JP2005177291A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of making a player directly and actually feel that prize balls are put out for excess entries exceeding a predetermined upper limit number of entries. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is provided with a variable winning means for maintaining an open state until the predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter or until a prescribed time elapses with the establishment of a prescribed condition as a trigger and changing to a closed state when the upper limit number of the entries are detected or the prescribed time elapses, an excess entry detection means for detecting that there are the entries exceeding the upper limit number of the game balls to the variable winning means, a counting means for cumulatively counting the number of the excess entries detected by the excess entry detection means, and a batch put-out means for putting out the number of the prize balls corresponding to the accumulating total of the excess entries altogether. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a ball ball gaming machine such as a so-called pachinko gaming machine.

  Conventionally, there is a ball game machine as a kind of game machine, and a pachinko game machine is known as the most popular one.

  In a pachinko machine, when a game ball launched on the game board enters a predetermined winning opening and wins, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out to the player. There is a case where a special prize opening provided with a pair of movable pieces called opening and closing operations called “tulips” is set. The movable piece is open when a predetermined condition such as winning when the “electric tulip” is closed at a winning opening, for example, and can be guided so that a game ball can easily win a prize. Become. Then, an open state is maintained until a predetermined upper limit number (usually one in the case of “Electric tulips”) wins, or for a predetermined time, and the upper limit number is detected or a predetermined time elapses. Then it changes to the closed state.

  On the other hand, in recent pachinko machines, a game machine that executes a so-called “variable display game” that combines identification information consisting of symbols, such as a slot machine that is also one of the game machines, is generally used. ing.

  In a “variable display game” in a pachinko game machine, when a launched game ball wins a start opening which is one of the winning openings, a lottery is selected based on the winning combination, and a liquid crystal which is a display means according to the lottery result. The identification information consisting of symbols is displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the display unit. When the lottery result is won and the identification information is stopped and displayed in a predetermined specific combination, the opening / closing operation of the large winning opening which is a kind of winning opening is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times, A single game from the open state of the winning opening to the closed state is also referred to as “one round.”) Repeatedly, a so-called “special game state”, which is a state advantageous to the player, is generated.

  Once the grand prize opening is opened, it is open until a predetermined upper limit number of game balls are won (for example, 10) or for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds), like the movable piece of the “electric tulip”. And the upper limit number of winnings is detected by a sensor or when a predetermined time has elapsed, the state changes to a closed state. Further, the inside of the special winning opening is divided into a specific area and a general area, and when winning in the specific area, it is promised that the special winning opening is closed and then reopened.

  In a pachinko gaming machine equipped with movable winning means such as such a large winning opening or a special winning opening provided with the movable piece, when exceeding the upper limit number of winnings within the predetermined time. (A game ball won beyond this upper limit is called a surplus win). In particular, the prize winning opening is often provided at the lowest position of the game board, and since the upper limit is large and the predetermined opening time is long, the sensor is limited to an upper limit if the game balls are gathered well. There may be a surplus winning at a stretch before the number is detected.

  Of course, since it is possible to obtain a predetermined winning ball per surplus prize, it is preferable for a player to generate such a surplus prize, and depending on the player, it is a big prize just before reaching the upper limit for the surplus prize. We try to collect game balls.

  However, the number of surplus prizes is not displayed and the payout of prize balls for such surplus prizes is made consecutively to the payout for the maximum number of prizes. However, it was difficult to determine whether it was accurate or not, and it was difficult to realize the payout of prize balls made for surplus winnings that occurred.

Therefore, in order to realize a surplus prize, there has been proposed a technique that allows a player to enjoy a profit according to a surplus prize. This is to add the number of rounds of the “special game state” when the result of counting the winnings to the movable winning means by the winning detection means exceeds 40 (see, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-137455). .).
JP 2001-137455 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, the following problems still remain.

  That is, in the gaming machine of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, by changing the game form such as adding the number of rounds as described above, the player can know that a surplus prize has occurred, but still remains. It was impossible to realize how much extra prizes were generated and how much the number of prize balls was increased due to extra prizes. That is, the change (increase) in the number of prize balls, which is the basis of pachinko games, cannot be directly felt.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can solve the above-described problems.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, an open state is maintained until a predetermined upper limit number of game balls are won or until a predetermined time elapses. Variable winning means for detecting a winning or changing to a closed state when a predetermined time elapses, and surplus winning detecting means for detecting that the variable winning means has exceeded the upper limit number of game balls. The surplus prize detecting means includes a counting means for cumulatively detecting the number of surplus prizes detected, and a collective payout means for collectively paying out a number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus prizes.

  In this invention of Claim 2, the display means which can variably display a plurality of identification information triggered by the winning of the game ball at the start opening, and the display mode of the plurality of identification information displayed on the display means And a special game executing means for executing the variable winning means when the game is in a specific display mode, and executing the collective payout means for paying out the number of prize balls in accordance with the cumulative number of surplus winning prizes. The special game execution means is finished after the operation is finished.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided surplus winning number display means for displaying a surplus winning number counted by the counting means.

  According to the present invention, for example, a surplus prize that has been won in excess of a preset maximum number of prizes for a variable prize means such as a big prize opening that repeatedly opens and closes during a jackpot game. As the number of prize balls will be paid out in a lump, it will be possible to directly realize the benefits of surplus prizes and satisfy the satisfaction of one's own gaming skills. . Then, technical intervention occurs in a game that tends to be monotonous, and a new interest is added to the game, thereby making it possible to improve the fun of the game.

  The present invention can be particularly preferably implemented as a pachinko gaming machine. In the present embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a predetermined upper limit number of game balls are won or a predetermined time is reached. The open state is maintained until the elapse of time, and the upper limit number of winnings is detected, or variable winning means that changes to a closed state when a predetermined time elapses, and the variable winning means exceeds the upper limit number of game balls. A surplus winning detection means for detecting that a winning has been made, a counting means for cumulatively counting the number of surplus winnings detected by the surplus winning detecting means, and a number of prize balls corresponding to the cumulative number of surplus winning prizes. The pachinko gaming machine is provided with a lump sum payout means.

  In other words, it is determined in advance if the game ball launched on the game board wins a specific prize opening or the result of an internal lottery performed in response to winning a prize in another specific prize opening. A game machine having a variable winning means that maintains an open state until a predetermined number of game balls are won or until a predetermined time elapses, and detects the upper limit number of winnings or changes to a closed state after a predetermined time elapses. When the variable winning means detects that the number of winning balls exceeds the upper limit number of game balls, the winning number is cumulatively counted as a surplus winning number, and the number of winning balls according to the cumulative result is counted. Will be paid out in a lump sum.

  Therefore, the player can directly feel the merits of surplus winnings, and can satisfy the player with his / her own gaming skill amount. In this way, technical intervention is generated in a pachinko game that tends to be monotonous, and a new interest is added to the game, so that the fun of the game can be improved.

  The variable winning means may be, for example, a variable winning device including an “electric tulip” as described in the background section, but executes a “variable display game” which is the mainstream of recent pachinko gaming machines. It is preferable to use a variable winning device having a large winning opening configured to be openable and closable used in a gaming machine.

  That is, a display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information triggered by a game ball having won a start opening provided as a specific winning opening, and a display mode of the plurality of identification information displayed on the display means. A special game executing means for executing the variable winning means when a specific display mode is obtained is provided.

  In such a configuration, it is desirable that the collective payout means for paying out the number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus winnings is executed after the operation of the special game executing means is completed.

  In other words, during the execution of special games, the winning balls in each round are paid out one after another, and it is difficult to check which payout is for the extra winnings. The surplus prizes won't increase much. Therefore, the number of balls to be paid out in a lump sum according to the cumulative number of surplus prizes in all rounds is larger than the distribution of surplus prizes distributed in each round, and the player should be obtained by surplus prizes. You can feel a reasonable price more.

  More preferably, a surplus winning number display means for displaying a surplus winning number counted by the counting means may be provided.

  With this configuration, the number of surplus prizes can be clearly recognized visually, and since the number of prize balls per surplus prize is constant, the player can easily calculate the total number of prize balls obtained by all surplus prizes. You can feel as.

  When paying out a prize ball, first, the cumulative surplus number of winnings is displayed, and a player who has a countdown display mode in which the cumulative number of surplus winning prizes displayed for each paying out of a single prize ball is reduced by one is more player. It will be easier to understand and the joy of getting the prize ball will increase.

  An actual game mode in the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be briefly described.

  The player operates the game handle to fire game balls one after another.

  When the game ball launched on the game board wins a specific winning opening called a start opening, the “variable display game” is executed, and a plurality of identification information is variably displayed on the display means including a liquid crystal display device or the like. When the identification information when this is stopped and displayed is a predetermined combination, a big hit gaming state is entered, and the opening / closing of the big prize opening is started up to, for example, 15 rounds.

  The special winning opening is divided into a specific area and a general area, and when winning in the specific area, it is promised that the special winning opening is closed and then reopened. Therefore, the player first wins a game ball in a specific area and secures the next round, while in the large winning opening opened in anticipation that a surplus winning number exceeding the upper limit winning number will occur within a predetermined time. Try to collect game balls.

  When a surplus prize is generated, for example, the surplus prize number is displayed on the liquid crystal display device or a specially provided display device. The player knows that the number of prize balls is increased from that in the normal special gaming state, and can obtain a sense of victory as well as satisfaction.

  In this way, the rounds are digested one after another, and prize balls corresponding to the normal number of winning balls are continuously paid out during each round.

  When the final round is over, the display device displays the cumulative number of surplus prizes so far. When the payout for the normal prize is finished, the prize balls corresponding to the cumulative number displayed are displayed. Will be paid out in a lump.

  Here, the collective payout of prize balls in the present embodiment means that if the number of prize balls per surplus prize ball is determined to be 10, for example, 10 pieces each are consecutive as many times as the number of surplus prize balls. It takes the form of being paid out. At this time, the numerical value displayed cumulatively is counted down every time ten prize balls are paid out until the display becomes zero.

  Therefore, once the normal jackpot gaming state has ended and the predetermined prize ball payout has been completed, a collective prize ball is paid out in a lump sum according to the number of surplus prizes. It is possible to directly feel that the game has occurred, to increase joy, and to satisfy the satisfaction of the game skill.

  By the way, the identification information is composed of characters such as numerals, symbols, patterns or patterns, and a plurality of identification information groups provided with a plurality of these are displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the display means. The display means for variably displaying and stopping the identification information group may be a display made of a CRT in addition to the liquid crystal display device. Further, the display means in the present embodiment includes other 7-segment display devices, lamps, or an audio output device such as a speaker. Such display means is controlled by a control unit disposed in the gaming machine.

  In addition to controlling the display means, the control unit stores a dick game program for advancing the pachinko game described above.

  This pachinko game program is based on an internal lottery execution function that draws a lottery with a predetermined lottery probability when a game ball enters a specific entrance, and a lottery result by the internal lottery execution function. A variable display game execution function for executing on the display means a variable display game for variably displaying and stopping display of a plurality of identification information, and the large winning opening as the variable winning device during execution of the variable display game. A variable winning device control function that maintains an open state until a predetermined upper limit number of game balls are won or until a predetermined time elapses, and detects the upper limit number of wins or changes to a closed state when a predetermined time elapses, and A surplus winning detection function for detecting that a winning has been made exceeding the upper limit number of game balls, and the number of detected surplus winnings are accumulated for the variable winning device (large winning award). A counting function to count, a program for realizing the surplus winning number of prize balls to pay out collectively prize balls bulk dispensing function and the computer in response to the cumulative.

  In addition, it is not always necessary to use a game ball made of an actual steel ball as the game machine described above, and a game handle capable of launching a virtual game ball as an image on a display that displays a pachinko game board as a game screen. It may be a video pachinko gaming machine including an (operation unit) and a control unit that executes the pachinko game program described above. Further, the present invention can be applied to a business or home game machine provided with a display unit and a control unit as display means.

  Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a general-purpose computer, a portable terminal device, or the like in which software for performing various controls including the pachinko game program is installed. In this case, it is possible to play a game via a storage medium storing the pachinko game program including a display program capable of executing display of a gaming machine image including the game board described above. Alternatively, the pachinko game program can be downloaded and played through the Internet or the like. In other words, the gaming machine may be configured to be divided into a server and a terminal (client), can communicate with the terminal, and a gaming machine image showing a pachinko gaming machine is provided to each terminal. A server that can be displayed may be used.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described more specifically based on the drawings. Note that the gaming machine described below is a pachinko gaming machine that uses a gaming ball made of an actual steel ball.

(Configuration of pachinko machines)
FIG. 1 shows a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine 10 incorporates a rectangular plate-like gaming board 14 into a rectangular frame-like main body frame 12, and the gaming board 14 A window frame 16 of the main body frame 12 is provided on the front surface, and further, an upper plate 20 and a lower plate 22 are provided on the lower side of the window frame 16 on the front surface of the main body frame 12, and on the right side of the lower plate 22. A firing handle 26 is provided.

  In addition, a plurality of obstacle nails (omitted in FIG. 1 except for those provided directly above the winning opening) are driven into the front surface of the game board 14. The game board 14 is molded from a resin material, and a rod-like body is projected integrally with the resin board 14 so as to protrude in the front direction of the game board 14 without being configured to drive nails. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming apparatus having such a configuration (so-called “pachikon machine”).

  In FIG. 1, 20a is a bypass path opening / closing button for sending the game ball in the upper plate 20 to the lower plate 22, 46 is a speaker, 28 is a solenoid provided on the back side of the firing handle 26, and 26a is a temporary stop of the solenoid 28. Buttons 29 are touch sensors provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. A firing motor may be used in place of the solenoid 28.

  With the above-described configuration, the game ball is guided by the guide rail 30 and launched onto the game board 14, and falls toward the lower side of the game board 14 while changing the traveling direction due to the collision with the plurality of obstacle nails described above. The game balls that have not entered the various winning holes are collected from the outlet 53 located at the lowermost center of the game board 14.

  An enlarged front view of the game board 14 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 2, most of the obstacle nails are omitted as in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a display device 32 comprising a liquid crystal panel as a display means is provided in the approximate center of the front surface of the game board 14, and 10 types of identification information each comprising a symbol are provided on the display device 32. Can be displayed in three horizontal rows, and various other effect images can be displayed as still images and moving images. In addition, the design types of the identification information are not limited to 10 types, and may be a plurality of types. The display device 32 for variably displaying the identification information may be provided at any position on the pachinko gaming machine 10 as long as the position can be seen by the player.

  Reference numeral 52 denotes a small sub-display device that can variably display normal symbols made up of numbers, symbols, and the like, which are one piece of identification information, so as to repeat fluctuation and stop.

  At the lower part of the display device 32, a start opening 44 is provided as a specific entrance that triggers a variable display game to be described later. 58 (58a, 58b) is a movable piece called an electric tulip attached to the starting port 44, which can be opened and closed. When opened, the game ball can be guided to the starting port 44.

  In addition, on the left and right sides of the display device 32, ball passage detectors 55a and 55b and bypass passage inlets 51a and 51b are provided. When the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b detect the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol fluctuates, and when the stop symbol is displayed with a predetermined symbol, the solenoid 57 (see FIG. 3) causes the movable piece 58 (see FIG. 3). 58a, 58b) are driven so that the game ball can easily enter the starting port 44. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the bypass passage openings 51 a and 51 b, the game ball is guided to the position just above the start opening 44 through the bypass passages 51 ′ and 51 ′, and the game ball easily enters the start opening 44. It is trying to become.

  Four holding lamps 34 (34a to 34d) are provided on the left and right sides of the sub display device 52 described above.

  In addition, windmill-like rolling guide members 60 (60a, 60b) for guiding the path of the game ball in a predetermined direction are provided on the left and right sides of the display device 32, and the upper left and right sides outside the game board 14 are provided. Decorative lamps 36 (36a, 36b) are provided on the upper right side.

  Furthermore, a jackpot winning device M, which will be described later, is provided at the lower part of the game board 14, and a plurality of general winning ports 50, 54a, 54b and second general winning ports 56 (56a, 56b, 56c, 56d).

  Here, the jackpot winning device M will be described.

  The jackpot winning device M is provided as a variable winning means, and each member of the device is interposed between the front cover 200 in which the big winning opening 38 is formed and the rear cover 201, and a variable display game to be described later. When the game state is a big hit game state, a shutter 40 that swings back and forth by driving the solenoid 48 to close and open the grand prize winning port 38, and a rear side of the shutter 40 are arranged by the solenoid 205. A swing plate 206 that is driven and tilts to the left and right is provided.

  Then, when the shutter 40 is opened, if a game ball enters the specific entrance 204, which is a specific area, via the swing plate 206, the shutter 40 is moved to the next shutter 40 even after a predetermined time has elapsed or after a predetermined number of balls have been entered. The game is promised to be released, and this is repeated to realize a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

  The shutter 40 is opened and a predetermined time (29 seconds in the present embodiment) elapses, or the upper limit number (10 in this embodiment) of game balls is placed in the big prize opening 38. ) One cycle from winning a prize to closing is regarded as one round of the jackpot gaming state, and in the jackpot gaming state in the present embodiment, it can be repeated up to 15 rounds. In each round, prize balls corresponding to the number of game balls (winning number) won in the big prize opening 38 are sequentially paid out.

  The payout of the winning ball is performed by detecting the winning at the big winning opening 38 by the ball detecting sensor 45 (see FIG. 4), and a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of winning balls per winning ball is obtained. The payout device 59 (see FIG. 4) pays out.

  Further, the number of winnings detected by the ball detection sensor 45 is cumulatively counted by a counter 63 (see FIG. 4) which is a counting means. When the counter 63 counts 10 that is the upper limit winning ball number, the shutter 40 is closed. However, depending on the closing timing and the falling timing of the game ball, the gaming ball exceeds the upper limit winning ball number (10). In some cases, the prize winning opening 38 is won. In this case, in the present embodiment, this can be counted by the counter 63 as a surplus prize. That is, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, more than 10 game balls that are won in the special winning opening 38 are separately stored as surplus prizes.

  In FIG. 3, 202 is a shutter shaft, 203 is a normal entrance which is a normal area, and 207 is a game ball guide formed on the back surface of the shutter 40.

(Control of pachinko gaming machine 10)
A block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in the figure, the control unit 61 is connected to a central processing circuit (hereinafter referred to as a CPU) 66, interface circuit groups 62 and 72, ROM 68, RAM 70, and a counter 63. Alternatively, an input / output bus 64 for inputting and outputting address signals is provided.

  The firing handle 26, the pause button 26a, and the touch sensor 29 are connected to the interface circuit group 62.

  The interface circuit group 62 is connected to first to third ball detection sensors 42, 43, and 45 provided at each winning opening, and the first ball detection sensor 42 is configured to start the game ball. When the second ball detection sensor 43 passes through the mouth 44, the game ball passes through the general winning ports 50 and 54 (54a and 54b), the second general winning port 56, and the outlet 53 when the game ball passes through the mouth 44. The third ball detection sensor 45 supplies a detection signal to the interface circuit group 62 when the game ball passes through the special winning opening 38.

  Further, a ball passage detector 55 (left sphere passage detector 55a, right sphere passage detector 55b) is connected to the interface circuit group 62, and the sphere passage detector 55 detects that a game ball has passed. When detected, a detection signal is supplied to the interface circuit group 62.

  The counter 63 counts the detection result of the third ball detection sensor 45 as the number of winnings to the big winning opening 38.

  The ROM 68 stores a control program including a game program that controls the flow of the entire game of the pachinko gaming machine 10, individual identification information, a combination thereof, necessary image data, and the like.

  The game program in the present embodiment includes an internal lottery execution function for drawing a lottery with a predetermined lottery probability in response to having entered a starting entrance 44 which is a specific entrance, and this internal lottery execution function. And a variable display game execution function for executing on the display device 32 a variable display game for variably displaying and stopping a plurality of identification information based on the lottery result of The winning opening 38 is kept open until a predetermined upper limit number (10) of game balls wins or until a predetermined time (29 seconds) elapses, and the upper limit number of winning is detected or predetermined time is reached. A variable winning device control function for changing to a closed state when it has passed, and detecting that a winning has been made beyond the upper limit number of game balls for this variable winning device (large winning opening 38). The computer realizes a surplus prize detection function, a count function for cumulatively counting the number of detected surplus prizes, and a prize ball collective payout function for collectively awarding a number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus prizes. It is a program for.

  By executing the program, an internal lottery is performed to determine whether or not the game ball has won the start opening 44, and based on the lottery result, the identification information group is variably displayed and stopped on the display device 32. When the lottery result is a win, the combination of the identification information when stopped and displayed is a specific combination, and a pachinko game with a variable display game that shifts to a special game state can be enjoyed. In addition, in the special gaming state, the third ball detection sensor 45 detects a winning to the big winning opening 38 of the jackpot winning device M, and the counter 63 counts this detection result and accumulates it as the number of winnings. When the third ball detection sensor 45 detects the number of winnings exceeding 10 balls, the counter 63 counts the number exceeding 10 balls as an extra winning. Then, the CPU 66 instructs the payout device 59 to pay out a winning ball corresponding to the cumulative number of surplus winning prizes at the timing when the big hit gaming state is finished. At this time, the payout device 59 functions as a collective payout means.

  In this way, players can directly feel the merit of surplus winnings by witnessing the award balls that are paid out at once, and are also satisfied with the amount of gaming that they have won. Remember, your willingness to play is even higher.

  Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, technical intervention occurs in the pachinko game that tends to be monotonous, and in particular, in the jackpot game state, it is new to a game that tends to be left to a machine that simply launches a game ball It is possible to improve the fun of the game.

  The ROM 68 also includes image data of identification information that is displayed in a variable display or stopped when the variable display game is executed on the display device 32, character image data indicating a character as a screen image displayed as an effect screen, The background image data constituting the background of the display device 32, the moving image video image data, the sound data used for the game, the initial data for executing the control program, the blinking operation pattern of the decoration lamp 36, and these are controlled. A program to be executed is stored.

  Further, the ROM 68 stores a probability table necessary for performing a lottery for generating a normal jackpot and a probable variation jackpot, a program for performing a lottery using the probability table, and the like. Here, the normal jackpot is a jackpot that immediately returns to the normal game when the jackpot gaming state, which is a special gaming state advantageous to the player, is completed, and the probabilistic jackpot continues to be the jackpot gaming state after the transition to the jackpot gaming state. A jackpot that can be transferred to the jackpot gaming state with a high probability.

  On the other hand, the RAM 70 stores flags and variable values used in the above-described programs. That is, the CPU 66 stores the result of calculation by the CPU 66, the accumulated reach data indicating the game history, the accumulated fluctuation number, the surplus prize number counted by the counter 63 during execution of the variable display game, the accumulated jackpot number, and the like.

  The CPU 66 in the control unit 61 performs arithmetic processing by calling and executing a predetermined program from the ROM 68, and performs various controls based on the result of the arithmetic processing.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, as described above, in response to the winning of the game ball at the start opening 44, the winning ball is drawn with a predetermined lottery probability, and the identification information group is set according to the lottery result. If the lottery result is a win, the display will be controlled so that it will be the stop display mode in the specific combination described above. In the jackpot gaming state, the cumulative number of surplus winnings that occurred in each round The award ball corresponding to is controlled to be paid out at once after the jackpot gaming state is finished. As described above, the CPU 66 reads information on the variable display game, and controls the display mode and the payout device 59 on the display device 32.

  The interface circuit group 72 includes a display device 32, a sub display device 52, a speaker 46, a solenoid 28 for the firing handle 26, a holding lamp 34 and a decoration lamp 36, and a movable piece 58 (58a, 58b) and a shutter. Solenoids 48, 57 and 205 for driving 40 and a payout device 59 are connected, and a drive signal and drive power are supplied to control each of the above-described devices in accordance with the result of arithmetic processing in the CPU 66.

  The display device 32 includes a variable symbol display unit and an effect screen display unit, and synthesizes and displays both of the screens displayed on these two display units under the control of the CPU 66.

  The hold lamp 34 displays the number of held balls won in the start opening 44 during execution of the variable display game, and indicates the number of times effective for variably displaying the identification information group. Also, the payout device 59 pays out a predetermined number of game balls to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 in accordance with the winning of the game balls. It is functioning as well.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 61 is configured by the arithmetic processing unit including the CPU 66 described above, and the control unit 61 includes a jackpot determination unit, an image display control unit, and a count unit. The control unit 61 and the third ball detection sensor 45 constitute a surplus winning detection means, and the control unit 61 and the payout device 59 constitute a collective payout means.

  In this embodiment, there is one arithmetic processing unit composed of the CPU 66 and the like. However, the number is not necessarily one. The main control unit as the main arithmetic processing unit and the sub arithmetic processing that controls the image display. It can also be set as the structure containing the sub control part as an apparatus. Further, the above-described ROM 68 and RAM 70 may be provided in plural.

(Operation of pachinko gaming machine 10)
The pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment has the configuration described above, and its operation will be described below. In the following description, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming machine 10 is activated, and the variables used in the CPU 66 described above are initialized to predetermined values and are in steady operation.

  First, the pachinko gaming machine 10 executes a pachinko game program for controlling the pachinko game, calls and executes the game ball detection routine shown in FIG. 5 from the program at a predetermined timing, and the gist of the present invention shown in FIG. The jackpot execution processing routine including the batch payout process is called and executed, and prize balls for surplus winnings generated during the execution of the jackpot game state are paid out in a lump after the jackpot game state ends.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the gaming ball detection routine, first, it is detected whether or not a gaming ball has entered the winning award (general winning ports 50, 54a, 54b and second general winning ports 56a to 56d) (step). S11).

  When it is determined in step S11 that a game ball has entered the winning opening, a process of paying out a predetermined number of gaming balls according to the type of winning opening is executed (step S12).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the start port 44 (step S13). In step S13, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the start port 44, an internal lottery execution process (step S14) is executed, and then a variable display game is executed. In the internal lottery execution process in step S14, a process of generating any one result of “normal jackpot”, “probability change jackpot”, and “outage” is performed.

  Further, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b (step S16). When it is determined that the game ball has passed through the ball passage detectors 55a and 55b, a process of variably displaying the normal symbol is executed (step S17).

  Next, FIG. 6 shows a subroutine for performing an internal lottery execution process that is called and executed in step S14 described above.

  In the following description, the variable symbol refers to the symbol in the variable display state among the identification information displayed on the display device 32, and the stop symbol is the variable symbol displayed in a variable manner finally stopped. It shall indicate the symbol displayed when

  When the lottery execution process described above is started, first, an internal lottery process based on a calculation process of the CPU 66 is executed (step S100). That is, the CPU 66 sets a probability table used for internal lottery stored in the ROM 68 in the RAM 70 and samples random numbers.

  The process of setting the probability table in the RAM 70 does not have to be performed every time step S100 is executed, and may be always set in the RAM 70. Further, by storing a plurality of probability tables used in the internal lottery in the ROM 68 and setting different probability tables in the RAM 70 as necessary, the probability of generating a normal jackpot, the probability of generating a probable (special) jackpot, In addition, the probability of occurrence of deviation can be changed.

  Next, it is determined which of the “normal jackpot”, “probability variation jackpot”, and “out of place” has been obtained (step S101).

  If it is determined in step S101 that a lottery result of loss has been obtained, the CPU 66 stores lottery data corresponding to the loss in the RAM 70 (step S102). At this time, a disconnection has occurred. The lottery data is data used when the variable display game is executed. Based on the lottery data, the CPU 66 stops and displays the variable symbols in a predetermined combination in the variable display game processing routine.

  If it is determined in step S101 that a normal jackpot result has been obtained, the CPU 66 stores the lottery data corresponding to the normal jackpot in the RAM 70 (step S103), and further stores the normal jackpot information (step S104). At this time, a big hit usually occurred.

  If it is determined in step S101 that the result of probability variation jackpot has been obtained, the CPU 66 stores lottery data corresponding to the probability variation jackpot in the RAM 70 (step S107), and further stores probability variation jackpot information (step S108). ). At this time, a probabilistic jackpot has occurred.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a jackpot gaming state is currently occurring (step S110). If it is determined that a jackpot gaming state is occurring, this subroutine is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S110 that the big hit gaming state has not occurred, it is determined whether or not there is a variable display game in progress (display) (step S111). The variable display game in progress (display) is a variable display game that is currently displayed on the display device 32 and is in a state that can be viewed by the player and before the variable symbol is stopped and displayed. That is, the fact that there is a variable display game in progress (display) means that one game ball has already entered the start port 44 and a variable display game processing routine described later is being executed.

  If it is determined in step S111 that there is no progressing (displaying) variable display game, the variable display game is executed (step S112). On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a progressing (display) variable display game, this subroutine is terminated.

  Next, a subroutine for performing the variable display game process called and executed in step S112 shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. When this subroutine is called, the fixed screen displayed on the display device 32 is switched to the normal screen, and the variable display game is started. The fixed screen is a screen displayed on the display device 32 when the variable display game executed on the display device 32 is not executed and only the pachinko game is progressing in the pachinko gaming machine 10. In addition, the normal screen means that the variable display game has reached reach or a big hit after the variable display game is started on the display device 32 and the symbols (identification information) displayed on the display device 32 are variably displayed. An effect screen displayed on the display device 32 until reaching the time state.

  Here, the variable display game is a game in which a variable display game of a plurality of pieces of identification information is started once after a variable display is started. In the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the identification information set in advance is a set of 10 symbols consisting of “0”, “2”,. These 10 symbols are sequentially displayed on the display device 32, and the symbols are variably displayed so that the symbols themselves change while displaying the symbols moving.

  For example, on the display device 32, the symbol “1” is displayed so as to scroll from the top to the bottom of the display device 32, and then the symbol “2” is displayed so as to scroll from the top to the bottom. Similarly, “3” is displayed so as to scroll from top to bottom. Then, after the symbol “0” to the symbol “9” are displayed in this manner, the symbol “0” is displayed so as to be scrolled again, and the same display is sequentially repeated. By displaying the symbols in this manner on the display device 32, the symbols are sequentially scrolled from “0” to “1”, from “1” to “2”, and from “2” to “3”. It changes to display up to “9” and then displays “0” again. The above-described symbol set (identification information group) is a concept corresponding to the symbol set displayed on one reel used in the slot machine.

  Further, when the variable display game is executed on the display device 32, symbols belonging to each of a plurality of sets of identification information groups are displayed. For example, when the symbols belonging to three identification information groups are arranged and displayed in the horizontal direction, the symbols belonging to one identification information group are displayed on the left side of the display device 32, and other identification information is displayed. The symbols belonging to the group are displayed at the center of the display device 32, and the symbols belonging to the remaining identification information group are displayed on the right side of the display device 32.

  In this way, by displaying the symbol as the identification information, a plurality of identification information is displayed on the display device 32 as the display unit. Note that the number of groups when the variable display game is executed is not limited to three, and symbols belonging to a plurality of identification information groups (groups) other than three may be displayed on the display device 32. Good.

  Further, a plurality of symbols may be displayed for symbols belonging to one identification information group. For example, three symbols belonging to one identification information group are displayed so as to be variably displayed. If the identification information group is displayed, a total of nine symbols are displayed in a variable manner on the display device 32.

  Then, after variably displaying symbols belonging to a plurality of identification information groups, when all the symbols that have been variably displayed are stopped and displayed at a predetermined timing, the combination of these symbols matches the predetermined combination and is stopped and displayed. When this is done, the variable display game is won as a “big hit” from the viewpoint of the player, a big win gaming state is generated, and an advantageous state is provided to the player.

  By the above-described internal lottery process, the internal lottery process by the calculation process of the CPU 66 is executed, and all the symbols that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed based on the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 in the above-described step S102, S103, or S107. When the combination of symbols is determined in advance and the variable display game is started, the lottery data is updated (decreased) as shown in FIG. 7 (step S201). That is, the CPU 66 calls the lottery data used for the current variable display game process from the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 to the variable display game process area, and the lottery data from the area where the lottery data has been stored so far. Process to erase data.

  Next, screen configuration information of the selected background image is generated in the RAM 70 (step S202). That is, the CPU 66 calls and executes a program for selecting a background image from the ROM 68 in accordance with the result of the internal lottery process, the progress of the variable display game, and the like. The background image is not particularly limited, and is appropriately selected by the CPU 66 based on the progress of the variable display game and the result of the internal lottery process.

  Next, screen configuration information of the selected character image is generated in the RAM 70 (step S203). That is, the screen configuration information of the character image selected by the CPU 66 is generated in the RAM 70 based on the execution result of the program. At this time, for example, by controlling the head position of the character image to be shifted by a predetermined amount of movement at a constant interval (frame span) every 1/60 seconds, 1/30 seconds, or the like, It can be displayed with movement.

  Next, the screen configuration information of the variation symbol as identification information is generated in the RAM 70 by the CPU 66 based on the execution result of the program (step S204).

  The screen configuration information of the image that becomes each symbol constituting the variation symbol is generated by the CPU 66 based on the above-described program. In addition, it is possible to display fluctuations in the fluctuation symbols by controlling the images to be the fluctuation symbols to be sequentially generated in a predetermined order. Furthermore, since the fluctuation speed of the fluctuation pattern can be controlled by adjusting the frame span, the reading position of the screen configuration information, etc., the fluctuation pattern in the background image depends on the story being developed. It is also possible to smooth the fluctuation of the image and to fuse the background image and the fluctuation pattern.

  Next, it is determined whether it is time to stop and display one variable symbol (step S205). That is, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to stop and display symbols belonging to one group among a plurality of, for example, three groups (identification information group).

  When it is determined that it is time to stop and display the changing symbol, the CPU 66 selects a changing symbol image representing the changing symbol in a manner to stop and display one changing symbol, and the screen configuration information of the changing symbol image is generated in the RAM 70. (Step S206).

  Next, in steps S202 to S207, each image data corresponding to the screen configuration information is read from the ROM 68 by the CPU 66 based on the screen configuration information generated in the RAM 70. Each of the read image data is then converted into image data to be displayed on the display device 32 according to information regarding priority order, position, and the like displayed in the screen configuration information, and then transmitted to the display device 32. Is displayed (step S207). The processes in steps S202 to S207 described above are repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S208 described later that all symbols belonging to the plurality of identification information groups are stopped and displayed. By repeatedly executing the process in this manner, the symbols can be displayed in a variable manner so as to scroll in a predetermined manner, and the character image can also be displayed so as to perform a predetermined action.

  After executing the process of step S207, it is determined whether or not all symbols belonging to a plurality of groups have been stopped and displayed (step S208).

  When it is determined that all symbols belonging to the plurality of identification information groups are not stopped and displayed, the process returns to step S202. On the other hand, when it is determined that all symbols belonging to the plurality of identification information groups are stopped and displayed, it is determined whether or not normal jackpot information or probability variation jackpot information stored in the RAM 70 is present (step S209).

  When it is determined that jackpot information exists, jackpot execution processing is performed (step S210), a jackpot gaming state is generated, and an advantageous state is provided to the player.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the jackpot information stored in the RAM 70 does not exist, it is determined whether or not the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 exists (step S211). When it is determined that the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 does not exist, there is no variable display game that is on standby, and thus this subroutine is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S211 that the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 is present, there is a variable display game that is on standby, so the oldest lottery data among the lottery data stored in the RAM 70 is read out. (Step S212), the process returns to Step S201. Thereafter, the CPU 66 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S201 to S209 based on the read lottery data.

  The jackpot execution process routine executed in the jackpot execution process (step S210) will be described with reference to FIG. In the following description, it is assumed that 15 jackpot games are provided intermittently in the jackpot game state. In addition, the jackpot game is performed once after the winning prize opening 38 is in an open state until 10 gaming balls enter the winning prize opening 38 or until a predetermined time (29 seconds) elapses. It is a game. Furthermore, as described above, one big hit game is one round. In addition, there is almost no difference between “a normal jackpot that becomes a normal jackpot gaming state” and “probability jackpot that becomes a jackpot gaming state in a probability variation state”, and thus will be described without distinction.

  In this jackpot execution processing routine, first, n, which is the number of rounds of the jackpot game, is set to n = 1 (step S301).

  That is, the CPU 66 stores n = 1 in a table (round number storage table) that stores the number of rounds of the jackpot game provided in the RAM 70.

  Next, it is determined whether or not it is time to open the special winning opening 38 (step S302).

  When it is determined that it is time to open the special winning opening 38, the shutter 40 is driven in the opening direction to open the special winning opening 38 (step S303).

  That is, the CPU 66 supplies a drive signal to the solenoid 48 via the interface circuit group 72, thereby tilting the shutter 40 forward to open the special winning opening 38. Thereby, it becomes possible for the player to insert a game ball into the special winning opening 38.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not the timing at which the special winning opening 38 is opened, the process returns to step S302.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the special winning opening 38 (step S304). In the present embodiment, whether or not the game ball has entered the big prize opening 38 is determined by the third ball detection sensor 45 provided in the big prize opening 38.

  When a game ball is detected by the third ball detection sensor 45 provided in the special winning opening 38, a detection signal is supplied to the interface circuit group 62. Receiving this detection signal, the CPU 66 drives the counter 63 to count the number of balls, and stores the count result as a number of winning game balls in a predetermined table (large winning mouth gaming ball storage table) of the RAM 70 (step S305). ) Simultaneously, a control signal is transmitted to the payout device 59 for each detection signal from the third ball detection sensor 45 to drive the payout device 59 to pay out a predetermined number (10) of game balls. Is executed (step S306).

  If it is determined in step S304 that there is no game ball in the big prize opening 38, or if a process of paying out game balls is executed in step S306, then the upper limit number (10 It is determined whether or not a plurality of game balls have entered (step S307). That is, the CPU 66 compares the number of game balls stored in the big winning opening game ball storage table with the upper limit winning number (10 balls) stored in another area of the RAM 70, and the game entered the big winning opening 38. It is determined whether or not the ball is the maximum number of winnings (10 balls).

  If it is determined that there is no upper limit number of game balls in the special winning opening 38, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (29 seconds) has elapsed since the special winning opening 38 is opened (step S310). ). That is, the CPU 66 determines whether or not the elapsed time started from step S302 has reached a predetermined time.

  If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the special winning opening 38 is in the open state, the process returns to step S304.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S307 that the upper limit number of game balls have entered the big winning opening 38, the CPU 66 outputs a control signal for closing the shutter 40 of the big winning opening 38 to the solenoid 48. While the shutter 40 is tilted in the closing direction, the game ball may jump into the big prize opening 38. The third ball detection sensor 45 detects this as a surplus prize. It is determined whether or not there is this detection (step S308), and if it is determined that there is a surplus prize, the detection result is counted by the counter 63 as a surplus prize number and stored in the RAM 70 (step S309).

  Further, when it is determined in step S308 that there is no surplus winning, and when it is determined in step S310 that a predetermined time has elapsed, the shutter 40 is driven to close the special winning opening 38 (step S311).

  In this way, the opening time of the grand prize opening 38 is determined by either the number of game balls entering the big prize opening 38 or the time, and if the upper limit number of game balls enter the big prize opening 38, Even if the predetermined time has not been reached, the grand prize winning opening 38 is closed. On the other hand, even if the number of game balls that have entered the big winning prize opening 38 has not reached the upper limit, It is closed.

  Next, 1 is added to n, which is the number of jackpot games, and n = n + 1 is set (step S312). That is, the CPU 66 stores the number of rounds in the round number storage table provided in the RAM 70 so that n = n + 1.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds n is 14 or less (step S313). That is, the CPU 66 first reads the number of jackpot games stored in the round number storage table, compares this number with the data of n = 14 stored in another area of the RAM 70, and determines the number of jackpot games n. It is determined whether or not n ≦ 14. If it is determined that the number n of jackpot games is n ≦ 14, the process returns to step S302. Therefore, in this subroutine, the big hit game is repeatedly performed until n exceeds 14.

  When n, which is the number of jackpot games, exceeds 14, that is, when the maximum number of rounds reaches 15, the jackpot information is updated (decreased) (step S314). That is, when the jackpot gaming state based on the normal jackpot has occurred (when the jackpot execution processing routine is executed based on the normal jackpot), the normal jackpot information stored in the RAM 70 is deleted. On the other hand, when the jackpot gaming state based on the special jackpot has occurred (when the jackpot execution processing routine is executed based on the special jackpot), one special jackpot information stored in the RAM 70 is deleted.

  Next, the CPU 66 reads the cumulative number of surplus prizes for each round stored in step S309, calculates the number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus prizes, and outputs a payout signal to the payout device 59. Prize balls corresponding to the cumulative number of extra winnings generated during the big hit game are paid out in a lump (step S315), and then this subroutine is terminated.

  While the jackpot execution processing routine described above is being executed, the display device 32 displays an effect image for making the player recognize that a jackpot gaming state has occurred and for exciting the game.

  In this subroutine, the upper limit of the number of rounds is set to 15 and the maximum number of n is set to 14. However, n is not particularly limited as long as it is a natural number, and may be appropriately set according to the upper limit of the number of rounds.

  When the above jackpot execution process is performed, an effect image corresponding to the jackpot gaming state is displayed on the display device 32. That is, an effect display peculiar to the jackpot gaming state is made, and during each round, a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image and a round effect display is performed, and a special gaming state is gorgeously produced. Displays information such as the number of rounds currently being executed and the number of winning prizes to the big winning opening 38 in the currently running round.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9A, an image showing a fishing scene is used as an effect image. In this display screen, the combination of identification information indicating jackpot is “777”, “R5” as a round display indicating that it is 5 rounds, and that at least one game ball is won in the special area of the big winning opening 38 during the 5th round, and the 6th round is guaranteed. “V” mark is displayed. In addition, the number of game balls won in the big prize opening 38 during the round is represented as “fish” caught in the cage, which is one of the directing designs of fishing. As a matter of course, the number of winning prizes may be simply displayed as a number.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the number of surplus prizes generated in each round is displayed during the round effect display. Here, as shown in FIG. 9B, a new special kite is displayed, and “Mermaid” is displayed in the special kite. This “mermaid” is a surplus prize, and the number of “mermaid” indicates the number of surplus prizes, which makes it easier for the player to understand visually and makes the game fun. Of course, in this case as well, the surplus winning number may be displayed in numbers.

  Here, assuming an actual gaming situation in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a surplus prize is generated at the big prize opening 38 during the jackpot gaming state, and the cumulative number of surplus prizes after the jackpot gaming state ends. A description will be given briefly with reference to FIGS.

  When the jackpot game state is entered, an effect image showing a fishing scene is displayed on the display device 32 based on the jackpot information. In the right corner of the screen, the current number of rounds and a combination of identification information indicating jackpots are displayed. Each time a prize is entered into the big prize opening 38, a mode is displayed in which the fish in the cage increases by one (FIG. 9 (a)). In addition, if at least one of the winning game balls enters the specific entrance 204 (see FIG. 3), which is a special area in the big prize opening 38, the game of the next round is guaranteed. A V mark is displayed.

  When the tenth, which is the maximum number of winnings, enters the big winning opening 38, the big winning opening 38 starts closing, but at the same time as the tenth, or just before the big winning opening 38 is completely closed, it rushes in. In the case of a rush-in prize that seems to have been won in the game, as shown in FIG. 9 (b), these extra prizes are displayed with a special shark on the screen, and the “Mermaid” entered in it. It is displayed with the number of. In this case, it can be seen that three surplus winnings have occurred.

  What is shown in FIG. 9B is the number of surplus winnings in the fifth round, and the cumulative number of surplus winnings generated from the first round to the final round is displayed after the end of the jackpot game as shown in FIG. Displayed on device 32. Here, a case where the cumulative number of surplus winning prizes is 10 is shown, and in this embodiment, the effect image of the jackpot game has disappeared, but it is preferable to accompany some effect image.

  Since there are 10 prize balls for each prize ball, the number of prize balls corresponding to 10 surplus prizes, that is, 10 × 10 = 100 prize balls are paid out all at once. The payout mode in this embodiment is to pay out 10 consecutive times in units of 10 award balls. However, only the surplus winnings are paid out after the jackpot game is over, and the award corresponding to the cumulative number of surplus winnings is obtained. It is considered that the number of balls is paid out in a lump. Of course, instead of continuously paying out 10 units as a unit, it is possible to pay 100 in a lump if the total number of prize balls is 100.

  At the time of payout, as shown in FIG. 10, first, the total number of surplus winning prizes is displayed on the display device 32, and a countdown display in which the numerical value is reduced by 1 every time 10 payouts are made.

  Therefore, the player can actually enjoy the profits obtained by surplus winning while enjoying visually.

It is a front view showing the appearance of the pachinko gaming machine according to the first embodiment. It is an enlarged front view of the game board surface of the pachinko gaming machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the jackpot winning apparatus of the same pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the control circuit of the same pachinko gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the process which detects the game ball | bowl performed in a pachinko gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of an internal lottery execution process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a variable display game process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of jackpot execution processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode of a surplus prize. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen at the time of payout of the prize ball corresponding to a surplus winning prize.

Explanation of symbols

M jackpot winning device 10 pachinko machine 38 winning winning hole 45 ball detection sensor 59 payout device 63 counter

Claims (3)

When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the open state is maintained until a predetermined upper limit number of game balls are won or until a predetermined time elapses, and when the upper limit number of wins is detected or a predetermined time elapses. Variable winning means that change to a closed state;
With respect to the variable winning means, surplus winning detecting means for detecting that winning has been made exceeding the upper limit number of game balls;
A counting means for cumulatively counting the number of surplus winnings detected by the surplus winning detecting means;
A collective payout means for paying out a number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus prizes;
A gaming machine comprising: Display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of identification information triggered by the winning of the game ball at the start opening;
A special game execution means for executing the variable winning means when the display form of the plurality of identification information displayed on the display means is a specific display form,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the collective payout means for paying out the number of prize balls according to the cumulative number of surplus winnings is performed after the operation of the special game executing means is completed.   The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a surplus winning number display means for displaying a surplus winning number counted by the counting means.

Images