that is included in the command command and defines the time for the symbol lottery. 5. The ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main control device executes a jackpot determination process for determining whether or not a jackpot has been made when a ball enters a predetermined ball entrance. However, according to the result of the jackpot determination process, it is set to send a command command forming at least a part of the control condition for specifying the aspect of the symbol lottery to be displayed on the display surface to the image control device. A ball-and-ball game machine in which the image control device is set so as to determine the operation mode of the shielding means in association with the fixed symbol of the symbol lottery included in the command command. 6. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the image control device is set so as to determine an operation mode of the shielding means in association with a random number. 7. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the main control device determines a command command specifying an operation mode of the shielding means and transmits the command command to the image control device. A ball game machine that is set, and the image control device is set to control the shielding means based on the command command.