JP2005177455A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of sufficiently arousing the thrills and excitement of a player while guaranteeing the profit of the player and being new and fully interesting by combining variable display in a variable display means and the change of the prescribed number of game balls receivable during a special game state. <P>SOLUTION: The special game state of varying the movable members 152a and 152b of a variable winning device 150 to a first state is generated by the establishment of a prescribed condition, the special game state is made repeatedly executable by the entry of a game ball received by the variable winning device 150 to a special winning area 155 during the special game state, and the variable winning device 150 can receive the prescribed number of the game balls regardless of the presence/absence of the entry of the game ball to the special winning area 155 during the special game state. Also, during the special game state, the variable display of identification information is executed at a variable display means 330 every time the game ball enters the special winning area 155, and the prescribed number of the game balls receivable during the special game state is determined corresponding to gravity specifying information specified as the result of the variable display. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  According to the present invention, in a game area for launching a game ball, a movable member that can be changed between a first state in which the game ball is easily received and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received, and a game ball received by the movable member in the first state are The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with a variable winning device having a general winning area for winning and a special winning area for special winning.

Conventionally, pachinko machines are generally widely known as this type of gaming machine, but there are various types of pachinko machines, for example, there are models (feathers) having the following gaming characteristics.
That is, when a game ball launched into the game area wins the start opening, the pair of movable wings provided in the variable winning device as the main accessory opens about 0.5 seconds only once or twice, and this opened. When a game ball that is sometimes taken into the variable prize apparatus enters a special prize area called a V zone, a special game state is generated in which the pair of movable wings are released a plurality of times, such as 18 times.

  When a game ball taken into the variable prize apparatus during such a special game state wins the special prize area, the special game state is repeatedly executed up to a predetermined number of times (for example, eight rounds). One round of the special game state ends when the pair of movable wings are released a plurality of times such as 18 times, or when 10 game balls are won in the variable prize winning device, but the condition continues to the next round. When a game ball wins in the special winning area, the round is finished at that time, and the game is generally controlled to shift to the next round.

  Therefore, if the game ball does not win in the special winning area of the variable winning device during the special gaming state, the special gaming state is not completed until the end, and is not completed. Even if the special game state is repeatedly executed up to the upper limit of 8 rounds, if the number of winning balls to the variable winning device is still small for each round and the special winning area is suddenly won, Accordingly, the number of prize balls to be paid out is naturally reduced, and the game value given by continuing the special game state is greatly reduced, which causes a problem that the player's expectation and interest in the game are lowered.

  As a new type of gaming machine (wings) that solves the problems of the conventional general gaming machine (wings), for example, a gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 has already been proposed. This gaming machine can be shifted to the next round once the special gaming state has occurred, and the special gaming state can be continued, so that it is the best in the range of the specifications of conventional gaming machines (wings). Special games will be executed according to the conditions, and the best ball will be guaranteed.

  That is, in the variable winning device, a prize restricting means for restricting the winning of the game ball to the special winning area is provided, and a detector for detecting the game ball received by the variable winning device in the special gaming state is provided, By controlling the winning restriction means based on the signal from the detector by the control device, when the ninth winning ball is detected during the special game state, the winning restriction means is operated to Only the winning balls of the player are configured to enter the special winning area. As a result, the tenth, which is the highest number of winning balls for each round, always satisfies the conditions for proceeding to the next round, and anyone can play a special game under the best conditions.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 5-68276

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 as described above, a specification of a conventional gaming machine (wings) is set (that is, a gaming ball is won in a special winning area of the variable winning device during a special gaming state. Then, based on the assumption that the round ends at that time and proceeds to the next round), the mechanical regulation of the game ball winning in the variable winning device is electrically controlled in accordance with such specifications. The structure is such that the mechanical structure, such as a prize restricting means for restricting the winning of a game ball, is complex and has a large number of parts, and the electrical control of the prize restricting means is troublesome, and the cost It was a factor of up.

  In addition, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the game process, which has been left to the chance of winning a game ball in the special prize area, is always forced to win by controlling the prize control means and the special game state is continued. However, this has the problem that the thrill and excitement of the player due to chance is lost and the player's interest in the special gaming state gradually decreases.

  Furthermore, in any gaming machine (feather), the gaming method has been standardized in a specific pattern, and the game contents tend to be ruined and tend to lack freshness. For example, the special game state, which is the largest show in the game, is only produced by the opening and closing operation of the pair of movable wings of the variable prize device, and the fun of variable display like a Fever game machine may be added. In addition, the maximum value (for example, 10) of the game balls that can be accepted by the variable winning device for each round in the special game state is uniformly set for each model and does not change. There was a problem that it was easy to become and lacked interest.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to the problems of the conventional technology as described above. In the special gaming state, whether or not the game ball is won in the special winning area of the variable winning device, which is the continuation condition thereof Regardless, by accepting only a predetermined number of game balls, it is possible to obtain a prize ball according to the highest number of wins, while guaranteeing the player's profit, With no special control over winnings, it is possible to fully arouse the thrill and excitement of the player by leaving it to chance. In addition, the variable display on the variable display means and the game ball that can be accepted during the special game state The purpose is to provide a novel and interesting gaming machine by combining a predetermined number of changes.

The gist of the present invention for achieving the above-described object resides in the following items.
[1] A movable member (152a, 152b) capable of changing between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received, and the movable member (152a, 152b) A game machine (1) provided with a variable winning device (150) having a general winning area (154) in which a game ball received in the first state is a normal winning and a special winning area (155) as a special winning. In
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, a special game state is generated in which the movable member (152a, 152b) is changed to the first state, and the game ball received by the variable winning device (150) in the special game state. Has won the special prize area (155), the special gaming state can be repeatedly executed,
In the special game state, the variable prize device (150) can accept a predetermined number of game balls regardless of whether or not the game balls are won in the special prize area (155).
Each time the game ball wins in the special prize area (155) during the special game state, the variable information means (330) that can change the display contents provided in the game area (17) can change the display of the identification information. And the predetermined number of game balls that can be received during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information specified as a result of the variable display.

[2] Holding ball storage means for storing, as a holding ball, a gaming ball won in the special winning area (155) among a predetermined number of gaming balls received by the variable winning device (150) in the special gaming state. (1200)
The gaming machine (1) according to [1], wherein the special gaming state can be repeatedly executed according to the number of held balls stored by the holding ball storage means (1200).

  [3] The gaming machine (1) according to [2], further comprising upper limit value setting means (1400) for setting an upper limit value for the number of held balls stored in the reserved ball storage means (1200).

  [4] [2] or [3], wherein the game area (17) is provided with a display unit (320) for displaying the number of held balls stored in the reserved ball storage means (1200). No gaming machine (1).

  [5] The gaming machine (1) according to [4], wherein the display unit (320) is also used as the variable display means (330).

[6] The variable display means (330) includes a reserved ball display area (331) for displaying the number of reserved balls, and an identification information display area (332) for variably displaying the identification information.
The gaming machine (1) according to [5], wherein one of the reserved ball display area (331) and the identification information display area (332) is preferentially displayed according to a gaming state.

  [7] Storage means capable of temporarily storing game balls in the movable member (152a, 152b) in a state where the movable member (152a, 152b) is maintained in the second state in which it is difficult to receive the game ball. The gaming machine (1) according to [1], [2], [3], [4], [5] or [6], characterized in that (153) is provided.

  [8] The gaming machine according to [7], wherein the storage means (153) is provided with a notch (153) in the movable member (152a, 152b) capable of storing one or more game balls. (1).

  [9] [1], [2], [3], [4] characterized in that the movable member (152a, 152b) has notification means (310a, 310b) for notifying the gaming state on the surface side. ], [5], [6], [7] or a gaming machine (1) according to [8].

  [10] The notification means (310a, 310b) is based on the signal from the display control means (1500a) only when it is involved in the fluctuation of the movable member (152a, 152b) based on the signal from the game control means (1100). The gaming machine (1) according to [9], which operates.

  [11] [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7] characterized in that the fluctuation speed of the movable member (152a, 152b) can be adjusted. ], [8], [9] or a gaming machine (1) according to [10].

  [12] The variable winning device (150) is provided with winning guidance means (156) that influences the winning probability of a game ball in the special winning area (155) [1], [2 ], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10] or [11].

  [13] The winning guiding means (156) can be adjusted to a guiding state advantageous for a player who easily wins a game ball in the special winning area (155) or a normal guiding state [12]. ] (1) game machine.

[14] The winning guide means (156) is composed of a horizontally long guide bar member that can be tilted left and right, and can tilt between a tilting posture tilted to the left or right side and a non-tilting posture that does not tilt,
When the guide bar member is in the non-tilting posture, the guide bar member is inclined downward from the left and right ends toward the central portion, and is guided to the central portion when the guide bar member is in the non-tilting posture. The gaming machine (1) according to [12] or [13], wherein the gaming machine (1) has a central port (156a) for dropping the game ball toward the lower special winning area (155).

  [15] The winning guide means (156) drops the game ball placed on the guide bar member downward before reaching the left and right ends, in addition to the central opening (156a) at the center of the guide bar member. The gaming machine (1) according to [14], wherein the gaming machine (1) has a drop opening (156b).

  [16] When the winning ball guiding means (156) is in the non-tilting posture when a gaming ball placed on the guiding bar member enters in addition to the central port (156a) at the central portion of the guiding bar member. The gaming machine (1) according to [14] or [15], wherein the gaming machine (1) has a receiving groove (156c) through which the game ball rolls when in the tilting posture.

  [17] The gaming machine (1) according to [14], [15] or [16], wherein the winning guiding means (156) is capable of adjusting an amplitude in the left and right tilting motion. .

  [18] The winning combination guiding means (156) is capable of adjusting a tilting speed in the left / right tilting operation, [14], [15], [16] or [17] A gaming machine (1).

  [19] [14], [15], [16], [17] The winning guidance means (156) is capable of adjusting the height position in the vertical direction separately from the left and right tilting operations. ] Or gaming machine (1) according to [18].

[20] The main board (100) of the gaming machine (1)
In the special gaming state, when the special gaming state does not satisfy the requirement to be repeatedly executed and the continuation of the special gaming state ends in the middle, the number of times of the special gaming state continuously executed until the end is determined. Continuation number confirmation means (2200)
A lower limit setting means (2100) for setting a predetermined lower limit with respect to the number of continuations;
Display control means (1500b) for executing variable display of identification information by the variable display means (330) when the number of continuations determined by the continuation number confirmation means (2200) is less than the lower limit;
[1], [2], [3], characterized by comprising continuation restart means (2400) for restarting continuation of the special gaming state when specific identification information is displayed as a result of the variable display. ], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], The gaming machine (1) according to [16], [17], [18] or [19].

  [21] The continuation resumption means (2400) resumes the continuation of the special gaming state up to the number of continuations determined by the continuation number confirmation means (2200) that is less than the lower limit value. The gaming machine (1) according to [20].

The present invention operates as follows.
According to the gaming machine (1) described in [1] above, when a predetermined condition is established during a game in which a game ball is launched into the gaming area (17), the movable winning device (150) is movable. A special game state in which the members (152a, 152b) change to the first state in which the game balls can be easily received occurs. Here, the “predetermined condition” varies based on, for example, a game ball launched into the game area (17) first wins the start opening (21a to 21c), as in a general game machine (wings). When the movable members (152a, 152b) of the winning device (150) change to the first state only once or several times, the game balls taken into the variable winning device (150) are transferred to the general winning area (154). Rather than setting the special prize area (155), it may be set.

  Once the special gaming state occurs, the special gaming state is repeatedly executed by winning the game ball received by the variable prize winning device (150) in the special winning area (155) in the special gaming state. . In other words, even if one round of the special game state is once completed, the special game state for the next round is continuously generated on the condition that the game ball is won in the special prize area (155) during the one round. By doing so, gameability is improved.

  During the special game state, the variable prize winning device (150) can accept a predetermined number of game balls regardless of whether or not the game balls are won in the special prize area (155). One round of the special game state is ended based on a predetermined end condition. However, in the present gaming machine (1), unlike the conventional general gaming machine (feather), the special prize that is a condition to be continued in the next round is used. Even if a game ball wins in the area (155), if a predetermined number of game balls have not yet been received by the variable winning device (150) at that time, the special game state is not completed until a predetermined number of game balls are received. It never ends.

  As a result, a player can obtain a profit by winning based on winning a predetermined number of game balls in a special game state without performing complicated control in accordance with the specifications of a conventional general gaming machine (wings). It becomes possible to guarantee. Thus, in this gaming machine (1), during the special gaming state, the variable winning device (150) accepts a predetermined number of gaming balls regardless of whether or not the gaming balls are won in the special winning area (155). However, the game balls received in the special prize area (155) are not necessarily awarded to the special prize area (155).

  In other words, in this gaming machine (1), while the player's profit is guaranteed in the special gaming state, the winning of the game ball in the special winning area (155) in the special gaming state is left to randomness without any special control. ing. As a result, among the game balls that can be received by the variable winning device (150) up to a predetermined number, a rare special game state will not continue unless one rarely wins the special winning area (155). There is also a risk in the game, and it can evoke the thrill and excitement of the player.

  Further, during the special game state, whenever the game ball is won in the special prize area (155), the variable display means (330) provided in the game area (17) executes variable display of the identification information. Is done. The predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information specified as a result of the variable display.

  Specifically, for example, when the specific information for recognizing the lighter one of the light weight specific information is confirmed to be stopped, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined according to this. When the specific information for recognizing the heavier one is confirmed to be stopped, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round can be determined in many cases.

  In addition, when a plurality of game balls are won in the special prize area (155) during one round of the special game state and the variable display is executed a plurality of times, for example, the player is most interested in the result. For example, it may be set so that an advantageous result is selected. For the first round in the special game state, the predetermined number of initial setting values may be set to 10 for example.

  As described above, in this gaming machine (1), in addition to the visual interest by the variable display of the identification information in the variable display means (330), the game ball that can be accepted during the special game state according to the result of the variable display Therefore, the game method does not fit in a standard pattern of a conventional game machine (feather), and it is possible to produce a novel and interesting game.

  In addition, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [2], among the predetermined number of game balls received by the variable prize winning device (150) in the special gaming state, the special winning area (155) was won. If there is a game ball, the number is stored in the reserved ball storage means (1200). Then, the special game state is repeatedly executed according to the number of reserved balls stored by the reserved ball storage means (1200).

  That is, the condition for repeatedly executing the special game state is sufficient if at least one of the predetermined number of game balls received by the variable winning device (150) wins the special prize area (155). If two or more game balls are won in the special winning area (155), the winnings are held without wasting them, and the special gaming state is repeatedly executed according to the number of held balls. In this way, the playability can be further enhanced.

  Further, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [3], the upper limit value setting unit (1400) may set an upper limit value for the number of held balls stored in the reserved ball storage unit (1200). it can. By determining the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls in this way, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the special game state is repeatedly executed indefinitely.

  Further, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [4], the game area (17) is provided with a display unit (320) for displaying the number of reserved balls stored by the reserved ball storage means (1200). Thus, the player can easily confirm the number of reserved balls, and the number of times that the special gaming state is repeatedly executed can be grasped in advance.

  Here, as described in [5] above, if the display unit (320) is also used as the variable display means (330), the number of parts can be reduced and the cost can be reduced. In addition, since the exclusive area occupied on the game area (17) can be reduced as much as possible, the wearability on the game area (17) in a limited space is improved, and other bonuses and winning holes are provided. It is possible to secure an arrangement space such as.

  Specifically, as described in [6] above, the variable display means (330) has a reserved ball display area (331) for displaying the number of reserved balls, and an identification information display area (331) for variably displaying the identification information. 332). And according to a game state, it sets so that any one of the said holding ball display area | region (331) and an identification information display area | region (332) may be displayed preferentially.

  For example, in a gaming state where there is a holding ball and variable display is not executed, the holding ball display area (331) may be displayed in a large area, or only the holding ball display area (331) may be displayed. In the gaming state in which variable display is executed regardless of whether or not there is a holding ball, the identification information display area (332) may be displayed in a large area or only the identification information display area (332) may be displayed. good. Thus, a novel display effect can be performed by one variable display means (330).

  Further, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [7], the movable member (152a, 152b) temporarily holds the game ball in a state where the movable member (152a, 152b) is maintained in the second state in which the game ball is not easily received. Since the storing means (153) capable of storing is provided, the game ball can be stored even when the movable members (152a, 152b) are in the second state, and the movable members (152a, 152b) are changed from the second state to the first state. When this is done, the stored game balls can be received inside the variable winning device (150). Thereby, even if it is in a disadvantageous state for the player, it is possible to contribute to the player's profit.

  Specifically, as the storage means (153), for example, as described in [8], a cutout portion (153) capable of storing a single or a plurality of game balls is provided in the movable member (152a, 152b). What is necessary is just to comprise. Thereby, a game ball can be stored with a simple configuration.

  Furthermore, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [9], since the movable member (152a, 152b) has notification means (310a, 310b) for notifying the gaming state on the surface side, The player can clearly check the status.

  Here, for example, as described in [10] above, only when the notification means (310a, 310b) is involved in the fluctuation of the movable member (152a, 152b) based on the signal from the game control means (1100). By operating based on the signal from the display control means (1500a), the player can clearly check the fluctuation of the movable member (152a, 152b) as a gaming state. Specifically, the movable member When (152a, 152b) changes from the second state to the first state, the fact is displayed in advance with a symbol, symbol or character, so that the player's interest in the change of the movable member (152a, 152b) is shown in advance. Can be increased.

  Further, as described in [11] above, the fluctuation speed of the movable members (152a, 152b) may be adjusted. The longer the time for which the movable members (152a, 152b) are maintained in the first state, or the lower the speed at which the movable member (152a, 152b) returns to the second state, the higher the degree of acceptance of game balls. As described above, when the fluctuation speed including the time for maintaining the first state and the speed for returning to the second state can be adjusted, for example, in three stages of preset speed, medium, and slow, the movable members (152a, 152b ) Moves in various ways, making it interesting and attracting players.

  In this gaming machine (1), game balls are not forced to be awarded to the special prize area (155). However, as described in [12] above, the game balls are placed in the special prize area (155). It may be configured that whether or not to win is greatly influenced by a winning guiding means (156) provided in the variable winning device (150).

  The winning guiding means (156) affects the winning probability of the game ball to the special winning area (155), thereby increasing the possibility that the special gaming state is repeatedly executed, or the special gaming state is first set. When the predetermined condition to be generated includes a process of winning a game ball in the special winning area (155), the special game state can be adjusted to increase the possibility of being generated first. .

  As described in [13] above, the winning guiding means (156) may be adjusted to a guiding state that is advantageous for a player who easily wins a game ball in the special winning area (155) or a normal guiding state. . Here, the “advantageous guidance state” is not a complicated state in which a game ball is forcibly won in the special winning area (155), but is a state where it is easier to win than the “normal guidance state”. It ’s enough. Further, the winning guidance means (156) is not limited to one that operates alternatively between the advantageous guidance state and the normal guidance state, and may be in various states between the advantageous guidance state and the normal guidance state. It is good to be able to adjust steplessly.

  Specifically, for example, as described in the above [14], the winning guide means (156) may be constituted by a horizontally long guide bar member that can be tilted left and right. It is supported inside the variable prize winning device (150) so that it can be tilted into a tilting posture tilted to a non-tilting posture that does not tilt.

  When the guide bar member is in the non-tilting posture, the guide bar member is inclined downward from the left and right end portions toward the central portion, and the game ball guided to the central portion is placed in the special winning area ( 155), if the central opening (156a) for dropping is provided, the winning guidance means (156) is maintained in the non-tilting posture, the state where the non-tilting posture is frequent, or the non-tilting posture. In a state in which the game time is long, an advantageous guiding state that makes it easy for the game ball to win the special winning area (155) is obtained.

  On the other hand, when the winning guiding means (156) is in a tilting posture, the winning guiding means (156) is greatly inclined from one of the left and right ends toward the other end, and the momentum is directed from one end to the other end. The game ball flows down well, and it becomes difficult to enter the central entrance (156a) with the momentum. Therefore, in the state where the winning guidance means (156) is maintained in the non-tilting posture, the state where the number of times of the non-tilting posture is large, or the state where the non-tilting posture is long, the game is entered in the special winning area (155). The ball is in a normal guidance state where it is difficult to win.

  Here, as described in the above [15], the game balls placed on the guide bar member are moved to the winning guide means (156) in addition to the central port (156a) at the center of the guide bar member. It is preferable to provide a drop opening (156b) that drops downward before reaching the end portion of the. Thereby, the game ball rolling on the winning guidance means (156) does not reach the central entrance (156a) and falls downward from the fall opening (156b) depending on the inclination angle and the tilting speed of the guide bar member. Therefore, it is possible to produce a winning form with more variations of game balls.

  Also, as described in [16] above, a game ball placed on the guide bar member enters the winning guide means (156) in addition to the central port (156a) at the center of the guide bar member, There may be provided a receiving groove (156c) for holding the game ball when in the non-tilting posture and for rolling out the game ball when in the tilting posture. Thereby, depending on the inclination angle and the tilting speed of the guide bar member, the game ball rolling on the winning guide means (156) once gets into the receiving groove (156c), and further rolls out from the receiving groove (156c), Since it may reach the left and right ends or fall from the central entrance (156a), it is possible to produce a winning form with more variations of the game ball.

  Further, as described in [17] above, if the winning guiding means (156) is capable of adjusting the amplitude in the right and left tilting operation, the change in the appearance of the variable winning device (150) may be combined. Since it changes into various forms, the game in the variable winning device (150) becomes more interesting and can attract players.

  Further, as described in [18] above, the winning guiding means (156) may be capable of adjusting the tilting speed in the left-right tilting operation, and the variable winning device is similar to the amplitude adjustment in the tilting operation described above. Since the change in appearance of (150) changes to various forms, the game in the variable winning device (150) becomes more interesting and can attract players.

  Further, as described in [19] above, it is also interesting that the prize guiding means (156) can be adjusted in height in the vertical direction separately from the horizontal tilting operation. The lower the height position of the winning guiding means (156) and the shorter the distance from the special winning area (155), the higher the winning degree of the game ball in the special winning area (155). The height position of the winning guidance means (156) may be adjusted to, for example, preset three levels such as low, medium, and high.

  By the way, in the special gaming state, if the special gaming state does not satisfy the requirement to be repeatedly executed, normally, the new round of the special gaming state is not repeated and the special gaming state is not continued. Although it ends, the player's profit decreases as the number of continuations (rounds) repeatedly executed until the end. When the special game state has occurred in this way and the number of continuations (rounds) of the special game state is too small, it is conceivable to compensate the player's profit as follows.

  That is, according to the gaming machine (1) described in [20], in the special gaming state, when the special gaming state does not satisfy the requirement to be repeatedly executed and the continuation of the special gaming state is terminated halfway. The number of continuations (rounds) of the special gaming state that has been repeatedly executed up to that point is determined by the continuation number confirmation means (2200) of the main board (100). Further, a predetermined lower limit value is set in advance with respect to the number of continuations by the lower limit value setting means (2100) of the main board (100).

  If the number of continuations (rounds) determined by the continuation number confirmation means (2200) is less than the lower limit value, the variable display means (330) is displayed by the display control means (1500b) of the main board (100). Then, variable display of the identification information is executed. When the specific identification information is displayed as a result of the variable display, the continuous resumption means (2400) of the main board (100) resumes the continuation of the special gaming state.

  Thus, when the number of continuations (rounds) in the special gaming state is too small (less than the lower limit value), the variable display is executed specially, and depending on the result of the variable display, the player's Opportunities to make up for profits may arise. As a result, the visual fun of the variable display on the variable display means (330) is combined with the compensation of the player's profits by resuming the continued special gaming state, and the game is even more innovative and interesting. Can be produced.

  Here, as described in [21] above, it is preferable that the continuation restarting means (2400) resume the continuation of the special gaming state up to the number of times the continuation number is less than the lower limit value. . Then, the number of continuations (rounds) when the continuation of the special gaming state is resumed does not exceed the preset lower limit value, and the continuation of the special gaming state can be suppressed within the preset limit. it can.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a special gaming state is generated in which the movable member of the variable winning device is changed to the first state, and the variable winning device is in the special gaming state. When the received game ball has won the special prize area, the special game state can be repeatedly executed, and in the special game state, the variable prize device can perform the predetermined regardless of whether or not the game ball has won the special prize area. Since a number of game balls can be accepted, in the special game state that occurs, the player can obtain the award ball according to the highest number of winnings and guarantee the player's profit, while winning the game ball in the special winning area With no special control, it is possible to sufficiently arouse the thrill and excitement of the player by letting the continuation of the special gaming state be contingent.

  Moreover, during the special gaming state, each time a game ball is won in the special winning area, variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display means provided in the gaming area, and is specified as a result of this variable display. The predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information. Thereby, in addition to the visual interest by variable display of the identification information in the variable display means, the predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state changes according to the result of the variable display. A novel and interesting game can be produced without being included in a standardized pattern of a conventional general gaming machine (wings).

  Furthermore, during the special gaming state, if the special gaming state does not meet the requirement for repeated execution and the continuation of the special gaming state is terminated in the middle, the continuation of the special gaming state that has been repeatedly performed up to that point in time is continued. If the number of times does not reach the lower limit value, variable display is executed by the variable display means, and the continuation of the special gaming state is resumed on the condition that the specific identification information is displayed as a result. This combination of fun and compensation for the player's interests can produce a game that is even more innovative and interesting.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments representing the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
1 to 25 show a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a game in which a game ball is launched on the game board 2, and in the process in which the launched game ball is dropped, various prizes and winning holes on the game board 2 are awarded. A predetermined profit such as paying out a prize ball to the player is given.

First, an outline of the entire gaming machine 1 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 includes a gaming machine status lamp 422 for notifying a special gaming status generated during gaming by lighting, a glass frame 11 formed in a frame shape and fixing a front glass, and the glass A glass frame opening detection switch 132 for detecting the opening of the frame 11 and a game board 2 on which parts for advancing the game are mounted so that the game ball launched by the player moves while falling is detachable. Is attached.

  On the lower surface of the glass frame 11, an upper tray 3 for storing lending balls and payout balls, a lower tray 4 for storing balls overflowing from the upper tray 3, and a ball stored in the upper tray 3 are extracted. An upper tray ball removal lever 7, a lower tray ball removal lever 8 for extracting the balls stored in the lower tray 4, and a handle 5 for a player to perform a game ball firing operation are provided. Further, the handle 5 is provided with a firing stop switch 652 for stopping the firing of the ball. An ashtray 6 for smokers is also provided beside the lower tray 4.

  FIG. 2 is a rear view of the gaming machine 1. On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, a control board and parts for each function are configured. Here, as a control board, a main board 100 that manages and controls the operation of the entire game, and a payout control board 200 that receives instruction information from the main board 100 through parallel communication and controls the payout operation of prize balls are provided. ing. Also, a launch control board 600 that controls the launch of the sphere, a launch motor 653 that is controlled by the launch control board 600, a power supply board 700 that supplies predetermined power to each board, and external information connected to external devices. A frame external terminal board 800 for outputting (award ball signal, ball-out signal) is also provided.

  Further, in the protective cover 93, a display control board 300, a lamp control board 400, an audio control board 500, and the like are provided on the game board 2. Each control board is housed in a dedicated case so that it is protected from dust from the outside, spilled balls from other equipment, and static electricity and electrical noise. In particular, the case of the main board 100 has a structure that can be opened and closed a predetermined number of times using a dedicated screw.

Next, the flow path of the sphere received from the pachinko ball supply device will be described.
In FIG. 2, a ball replenished from a pachinko ball replenishing device (not shown) is stored in a tank unit 90 at the upper part of the gaming machine, and each time a prize ball is paid out, the ball is a shoot unit 91, a payout unit. It passes through 92 and is sent to the upper tray 3.

  The tank unit 90 stores balls supplied from the pachinko ball supply device, and a prize ball tank ball presence / absence switch 801 and a ball leveling 94 are provided on the bottom surface of the tank unit 90. The prize ball tank ball presence / absence switch 801 is a switch for detecting the presence / absence of a ball stored in the tank unit 90. The switch is input according to the weight of the stored ball, and the detection signal passes through the frame external terminal plate 800. Output to the outside.

  Further, the ball leveling 94 is for leveling the sphere so that the sphere flowing in the lane of the chute unit 91 does not rise due to the ball pressure. The bottom surface of the tank unit 90 is inclined so that balls are gathered and dropped at a portion joined to the chute unit 91. The chute unit 91 divides and arranges the spheres flowing down from the tank unit 90 into two lanes. On the way to the payout unit 95, the ball leveling 94 suppresses the bulge caused by the ball pressure. However, the ball leveling 95 is used to level the ball more effectively and send it to the payout unit 92. is there.

  Further, a chute ball cut switch 131 is provided on the ball path of the chute unit 91. The chute ball cut switch 131 is a switch that detects the presence or absence of a ball up to the payout unit 92, and the detection signal is input to the main board 100 to monitor the presence or absence of the ball. The switch 131 is similar in use to the prize ball tank ball presence / absence switch 801, but the presence / absence of connection with the main board 100 is greatly different.

  The payout unit 92 forms a ball passage to the upper tray 3, a payout motor 222 for sending out the ball onto the ball passage, a payout stop solenoid 223 for suppressing the flow (falling) of the ball, and a payout ball A prize ball detection switch 130 or the like is provided. The payout motor 222 and the payout stop solenoid 223 are connected to the payout control board 200 and controlled.

  When a payout request for a predetermined ball is issued from the main board 100 to the payout control board 200, the payout control board 200 sends the ball to the upper tray 3 by the payout motor 222 and the payout stop solenoid 223. The award ball detection switch 130 is connected to the main board 100 and counts a predetermined number of balls in the same manner as the payout control board 200 so that the payout can be confirmed more accurately.

  An overflow switch 133 is provided on the ball passage formed so that the overflow ball from the upper tray 3 flows down to the lower tray 4. When the sphere stored in the lower tray 4 is full and the sphere reaches the installation position of the overflow switch 133, the switch is input by the stored ball pressure, and the detection signal is input to the main board 100. . When the main board 100 detects the input of the overflow switch 133, the main board 100 outputs instruction information to the payout control board 200 so as to stop the launch of the ball.

  FIG. 3 is a front view of the game board 2. On the front side of the game board 2, guide rails 16a and 16b for guiding the fired ball to the game area 17 and nails (not shown) for changing the flow of the game ball led to the game area 17 are provided. And a windmill 15, a plurality of start ports 21 a to 21 c, a variable winning device 150 having movable members 152 a and 152 b that can change between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which a game ball is difficult to receive, and a plurality of types of identification Variable display means 330 capable of variably displaying information is provided.

  Further, at the lowermost part of the game board 2, there is provided an out port 29 through which a game ball that has fallen without entering any of the winning ports in the game area 17 is discharged out of the gaming machine. When a ball enters the out port 29, no special privilege is given to the player, and no prize ball is paid out. On the other hand, near the upper corner of the game board 2, a side case lamp 423, a side LED 428, and the like are provided as decorative lamps.

  As the winning ports, in addition to the start ports 21a to 21c, a right sleeve winning port 22a, a left sleeve winning port 22b, and the like are provided. When a game ball wins each winning opening, a winning ball is detected by a switch attached to each winning opening, and a predetermined winning ball assigned to each winning opening is paid out each time a winning ball is detected.

  FIG. 4 is a rear view showing the game board 2. Various control boards and related parts are assembled on the back of the game board 2 in the same manner as already shown in FIG. The control board includes a display control board 300 for controlling the variable display means 330, a lamp control board 400 for controlling the decorative lamp, a voice control board 500 for controlling sound, and external information for the board connected to an external device. A panel external terminal board 850 for output is provided.

  As switches for detecting a winning ball of each winning opening, start opening switches 121a to 121c, a right sleeve winning opening switch 122a, a left sleeve winning opening switch 122b, and the like are installed in the vicinity of each winning opening. The switch for each winning opening is provided in the vicinity of each winning opening, but it can also be arranged on the passage until the winning ball is discharged out of the gaming machine.

  When a ball is won at each prize opening, it is detected by each prize opening switch, and each time it is detected, the next predetermined prize ball assigned to each prize opening is paid out. Five are assigned to each of the start ports 21a to 21c, eight are assigned to the right sleeve winning port 22a and the left sleeve winning port 22b, and 15 are assigned to the variable winning device 150. The allocation of the number of winning balls is fixed for each winning opening, but can be arbitrarily changed according to the specifications of the model of the gaming machine 1.

  In addition, the related apparatus for variably operating the accessory is provided with variable winning device solenoids 134a, 134b and the like for individually changing the pair of movable members 152a, 152b included in the variable winning device 150. The variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b constitute movable member driving means for varying the movable members 152a and 152b between the first state and the second state. In addition, you may comprise so that a pair of movable piece which each starting port 21a-21c each has may be opened and closed by a normal electric accessory solenoid.

Next, the main components on the game board 2 will be described in more detail.
The plurality of start ports 21a to 21c, that is, the center start port 21a, the right start port 21b, and the left start port 21c are generally referred to as start chuckers. As a result of the winning of a ball in each of the start ports 21a to 21c, the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable winning device 150 described below are set to change to the first state in which the game ball is easily received only once or several times. Yes. That is, winning a game ball at each of the start ports 21a to 21c is defined as the first process of a “predetermined condition” for generating a special game state to be described later.

  In the present embodiment, when a game ball wins the right start opening 21b, the right movable member 152a of the variable winning device 150 changes to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example, and the left start opening 21c plays a game. When the ball wins, the movable member 152b on the left side of the variable winning device 150 changes to the first state, for example, for about 0.5 seconds, and when the game ball wins the central starting port 21a, a pair of movable members of the variable winning device 150 moves. Both the members 152a and 152b are set so as to change to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example.

  Of course, the mode of variation of the pair of movable members 152a and 152b described here is merely an example. In addition, for example, when a game ball wins in the left and right start ports 21b and 21c, both of the pair of movable members 152a and 152b of the variable winning device 150 change to the first state only once, for example, about 0.5 seconds, When a game ball wins at the center starting port 21a, both of the pair of movable members 152a and 152b of the variable winning device 150 may be repeated twice, for example, to change to the first state every 0.5 seconds. .

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the start ports 21 a to 21 c includes start port switches 121 a to 121 c that detect winning of a game ball. Each of the start port switches 121a to 121c outputs a unique detection signal to the main board 100 when a winning ball is detected and turned ON. In addition, what is necessary is just to comprise each starting port switch 121a-121c by various sensors, such as an optical sensor, a proximity sensor, or a magnetic sensor, for example.

  The variable winning device 150 is a mechanical main accessory, and movable members 152a and 152b that can be changed between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to receive, and the movable members 152a and 152b are first. The game ball received in the state has a general winning area 154 for a normal winning, a special winning area 155 for a special winning, and a winning guiding means 156. The variable winning device 150 is formed in a case shape whose upper end side opens as a receiving port 151, and a pair of movable members 152 a and 152 b are provided on the upper side of the receiving port 151 so as to be able to vary in the horizontal direction.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the pair of movable members 152a and 152b are separated into a first state in which the receiving port 151 is opened to be separated from left and right, and a second state in which the receiving port 151 is closed in the vicinity of the left and right. , Each can be moved separately in the horizontal direction. That is, each movable member 152a, 152b is in a state where both are maintained in the first state (see FIG. 13C), and in a state where both are maintained in the second state (see FIG. 14A), Either one is maintained in the first state and the other is maintained in the second state (see FIGS. 13A and 13B).

  Each of the movable members 152a and 152b is driven in the horizontal direction by driving the variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b, which are the movable member driving means, along a guide rail (not shown) extending in the horizontal direction disposed on the back side of each of the movable members 152a and 152b. However, when the power is supplied to the variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b, the game ball is changed to the first state in which the game ball is easily received. Yes. The second state is a state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball, but also includes a state in which a game ball cannot be accepted.

  Each movable member 152a, 152b is provided with a storage means capable of temporarily storing game balls in a state where each movable member 152a, 152b is maintained in a second state in which it is difficult to receive game balls. As shown in FIG. 14, the storage means is formed by providing the movable members 152a and 152b with notches 153 capable of storing game balls. More specifically, each of the movable members 152a and 152b has a downwardly inclined shape from the tip opposite to each other, and a game ball (see FIG. 14) from both sides when contacting each other above the tip. A notch 153 is provided for receiving P).

  In the present embodiment, the cutout portion 153 provided in each of the movable members 152a and 152b is set to a size and shape that can store only one game ball, but for example, two or three or more A notch portion as a storage means may be provided in a size and shape that can store a plurality of game balls. Note that the specific configuration of the storage means is not limited to the notch, and any structure that can store one or more game balls is sufficient.

  Inside the variable winning device 150, there are a general winning area 154 for making the game balls received when the movable members 152a and 152b are in the first state a normal winning, and a special winning area 155 for making a special winning. Is provided. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a general winning area switch 127 is provided inside the general winning area 154, and a special winning area switch 128 is provided inside the special winning area 155. The general winning area 154 is divided into right and left with the special winning area 155 in between, but the passage through which the winning balls pass is integrated into one, and one general winning area switch is provided on this one path. 127 is arranged.

  The general winning area switch 127 and the special winning area switch 128 each output a unique detection signal to the main board 100 when a winning ball is detected and turned ON. The general winning area switch 127 and the special winning area switch 128 may be configured by various sensors such as an optical sensor, a proximity sensor, or a magnetic sensor.

  In the present embodiment, the game ball launched into the game area 17 first wins the starting ports 21a to 21c, and based on this, the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize winning device 150 are in the first state only once as described above. When the game ball taken into the variable winning device 150 is won not in the general winning area 154 but in the special winning area 155, the “predetermined condition” is satisfied and the movable members 152a and 152b are satisfied. Is set so that a special gaming state that repeatedly fluctuates to the first state occurs.

  In this special game state, the game ball received by the variable prize apparatus 150 has won the special prize area 155, so that the special game state is repeatedly generated up to a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 10 rounds). Yes. In such a special game state, the variable winning device 150 is set to be able to accept a predetermined number of game balls regardless of whether or not the game balls are won in the special prize area 155. This will be described in detail later.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 13, a prize winning means 156 is also provided inside the variable prize winning device 150. The winning guiding means 156 affects the winning probability of the game ball to the special winning area 155, and the winning guiding means 156 is a guiding state advantageous for a player who easily wins the game ball to the special winning area 155. The operation is performed in a normal guiding state, and this operation is performed by a winning guiding means solenoid 135 including, for example, a rotary solenoid that supports the winning guiding means 156 so as to be capable of tilt adjustment.

  The winning guiding means 156 in the present embodiment is a horizontally long guide bar member that can be tilted left and right and tilted to the left or right (see FIGS. 13B and 13C). It can be tilted to a non-tilting posture that does not tilt (see FIG. 13A). However, the winning guiding means is not limited to such a configuration, arrangement, and operation, and may be another configuration as long as it affects the winning probability of the game ball to the special winning area 155.

  When the winning guiding means 156 is in the non-tilting posture, the winning guiding means 156 is slightly inclined downward from the left and right ends toward the central portion, and the central portion of the winning guiding means 156 corresponds to above the special winning area 155. It has a central port 156a. When the winning guiding means 156 is in the non-tilting posture, the game ball guided to the central portion of the winning guiding means 156 enters the central port 156a and falls toward the special winning area 155 below. On the other hand, when the winning guiding means 156 is in a tilted posture, the game ball is greatly inclined from one of the left and right ends toward the other end, and vigorously moves from one end to the other end. Is set to be difficult to enter the central port 156a with the momentum.

  Therefore, an advantageous guiding state in which a game ball can easily win a special winning area 155 includes a state in which the winning guiding means 156 is maintained in a non-tilting posture, a state in which the number of non-tilting postures is large, or a non-tilting motion. A long time for posture. On the other hand, the normal guiding state in which the game ball is difficult to win in the special winning area 155 is a state in which the winning guiding means 156 is maintained in a tilting posture, a state where the number of times of non-tilting posture is small, or a non-tilting posture The state where the time to become is short.

  In addition, notification means 310a and 310b for notifying the game state are provided on the surface side of the movable members 152a and 152b. The notification means 310a and 310b are operated based on a signal from the display control means 1500a of the gaming machine 1 only when a change is made in the movable members 152a and 152b based on a signal from a game control means 1100 described later of the gaming machine 1. Is set to

  Specifically, the notification units 310a and 310b are formed of, for example, a dot matrix in which a plurality of LEDs are arranged in a dense state, and the display contents can be changed by appropriately emitting the plurality of LEDs. The specific display contents of the notification means 310a and 310b will be described later in detail. Note that the notification units 310a and 310b are not limited to a dot matrix composed of a plurality of LEDs, but may be configured using another variable display device (display device) such as a liquid crystal, organic EL, or inorganic EL.

  A display unit 320 for displaying the number of reserved balls, which will be described later, is provided at the bottom of the case of the variable winning device 150. The display unit 320 includes 10 LEDs, and is set to display the number of reserved balls according to the number of lighting of each LED. In the present embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls that can be displayed is made to coincide with 10 that is the number of LEDs. However, by using LEDs capable of emitting multicolor light, even one LED can be set so as to represent two or more reserved balls by emitting different colors, and the upper limit value for storing the reserved balls is not necessarily limited. The number of LEDs is not limited.

  The display unit 320 is not limited to a dot matrix composed of a plurality of LEDs, as in the notification unit 310, but a plurality of light bulbs, a 7-segment LED, or another variable display device such as a liquid crystal, organic EL, or inorganic EL ( Display device) may be used, and further, not only analog display but also digital display by numerical values may be set.

  The variable display means 330 includes a display area in which various symbols as a plurality of types of identification information can be variably displayed on the screen. The variable display means 330 includes a liquid crystal unit, but includes a CRT display, a drum unit, It is also possible to adopt a 7-segment display or the like. The variable display means 330 is disposed so as to be substantially flush with the board surface of the game area 17, and does not hinder the fall of the game ball.

  In the variable display means 330, variable display is executed every time a game ball wins a special winning area 155 for each round in the special gaming state. Here, the time from the start to the end of the variable display is a design matter that can be determined as appropriate. However, if a game ball wins in the special prize area 155 after the variable display, the variable display that was currently in progress May be forcibly terminated early and the next variable display may be executed. In addition to the storage of the holding ball described later, the right of variable display can be held only during the current round. The variable display may be set to be executed sequentially based on this hold. Of course, it is not always necessary to execute the variable display based on the winning in the special winning area 155, and if the variable display is still being executed, the current right of variable display may be set to be abandoned.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the variable display is initially performed as a result of the variable display after various kinds of various symbols (identification information) are scrolled on the display area of the variable display means 330 (see FIG. 15A). Such light weight specific information or normal identification information is stopped and determined (see (b) in the figure). Here, the light weight specific information may be any identification information that reminds the player of differences in lightness and weight, but in the present embodiment, the numbers “7”, “5”, “3” Is defined as light weight specific information, and these are associated with the larger the number, the heavier the light and the lighter the light. The identification information used for variable display is not limited to simple symbols such as numbers and symbols of 0 to 9, but may be information imitating a character or the like, for example.

  A predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information specified as a result of such variable display. Specifically, when the result of variable display executed during the current round is “7”, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined to be 10, and the result of variable display is “5”. , The predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined to be 7, and when the variable display result is “3”, the predetermined number that can be received in the next round is determined to be 5; For other results, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is uniformly set to three. Of course, the probability of which result will appear can be determined arbitrarily using random numbers, etc., for example, as appropriate, such as increasing the probability that a result advantageous to the player (“7” or “5”) will appear. Can do.

  In addition, when a plurality of game balls are won in the special prize area 155 and a variable display is executed a plurality of times during one round of the special game state, for example, it is most advantageous to the player from among the results. It can be considered to set the result to be selected. Further, for the first round of the special gaming state that occurs first after the power is turned on, the predetermined number of initial setting values may be set to 10 for example.

Next, various control boards used for controlling the gaming machine 1 will be described.
5 and 6 are block diagrams showing various control boards used for controlling the gaming machine 1 and components related thereto. 5 and 6 show a main board 100, a payout control board 200, a display control board 300, a lamp control board 400, a sound control board 500, a launch control board 600, and a power supply board 700 as control boards. .

  Here, the main board 100 realizes various functions including a game control unit 1100, a predetermined number setting unit 1170, a holding ball storage unit 1200, an upper limit setting unit 1400, and the like. Further, the main board 100 and the lamp control board 400 realize a function as display control means 1500a that performs display control of the notification means 310a and 310b and the display unit 320. Further, the main board 100 and the display control board 300 realize a function as the display control unit 1500 b that performs display control of the variable display unit 330.

  The game control means 1100 generates a special game state in which the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 are changed to the first state when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and the variable prize apparatus is in the special game state. The game balls accepted by the player 150 have won the special prize area 155, so that the special game state can be repeatedly executed. In the special game state, the variable prize device 150 allows the game balls to be awarded to the special prize area 155. Regardless of the presence or absence, a predetermined number of game balls are controlled to be acceptable.

  More specifically, the game control means 1100 outputs a drive signal for changing the movable members 152a and 152b from the second state to the first state to the variable prize device solenoids 134a and 134b, which are movable member drive means. 1110 and movable member closing means 1120 for outputting a drive signal for moving the movable members 152a and 152b from the first state to the second state to the variable prize apparatus solenoids 134a and 134b, which are also movable member drive means. Yes. Of course, the movable member opening means 1110 and the movable member closing means 1120 may be provided separately from the game control means 1100.

  The movable member opening means 1110 outputs a drive signal when a game ball wins the starting ports 21a to 21c as the first process under a predetermined condition, and based on the drive signal, a variable prize device solenoid that is a movable member drive means. 134a and 134b activate the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 from the second state to the first state. More specifically, when a game ball wins the right start opening 21b, the movable member opening means 1110 outputs a drive signal to the variable winning apparatus solenoid 134a based on the detection signal from the start opening switch 121b, and the right movable The member 152a is horizontally moved to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example.

  When a game ball wins the left starting port 21c, based on the detection signal from the starting port switch 121c, the movable member opening means 1110 outputs a drive signal to the variable winning device solenoid 134b, and the left movable member 152b. Is moved horizontally to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example. Further, when a game ball wins at the central starting port 21a, based on the detection signal from the starting port switch 121a, the movable member opening means 1110 outputs a drive signal to the variable winning device solenoids 134a, 134b, and both left and right The movable members 152a and 152b are horizontally moved to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example.

  On the other hand, the movable member closing means 1120 has a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) after the movable members 152a and 152b corresponding to the start ports 21a to 21c where the game balls have won change from the second state to the first state. After the elapse of time, instead of the movable member releasing means 1110, a drive signal relating to the movable members 152a and 152b corresponding to the start ports 21a to 21c in which the game balls have been won is output, and the movable member drive means 134a, 134b horizontally moves the movable members 152a and 152b corresponding to the start ports 21a to 21c in which the game balls have won from the first state to the original second state.

  Subsequently, when the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 are changed to the first state, the game balls taken into the variable prize apparatus 150 are not in the general prize area 154 but in the special prize area 155. When winning, based on the detection signal from the special prize area switch 128, the movable member opening means 1110 outputs a drive signal to the variable prize device solenoids 134a, 134b to set both the left and right movable members 152a, 152b to the first state. A special game state to be changed is generated. In the special gaming state, the pair of movable members 152a and 152b are set to repeatedly change to the first state, but are set to continue to be maintained in the first state until a predetermined number of game balls are won. May be.

  Such a special game state is continued until a predetermined number of game balls are received regardless of whether or not a game ball is won in the special prize area 155 which is a condition for the special game state to be repeatedly generated. That is, the movable member closing means 1120 receives the number of game balls won in the general prize area 154 and the special prize area 155 when the movable members 152a and 152b are changed to the first state in the special game state. When the sum of the number of game balls reached a predetermined number, a driving signal is output. Based on the driving signal, the variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b move the movable members 152a and 152b from the first state to the second state. To fluctuate.

  Next, it is determined based on the detection signal from the special prize area switch 128 whether or not the game ball received by the variable prize apparatus 150 has won the special prize area 155 in the special game state. If the special winning area 155 has been won, even if the current special gaming state is terminated on the condition, a new special gaming state for the next round is subsequently generated. In this way, the special game state that can be repeatedly executed is executed for the number of rounds equal to the number of reserved balls described below.

  The reserved ball storage means 1200 stores, as a reserved ball, a game ball won in the special prize area 155 among a predetermined number of game balls received by the variable winning device 150 during the special game state. Here, the holding ball is set to be stored in a RAM 104 (see FIG. 6) of the main board 100 described later.

  Furthermore, when a game ball is won in each of the starting holes 21a to 21c, which is the first process of a predetermined condition, in the special game state, the game that won the starting holes 21a to 21c is stored in the holding ball storage means 1200. You may comprise so that the starting holding ball memory | storage means 1300 which memorize | stores a sphere also as a holding ball may be included. Of course, the start-and-hold ball storage unit 1300 may be provided independently of the hold-ball storage unit 1200. The start-and-hold ball storage means 1300 stores a start-and-hold ball for starting the variable members 152a and 152b to the first state in the first process of a predetermined condition, separately from the hold ball for continuing the special game state. Will do.

  In this way, the winning of the game balls to the start ports 21a to 21c in the special game state is also held as a start hold ball without wasting, so that after all the special game states currently being continued, By sequentially digesting the held start balls that have been put on hold and starting the variable members 152a and 152b to the first state, it is possible to effectively use them in the game. It should be noted that a predetermined upper limit value may be provided for the start hold ball, or the number of start hold balls may be displayed on the display unit 320 or a separately provided display unit.

  In addition, with the provision of the start-and-hold ball storage unit 1300, the hold ball stored in the main-board 100 by the hold-ball storage unit 1200 (including the start-and-hold ball storage unit 1300) repeatedly executes the special game state. A determination means 1600 for determining whether the holding ball is a normal holding ball or a starting holding ball that activates the movable members 152a, 152b to the first state as a first process under a predetermined condition, and the special gaming state is repeated during the processing of the holding ball It is also preferable to provide a function of selection means 1700 for selecting and executing the movable member 152a, 152b to be activated to the first state as the first process under a predetermined condition.

  The upper limit value setting means 1400 sets an upper limit value for the number of reserved balls stored in the reserved ball storage means 1200. Here, the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls is set to 10 which is the number of LEDs constituting the display unit 320. Of course, such an upper limit value is not limited to the number of LEDs or the like. Can be set to any value. Note that, as described above, a predetermined upper limit value may also be provided for the start-and-hold ball.

  The display control means 1500b comprising the main board 100 and the display control board 300 is a function for performing display control of the variable display means 330, and is variably displayed each time a game ball wins in the special prize area 155 in the special game state. The means 330 performs variable display. When a game ball is won in the special prize area 155 during the variable display, the display control means 1500b forcibly terminates the variable display that is currently in progress and executes the next variable display. Alternatively, separately from the storage of the reserved ball, the variable display right may be reserved only during the current round, and the variable display may be sequentially executed based on the hold. Note that it is not always necessary to execute variable display based on winning in the special winning area 155, and if the variable display is still being executed, the display control unit 1500b performs control so that the right of the current variable display is abandoned. It is also possible.

  The predetermined number setting means 1170 determines a predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state in accordance with the light weight specific information specified as a result of the variable display. Specifically, when the result of variable display executed during the current round is “7”, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is set to 10 and the result of variable display is “5”. If there is, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is set to 7, and if the variable display result is “3”, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is set to 5 and other results If so, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is uniformly set to three.

  Also, the predetermined number setting means 1170 may select from a plurality of results when a plurality of game balls are won in the special prize area 155 and a plurality of variable displays are executed during one round of the special game state. Choose the results that are most advantageous to the player. Further, for the first round of the special gaming state that occurs first after the power is turned on, the predetermined number of initial setting values is set to ten.

  The display control means 1500a comprising the main board 100 and the lamp control board 400 is a function for performing display control of the notification means 310a, 310b and the display unit 320, and based on the signal from the game control means 1100, the movable member 152a. , 152b, the notification means 310a, 310b display predetermined display contents, or the number of LEDs of the display unit 320 corresponding to the number of the holding balls based on the signal from the holding ball storage means 1200. The display is controlled so as to light up. An example of display contents of the notification units 310a and 310b and the display unit 320 controlled by the display control unit 1500a will be described in detail later. Note that, as described above, the number of the start holding balls may be displayed on the display unit 320 or a display unit provided separately.

  In addition, the main board 100 is provided with a game state determining means 1130 and a winning guidance means control means 1140 relating to the control of the winning guidance member 156. The game state determination means 1130 determines the winning guidance means 156 when the movable members 152a and 152b change from the second state to the first state based on the winning of the game balls to the plurality of start ports 21a to 21c. For example, a random lottery or the like is used to determine whether such a state is to be a guidance state advantageous to the player or a normal guidance state.

  The winning guiding means control means 1140 controls the state of the winning guiding means 156 by outputting a drive signal to the winning guiding means solenoid 135 of the winning guiding means 156 based on the determination result of the gaming state determining means 1130. . Of course, the game state determination means 1130 is not provided, but only the winning guidance means control means 1140 is provided, and the movable members 152a and 152b are moved from the second state to the first state based on the winning of the game balls to the respective start ports 21a to 21c. When changing to the state, the winning guidance means 156 may be set so as to be adjusted to a guidance state advantageous to the player. It should be noted that when the winning guiding means 156 is controlled to a guiding state advantageous to the player, the tilt angle and tilt time to be maintained in the non-tilting posture are arbitrarily set.

  Furthermore, the main board 100 is provided with a function of either a prize ball payout stop means 1800 or a prize ball payout control means 1900. Here, the prize ball payout stopping means 1800 has a function of stopping the payout of the prize ball due to winning in the start openings 21a to 21c when a game ball wins in each of the start openings 21a to 21c during the special game state. is there. Further, the prize ball payout control means 1900 has a function of paying out a predetermined number of prize balls by winning the start holes 21a to 21c when the game balls are won in the start holes 21a to 21c during the special game state. It is. The control of the prize ball payout stopping means 1800 and the prize ball payout control means 1900 will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 6 shows details of the main board 100. The main board 100 operates based on the clock generated by the clock circuit 108 inside the main board. In addition, by inputting an interrupt signal at regular time intervals obtained by dividing the clock generated by the clock circuit 108 by the internal timer 107 to the CPU 102, the CPU 102 executes timer interrupt processing at regular time intervals. The CPU 102 performs a series of operations by executing, for each interrupt, a process divided so as to end in a time shorter than the interval of the timer setting time.

  The start opening switches 121a to 121c, the right sleeve winning opening switch 122a, the left sleeve winning opening switch 122b, the general winning area switch 127, and the special winning area switch 128 are switches for detecting the winning of a game ball, respectively. Input signals from these switches are supplied to the gate circuit 110. Further, input signals from the right prize ball detection switch 130 a, the left prize ball detection switch 130 b, the shot ball break switch 131, the glass frame opening detection switch 132, and the overflow switch 133 are supplied to the gate circuit 111.

  The addresses of the gate circuits 110 and 111 are set in the address space of the CPU 102 by the memory mapped I / O method. The address selection circuit 113 decodes the address signal and the write / read control signal output from the CPU 102 in accordance with the system clock output from the CPU 102 to generate a chip select signal.

  When the gate circuits 110 and 111 are selected by the chip select signal, the input signals from the start port switches 121a to 121c are output to the data bus through the gate circuit. Each input signal on the data bus is detected multiple times by the interrupt signal generated at regular intervals until the next reset, and after chattering prevention processing is performed, the RAM specified for each input signal Stored in the area.

  The input signals from the start port switches 121a to 121c are five prize ball signals, and the input signals from the right sleeve prize port switch 122a and the left sleeve prize port switch 122b are eight prize ball signals, respectively. Further, the input signals from the general winning area switch 127 and the special winning area switch 128 are handled as 15 winning ball signals, and the number of winning detected by each switch is stored in the designated RAM area. . At the same time, the total number of prize balls is calculated by the CPU 102 and stored in a designated RAM area.

  Output data to each control board passes through a buffer 114 provided in the middle of the data bus, and is further output to the latch circuits 112a to 112g through the output data bus. By arranging the buffer 114 in the middle of the data bus connecting the output latch circuit and the CPU 102, the bus signal flows in one direction, which is a countermeasure against fraud.

  Due to the presence of data in the 5 start ball switches RAM area, the 8 left and right sleeve winning opening switch area, the 15 general winning area switches, 15 special winning area RAM areas, the 15 special winning area switches, the award RAM area, etc. The CPU 102 sequentially outputs 8-bit prize ball data set for each prize ball number to the latch circuit 112a through the data bus and the output data bus. In synchronization with this, an interrupt signal for the payout control board 200 and a control signal for the strobe signal are output to the latch circuit 112e through the data bus and the output data bus.

  When the chip select signal obtained by decoding by the address decoding circuit 113 controlled by the memory mapped I / O is sequentially output to the latch circuit 112a and the latch circuit 112e, the 8-bit prize ball data is interrupted to the latch circuit 112a. The control signal of the signal and the strobe signal is latched by the latch circuit 112e, and the output signal composed of the 8-bit parallel award ball output signal, the interrupt signal, and the 2-bit control signal of the strobe signal is sent to the payout control board as the award ball data. Is output as

  The payout control board 200 shown in FIG. 7 controls the ball discharge mechanism to discharge the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball data. The discharged prize balls are detected by the left prize ball detection switch 130a and the right prize ball detection switch 130b, and the detection signals are output to the gate circuit 211. By outputting the chip select signal from the address decoding circuit 213 to the gate circuit 211, the detection signals output from the left prize ball detection switch 130a and the right prize ball detection switch 130b are output on the data bus and taken into the CPU 102.

  Based on these detection signals, the number of prize balls actually paid out is calculated by the CPU 102, the value is subtracted from the stored data in the RAM area, and the data of the number of prize balls is updated in real time. An output signal is output to the latch circuit 112f for each set number of winning prize balls, and is output to the outside in synchronization with the chip select signal of the address decode circuit 113.

  In addition, the game control means 1100 of the main board 100 acquires a random number value for variable display every time a game ball wins in the special prize area 155 in the special game state, and based on this, the CPU 102 displays the result of variable display. Predetermined, variable display effect data is generated and stored in the RAM area. In addition, data for defining a stop symbol corresponding to the variable display effect data is output to the display control board 300 as display effect data. That is, when the 8-bit recognition code and the display state presentation 8-bit data are sequentially output from the CPU 102 to the latch circuit 112b through the data bus, an interrupt signal to the display control board 300 and each strobe signal are synchronized with them. A 2-bit control signal is output to the latch circuit 112e.

  In synchronization with the display effect data, 8-bit parallel lamp display output data and a control signal are output to the lamp control board 400 through the latch circuit 112c. In synchronization with the display effect data, the 8-bit parallel sound source output data and the control signal are output to the audio control board 500 through the latch circuit 112d. That is, the chip select signal is output from the address decode circuit in synchronization with the timing at which each data is output to the data bus, the data on the data bus is latched by the latch circuits 112c and 112d, and output to the lamp control board 400 or the like. Is done.

  When power is supplied to the main board 100, a reset signal is supplied from the power board 700 and each device on the main board 100 is reset. Thereafter, the system reset signal becomes inactive, and each device transitions to the active state. When the system reset signal changes to an inactive state, the reset signal to the one-chip microcomputer 101 becomes inactive after a predetermined time has elapsed due to delay processing by the clock synchronization / delay circuit 109. As a result, the one-chip microcomputer 101 enters an operating state, and the operating state of the main board 100 is maintained. Thereafter, initial setting of the one-chip microcomputer 101 is performed.

  When the power supply externally supplied from the gaming machine is unstable, a power failure detection signal is supplied from the power supply board 700 to the NMI (non-maskable interrupt) 105 of the one-chip microcomputer 101, and the one-chip microcomputer 101 performs a save operation for each storage area. Done. Specifically, after detecting the winning ball detection data for a certain period of time, the power failure processing determination data is stored in the RAM area to protect the RAM 104. That is, as the power supply voltage decreases, the backup power supply DC5VBB is supplied from the power supply board 700 to the RAM 104, and the storage state of the RAM 104 is maintained.

  When the power is next supplied, the one-chip microcomputer 101 performs a power failure recovery process upon recognizing that there has been a power failure process based on the presence or absence of the power failure process determination data. If the RAM initialization signal is active at the time of initialization, the CPU 102 detects data of the I / O port 106 and initializes the RAM area.

  A signal for detecting the ball breakage by the shot ball break switch 131 and a signal for detecting the ball clogging of the prize ball in the lower plate of the game board surface by the overflow switch 133 are taken into the one-chip microcomputer 101 through the gate circuit 111 and the data bus. . After data conversion, these signals are output from the latch circuit 112a to the payout control board 200 with the same configuration as the prize ball output data. The outputs of the latch circuits 112a to 112g are unidirectional and take an irreversible output form.

  The main board 100 operates based on the clock generated by the clock circuit 108 inside the main board. The internal timer 107 generates an interrupt signal to the CPU 102 at regular time intervals by a frequency dividing operation. The CPU 102 performs various processes at regular intervals when the interrupt signal is input.

Next, the payout control board 200 shown in FIG. 7 will be described.
The payout control board 200 performs one-way communication only from the main board 100 and receives communication data composed of 8-bit parallel prize ball data, prize ball data control signal 1, and prize ball data control signal 2.

  When the winning ball data control signal 1 is input to the counter circuit 202 of the one-chip microcomputer 201, an interrupt signal is output from the counter circuit 202 to the CPU 203. As a result, the prize ball data control signal 1 triggers the CPU 203 to fetch prize ball data.

  The CPU 203 outputs a chip select signal to the gate circuit 212 and the gate circuit 211 through the address decoding circuit 213, and takes in the prize ball data and various signals input to the gate circuits 212 and 211 via the gate circuit and the data bus. And stored in the RAM 205. Then, the payout operation is sequentially performed with the number of winning balls corresponding to the received winning ball data.

  The CPU 203 outputs a winning ball path switching signal to the latch circuit 215 through the data bus, and at the same time, outputs a chip select signal from the address decoding circuit 213. As a result, a winning ball path for the payout operation is secured. Thereafter, a stop release signal of the payout stop solenoid signal is output to the latch circuit 214, the payout motor control signals 1, 2, 3, 4 are sequentially output to the payout motor 222, and the motor rotation is controlled by the output timing of the chip select signal. While performing the prize ball payout operation.

  Using the clock of the clock circuit 209 as a reference, an internal timer 208 generates an interrupt signal at regular intervals to the CPU 203. At this interrupt timing, the detection signal of the winning ball payout ball is taken into the data bus, and a predetermined number of winning balls is obtained. When detected, the driving of the payout stop solenoid 223 and the payout motor 222 is stopped. The detection of the winning ball payout ball is performed by the right winning ball detection switch 130b and the left winning ball detection switch 130a installed in the winning ball path, and these detection signals output a chip select signal to the gate circuit 211. Is taken into the data bus.

  In addition, in the payout operation, when the main board 100 transmits a shot ball cut signal of the shot ball cut switch 131 and an overflow signal of the overflow switch 133 installed in the lower tray 4 of the gaming machine 1 to the winning ball data. The payout control board 200 stops the payout operation. In addition, the payout operation is resumed when each release signal is transmitted to the winning ball data. When power is supplied to the payout control board 200, a system reset signal is supplied from the power supply board 700, and each device on the payout control board 200 is reset. Thereafter, the reset signal is inactive, and each device transitions to the active state.

  Due to the delay processing of the clock synchronization / delay circuit 210, the reset signal to the one-chip microcomputer 201 becomes inactive after a lapse of a fixed time after the original reset signal changes to the inactive state. Thus, the one-chip microcomputer 201 is in an operating state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the original reset signal became inactive, and the operating state of the payout control board 200 is maintained. Thereafter, initial setting of the one-chip microcomputer 201 is performed.

  When the power supply externally supplied to the gaming machine is unstable, a power failure detection signal is supplied from the power supply board 700 to the NMI (non-maskable interrupt) 206 of the one-chip microcomputer 201, and the one-chip microcomputer 201 performs a save operation of each storage area. Done. Specifically, after detecting the winning ball detection data for a certain period of time, the power failure processing determination data is stored in the RAM area to protect the RAM 205.

  When the power supply voltage decreases, DC5VBB is supplied from the power supply board 700 to the RAM 205 as a backup power supply, and the storage state of the RAM 205 is maintained. When power is supplied again, the one-chip microcomputer 201 performs a power failure recovery process by recognizing the presence of the power failure processing determination data. If the RAM initialization signal is active at the time of initialization, the CPU 203 detects the data of the I / O port 106 and initializes the RAM area.

Next, the display control board 300 shown in FIG. 8 will be described.
The display device control board 300 mainly performs display control of the variable display means 330 provided in the game area 17. The display device control board 300 includes a display device control ROM 302 that stores a predetermined image processing procedure (program) and image control data, and a display device control CPU 301 that reads and executes the predetermined image processing procedure.

  The display control CPU 301 receives instruction information regarding the display contents of the variable display means 330 from the main board 100 through parallel communication via the input / output interface 306. The display control CPU 301 executes the contents of the input instruction information in accordance with the image processing procedure stored in the display control ROM 302, and organizes and stores the information in the display control RAM 303, while giving specific information to the image control IC 304. Instructions.

  The image control IC 304 generates a specific video signal with reference to the image data ROM 305 according to the instruction of the display control CPU 301 regarding the display content of the variable display means 330 and outputs it to various display units. In the block diagram of FIG. 8, a VRAM that is an area for temporarily storing image data generated by the image control IC 304, palette (color) information, and the like is not illustrated, but the VRAM is built in the image control IC 304. The one-chip microcomputer may be used.

  The reset signal from the power supply board 700 is input from the power supply board 700 to the display control CPU 301 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on. Thereafter, the display control CPU 301 initializes each control circuit in the display control board 300 according to the image control procedure stored in the display control ROM 302.

Next, the lamp control board 400 shown in FIG. 9 will be described.
The lamp control board 400 controls lighting of the gaming machine status lamp 422, the side case lamp 423, the gaming frame status LED 424, and the notification means 310a, 310b, the display unit 320, and the like installed on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 and the gaming board 2. Is to do.

  The lamp control board 400 includes a lamp control ROM 402 that stores predetermined lamp control processing procedures (programs) and control data, a lamp control CPU 401 that reads and executes predetermined lamp control processing procedures, and a lamp control CPU 401 that performs lamp control processing. Lamp control RAM 403 for storing information obtained by executing the procedure, input / output interface 404 for inputting / outputting from / to the control information in the lamp control board 400, instruction information from the main board 100, and lamp control The CPU 401 includes a driver circuit 405 for driving a lighting signal of each lamp / LED connected to the lamp control board 400 via an input / output interface.

  The lamp control CPU 401 receives instruction information from the main board 100 through parallel communication via the input / output interface 404. The lamp control CPU 401 executes the content of the input instruction information according to the lamp control processing procedure stored in the lamp control ROM 402, operates the driver circuit 405 while organizing and storing the information in the lamp control RAM 403, and connects Turn on / off each lamp / LED.

  The reset signal from the power supply board 700 is input from the power supply board 700 to the lamp control CPU 401 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on. The lamp control CPU 401 then initializes each control circuit in the lamp control board according to the control procedure stored in the lamp control ROM 402.

Next, the audio control board 500 shown in FIG. 10 will be described.
The voice control board 500 controls sound effects, voices, and the like due to game effects when the gaming machine 1 is in a gaming state. Further, when not in the gaming state, control of a warning sound or the like for notifying the abnormal state of the gaming machine 1 is performed.

  The voice control board 500 includes a voice control ROM 502 that stores a predetermined voice processing procedure (program) and control data, a voice control CPU 501 that reads and executes a predetermined voice control procedure, and a voice control CPU 501 that executes the voice processing procedure. The voice control RAM 503 for storing the acquired information, the input / output interface 506 for performing input / output with the instruction information from the main board 100 and each control IC in the voice control board 500, and the voice control CPU 501 From the voice control IC 504 that acquires control instruction information via the interface 506 and generates specific voice, the voice data ROM 505 that is managed by the voice control IC 504 and stores various voices as data, and the voice control IC 501 An amplifier circuit 507 for amplifying the generated audio signal It is.

  The voice control CPU 501 receives instruction information by parallel communication from the main board 100 via the input / output interface 506. The voice control CPU 501 executes the contents of the input instruction information in accordance with the voice control procedure stored in the voice control ROM 502 and organizes and stores the information in the voice control RAM 503 while giving specific instructions to the voice control IC 504. Do.

  The audio control IC 504 generates a specific audio signal by referring to the audio data ROM 505 in accordance with an instruction from the audio control CPU 501, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 507. The reset signal from the power supply board 700 is input from the power supply board 700 to the voice control CPU 501 when the power is supplied to the pachinko machine. The voice control CPU 501 performs voice control according to the voice control procedure stored in the voice control ROM 503. The control circuits in the substrate 500 are initialized.

Next, the launch control board 600 shown in FIG. 11 will be described.
The firing control board 600 includes an oscillation circuit 601 that is a circuit for generating a pulse for setting the rotational speed of the pulse motor used for the firing motor 653 to a predetermined rotational speed, a frequency dividing circuit 602, and a handle unit 650. A motor drive signal for determining a signal from the touch sensor 651, a signal from the firing stop switch 652, a reset signal from the power supply board 700, and a firing permission signal from the payout control board 200, and generating a firing motor drive signal. A control circuit 603 and a driver circuit 604 for exciting each coil of the firing motor 653 are configured.

  The handle portion 650 includes a touch sensor 651 that detects whether or not the player is touching the handle 5, a firing stop switch 652 that allows the player to arbitrarily stop firing a ball, and a firing for firing a ball. It consists of a motor 653 and the like. The reset signal from the power supply board 700 is input from the power supply board 700 to the motor drive signal control circuit 603 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and initializes each circuit of the launch control board 600.

  The touch sensor 651 in the handle portion 650 outputs a signal that the player can touch if the player is touching the handle 5, and fires if the player is not touching the handle 5. Are output to the motor drive signal control circuit 603, respectively.

  The launch stop switch 652 is a switch provided so that the player can arbitrarily stop the launch of the ball. When the launch stop switch 652 is operated by the player, a motor drive signal control circuit 603 is provided. A sphere launch stop signal is output, and when the launch stop switch 652 is not input, a sphere launch signal is output.

  The firing stop switch 652 outputs the same signal as the state input from the firing stop switch 652 when there is no operation from the player to the launch stop switch 652 and the handle 5 is not rotated. To do. That is, due to the internal structure of the handle 5, a signal from the firing stop switch 652 is input when the handle 5 is not rotating. That is, the game machine 1 is turned on, the reset signal is input to the motor drive signal control circuit 603, and after each circuit is initialized, the player touches the handle 5 to rotate it. The ball is fired for the first time.

Next, the power supply substrate 700 shown in FIG. 12 will be described.
The AC 24V supplied from the outside is subjected to full-wave rectification with a diode bridge rectifier to generate a DC power supply DC 24V. Smoothing is performed with a capacitor through a diode through a DC 24V power source to generate a DC 32V power source. DC24V and DC32V are non-stable power supplies.

  DC24V is supplied to the power supply circuit 701 to generate constant voltage power supplies of stable power supplies DC18V, DC12V, and DC5V, and the main board 100, the payout control board 200, the lamp control board 400, the sound control board 500, and the display. Is supplied to the instrument control board 300 and the launch control board 600. The generated DC5V constant voltage power supply is connected to the capacitor of the backup circuit 702 through a diode to generate a DC5VBB backup power supply, and the DC5VBB is supplied to the main board 100 and the payout control board 200.

  The voltage level of the DC 24V power supply is detected by the voltage detection circuit 708 and output to the delay circuit 707. The delay circuit 707 has an internal time constant of 500 milliseconds, and the delay circuit 707 does not output an output signal unless the continuous output time of the voltage detection circuit 708 is larger than the time constant of the delay circuit 707. For this reason, voltage fluctuation and power supply stop for a time when the voltage level of the DC24V power supply is smaller than the time constant of the delay circuit 707 are ignored, and the power failure detection signal is not output from the power supply board 700 to the outside.

  When there is an input signal larger than the time constant in the delay circuit 707, the delay circuit 707 outputs a power failure detection signal to the main board 100, the payout control board 200, and the serial input terminals of the shift register 704. The 8-bit shift register 704 always receives a clock having a period of 20 milliseconds from the clock circuit 706.

  Here, the 8-bit data input terminal is fixed to zero. Therefore, when a power failure detection signal is input to the 8-bit shift register 704, a reset signal is output from the 8-bit shift register 704 after 8 clocks (about 160 milliseconds), the main board 100, the payout control board 200, and the launch control board 600. Are output to the display control board 300, the lamp control board 400, and the sound control board 500.

  The time of the time constant of the delay circuit 707, the power failure detection signal, and the reset signal are output in an active state from the time of power on and after recovery from the power failure since the peripheral circuit power is turned on. After the time constant of the delay circuit 707, the power failure detection signal becomes inactive, and the reset signal is output in the inactive state after 8 clocks of the 8-bit shift register 704. The RAM initialization signal is output to the main board 100 and the payout control board 200 in an active state by manually pressing the RAM initialization switch 705.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 will be described.
In FIG. 1, when a player rotates the handle 5, game balls are driven into the game area 17 on the game board 2 one by one. When this game ball wins any of the plurality of start ports 21a to 21c, the balls are detected by the respective start port switches 121a to 121c, and the detection signals output from the start port switches 121a to 121c are shown in FIG. Input from the gate circuit 110 to the main substrate 100. First, five prize balls assigned to the respective start ports 21a to 21c are paid out by the control of the payout control board 200 based on the signal from the main board 100.

  In addition to the payout of such a prize ball, when a game ball is won in the right start port 21b (Y in FIG. 19, S101), a special game state is not already occurring (N in FIG. 19, S102). ), Based on the detection signal from the start port switch 121b, a drive signal is output to the variable prize device solenoid 134a for driving the movable member 152a on the right side of the variable prize device 150 by the control of the movable member opening means 1110 on the main board 100. Then, as shown in FIG. 13A, the right movable member 152a horizontally moves to the first state for about 0.5 seconds (FIG. 19, S103).

  Further, when a game ball is won in the left starting port 21c (Y in FIG. 19, S106), if a special gaming state is not already occurring (N in FIG. 19, S107), the starting ball switch 121c Based on the detection signal, a drive signal is output to the variable prize device solenoid 134b that drives the movable member 152b on the left side of the variable prize device 150 by the control of the movable member opening means 1110 that is also the game control means 1100 of the main board 100. As shown in FIG. 13B, the left movable member 152b horizontally moves to the first state for about 0.5 seconds (FIG. 19, S108).

  Furthermore, when a game ball is won in the central starting port 21a (Y in FIG. 19, S109), if the special gaming state is not already occurring (N in FIG. 19, S110), the starting port switch 121a is used. Based on this detection signal, the control of the movable member opening means 1110, which is also the game control means 1100 of the main board 100, outputs the drive signals to the two variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b in synchronization with each other, and FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, both the left and right movable members 152a and 152b move horizontally to the first state for about 0.5 seconds, for example (FIG. 19, S111).

  Thus, in this gaming machine 1, when a game ball wins any of the plurality of start ports 21a to 21c, it corresponds to the start port 21a to 21c where the game ball has won among the plurality of start ports 21a to 21c. The movable members 152a and 152b are activated to the first state as the first process of the predetermined condition. Thereby, according to the kind of start opening 21a-21c which a game ball wins, diversity will be given to the change form of movable members 152a and 152b of variable prize-winning apparatus 150, and the interest in a game can be raised. it can.

  When at least one of the pair of movable members 152a and 152b of the variable winning device 150 is horizontally moved to the first state based on the winning of the game ball to any one of the plurality of start ports 21a to 21c, When the game ball taken in from the receiving port 151 of the variable winning device 150 wins the special winning area 155 instead of the general winning area 154 (Y in FIG. 19, S104), the detection signal from the special winning area switch 128 is displayed. Based on this, a special game state is generated by the control of the movable member opening means 1110 of the game control means 1100 (S105 in FIG. 19).

  When at least one of the movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 is horizontally moved to the first state, the game ball is not forced to be awarded to the special prize area 155, but the special prize is not awarded. Whether or not a game ball wins in the area 155 greatly depends on the winning guiding means 156 provided in the variable winning device 150. The winning guide means 156 affects the winning probability of a game ball in the special winning area 155, thereby increasing the possibility that a special gaming state will occur.

  That is, when it is determined by the game state determination means 1130 of the main board 100 that the winning guidance means 156 is brought into a guidance state advantageous to the player, the winning guidance means control means 1140 of the main board 100 is similarly used as the winning guidance means. A drive signal is outputted to the winning guidance means solenoid 135 of 156 to adjust the winning guidance means 156 to a guidance state advantageous for the player. Thereby, the possibility that the predetermined condition is satisfied is increased, and the player's expectation for the special gaming state can be increased.

  When the winning guiding means 156 is controlled to a guiding state advantageous to the player, the number of times and time when the winning guiding means 156 is maintained in the non-tilting posture shown in FIG. . When the winning guiding means 156 is in the non-tilting posture, the game ball guided to the central portion of the winning guiding means 156 enters the central port 156a and falls toward the special winning area 155 below. On the other hand, when the winning guiding means 156 is in the normal guiding state, the number and time of the winning guiding means 156 being maintained in the tilting posture shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C or the non-tilting posture is short. Become.

  Once the special gaming state occurs, first, the number of rounds is initialized to 0 (S201 in FIG. 20), and then a driving signal is output to the variable winning device solenoids 134a and 134b, so that both the left and right movable members 152a and 152b are repeated. Open and close (FIG. 20, S202). Based on the detection signal from the special prize area switch 128, it is determined whether or not the game ball received by the variable prize device 150 has won the special prize area 155 in this special game state.

  When even one game ball has won in the special prize area 155, the special game state is repeatedly executed under the control of the game control means 1100 based on this. In other words, even if the current special game state ends, a new special game state for the next round will continue to occur immediately on condition that a game ball wins the special prize area 155 during this round. As a result, playability is enhanced.

  More specifically, when a game ball is won in the special winning area 155 after the special gaming state occurs (Y in FIG. 20, S203), if this is the first (first) winning in the special winning area 155 ( Based on this, a round continuation flag for repeatedly generating a special gaming state is set under the control of the game control means 1100 of the main board 100 (FIG. 20, S205).

  In addition, the number of times that the special game state is repeatedly executed is the number of game balls that have won the special prize area 155 among the predetermined number of game balls accepted by the variable prize apparatus 150 during the special game state described above. Determined based on the sphere. By the reserved ball storage means 1200 of the main board 100, the second and subsequent game balls won in the special prize area 155 during the special game state are stored as the reserved balls.

  That is, the condition for repeatedly executing the special game state is sufficient if at least one of the predetermined number of game balls accepted by the variable prize apparatus 150 wins the special prize area 155 (FIG. 20, Y in S203). Here, when two or more game balls are won in the special prize area 155 within the predetermined number (N in FIG. 20, S204), the prize is held without being wasted (FIG. 20, S211). Depending on the number of reserved balls, the game state can be further enhanced by repeatedly executing the special game state.

  The special game state is continued until a predetermined number of game balls are received in each round (FIG. 20, S206) regardless of whether or not a game ball is won in the special prize area 155 (FIG. 20, S203). Of the predetermined number of game balls accepted by the variable prize winning device 150 during the special game state, the prize winning ratio for the general prize area 154 and the special prize area 155 is the number of game balls won in the general prize area 154 as a special prize. When the number of game balls won in the area 155 is larger than the number of game balls won in the general prize area 154 and the number of game balls won in the special prize area 155, the predetermined number is an even number. Only in some cases, there are three possible cases where the number of game balls won in the general prize area 154 and the number of game balls won in the special prize area 155 are equal.

  Of these three winning ratios, in any case, the total number of game balls won in the general prize area 154 and the number of game balls won in the special prize area 155 in the special game state. When the predetermined number is reached (Y in FIG. 20, Y in S206), the movable member closing means 1120 of the game control means 1100 outputs a drive signal, and based on the drive signal, the variable prize winning device solenoids 134a, 134b Since the movable members 152a and 152b are changed from the first state to the second state, one round of the special gaming state is once ended (FIG. 20, S207). Therefore, in the special game state, the predetermined number of game balls can be received by the variable winning device 150 regardless of the winning ratio to the general winning area 154 or the special winning area 155.

  As a result, a player can obtain a profit by winning based on winning a predetermined number of game balls in a special game state without performing complicated control in accordance with the specifications of a conventional general gaming machine (wings). It becomes possible to guarantee. As described above, in the gaming machine 1, in the special gaming state, the variable prize winning device 150 accepts a predetermined number of game balls regardless of whether or not the game balls are won in the special prize area 155. The game balls received inside the special prize area 155 are not necessarily awarded to the special prize area 155.

  In other words, the gaming machine 1 guarantees the player's profit in the special game state, but does not forcibly win the game ball in the special prize area 155 in the special game state. As a result, among the game balls that can be received by the variable winning device 150 up to a predetermined number, in rare cases, unless a special winning area 155 is won (N in FIG. 20, S203), the new special gaming state does not continue. Therefore (N in FIG. 20, S208), there is a risk in the game, and the thrill and excitement of the player can be sufficiently aroused.

  Further, even in the special game state for each round that is repeatedly executed, if there are game balls that have won in the special prize area 155 among the predetermined number of game balls received by the variable prize apparatus 150, the number is as follows. Further, it is cumulatively added as a holding ball and stored in the holding ball storage means 1200. As a result, the number of times that the special gaming state is repeatedly executed can be increased within a range that does not exceed the upper limit of the number of rounds described below (N in FIG. 20, S209) (FIG. 20, S212).

  However, the upper limit value setting means 1400 that is the main substrate 100 can set an upper limit value for the number of reserved balls stored in the reserved ball storage means 1200. By determining the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls in this way, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the special game state is repeatedly executed indefinitely. In the present embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls is set to 10, and the maximum number of rounds in which the special game state continues repeatedly is up to 10 rounds (Y in FIG. 20, S209). In addition, by the control by the display control means 1500a, the number of reserved balls is displayed so as to be visible by the number of lighting of individual LEDs of the display unit 320, so that the player can easily confirm the number of reserved balls, and the special game The number of times the state is repeatedly executed can also be grasped in advance.

  Specifically, for example, when a special gaming state occurs for the first time, three of the predetermined number (for example, ten) of game balls accepted by the variable prize winning device 150 during that round won a special prize area 155. In this case, the number of reserved balls is three, and three LEDs are lit on the display unit 320. At this time, the special game state is repeatedly executed until another three rounds. Next, one of the three holding balls is consumed and a special gaming state is generated, and two of the predetermined number (for example, seven) of the gaming balls received by the variable winning device 150 during the two rounds. When a game ball is won in the special winning area 155, the total number of reserved balls is four (3-1 + 2 = 4), and four LEDs are lit on the display unit 320.

  Subsequently, one of the four reserved balls is consumed to generate a special game state, and four of the predetermined number (for example, five) of the game balls received by the variable prize winning device 150 during the three rounds. When the special winning area 155 is won, the total number of reserved balls is 7 (4-1 + 4 = 7), and 7 LEDs are lit on the display unit 320. In this way, the special game state is repeatedly executed according to the number of reserved balls, and is continued up to 10 rounds.

  In the present embodiment, since 15 prize balls are assigned to a predetermined number of game balls that can be won in the variable prize winning device 150 for each round, a predetermined number × 15 ( It is possible to receive a payout of the number of prize balls calculated by the prize ball. However, as described above, the special gaming state does not always continue until the upper limit of 10 rounds. If no game balls are won in the special winning area 155 in the fifth round, For each round up to -5 rounds, the number of prize balls calculated by the predetermined number × 15 (prize balls) will be paid out.

  Here, the “predetermined number” that can be won in the variable winning device 150 for each round in the special gaming state is determined according to the weight specifying information specified as a result of variable display under the control of the predetermined number setting means 1170. It is done. Note that the “upper limit value” at which each round in the special gaming state can be continued and the “number of winning balls” assigned to each winning ball in the variable winning device 150 are not necessarily fixed uniformly. It can be arbitrarily changed in accordance with the specifications of the gaming machine 1 and the laws and regulations of the Wind Management Optimization Act.

  For each round in the special gaming state, each time a game ball wins a special winning area 155, a random display lottery for variable display is executed by the game control means 1100 comprising the main board 100, and based on the lottery result, The variable display means 330 performs variable display by the display control means 1500b comprising the main board 100 and the display control board 300. When variable display is started, as shown in FIG. 15A, after various kinds of various symbols (identification information) are scrolled on the display area of the variable display means 330, as shown in FIG. 15B. In addition, light weight specific information or normal identification information corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and confirmed.

  As described above, when a game ball is won in the special winning area 155 during the variable display, the display control means 1500b forcibly terminates the variable display that is currently in progress and executes the next variable display. In addition to the storage of the holding ball, the variable display right may be held only during the current round, and the variable display may be sequentially executed based on the holding. good.

  A predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information specified as a result of such variable display. That is, when the result of variable display executed during the current round is the light weight specific information “7” by the predetermined number setting means 1170 including the main board 100, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is ten. When the variable display result is the light weight specific information “5”, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined to be seven, and the variable display result is the light weight specific information “3”. In this case, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined to be five, and if it is any other result, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is uniformly determined to be three.

  In addition, when a plurality of game balls are won in the special prize area 155 and a variable display is executed a plurality of times during one round of the special game state, the predetermined number setting means 1170 indicates to the player from the results. Choose the most advantageous result. For example, if variable display is executed three times during one round and the results are “5”, “3”, and “1”, the result of “5” that is most advantageous to the player Accordingly, the predetermined number that can be accepted in the next round is determined to be seven. In addition, regarding the first round of the special gaming state that occurs first after the power is turned on, the predetermined number is set to 10 that is an initial setting value.

  Further, as described above, as shown in FIG. 13, the pair of movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 is changed in the horizontal direction between a first state in which a game ball is easily received and a second state in which it is difficult to receive a game ball. It has become. Such fluctuations in the horizontal direction of the movable members 152a, 152b are the swinging around one end side as the center of rotation like a pair of movable wings in a variable prize device in a conventional general gaming machine (wings). Are completely different operations, and the movement of the movable members 152a, 152b in the horizontal direction, which has never been made before, can produce an operation of the novel and interesting variation winning device 150.

  As shown in FIG. 14A, each movable member 152a, 152b has a notch portion that is a storage means that can temporarily store game balls in a state in which the game balls are maintained in a second state in which it is difficult to receive the game balls. 153, and when each movable member 152a, 152b changes from the second state to the first state, as shown in FIG. 14 (b), the stored game ball can be received inside the variable winning device 150. it can. Thereby, even if each movable member 152a, 152b is a 2nd state unfavorable to a player, it becomes possible to contribute to a player's profit by storing a game ball.

  According to the cutout portion 153 as such storage means, it is possible to store game balls with an extremely simple configuration, and to reliably guide the stored game balls to the inside of the prize winning apparatus 150. In addition, since each movable member 152a, 152b has a downwardly inclined shape from the front end thereof, the game balls dropped on the movable members 152a, 152b except for the game balls stored in the notch 153. Can be guided to fall again toward the outside of the variable winning device 150.

  In addition, on the surface side of each movable member 152a, 152b, there are notifying means 310a, 310b for notifying the gaming state, and the gaming state can be notified by the display control by the display control means 1500a. Specifically, based on the signal from the game control means 1100, when each movable member 152a, 152b changes from the second state to the first state, the signal of the display control means 1500a comprising the main board 100 and the lamp control board 400 is displayed. Based on this, the fact that each movable member 152a, 152b opens in the horizontal direction is displayed in advance on the notification means 310a, 310b with symbols, symbols, or characters, thereby enhancing the player's expectation for the variation of the movable member. .

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the notification units 310a and 310b display the states of the corresponding movable members 152a and 152b in terms of face symbols. That is, as shown in FIG. 16 (a), when each movable member 152a, 152b is in the normal second state, nothing is displayed, but when a game ball wins the start opening 21a-21c. When the movable members 152a and 152b change from the second state to the first state during the special game state, as shown in FIGS. 16B and 16C, the changing movable members 152a and 152b For example, a smile pattern with a bright facial expression is displayed on the notification means 310a, 310b. Of course, in addition to the face pattern, characters and symbols, or characters such as “close” and “open” may be displayed.

  In addition, as described above, the holding ball storage unit 1200 includes the start holding ball storage unit 1300 and the main board 100 has the functions of the determination unit 1600 and the selection unit 1700. When a game ball wins in each of the start openings 21a to 21c, which is the first process under a predetermined condition (FIG. 19, Y in S102, Y in S107, Y in S110), the game balls won in the start openings 21a to 21c. Is also stored as a holding ball (FIG. 19, S112).

  At the time of processing the holding ball, first, the judging means 1600 determines whether the holding ball to be processed this time becomes a normal holding ball that repeatedly executes the special gaming state, or the movable members 152a and 152b as the first process under a predetermined condition. It is determined whether or not the starting hold ball is activated in the first state. That is, different types of reserved balls can be distinguished from each other by the determination unit 1600 later.

  Then, according to the actual processing of the holding ball, the selection unit 1700 selects whether to execute the special game state repeatedly or to activate the movable members 152a and 152b to the first state as the first process of the predetermined condition. Executed. The selection by the selection unit 1700 here is based on the determination result of the determination unit 1600.

  By the way, in the special game state, the special game is received as in the case where none of the game balls accepted by the variable prize winning device 150 has won the special prize area 155 and the number of reserved balls is zero. If the state does not meet the requirements for repeated execution, the special game state will normally not repeat a new round, and the special game state will continue in the middle, but will be repeated until the end of the special game state. The smaller the number of continuations (rounds) played, the smaller the player's profit. When the special game state has occurred in this way and the number of continuations (rounds) of the special game state is too small, it is conceivable to compensate the player's profit as follows.

  That is, as the various functions of the main board 100 described above, as shown in FIG. 18, a lower limit value setting unit 2100, a continuous number confirmation unit 2200, and a continuous resumption unit 2400 are configured to be included. Here, the continuation number confirmation means 2200 is a point in time when the number of game balls accepted by the variable prize winning device 150 in the special game state does not win one special prize area 155 and the number of reserved balls is zero. This is a function for determining the number of continuations (rounds) of the special gaming state that has been repeatedly executed up to that point.

  The lower limit value setting means 2100 is a function for setting a predetermined lower limit value for the number of continuations (rounds). Persons involved in the game hall can set the lower limit value to an arbitrary value in advance by the lower limit value setting means 2100 by operating an external operation switch or the like. The display control unit 1500b also has a function of executing variable display of identification information by the variable display unit 330 when the number of continuations determined by the continuation number confirmation unit 2200 is less than the lower limit value. Yes. The continuation resuming unit 2400 is a function for resuming the continuation of the special gaming state when specific identification information is displayed as a result of the variable display.

  Next, the case where the player's profit is compensated will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the special game state, when no game balls received by the variable prize winning device 150 are won in the special prize area 155 and the number of held balls is 0 (FIG. 21, S301), The number of continuations (rounds) of the special gaming state that has been repeatedly executed up to the point in time is determined by the continuation number confirmation means 2200 (FIG. 21, S302). Further, the lower limit setting means 2100 sets a predetermined lower limit regarding the number of continuations (rounds) in advance.

  When the number of continuations (rounds) determined by the continuation number confirmation means 2200 is less than the lower limit value (Y in FIG. 21, S303), the variable display means is controlled by the display control of the display control means 1500b at that time. In 330, the variable display of the identification information is executed (FIG. 21, S304). The variable display here may be the same content as the above-described variable display (see FIG. 15), but may be separately determined as a variable display of a different display mode.

  When specific identification information (for example, the number “7”) is displayed as a result of the variable display (Y in FIG. 21, S305), the continuation resumption means 2400 continues the special gaming state on condition of this. It is restarted (FIG. 21, S306). When the number of continuations (rounds) exceeds the lower limit (N in FIG. 21, S303), variable display is not executed.

  Thus, when the number of continuations (rounds) in the special gaming state is too small (less than the lower limit value), the variable display is executed specially, and depending on the result of the variable display, the player's Opportunities to make up for profits may arise. As a result, the visual fun of variable display on the variable display means 330 is combined with the compensation of the player's profits by resuming the continued special gaming state, and even more innovative and interesting games are produced. can do.

  Here, it is preferable that the continuation resumption means 2400 resume the continuation of the special gaming state up to the number of times the continuation number is less than the lower limit value. Then, the number of continuations (rounds) when the continuation of the special gaming state is resumed does not exceed the preset lower limit value, and the continuation of the special gaming state can be suppressed within the preset limit. it can.

  Specifically, for example, the lower limit setting means 2100 previously sets 6 rounds as a predetermined lower limit regarding the number of continuations (rounds), and after the special game state occurs in the actual game, the fourth round When no special ball is won in the special winning area 155 and the number of held balls is zero, the four rounds that are the number of continuations (rounds) determined by the continuation number confirmation means 2200 are: The lower limit is less than 6 rounds.

  When the continuation of the special gaming state is resumed in such a situation, the special gaming state is repeated by the amount that the continuation (round) number is less than the lower limit value (lower limit value 6−continuation number 4 = 2). It can be newly acquired as a normal holding ball to be executed. As a result, the total number of times that the special gaming state can be repeatedly executed is 6 rounds (4 + resumption 2 = 6), and the number of continuations (rounds) that originally did not satisfy the lower limit is guaranteed up to the lower limit. It will be.

  Alternatively, as another example, when the continuation of the special gaming state is resumed, the upper limit setting means 1400 sets the continuation (round) number of times regardless of whether the continuation (round) number is less than the lower limit. The special gaming state may be continued until the upper limit is reached. As a result, the compensation of profits for the player is further increased, and the player can be attracted to the game.

  Furthermore, as a process when a game ball is won in each of the start ports 21a to 21c during the special game state, the main board 100 executes the following process together with the hold process described above. That is, when the main board 100 has the prize ball payout stop means 1800, when the game ball wins the start opening 21a-21c during the special game state by the control of the prize ball payout stop means 1800, The game balls won in the start ports 21a to 21c are treated the same as out balls collected without winning anywhere. Such processing is executed together with the hold processing by the start-and-hold ball storing means 1300 and the like, thereby suppressing excessive service to the player.

  Alternatively, as another process, when the main board 100 has the prize ball payout control means 1900 instead of the prize ball payout stop means 1800, each prize ball payout control means 1900 controls each in the special game state. When a game ball wins the start opening 21a-21c, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out by winning the start opening 21a-21c.

  Thereby, even when the game ball wins the start openings 21a to 21c during the special game state, the player can receive the profit of the prize ball accordingly. However, the number of prize balls here is not limited to the five assigned to the start ports 21a to 21c in the normal gaming state as described above, and is 1 to 6 by the control of the prize ball payout control means 1900. It can be set as appropriate.

  Further, the variable speed of each movable member 152a, 152b of the variable prize device 150 may be set to be adjustable. By making the fluctuation speed of each movable member 152a, 152b uniform rather than being uniform, various variations occur in the movement of each movable member 152a, 152b, making it more interesting, and more games Attract people.

  For example, adjustments that increase the time for maintaining each movable member 152a, 152b in the first state, or slow down the speed for returning to the second state can be considered. Thus, the longer the time during which the movable members 152a and 152b are maintained in the first state, the higher the degree of acceptance of game balls. Here, it is preferable that the fluctuation speed including the time for maintaining the first state and the speed for returning to the second state can be adjusted in, for example, three preset levels.

  Specifically, when the movable members 152a and 152b are repeatedly opened and closed in a special game state during a normal game, the time during which the movable members 152a and 152b are maintained in the first state is 1.2 seconds. To a degree. On the other hand, when the number of occurrences of the special gaming state per predetermined unit time is large, or when the number of winnings at the start port 21 is large, the time for maintaining each movable member 152a, 152b in the first state is set. The “short” may be about 0.8 seconds. As a result, the time until the predetermined number of game balls are awarded to the variable winning device 150 is increased as much as the degree of acceptance of the game balls is lowered.

  On the other hand, when the number of occurrences of the special gaming state per predetermined unit time is small, or when the number of winnings at the start port 21 is small, the time for maintaining each movable member 152a, 152b in the first state is “long”. About 2.0 seconds. As a result, the probability that a predetermined number of game balls will be awarded to the variable prize winning device 150 in a short time as a whole is increased by the degree of acceptance of the game balls, and the game can be fully enjoyed even in a relatively short time. Is possible.

  As another configuration example of the winning guiding means 156 of the variable winning device 150, as shown in FIG. 22, a game ball placed on the guiding bar member other than the central port 156a in the central portion of the guiding bar member. A drop port 156b may be provided that allows the camera to drop downward before reaching the left and right ends. In the example shown in FIG. 22, a pair of drop openings 156b and 156b are provided at positions spaced apart on both sides of the central opening 156a. Each drop opening 156b is formed as a hole through which a game ball penetrates in the same manner as the central opening 156a.

  By providing such a drop opening 156b, the game ball rolling on the winning guiding means 156 does not reach the central opening 156a depending on the inclination angle and the tilting speed of the guiding bar member which is the winning guiding means 156, and left and right. In some cases, the game ball falls downward from the drop opening 156b of the player, and thus a winning form with more variations of the game ball can be produced.

  Further, as another configuration example of the winning guiding means 156, as shown in FIG. 23, a game ball placed on the guiding bar member enters in addition to the central port 156a in the central portion of the guiding bar member, A receiving groove 156c through which the game ball rolls when in the tilted posture may be provided while holding the game ball in the tilted posture. In the example shown in FIG. 23, a pair of receiving grooves 156c and 156c are provided at positions spaced apart on both sides of the central port 156a. Unlike the central opening 156a, each receiving groove 156c is sized to receive a game ball, but is formed in a bottomed groove shape rather than a through hole.

  By providing such a receiving groove 156c, a game ball that rolls on the winning guiding means 156 once gets into the receiving groove 156c depending on the inclination angle and tilting speed of the guiding bar member that is the winning guiding means 156, Since it sometimes rolls out of the receiving groove 156c, reaches the left and right ends, or falls from the central port 156a, it is possible to produce a winning form with more variations of the game ball.

  Further, it is only necessary to be able to adjust the amplitude in the left and right tilting operation of the winning guidance means 156. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24, the amplitude of the tilting operation of the winning guidance means 156 is set so that it can be adjusted in two stages: (a) small and (b) large. Thereby, the change in appearance of the variable prize apparatus 150 is changed to various forms, and the game in the variable prize apparatus 150 becomes more interesting and attracts the player.

  Further, the tilt speed in the left and right tilting operation of the winning guidance means 156 may be adjustable. Specifically, for example, the tilting speed of the winning guidance means 156 is set so that it can be adjusted in two stages: (a) slow and (b) fast. As a result, similar to the adjustment of the amplitude in the tilting motion described above, the change in appearance of the variable winning device 150 changes to various forms, so that the game in the variable winning device 150 becomes more interesting. , Can attract players.

  Furthermore, the winning guidance means 156 may be configured so that the height position in the vertical direction can be adjusted separately from the left and right tilting operations. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 25, the height position of the winning guidance means 156 is set so that it can be adjusted in three stages: (a) low, (b) medium, and (c) high. Specifically, the guide rail (not shown) that supports each movable member 152a, 152b so as to be movable in the horizontal direction, and a rack and a pinion along a guide rail (not shown) that further extends in the vertical direction. What is necessary is just to support so that a position adjustment is possible to an up-down direction by drive means, such as.

  Thus, the lower the height position of the winning guiding means 156 and the shorter the distance from the special winning area 155, the higher the winning degree of the game ball in the special winning area 155. Here, as a cause of adjusting the height position of the winning guidance means 156 in a plurality of stages, for example, it can be considered to correspond to the operating status of the gaming machine 1. Specifically, in a special game state during a normal game, the height position of the winning guidance means 156 is set to (a) low in FIG. Such (a) low is the same height position as the winning guidance means 156 shown in FIGS.

  On the other hand, when the number of occurrences of the special gaming state per predetermined unit time is large, or when the number of winnings at the starting port 21 is large, the degree of winning of the game ball in the special winning area 155 is lowered accordingly. It is conceivable to adjust as follows. That is, as described above, if the height position of the winning guidance means 156 is increased in order so as to be advantageous to the player, the degree of winning of the game ball with respect to the special winning area 155 decreases, and excessive service for the player is provided. It will also be suppressed. In addition, the cause of adjusting the height position of the winning guidance means 156, the amplitude of the tilting operation, and the tilting speed is not limited to the operation status of the gaming machine 1 described above.

  As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and the present invention can be modified or added without departing from the scope of the present invention. Included in the invention. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine has been described. However, the gaming machine is not limited to a pachinko machine, and is a program-controlled smart ball game machine, an arrangement ball game machine, or the like. The present invention can be similarly applied to other gaming machines.

  In the above embodiment, the variable winning device 150 is configured as illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, instead of the pair of movable members 152a and 152b that can be varied in the horizontal direction. In addition, the movable member of the variable prize apparatus 150 may be provided as a pair of movable wings that can rotate on both sides of the receiving port 151. Specifically, three start ports 21a to 21c are prepared, but the number of start ports is not limited to this, and two or four or more start ports may be provided.

  In addition, the notification unit 310 and the display unit 320 are not limited to the configuration including the LED lamps, and may be configured by a variable display device such as a liquid crystal unit or a CRT display, similar to the variable display unit 330. good. In such a case, the display contents are abundant and an interesting production is possible, but it is necessary to control the display control board 300 instead of the lamp control board 400. In the above embodiment, the display unit 320 for displaying the number of reserved balls is provided at the lower part of the case of the variable winning device 150. However, the place where the display unit 320 is provided is not limited to the variable winning device 150. You may make it provide separately in the other location of the game area 17. FIG.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the display part 320 which displays a reservation ball | bowl, and the variable display means 330 which performs a variable display were comprised separately, as another embodiment, the display part 320 is combined with the variable display means 330. May be configured. Thus, if the display unit 320 and the variable display means 330 are made into one component, the number of components can be reduced and the cost can be reduced. In addition, since the exclusive area occupied on the game area 17 can be reduced as much as possible, it is possible to improve the wearing ability on the game area 17 in a limited space and to arrange other bonuses, winning holes, etc. Space can be secured.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the variable display means 330 is configured to have a reserved ball display area 331 for displaying the number of reserved balls and an identification information display area 332 for variably displaying the identification information. It ’s fine. And according to a game state, it sets so that any one of the said holding ball display area | region 331 and the identification information display area | region 332 may be displayed preferentially.

  For example, in a gaming state where there is a holding ball and variable display is not executed, the holding ball display area 331 is displayed in a large area (see FIG. 17B), or only the holding ball display area 331 is displayed. Alternatively, the identification information display area 332 may be displayed in a large area in the gaming state in which variable display is executed regardless of the presence or absence of the holding ball (see FIG. 17D). Only the identification information display area 332 may be displayed (see FIG. 17C). Thus, a novel display effect can be performed by one variable display means 330.

  Of course, the holding ball display area 331 and the identification information display area 332 may be simultaneously displayed by half of all the display areas of the variable display means 330 (see FIG. 17E), or only one of the areas may be displayed. You may make it display alternately. Needless to say, when the variable display means 330 is configured as described above, the display unit 320 shown in FIGS.

  In the above embodiment, the notifying means 310a, 310b for notifying the game state displays the state relating to the operation of the movable members 152a, 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 as a face symbol. For example, the number of game balls won in the variable prize device 150 for each round in the special game state may be displayed in real time on the notification means 310a, 310b. Thus, the player can clearly know in advance how many game balls should be won out of a predetermined number until each movable member 152a, 152b is in the second state, and useless hit balls It is no longer fired, and the number of balls can be reduced.

  In addition, the special game state described in the above embodiment is repeated repeatedly in synchronization with the pair of movable members 152a and 152b of the variable prize apparatus 150 until a predetermined number of game balls are won in the variable prize apparatus 150 every round. Although it is set to be opened and closed, a special gaming state may be produced by changing at least one of the movable members 152a and 152b to the first state.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the display control board 300, the lamp control board 400, and the sound control board 500 are configured as separate boards with respect to the main board 100. The functions of the display control board 300 and the voice control board 500 may be provided on the same board as a game effect control board, and the lamp control board 400 may be combined with this, or the lamp control board 400 and the voice control board 500 may be combined. The function may be provided on the same substrate as the sound / lamp control substrate, and the display control substrate 300 may be combined therewith. Thus, the specific configuration for realizing the above-described game control means 1100 and the like is not limited to the various control boards specifically shown in FIGS.

It is a front view which shows the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a rear view which shows the internal structure of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which expands and shows the game board of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a rear view which expands and shows the game board back surface side of the gaming machine concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the whole circuit structure of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the main board | substrate which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the payout control board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the display apparatus control board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the lamp | ramp control board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the audio | voice control board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the launch control board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the power supply board which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the fluctuation | variation aspect of the movable member of the variable prize apparatus which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage aspect of the game ball in the variable prize apparatus which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variable display in the variable display means which the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode by the alerting | reporting means of the variable prize apparatus which the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. In the gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention, it is an explanatory diagram showing what is configured to use the display unit also as a variable display means. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the various functions of the main board | substrate which the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the start winning process in the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the special game state process in the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the continuous resumption process of the special game state in the gaming machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of a structure of the prize guidance means of the variable prize apparatus which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of a structure of the winning guide means of the variable winning apparatus which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the change of the amplitude of the winning guidance means of the variable winning apparatus which the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention has. It is explanatory drawing which shows the change of the height position of the prize guidance means of the variable prize apparatus which the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention has.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Upper saucer 4 ... Lower saucer 5 ... Handle 6 ... Ashtray 7 ... Upper saucer ball release lever 8 ... Lower saucer ball release lever 9 ... Lending button 10 ... Return button 11 ... Glass frame 12 ... Frequency display section 15 ... windmill 16 ... guide rail 17 ... gaming area 18 ... intake port 21a ... start port 21b ... start port 21c ... start port 22a ... right sleeve winning port 22b ... left sleeve winning port 29 ... out port 100 ... main Substrate 101 ... One-chip microcomputer 102 ... CPU
103 ... ROM
104 ... RAM
105 ... NMI
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 106 ... I / O port 107 ... Internal timer 108 ... Clock circuit 109 ... Clock synchronous / delay circuit 110, 111 ... Gate circuit 112a-112g ... Latch circuit 113 ... Address decoding circuit 114 ... Buffer 115 ... Reset 116 ... Test test signal terminal 121a to 121c ... Start opening switch 122a ... Right sleeve winning opening switch 122b ... Left sleeve winning opening switch 127 ... General winning area switch 128 ... Special winning area switch 130 ... Award winning ball detection switch 130a ... Award winning ball detection switch 130b ... Award left Ball detection switch 131... Chute ball break switch 132 .. glass frame open detection switch 133 .. overflow switch 134 a .. variable winning device solenoid 134 b .. variable winning device solenoid 150 ... variable winning device 151 ... receiving port 15 2a ... movable member 152b ... movable member 153 ... notch (storage means)
154: General winning area 155 ... Special winning area 156 ... Winning guiding means 156a ... Central port 156b ... Drop port 156c ... Receiving groove 200 ... Dispensing control board 201 ... One-chip microcomputer 202 ... Counter circuit 203 ... CPU
204 ... ROM
205 ... RAM
206 ... NMI
207 ... I / O port 208 ... Internal timer 209 ... Clock circuit 210 ... Clock synchronization / delay circuit 211, 212 ... Gate circuit 213 ... Address decoding circuit 214, 215 ... Latch circuit 216 ... Reset 222 ... Discharge motor 223 ... Discharge stop solenoid 300 ... Display control board 301 ... Display control CPU
302 ... Display control ROM
303 ... Display control RAM
304: Image control IC
305 ... Image data ROM
306 ... Input / output interface 307 ... Trial test signal terminal 310a ... Notification means 310b ... Notification means 320 ... Display section 330 ... Variable display means 331 ... Reserved ball display area 332 ... Identification information display area 400 ... Lamp control board 401 ... Lamp control CPU
402: Lamp control ROM
403: Lamp control RAM
404 ... Input / output interface 405 ... Driver circuit 422 ... Game machine status lamp 423 ... Side case lamp 424 ... Game frame status lamp 428 ... Side LED
500 ... voice control board 501 ... voice control CPU
502 ... Voice control ROM
503 ... Voice control RAM
504 ... Voice control IC
505 ... Audio data ROM
506: Input / output interface 507 ... Amplifier circuit 510 ... Speaker 600 ... Launch control board 601 ... Oscillation circuit 602 ... Division circuit 603 ... Motor drive signal control circuit 604 ... Driver circuit 650 ... Handle portion 651 ... Touch sensor 652 ... Launch stop switch 653 ... Launching motor 700 ... Power supply board 701 ... Constant voltage power supply device 702 ... Backup power supply 703 ... Voltage detection circuit 704 ... Shift register 705 ... RAM initialization switch 706 ... Clock circuit 707 ... Delay circuit 708 ... Voltage detection circuit 709 ... Power failure detection Circuit 800 ... Frame external terminal board 801 ... Prize ball tank ball presence / absence switch 850 ... Board external terminal board 1100 ... Game control means 1110 ... Movable member opening means 1120 ... Movable member closing means 1130 ... Game state determining means 1140 ... On Guide means control means 1170 ... Predetermined number setting means 1200 ... Reservation ball storage means 1300 ... Start hold ball storage means 1400 ... Upper limit value setting means 1500a ... Display control means 1500b ... Display control means 1600 ... Judgment means 1700 ... Selection means 1800 ... Award Ball payout stop means 1900 ... Prize ball payout control means 2100 ... Lower limit value setting means 2200 ... Continuous number confirmation means 2400 ... Continuous resumption means

Claims (21)

In a game area where a game ball is launched, a movable member that can change between a first state in which the game ball is easily received and a second state in which the game ball is difficult to be received, and a game ball that the movable member has received in the first state is used as a normal prize. In a gaming machine provided with a variable prize device having a prize area and a special prize area as a special prize,
When a predetermined condition is established, a special game state is generated in which the movable member is changed to the first state, and in the special game state, the game ball received by the variable winning device wins the special prize area. Thus, the special gaming state can be repeatedly executed,
In the special gaming state, the variable prize winning device can accept a predetermined number of game balls regardless of whether or not the game balls are won in the special prize area,
Each time a game ball wins in the special winning area during the special gaming state, the variable display means that can change the display content provided in the gaming area executes variable display of identification information, and the result of the variable display The predetermined number of game balls that can be accepted during the special game state is determined according to the light weight specific information specified as. During the special game state, among the predetermined number of game balls accepted by the variable prize apparatus, there is a holding ball storage means for storing a game ball won in the special prize area as a holding ball,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the special gaming state can be repeatedly executed according to the number of held balls stored by the holding ball storage unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, further comprising upper limit value setting means for setting an upper limit value for the number of held balls stored in the reserved ball storage means.   The gaming machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a display section for displaying the number of held balls stored by the holding ball storage means is provided in the gaming area.   The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the display unit is also used as the variable display means. The variable display means has a reserved ball display area for displaying the number of held balls, and an identification information display area for variably displaying the identification information,
6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein one of the reserved ball display area and the identification information display area is preferentially displayed according to a game state.   2. A storage unit capable of temporarily storing a game ball in a state in which the movable member is maintained in the second state in which it is difficult to receive a game ball. , 3, 4, 5 or 6.   The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein the storage means is provided with a cutout portion in the movable member capable of storing one or more game balls.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the movable member has a notifying means for notifying a gaming state on a surface side thereof.   10. The gaming machine according to claim 9, wherein the notification means operates based on a signal from the display control means only when it is related to a change in the movable member based on a signal from the game control means.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10, wherein a fluctuation speed of the movable member can be adjusted.   A winning guiding means for influencing the winning probability of a game ball in the special winning area is provided in the variable winning device, wherein the winning winning means is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, The gaming machine according to 9, 10, or 11.   13. The gaming machine according to claim 12, wherein the winning guiding means can be adjusted to a guiding state advantageous for a player who easily wins a game ball into the special winning area or a normal guiding state. The winning guide means is composed of a horizontally long guide bar member that can be tilted left and right, and can be tilted into a tilting posture tilted to the left or right side and a non-tilting posture that does not tilt,
When the guide bar member is in the non-tilting posture, the guide bar member is inclined downward from the left and right ends toward the central portion, and is guided to the central portion when the guide bar member is in the non-tilting posture. The gaming machine according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a central port through which a game ball is dropped toward the special winning area below.   In addition to the central opening at the central portion of the guide bar member, the winning guide means has a drop opening for dropping a game ball placed on the guide bar member downward before reaching the left and right ends. The gaming machine according to claim 14.   In addition to the central opening at the central portion of the guide bar member, the winning guide means holds the game ball on the guide bar member and holds the game ball when in the non-tilting posture, while in the tilting posture. 16. The gaming machine according to claim 14, further comprising a receiving groove from which a game ball rolls.   The gaming machine according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the winning guidance means is capable of adjusting an amplitude in the left and right tilting operations.   18. The gaming machine according to claim 14, 15, 16 or 17, wherein the winning guiding means is capable of adjusting a tilting speed in the left / right tilting operation.   The gaming machine according to claim 14, 15, 16, 17 or 18, wherein the winning guidance means is capable of adjusting a height position in the vertical direction separately from the left and right tilting operations. The main board of the gaming machine is
In the special gaming state, when the special gaming state does not satisfy the requirement to be repeatedly executed and the continuation of the special gaming state ends in the middle, the number of times of the special gaming state continuously executed until the end is determined. Means for confirming the number of times to continue,
A lower limit setting means for setting a predetermined lower limit for the number of continuations;
Display control means for performing variable display of identification information by the variable display means when the number of continuations determined by the continuation number confirmation means is less than the lower limit;
7. A resumption means for resuming the continuation of the special gaming state when specific identification information is displayed as a result of the variable display. , 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 or 19.   21. The game according to claim 20, wherein the continuation resuming unit resumes the continuation of the special gaming state up to a number of times that the continuation number determined by the continuation number confirmation unit is less than the lower limit value. Machine.

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