JP2003325822A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine in which a game status is changed by a player. <P>SOLUTION: A game board 8 is provided with a light emitting device 7a and a light receiving device 7b inclined mutually to form a game change means 7 and both the devices are connected to a main control part of the game machine. The game change means 7 is provided at a left edge of the game board 8 within a game area and emits/receives light having a near infrared wavelength. A visible means 5 located on a front face of a glass pane 3 is irradiated with continuous pulsed light I1 of a frequency different from stray light to be mixed into the light receiving device 7b, and the light is transmitted. When a finger 9 touches a position of the visible means 5 irradiated with the light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a, the light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a is reflected on the surface of the finger 9 to be reflected light I2, transmitted through the glass pane 3 and made incident to the light receiving device 7b, and the pulse signal is extracted by removing the stray light from a light receiving signal and sent to the main control part to detect that the game change means 7 is operated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine that allows a player to change a gaming state during a game.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a conventional pachinko machine, a game ball is controlled by operating a handle (not shown), and the game ball is shot in a game area 1 shown in FIG. The game ball wins the starting winning opening 103, a special symbol starting switch (not shown) detects the winning of the starting winning opening 103, and thus the symbol of the special symbol display device 102 (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol) The fluctuation starts. The winning prize 103 is won in the starting winning opening 103 during the change of the special symbol, and as a measure not to invalidate the detected amount by the special symbol starting switch (not shown), the amount of the winning prize in the starting winning opening 103 is stored.
The reserved ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) is turned on.

When the special symbol becomes a predetermined specific symbol, the variable winning ball device 108 is operated by a special winning opening operating solenoid (not shown) during a predetermined condition (for example, within 30 seconds). , Or until the special winning opening switch detects 10 game balls).

Further, a variable winning ball device 108 is provided with a big winning opening switch (not shown) for counting the game balls won. While the variable winning ball device 108 is open, the game ball passes through the specific area 100 (continuation switch) in the variable winning ball device 108, so that the variable winning ball device 108 is opened again after the opening operation of the variable winning ball device 108 is completed.
Opens. The opening operation is repeatedly performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times). After the opening operation is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times), the hitting operation ends. If the game ball does not pass through the specific area 100 during the hitting operation, the hitting operation ends after the opening operation of that time ends. In the case where the special symbol is a hit symbol, and if it is a more specific symbol (probability variation symbol) among the hit symbols, after the hit operation is completed, a predetermined condition (for example, next time Until the hit, or the number of times the special symbol fluctuates up to 10 times, etc.), the special symbol fluctuates so that the probability of becoming a winning symbol is high.

[0005] In addition, the game ball is controlled to be emitted by operating a handle (not shown), the game ball is launched into the game area 1, and the game ball is normally a symbol display device operating gate 10
4, 105, the normal symbol actuation switch detects the passage of the game ball, the fluctuation of the normal symbol display device 106 is started. Incidentally, while passing through the normal symbol display device operation gates 104, 105 during the fluctuation of the normal symbol, as a measure not to invalidate the amount detected by the normal symbol operation switch (not shown), a maximum of 4, normal symbol display device operation Memories of passing through the gates 104 and 105 are stored,
Normally, the symbol holding lamps 109, 110, 111, 112 are turned on.

[0006] When the normal symbol display device 106 becomes a predetermined specific symbol (for example, a normal symbol display device 106 provided with two lamps for hitting and falling off).
In the case where the hit is lit, the electric motor accessory 107 stays in a predetermined condition by the operation of the electric motor accessory operating solenoid (not shown) (for example, 0.3 Second or game ball starts winning prize hole 1
Up to 4 prizes in 03, 3 seconds at the time of probability change that the winning symbol is a special symbol or until the game ball wins 4 individual prizes in the starting prize hole 103) By opening, the winning of the game ball in the starting prize hole 103 Makes it easy. In the gaming machine, the symbol of the special symbol display device 102 (hereinafter, referred to as a special symbol) is started to change by detecting the winning of the starting winning opening 103, and the symbol is a specific symbol (probability variation symbol). , A special game state is generated. Moreover, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol display device operating gate 104, the variation of the normal symbol display device 106 is started.

However, the various symbols are predetermined symbols, and the variation pattern thereof is uniquely determined when the type of gaming machine is determined. On the other hand, when playing a game, the player tends to select a gaming machine that is familiar with the game. As a result, the player sees the predetermined symbols of the gaming machine, which may reduce the interest of the game. In order not to spoil the interest of such a game, it is desirable to replace the game machine. However, since the price of one game machine is high and the number of game machines is large, the game machine can be replaced. However, there are restrictions on the replacement of game machines due to management reasons.

On the other hand, when changing the game contents, generally, only the game board is replaced, and the game ball launching device and the front frame are not replaced. Here, when changing the game content to a different type of game content, for example, when changing the game content from the throttle game to the fly type, the fly type does not use the variation time shortening switch, so the game board is replaced and the variation is made at the same time. The micro switch of the time reduction switch is removed and the push button of the variable time reduction switch is fixed so that it cannot be pressed. The reason why the micro switch is removed or the push button is fixed is to prevent the player from mistakenly operating the push button and shortening the mechanical life of the push button or the micro switch.

However, in the conventional pachinko game machine, the central accessory uses a variation time reduction switch, for example, in the case of a throttle game, a micro switch is attached by a fixture, and the central accessory operates the variation time reduction switch. When it is not used, for example, when it is a squirrel-cutter type, the micro switch is removed and a fixing part is attached so that the push button does not move. in this way,
In the conventional pachinko game machine, since the fixing parts were manufactured separately from the fixtures in case the variable time shortening switch was not used, there was a drawback that the number of parts increased and it was uneconomical. . In addition, in order to change the game contents, in addition to the fixture of the micro switch, it is necessary to provide a fixing component, for the game hall,
It is complicated and not preferable.

As means for solving the above-mentioned problems, for example, "Pachinko gaming machine" disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-36861 and "With different game selection device" disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-269536. There is a "pachinko machine", the former provides a pachinko machine that can reduce the number of parts and is easy to maintain, and the latter is a pachinko machine with a heterogeneous game selection device that can select a game according to the player's preference. It is provided.

The pachinko game machine disclosed in the above Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-36861 discloses a micro switch which is attached / detached according to the content of the game, a fixture for mounting the micro switch, and a player turning on the micro switch. In a pachinko gaming machine provided with a switch including an operation section for operating OFF, when the micro switch is removed and only the attachment tool is attached, the attachment tool can suppress the operation of the operation section It was done. With the above configuration, when the game content is to use a switch, the micro switch is attached by a fixture, and the player presses an operation unit, such as a push button, arranged on the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine, thereby causing the micro switch. Can connect and disconnect.

Further, when the game contents are changed and the game contents are such that the switch is not used, the micro switch of the switch is removed and only the fixture is attached, so that the operation of the operating portion is suppressed by the fixture. As a result, the player cannot operate the operation unit. By changing the game contents, for example, when the variable time shortening switch is not used, the action of the operating portion can be suppressed by the micro switch attachment of the switch, so that the number of parts can be reduced.

On the other hand, the "Pachinko machine with a different game selection device" disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-269536 is a display for displaying a game on a liquid crystal at an appropriate position on the pachinko game board 30, as shown in FIG. The pachinko machine provided with 31 is provided with a screen conversion device 33 provided with a plurality of game selection buttons 32 for allowing the player to convert the screen of the display 31 into several kinds of games such as a seven machine and mahjong. Alternatively, in a pachinko machine in which a display 31 for displaying a game in a liquid crystal is provided in an appropriate place on the pachinko game board 30, a screen conversion device 33 provided with a game selection button 32 is installed on the side surface of the pachinko machine.

The pachinko machine with the different game selection device has a liquid crystal display display 31 provided at the center of the pachinko game board 30. The display device 31 can display on the screen several kinds of games, for example, games such as seven machines, mahjong, playing cards, and Hanafuda, which have different jackpot probabilities depending on how to reach and how to play consecutive chan. The screen conversion device 33 for converting the screen of the display device 31 is installed on the side surface of the pachinko machine 34 and connected to the display device 31, and a plurality of game selection buttons on the front surface of the screen conversion device 33 for the player to select a game. 32 (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d).

When a player starts a pachinko game,
Game selection button 32 provided on the side of the pachinko machine 34
By selecting and pressing any of (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d), the game displayed on the screen of the display 31 of the game board 30 is converted into a desired game and the game is played. When the button number 32a is pressed, the screen of the display 31 is 7, 5,
When the numbers such as 3 are combined, it becomes a big hit, a so-called seven game, when the button number 32b is pressed, the screen of the display unit 31 becomes the Mahjong game, when the button number 32c is pressed, the screen of the display unit 31 becomes the card game, and the button number 32d. Press to play Hanafuda game.

[0016]

However, this method has the following problems. That is, said Japanese Patent Fairness 7
A pachinko gaming machine disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 36861A includes a microswitch that is attached / detached according to the content of the game, an attachment to which the microswitch is attached, and an operation unit for a player to turn ON / OFF the microswitch. It is still a pachinko game machine equipped with a switch including. Furthermore, it is not possible to change only the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device and make it look as if the game machine was newly replaced.

The "Pachinko machine with different game selection device" disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-269536 has a conventional pachinko machine equipped with a plurality of game selection buttons 32 for converting into several kinds of games such as Mahjong. If the pachinko machine is provided with the provided screen conversion device 33 and the pachinko machine is installed on the island of the pachinko parlor, a space for the screen conversion device 33 is required. Further, a plurality of types of games are converted by a plurality of game selection buttons 32, and the screen conversion device 33 has a plurality of types of game specification devices in advance. Therefore, the game specification itself is changed, and the screen specification in the same game is not changed.

It is an object of the present invention to solve the above problems and to provide a gaming machine in which the game state can be changed by the player without changing the game specifications.

[0019]

According to the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to claim 1 is provided with a game changing means by which a player can change a game state, and the game changing means is provided. Is to detect an object in proximity to a glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board to operate, and change the game state of the game machine.

A second solving means is the game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is provided on a game board and emits a signal toward a glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board. , A reflection signal of the signal from an object that is in contact with or close to the glass plate is detected.

A third solving means is a gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is provided with a signal issued to a visual recognition means provided on a glass plate of the visual recognition means. It is provided so as to be reflected at a position where the visual confirmation means can confirm the position where the visual confirmation means is provided by the player, and has a characteristic of transmitting a signal emitted toward the glass plate. It is characterized by The visual recognition means may be a near-infrared light that is printed on the surface and is attached to a glass plate, or a seal that transmits visible light.

A fourth solving means is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means emits visible or near-infrared rays and receives the emitted visible or near-infrared rays. It is a device.

Further, a fifth solution means is a game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is provided at a position operable by a hand opposite to a hand holding a handle for firing a game ball. It is characterized by being. The game changing means may be inside the game area, or may be outside the game area of the game board and at a place where the glass plate is provided.

A sixth solving means is the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is effective only during a game.

A seventh solution means is a game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is effective only while the game is stopped.

Further, an eighth solution means is a game machine according to claim 4, wherein the game changing means is a continuous pulse signal having a frequency different from stray light mixed in a device for receiving visible or near infrared rays. And a means for extracting the pulse signal by removing the stray light from the signal received by the light receiving device.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is provided with game changing means for detecting and operating an object in the vicinity of the glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board, and the game changing means is provided on the game board. The player emits a signal toward a glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board, and a reflected signal of the signal from an object in contact with or close to the glass plate is detected to allow the player to approach or contact the glass plate with a finger. By doing so, the game state can be changed to a predetermined game state. As a result, it is possible to change only the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device, or to make it look as if the game machine was newly replaced, and the taste of the player can be enhanced without increasing the burden on the game hall. .

The game changing means includes a glass plate provided with a visual recognizing means which can be visually recognized by the player, and for example, emits light having a near-infrared wavelength invisible to the player and receives the light. Even with the means, the player can easily know the place where the game changing means is provided.
Further, the game changing means is provided at a position which can be operated by the hand opposite to the hand holding the handle for firing the game ball, so that the game state can be easily changed even during the game. Is. Furthermore, since it is effective only during the game, the game state is not changed even if a player other than the player using the game machine carelessly touches it without playing the game. Since the game is valid only when the game is stopped, the game state is not changed even if the player who uses the game machine touches the game carelessly during the game.

[0029]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine of the present invention (hereinafter described as a pachinko machine) (FIG. 1)
(A)) and an enlarged view of the visual recognition means 5 in FIG. 1 (a) (FIG. 1 (b)), and FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board.
The mechanical structure of a pachinko machine is, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-31.
Since it can be similar to the conventional example as shown in Japanese Patent No. 9252, the description will be limited to the components related to the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the pachinko machine of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1A, the glass plate 3 is provided with a visual recognition means 5 which can be visually recognized by the player as described later. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, game changing means 7 is provided in the game area 1 at a position corresponding to the visual recognition means 5 shown in FIG. 1 so as not to hinder the passage of the game balls as will be described later. ing. Further, outside the game area 1, a game changing means 10 and a visual recognition means (not shown) are provided.

The position where the visual recognition means 5, the game changing means 7, the game changing means 10 and the visual recognition means (not shown) are provided is the hand opposite to the hand holding the handle 6 for the player to shoot the game ball. It is provided in a position where it can be operated by. As a result, the player can change the gaming state of the gaming machine and can concentrate on the game without releasing the handle 6 during the game to interrupt the game. Further, in the game area 1, a well-known special symbol holding lamp (hereinafter, simply referred to as "holding ball display means") 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) is near the special symbol display device 102 (in FIG. 2). The lower part) is provided so as not to hinder the passage of game balls.

The outline of the operation of the pachinko machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Note that, in FIG. 2, the glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board is not shown. The firing control is performed by the operation of the handle 6 shown in FIG. 1, and the game ball is shot in the game area 1 shown in FIG. The game ball wins the starting winning opening 103, a special symbol starting switch (not shown) detects the winning of the starting winning opening 103, and thus the symbol of the special symbol display device 102 (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol) The fluctuation starts. As a measure not to invalidate the detected amount by the special symbol start switch (not shown) during the change of the special symbol, the winning symbol is stored in the starting prize hole 103. The holding ball display means 2 (2a, 2)
b, 2c, 2d) lights up.

When the special symbol becomes a predetermined specific symbol, the variable winning ball device 108 is actuated by a special winning opening operating solenoid (not shown) during a predetermined condition (for example, within 30 seconds). , Or until the special winning opening switch detects 10 game balls). In addition, in the variable winning sphere device 108, the number of winning game balls is counted,
A special winning opening switch (not shown) is provided. After the variable winning ball device 108 is opened, the game ball passes through the specific area 100 (continuation switch) in the variable winning ball device 108, so that after the opening operation of the variable winning ball device 108 is completed,
The variable winning ball device 108 is opened again. The opening operation is repeatedly performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times). After the opening operation is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times), the hitting operation ends. If the game ball does not pass through the specific area 100 during the hitting operation, the hitting operation ends after the opening operation of that time ends. In the case where the special symbol is a hit symbol, and if it is a more specific symbol (probability variation symbol) among the hit symbols, after the hit operation is completed, a predetermined condition (for example, next time Until hit, or up to 10 times the number of changes in special symbols),
The probability that the special symbol will be a winning symbol changes so that it becomes a high probability.

Further, by controlling the operation of the handle 6, the game ball is controlled to be launched and the game ball is launched into the game area 1, and the game ball passes through the normal symbol display device operating gates 104 and 105, and the normal symbol operating switch. By detecting the passage of the game ball, the fluctuation of the normal symbol display device 106 is started. Incidentally, while passing through the normal symbol display device operation gates 104, 105 during the fluctuation of the normal symbol, as a measure not to invalidate the amount detected by the normal symbol operation switch (not shown), a maximum of 4, normal symbol display device operation Gate 10
The amount passed through 4, 105 is stored, and the normal symbol holding lamps 109, 110, 111, 112 are turned on. When the normal symbol display device 106 becomes a predetermined specific symbol (for example, when the hit symbol is a normal symbol display device 106 provided with two lamps, a variation stop when the hit is lit). When the normal electric accessory 107 is operated, an ordinary electric accessory operating solenoid (not shown) is actuated during a predetermined condition (for example, normally, 0.3 seconds or a game ball is placed in the starting winning opening 103). Until the individual wins, the probability of making the winning symbol a special symbol changes for 3 seconds or until the game ball wins 4 individual prizes at the starting winning hole 103) By opening, the winning of the gaming ball to the starting winning hole 103 is facilitated. ing.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the control system of the pachinko machine. The same parts as those in FIG. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. In FIG. 3, the control circuit of the gaming machine of the present embodiment is a light emitting device 7a,
Light receiving device 7b, special symbol start switch 201, normal symbol operation switch 202, special winning opening switch special winning opening switch 203, reset circuit 205, power supply circuit 206, input port 207, main control unit 208, ROM 209, RAM
210, output port 211, special symbol display device 102,
Ordinary symbol display device 106, special winning opening operation solenoid 21
2, ordinary electric accessory operating solenoid 213, lamp display device 214, sound effect generation device 215, prize ball payout device 21
6, ball launching device 217 and other switch 204.

The game changing means 7 is composed of a light emitting device 7a and a light receiving device 7b, detects an object in the vicinity of the glass plate 3 provided on the front of the game board, and operates to change the game state of the game machine. For example, a semiconductor that emits light having a wavelength of near-infrared light, presses the visual recognition means 5 provided on the glass plate 3 with a finger, and receives the light having the near-infrared wavelength reflected from the semiconductor, or other Is a light emitting and receiving device. The output of the light receiving device 7b is input to the main control unit 208 via the input port 207, and the game state is changed as described later. Further, the light emitting device 7a emits an optical signal for a predetermined period according to a signal output from the main control unit 208 via the output port 211.

The special symbol starting switch 201 detects a winning by generating a trigger when the game ball hit by the player and winning the starting winning opening 103 passes through the special symbol starting switch 201. As a result, the main control unit 208
With the trigger of the special symbol variation of the special symbol display device 102, the main control unit 208 performs a lottery with a random number for winning the special symbol, triggered by the detection of the winning. If the special symbol is a winning symbol, the main control unit 2
Probability variation determination means (program) (not shown) in 08 is activated to perform a random number lottery of a probability variation symbol to determine reach and probability variation. Further, the main control unit 208 transmits the determination result of the probability variation determination means via the output port 211 as a display command signal (hereinafter, referred to as a command) via the display command signal receiving circuit in the special symbol display device 102. , To the control unit CPU. The special symbol display device 102,
Upon receiving the command, the acquired random number information described later is displayed on the variable display unit.

The normal symbol operation switch 202 is a game ball that has been hit by the player and passed through the normal symbol display device operating gate 104 and the normal symbol display device operating gate 105, and a trigger is generated when the normal symbol operating switch 202 is passed. However, it gives a trigger of the normal symbol variation of the normal symbol display device 106. The special winning opening switch 203 detects a winning of a ball to the variable winning ball device 108 when a win occurs. Further, the reset circuit 205 sets the main control unit 208 to the initial state. The power supply circuit 206 supplies power to the entire circuit of FIG. Further, the input port 207 takes in signals from each unit and transfers them to the main control unit 208.

The main control unit 208 is a CPU (processing device) for controlling the entire gaming machine, and includes a ROM (read only memory) 209 and a RAM (random access memory).
Even if you use a 1-chip CPU with a built-in 210, ROM
209 and RAM 210 with externally connected bus
U may be used. The ROM 209 is the main control unit 208.
A program for controlling the gaming machine using is stored. Specifically, the content of the game control process performed by the CPU of the main control unit 208 is defined, and the game state parameter changed by the signal input from the game changing unit 7 and the game operating according to the parameter. Stores the control program. The ROM 209 further stores various parameters for controlling the gaming machine. RA
M210 temporarily stores input / output data to / from the main control unit 208, data for arithmetic processing, various counters such as a random number counter related to games, and the like, the holding ball display means 2, the normal symbol holding lamp 109. , 110, 11
This is a random access memory for recording the information of the reserved balls displayed in Nos. 1 and 112.

The output port 211 outputs the signal from the main control unit 208 and transfers the signal to each unit. The special winning opening operating solenoid 212 opens the special winning opening 101 on the front surface of the variable winning ball device 108 when it hits. The normal electric accessory operating solenoid 213 opens the normal electric accessory 107 when the normal symbol display device 106 stops and displays a specific symbol. The lamp display device 214 is a display device of lamps related to the game, and selectively turns on / off a plurality of lamps according to an instruction from the main control unit 208. Thereby, the holding ball display means 2, the normal symbol holding lamps 109, 11
The numbers 0, 111, and 112 are also turned on when information is recorded in the holding memory on the RAM 210, and turned off when the holding balls are used up. Sound effect generator 215
Produces a sound associated with a game. Prize ball payout device 21
6 pays out a prize ball when a special symbol start switch 201, a special winning opening switch 203, and other switches 204 and the like detect a prize. The ball launching device 217 launches a ball into the game area 1 when detecting the ball launching motion of the player.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the game changing means 7 provided on the game board 8 and the visual recognition means 5 provided on the glass plate 3, and FIG. 4 (a) is a game changing means. 7 is a diagram when not operating, FIG. 4 (b) is a diagram when the game changing means 7 is operating. In FIG. 4, the game changing means 7 is
At a predetermined place of the game board 8, for example, at the left end in the game area 1 shown in FIG. 2, so as not to obstruct the passage of the game ball,
It is provided so as to be substantially flush with the game board 8. The light emitting device 7a and the light receiving device 7b are arranged in a vertical direction with respect to each other, and the emitted light I emitted from the light emitting device 7a.
1 is reflected and is incident on the light receiving device 7b.

The game changing means 7 is, for example, near infrared,
Alternatively, a light emitting device 7a that emits light having a red wavelength
And a light-receiving device 7b for receiving light of the wavelength, which is a semiconductor or other light-emitting and light-receiving device, respectively. The light emitting device 7a and the light receiving device 7b have signal lines 7aa and 7bb, respectively, and are connected to the output port 211 and the input port 207, respectively, as shown in FIG.

On the front surface of the glass plate 3, the light emitting device 7a is provided.
The visual recognition means 5 is provided at a position where the light emitted from the device is irradiated. The visual confirmation means 5 has a shape as shown in FIG. 1B, and for example, at the locations of the arrows indicated by reference numerals 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d, the visual recognition means 5 is provided by the player. It is printed in a color that can be confirmed. The visual recognition means 5 may be provided inside the glass plate 3, that is, on the side facing the game board 8. In such a case, the visual recognition means 5 is not damaged even if the player touches it with a finger. Further, the portion indicated by reference numeral 5e of the visual recognition means 5 is, for example, a transparent frame in which only the frame is printed so that the light emitted from the light emitting device 7a is transmitted. The shape of the visual recognition means 5 may be other than this, and for example, it may be a circle, a triangle, a quadrangle, or a figure formed transparent so that the light is transmitted at the central portion of the figure. Good. Furthermore,
It may be a seal or the like using a material other than the above, which transmits the light, and may be, for example, an ultraviolet reflecting film stretched over a well-known window.

Emitted light I emitted from the light emitting device 7a
When 1 is applied to the portion indicated by the reference numeral 5e, the emitted light I1 is transmitted as it is because there is no obstacle. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4B, at a position where the emitted light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a of the visual recognition means 5 is irradiated,
For example, when the finger 9 is brought close to or in contact with the finger 9, the light emitting device 7
The emitted light I1 emitted from a is reflected by the surface of the finger 9 to become reflected light I2, which passes through the glass plate 3 and the light receiving device 7b.
The reflected light I2 is converted into an electric signal and input to the main control unit 208 via the input port 207, and the main control unit 208 detects that the game changing means 7 is activated.

When the main controller 208 detects that the game changing means 7 has been operated, it changes the game state of the pachinko machine as follows. In the following embodiments, the operation of the game changing means 7 causes the holding ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2).
An example of changing the game state of canceling the reserved ball displayed in c, 2d) and changing the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102 will be described. In addition, the change of the game state of the gaming machine made by detecting that the game changing means 7 is operated may be other than this, for example, when the visual recognition means 5 is touched a plurality of times, a special symbol each time. The symbols displayed on the display device 102 may be changed. Such an embodiment will be described later by exemplifying FIGS. 7 and 8.

First, the reserved ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2)
The pending ball cancellation processing for canceling the pending ball displayed in (c, 2d) will be described. In such processing, the game changing means 7 is effective only during the game. That is, the emission light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a of the game changing means 7 is emitted only during the game, and the game changing means 7 can be operated. As a result, the game state is not changed even if a player other than the player using the gaming machine touches carelessly without playing the game. Here, “during a game” means a state in which a game ball can be launched into the game area 1 by the operation of the handle 6 by the player.

As described above, the game ball is the starting winning opening 10
The special symbol of the special symbol display device 102 is started to change by winning in 3 and a special symbol starting switch (not shown) detects the winning of the starting winning opening 103. As a measure for winning the starting winning opening 103 during the change of the special symbol and not invalidating the detected amount by the special symbol starting switch not shown, a maximum of four starting winning holes 103
The game balls that have been won are stored as reserve balls, and the reserve ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) is turned on.

The maximum number of stored reserve balls corresponding to the winning in the starting winning opening 103 is 4, and when more game balls are won, they are invalidated. On the other hand, the game balls that have won the start winning hole 103 are drawn, and when the predetermined process is completed, the number of reserved balls is decreased by one. As a result of the lottery, when a specific symbol is obtained, a special game state is generated. If the special symbol is a predetermined specific symbol, in particular, if it is a more probable variation symbol among the hit symbols, after the hit operation is completed, a predetermined condition (for example, until the next hit, Or, the number of times the special symbol fluctuates up to 10 times) changes so that the probability that the special symbol will be a winning symbol is high.

However, the player cannot know which of the reserved balls is in the special game state among the reserved balls. On the other hand, if there is a case where the reserved ball is out of the list as a result of the lottery, the player needs to cancel the reserved ball to invalidate it, secure a new reserved ball, and enhance the enjoyment of the game. Embodiments of the present invention satisfy this need. That is, during the change of the special symbol, the start winning hole 103 is won, and the game balls corresponding to the starting winning hole 103 are stored as reserved balls, and the reserved ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2).
When c, 2d) are turned on, a finger or the like approaches or contacts the visual recognition means 5 to activate the game changing means 7. When the game changing means 7 operates, the main control unit 208 detects the operation of the game changing means 7 as described above, clears the stored reserved ball, and the reserved ball display means 2 (2
a, 2b, 2c, 2d) are turned off.

As a result, the player can hold a new game ball and the interest in the game can be enhanced. The process in which the main control unit 208 detects the operation of the game changing means 7, clears the stored reserve ball, and turns off the reserve ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) is executed. Are stored in the ROM 209 in advance.

Next, the symbol changing process for changing the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102 will be described.
In such processing, the game changing means 7 is effective only when the game is stopped. That is, the emitted light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a of the game changing means 7 is not emitted during the game, the game changing means 7 is inoperable, and the emitted light I1 is emitted only while the game is stopped. The game changing means 7 is operable at this time. As a result, the game state is not changed even if the player who uses the game machine touches carelessly during the game. In addition,
Here, the game is stopped means that the player has not operated the handle 6 and the game ball cannot be shot in the game area 1.

On the special symbol display device 102, many symbols such as a hit symbol and a probability variation symbol are displayed. For example, some gaming machines display only numbers, and some gaming machines display animal symbols. However, in the past, only one of the symbols was displayed although the game specifications were the same when the model of the gaming machine was determined. In the embodiment of the present invention, the symbols displayed on the special symbol display device 102 are changed by the operation of the game changing means 7. The main controller 2
08 detects the operation of the game change means 7, the process of changing the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102,
It is stored in the ROM 209 in advance.

Among the symbols displayed on the special symbol display device 102, there are a game state in which only numbers are displayed as a winning symbol and a game state in which only symbols of animals are displayed, and a case of changing this symbol will be described. . First, when the power of the gaming machine is turned on, by a predetermined initialization process, the winning symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102 becomes a gaming state in which only numbers are displayed, and the game can be played. Then, when the game is temporarily suspended, the light emitting device 7a of the game changing means 7 emits the emitted light I1 as described above, and at this time, the game changing means 7 becomes operable.

In this state, the player actuates the game changing means 7 by bringing a finger or the like close to or in contact with the visual recognition means 5. When the game changing means 7 operates, the main control unit 208 detects the operation of the game changing means 7 as described above, and activates a program stored in the ROM 209 in advance to display it on the special symbol display device 102. The winning design is changed to a game state in which only animal designs are displayed. As a result, the player can enjoy the game as a gaming machine in which the hit symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102 is changed from a numeral symbol to an animal symbol. Special symbol display device 10
The change of the winning symbol displayed in 2 may be other than the above, for example, a plurality of types are stored in the ROM 209 in advance,
It may be changed every time the game changing means 7 is operated.

The symbol changing process may be other than the symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 102, for example, the symbol displayed on the normal symbol display device 106 may be changed, or the lamp display device. The display timing and color of 214 may be changed, and the type and sound quality of the sound effect of the sound effect generator 215 may be changed. By doing so, it becomes possible to enhance the interest of the player in addition to the symbols.

A plurality of sets of the visual recognition means 5 and the game changing means 7 in the first and second embodiments may be provided so as to have different functions, or the same visual recognition means 5 and game changing means. 7 may have a different function. When the same visual recognition means 5 and game changing means 7 are used, the main controller 20
It is stored in the ROM 209 in advance whether the reserved ball canceling process or the symbol changing process is performed in advance in FIG. In any of the above cases, it is possible to use a program of another model for a game machine having the same game specification, and it is possible to make it appear as if a new game machine is introduced without the need to develop a new program. It is possible.

The visual recognition means 5 and the game changing means 7 need not be in the game area 1 as long as the glass plate 3 is provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, it is shown in the lower left of the game area 1. It may be the game changing means 10 (10a, 10b). It should be noted that reference numeral 10a denotes a light emitting device, and reference numeral 10b denotes a light receiving device. Unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the light emitting device 10a and the light receiving device 10b are arranged laterally with respect to each other, and the light emitting device 10a is provided. Outgoing light I emitted from
1 is reflected and is incident on the light receiving device 10b. As described above, the positions of the light emitting device and the light receiving device may be vertically or horizontally apart from each other as long as the emitted light I1 emitted from the light emitting device is reflected and incident on the light receiving device. , Other than that is acceptable.

In FIG. 2, the game changing means 10 (10
The visual confirmation means (not shown) corresponding to a, 10b) is the game change means 10 (10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10a, 10b, 10a, 10b, 10a, 10b, 10a, 10b of the same as the visual recognition means 5.
It is formed according to the shape and arrangement of b). In this way, the game changing means 10 (10a, 10a) is provided outside the game area 1.
By providing b) and the visual recognition means, the restriction of the game board 8 can be relaxed without the need to provide the game board 8 on the same plane as the game board 8 so as not to hinder the passage of the game ball. Further, by making the visual recognition means a sticker that can be easily exchanged, various information can be transmitted by, for example, printing advertisements and other information on the sticker and exchanging it as necessary.

As described above, the game changing means 7 is composed of the light emitting device 7a and the light receiving device 7b, and operates by detecting an object in the vicinity of the glass plate 3 provided on the front surface of the game board,
A light emitting and receiving device that emits light having a wavelength of near infrared and receives light having a wavelength of near infrared. The light emitting and receiving device is
As shown in FIG. 4, the light emitting surface and the light receiving surface face the glass plate 3. Therefore, light such as a fluorescent lamp or a light bulb illuminating the inside of the game arcade, or an electric decoration of another game machine becomes stray light En as shown in FIG. 6 and enters the light receiving device 7b. The stray light En
Is 50 Hz or 60 Hz, or is the blinking frequency of the illumination of the gaming machine. The stray light En is received by the light receiving device 7b.
As a result, the operation of the game changing means 7 may become unstable.

In FIG. 5, the influence of such stray light En is removed,
This is an embodiment provided with means for stabilizing the operation of the game changing means 7. An embodiment of the game changing means 7 and its operation will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 shows a light emitting device 7.
5A is a diagram showing an embodiment of a and a light receiving device 7b, and FIG.
5A shows a light receiving device 7b, and FIG. 5B shows a light emitting device 7a. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the light receiving device 7b. As shown in FIG. 3, the output terminals a and b of the light receiving device 7b are input to the main control unit 208 via the input port 207. Further, the input terminals C and D of the light emitting device 7a are
An optical signal is emitted for a predetermined period by a signal output from the main control unit 208 via the output port 211, as will be described later.

In FIG. 5, a pulse generating circuit 7a1 is provided in the light emitting device 7a, and a stray light removing circuit 7b1 is provided in the light receiving device 7b.
Are provided respectively. The pulse generation circuit 7a1 and the stray light removal circuit 7b1 may be provided in the main control unit 208. Alternatively, in addition to the main control unit 208,
In a gaming machine having a sub-control unit for controlling images, sounds, lamps, etc. by the sub-control unit, a game changing means 7 is provided in the sub-control unit, and the pulse generation circuits of the light emitting device 7a and the light receiving device 7b are provided. 7a1 and the stray light removal circuit 7b1 may be provided in the sub-control unit. In this case, the result of the game changing means 7 is exchanged between the sub control unit and the main control unit 208.

The pulse generating circuit 7a1 emits a continuous pulse signal having a frequency (sufficiently high frequency) different from the stray light En mixed. The stray light removing circuit 7b1 is
The stray light En is removed by comparing the signal received by the light receiving device 7b with the stray light En, and the change in the pulse voltage Ep output from the light emitting device 7a is detected.

The stray light removing circuit 7b1 in FIG. 5A has the following configuration. For example, a phototransistor is used as the light receiving device 7b that receives light having a wavelength of near infrared or red. A voltage V is applied to the cathode of the phototransistor 7b, and a resistor R is applied to the anode terminal.
1 is connected. The amplifier A1 is an amplifier having a high input impedance, and its output terminals are resistors R2 and R3.
Respectively connected to. The filter circuit formed by the resistor R3 and the capacitor C is input to one terminal of the amplifier A2, and the resistor R2 is input to the other terminal having a different polarity. The filter circuit formed by the resistor R3 and the capacitor C is determined so as to remove the pulse signal Pn that passes through the stray light En and is output from the light emitting device 7a.

The resistors R4 and R are connected to the output terminal of the amplifier A2.
5, an amplifier circuit consisting of R6 and amplifier A3 is connected,
The detected pulse signal Pn is amplified to a predetermined amplitude. The output terminal of the amplifier A3 is connected to one input terminal of the comparison circuit CMP, and the comparison voltage VR is connected to the other input terminal of the comparison circuit CMP. The comparison circuit CMP
The output terminal (i) and the ground terminal (b) are input to the main control unit via an input port (not shown).

The pulse generating circuit 7a1 in FIG. 5B has the following configuration. For example, a semiconductor light emitting diode is used as the light emitting device 7a that emits light having a wavelength of near infrared or red. The output terminals P0 and P of the pulse oscillator PP are directly connected to the cathode terminal of the semiconductor light emitting diode 7a via the resistor R7 and to the cathode terminal thereof.
1 are connected to each other. The input terminals I0 and I1 of the pulse oscillator PP are connected to the main controller via an output port (not shown).

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the stray light removing circuit 7b1. FIG. 6A shows the output signal Pn of the pulse oscillator PP, and FIGS. 6B and 6C show the pulse. It is the signal E in which the stray light En is superimposed on the output signal Pn of the oscillator PP, the figure when the game changing means 7 is activated (the signal is input to the phototransistor 7b), the game changing means 7 is not activated ( It is a figure when a signal is not input into the phototransistor 7b. 6 (d) and 6
(E) is a signal E0 of the output terminal of the amplifier A3 from which the stray light En has been removed, and is a diagram when the game changing means 7 is activated (a signal is input to the phototransistor 7b). It is a diagram when it does not operate (a signal is not input to the phototransistor 7b). Also, VR
Is a comparison circuit CMP comparison voltage VR.

The operation of the circuit shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit (not shown) sends an operable signal to the input terminals I0 and I1 of the pulse oscillator PP via the output port when the gaming machine enters a predetermined gaming state. Upon receiving the operable signal, the pulse oscillator PP receives the stray light En (5
0 Hz, or 60 Hz, or as a pulse signal Pn having a frequency sufficiently higher than the blinking frequency of the electric decoration of the game machine,
For example, it oscillates at a frequency of about 1 KHz. The pulse signal Pn output from the pulse oscillator PP is applied to the anode terminal of the semiconductor light emitting diode 7a via the resistor R7, and is output as the signal EP as shown in FIG. 6 (a).

As shown in FIG. 4B, the signal EP emitted from the light emitting device 7a of the visual recognition means 5 is the emitted light I.
When the finger 9 is brought close to or in contact with the position where it is irradiated, the emitted light I1 emitted from the light emitting device 7a is reflected by the surface of the finger 9 to become reflected light I2, which causes the glass plate 3 to move. The light passes through and enters the light receiving device 7b.
The stray light En is mixed into the light incident on the light receiving device 7b as described above, and the signal E in which the signal EP and the stray light En are superimposed is received as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C. Obtained at the anode terminal of device 7b. The signal E is impedance-converted by the amplifier A1 and input to the amplifier A2.

A resistor R3 is connected to one input terminal of the amplifier A2.
And a filter circuit including a capacitor C is connected, and the signal EP is removed by the filter circuit,
The signal En is extracted. Further, the signal EP and the stray light En are applied to the other input terminal of the amplifier A2, and the signal EP of the difference between the two is obtained at the output terminal of the amplifier A2 by the amplifier A2. The signal EP has a predetermined amplitude E by the amplifier A3.
It is amplified to 0.

The output signal E0 of the amplifier A3 is compared with the comparison voltage VR applied to one terminal of the comparison circuit CMP by the comparison circuit CMP. When the output signal E0 is larger than the comparison voltage VR (FIG. 6 (d)), it is determined that the above-mentioned game changing means is operated, and a signal is output to the output terminal a of the comparison circuit CMP, and an input port (not shown) is connected. It is input to the main control unit via. When the output signal E0 is smaller than the comparison voltage VR (FIG. 6 (e)), the signal is not output to the output terminal a of the comparison circuit CMP because the game changing means is not operating. Therefore, no operation signal is sent to the main controller. Incidentally. The output from the comparison circuit CMP may be directly output to the sub control unit in the gaming machine having the sub control unit.

An embodiment of a player participation type small game using the game changing means 7 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. In such processing, the game changing means 7 is effective only during the game. As a result, the game state is not changed even if a player other than the player using the gaming machine touches carelessly without playing the game.

As described above, the game ball is the starting winning opening 10
The special symbol of the special symbol display device 102 is started to change by winning in 3 and a special symbol starting switch (not shown) detects the winning of the starting winning opening 103. As a measure for winning the starting winning opening 103 during the change of the special symbol and not invalidating the detected amount by the special symbol starting switch not shown, a maximum of four starting winning holes 103
The game balls that have been won are stored as reserve balls, and the reserve ball display means 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) is turned on.

The maximum number of stored reserve balls corresponding to the winning in the starting winning opening 103 is 4, and when more game balls are won, they are invalidated. On the other hand, the probability variation lottery of the game balls winning the starting winning opening 103 is performed, and when the predetermined process is completed, the number of reserved balls is decreased by 1, and the probability variation lottery of the game balls is performed similarly. As a result of the probability variation lottery, when a specific symbol is obtained, a special game state is generated. If the special symbol is a predetermined specific symbol, in particular, if it is a more probable variation symbol among the hit symbols, after the hit operation is completed, a predetermined condition (for example, until the next hit, Or, the number of times the special symbol fluctuates up to 10 times) changes so that the probability that the special symbol will be a winning symbol is high.

FIG. 7 shows the probability variation lottery of the game ball.
FIG. 7A is a screen explanatory diagram of the special symbol display device 102 of the embodiment in which the player participates in the game and executes a small game in which the probability variation symbol is assigned, and FIG. 7B is an action screen for probability variation determination, and FIGS. 7C and 7D are game result screens. Figure 8
It is the flowchart, and is shown in FIGS.
Screen development as shown in (c) and (d) is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. This process is performed by the main control unit 2
Although it is assumed that the game process is performed at 08, in addition to this, a game machine that includes a sub-control unit and controls images, sounds, lamps, etc. may perform the game processing by the sub-control unit.

When the probability variation lottery process of the game ball is started (step S1), the special symbol display device 102 displays, for example, FIG.
Two ellipses a and b as shown in (a) are displayed (step S2). This display is displayed by default as if one of the predetermined ones was selected. In FIG. 7A, the default display is such that B is selected. In step S3, the probability variation lottery processing result is set. In step S4, it is detected whether the game changing means 7 is touched, and the process proceeds to step S5.

In step S5, the operation of the game changing means 7 is validated to start decreasing the permissible time (for example, 5 seconds) for selecting the displayed ellipses a and b, and wait for the player's input. Every time the game changing means 7 is operated by the player (step S6), either one of the two ellipses a and b is alternately displayed in reverse (step S7). In step S5, when the allowable time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S8, and the action message “probability change determination” (c) during the probability variation lottery as shown in FIG. 7B is displayed. At this time, the display of the ellipses a and b may be alternately inverted and the action display during the lottery may be performed until a predetermined time that has been determined in advance elapses. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S9, and the probability variation lottery processing result set in step S3 is read. As a result, if it is a probable change, the process proceeds to step S11.

In step S11, when the probability change is determined in the above-mentioned lottery result, the ellipse which matches either one of the ellipses a and b selected by the player is shown in FIG. 7 (c). “Probability change” is displayed, and the above-described next jackpot operation is performed. Further, in step S9, the probability variation lottery processing result set in step S3 is read. As a result, if it is an uncertain change, step S1
Go to 0. In step S10, if an uncertain change is determined in the above-described lottery result, the ellipse that does not match either ellipse B or B selected by the player is displayed as shown in FIG. “Indeterminate change” is displayed, and the process proceeds to the next normal changing operation described above. As described above, the player can play a small game as if to assign the probability variation pattern, and the interest of the game can be enhanced. This small game is
A game other than this may be used as long as the game state of the gaming machine is changed by the operation of the game changing means 7.

[0078]

As described above, the gaming machine according to the invention described in claims 1 to 8 changes the game by detecting an object in the vicinity of the glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board to operate. The game changing means is provided on the game board, emits a signal toward a glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board, and outputs a reflection signal of the signal from an object in contact with or close to the glass plate. By detecting, the player can change to a predetermined game state by bringing the glass plate close or in contact with a finger. By doing so, it is possible to realize a gaming machine in which the gaming state can be changed by the player without any major modification, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the player in playing the game as if the gaming machine was newly replaced.

According to the invention described in claims 3 and 4, the game changing means is emitted toward the visual recognition means provided on the glass plate by using visible or near infrared rays. Since the signal is provided so as to be reflected at the position where the visual recognition means is provided, and the visual recognition means allows the player to confirm the position, the game change operation is easy.

According to the invention described in claim 5, the game changing means is provided at a position operable by the hand opposite to the hand holding the handle for firing the game ball, so that the game can be played. The player can easily change the game state even during the game without interrupting the game and can concentrate on the game. Further, according to the invention described in claim 6, the game changing means is effective only during the game,
Even if a player other than the player using the gaming machine touches the game carelessly without playing the game, the game state is not changed. Further, according to the invention described in claim 7, since the game changing means is effective only when the game is stopped, the player using the game machine touches the game carelessly during the game. Even the game state is not changed.

According to the invention described in claim 8, the game changing means is means for emitting a continuous pulse signal having a frequency different from stray light mixed in a device for receiving visible or near infrared rays, and the light receiving means. By providing the means for removing the stray light from the signal received by the device and extracting the pulse signal, the operation of the game changing means can be ensured.

[Brief description of drawings]

1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine of the present invention (FIG. 1 (a))
And an enlarged view of the visual recognition means in FIG.
(B)).

FIG. 2 is a front view of a game board in the game machine of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a control system in the gaming machine of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining game changing means provided on a game board and the visual recognition means provided on a glass plate, and FIG. 4 (a) is a diagram when the game changing means does not operate; Four
(B) is a diagram when the game changing means is activated.

5A and 5B are diagrams showing an embodiment of a light emitting device and a light receiving device, wherein FIG. 5A is a light receiving device and FIG. 5B is a light emitting device.

6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining the operation of the stray light elimination circuit, FIG. 6A shows an output signal Pn of the pulse oscillator PP, and FIG.
6B and 6C are signals in which stray light is superimposed, and FIG.
6D and 6E are diagrams of signals from which stray light is removed.

7 is a screen explanatory view of a special symbol display device for executing a small game in a probability variation lottery of game balls, FIG. 7 (a) is a screen at the start of the game, and FIG. 7 (b) is an action screen for probability variation determination. 7 (c) and 7 (d) are game result screens.

8 is a flowchart of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a game board in a conventional pachinko machine.

FIG. 10 is a front view of a conventional pachinko machine with a different game selection device.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 game area 3 glass plates 5 Visual recognition means 6 handles 7 (7a, 7b) Game changing means 8 game board 9 fingers 10 (10a, 10b) Game changing means

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A game changing means which allows a player to change a game state, wherein the game changing means detects an object in proximity to a glass plate provided on a front surface of a game board and operates to detect the object. A game machine characterized by changing a game state. 2. The game changing means is provided on a game board, emits a signal toward a glass plate provided on the front surface of the game board, and a reflection signal of the signal from an object in contact with or close to the glass plate. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein 3. The game changing means is provided so that a signal emitted toward a visual recognition means provided on a glass plate is reflected at a position where the visual recognition means is provided,
3. The game according to claim 1, wherein the visual recognition means has a characteristic that a position where the visual recognition means is provided can be confirmed by a player, and a signal emitted toward the glass plate is transmitted. Machine. 4. The game changing means is a device which emits visible or near-infrared rays and receives the emitted visible or near-infrared rays. The game machine described. 5. The game changing means is provided at a position operable by a hand opposite to a hand holding a handle for firing a game ball. The game machine described. 6. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is effective only during a game. 7. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game changing means is effective only while the game is stopped. 8. The game changing means removes the stray light from the signal received by the light receiving device, and means for emitting a continuous pulse signal having a frequency different from the stray light mixed in the device for receiving visible or near infrared rays. The game machine according to claim 4, further comprising means for extracting the pulse signal.