JP2005211407A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pinball game machine capable of enhancing a fun of a player by differentiating the number of bonus balls in the case that a pattern other than a specific hit pattern is determined, halted, and displayed. <P>SOLUTION: In the case that the time required for executing a varying display and a halt-maintaining display for executing a halt-maintaining display when a first pattern is a miss is shorter than the total of the time required for executing a varying display and a halt-maintaining display of a second pattern when the second pattern is a hit and a pattern start region extension time of the first pattern, a first pattern start region extension time controlling means is provided to control the start region extension time of the first pattern so that the time for extending the pattern start region of the first pattern becomes a time during which a plurality of game balls can enter, and a storable retention number change controlling means is provided to control and change the storable retention number stored in a game information retention storage means of the first pattern from a first storable retention number to a second storable retention number. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine represented by a pachinko machine or the like.

  In general, a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine will not win a hit due to the establishment of a judgment condition such as a game ball entering (winning) a specific winning opening or a game ball passing to a specific passing gate. A determination is made, and if the determination result is a win, a predetermined win game (special game) called “big hit” is executed. In such a ball game machine, a liquid crystal, a dot matrix, an LED display device or the like that fluctuates and stops a plurality of symbols (generally referred to as a determination symbol or a special symbol) composed of numbers, symbols, pictures, or the like. Most of them have a display device on the game board surface.

  In general, the display device has a configuration in which a plurality of display areas are arranged, and a variable display such as scrolling of a plurality of symbols is performed for each display area, and then the display can be stopped. ing. Then, the symbol displayed on the display device starts to change due to the establishment of the determination condition, and after the predetermined time variation, the symbols that are confirmed and stopped are displayed in the plurality of display areas of the display device, respectively, In the case of a predetermined combination (a winning symbol combination, for example, a slotted pattern or the like), a “big hit” is configured, and in the case of another combination (an losing symbol combination), it becomes “out”. In the case of the “big hit”, for example, a large winning opening on the surface of the game board is continuously opened to allow a large number of game balls to be awarded, and a large number of prize balls are paid out by winning during that time.

  In this way, in the case of a ball game machine, the determination of a hit / miss is made when the game ball to the specific winning opening (start winning port) enters the ball (winning) or the game ball passes to the specific passing gate. In addition, various games are being executed. In view of this, the number of game balls that have entered a specific prize opening or the like during various game states is stored and retained as a hold number, which is used to determine whether or not the game is successful.

  In addition, in a ball game machine, a probability variation state that improves the occurrence frequency of jackpots in the following games is often set according to a symbol (so-called probability variation symbol) displayed to be confirmed and stopped at the jackpot. In such a probability variation state, there is a ball game machine that can change, for example, the above-mentioned number of holdings (see Patent Document 1). In addition, according to the symbol that is confirmed and stopped at the time of the big hit (so-called short-time symbol), the game will be set to shorten the variation time of the subsequent determination symbol, and the extended opening time of the specific winning opening (start winning opening) (See Patent Document 2).

However, in the above-mentioned bullet ball game machines such as Patent Documents 1 and 2, when a symbol other than the probability variation symbol and the short-time symbol is selected, the player can obtain whatever game mode is selected. There was little difference in the number of winning balls. For this reason, the player cannot fully enjoy the game after the winning game (special game), except in the case where the fixed stop symbol is displayed with a specific winning symbol such as a probability variation symbol or a short-time symbol.
JP 2003-71016 A JP 2002-95830 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and a ball game machine that can increase the interest of a player by providing a difference in the number of prize balls when a fixed stop symbol is displayed with a symbol other than a specific winning symbol. I will provide a.

  That is, the invention of claim 1 provides a first symbol display device for displaying a first symbol, a symbol starting region for the first symbol, and a game ball to the symbol starting region for the first symbol. The first symbol game information acquisition means for acquiring game information related to the first symbol due to the entry of the game, and the first symbol is set when the acquired game information regarding the first symbol is hit information After the time variation display, the set time stop maintenance display is performed with a winning symbol, and when the acquired game information related to the first symbol is out-of-game information, the first symbol is displayed with the set time variation display, and then the set time stop with the out symbol The first symbol display control means for maintaining and displaying, and when entering the symbol starting area of the first symbol during the variation display of the first symbol or during the stop maintenance display, up to a predetermined number of the first symbols To store game information related to The game information hold storage means of the above-mentioned symbol, the prize ball payout control means for paying out a set number of prize balls due to the entry of the game ball into the symbol start area of the first symbol, and the second symbol A game related to the second symbol due to a second symbol display device for displaying, a symbol starting region of the second symbol, and a game ball entering the symbol starting region of the second symbol When the second symbol game information acquisition means for acquiring information and the game information related to the acquired second symbol is winning information, the second symbol is displayed in a set time variation display after the second symbol is displayed in a set time variation display. When the acquired game information related to the second symbol is outlier information, the second symbol display control means for displaying the second symbol in a set time variation display after the second symbol is changed and displayed, and the second symbol display control means The symbol of 2 hits and stopped and displayed as a symbol In this case, in a ball game machine comprising a first symbol starting area expansion control means for expanding the symbol starting area of the first symbol for a predetermined time, the time for expanding the symbol starting area of the first symbol is increased. The first symbol start area expansion time control means for controlling the time when a plurality of game balls can enter, and the hold of the game information hold storage means of the first symbol due to the establishment of the hold storage count change condition A change in the case where the first symbol is out of place and is maintained and stopped and displayed, the control unit including: The time required for display and stop-maintenance display is the time required for variable display and stop-maintenance display of the second symbol and the symbol start area of the first symbol when the second symbol is hit and the symbol is maintained and stopped. It is assumed that it is shorter than the total expansion time In this case, the first symbol start area expansion time control means controls the expansion time of the symbol start area of the first symbol to a time that allows a plurality of game balls to enter, and the hold storage is possible. The number change control means controls the change of the number of storable memories stored in the game information suspending memory means of the first symbol from the first storable storable number to the second storable storable number. Related to bullet ball machines.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the bullet ball game machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the change of the storable storable number by the storable storable number change control means is performed over a predetermined period.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the ball game machine according to the second aspect, the predetermined period is a period in which the first symbol is subjected to the variable display and the stop maintenance display a predetermined number of times. Related.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the condition for changing the number of reserved storable numbers is established after the first game is displayed after the variable display is displayed, and the game is stopped and displayed in a winning pattern, and then the predetermined game is opened after the winning game is opened. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein:

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the first symbol stored in the game information holding storage means of the first symbol is established after the winning game is changed and the winning-storable number changing condition is established. 5. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 4, wherein all the game information relating to the game is converted into game information relating to the first symbol variation display or the stop maintenance display.

  The invention according to claim 6 is a selection between a first gaming state in which the reserve storage possible number is the first reserve storage possible number and a second gaming state in which the reserve storage possible number is the second reserve storage possible number. The ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein is performed in correspondence with a winning symbol of the first symbol.

  According to the ball game machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, the time required for the variable display and the stop-maintenance display when the first symbol is out-of-order and the stop-maintenance display is displayed, the second symbol is the symbol and the stop-maintenance display In the case where it is shorter than the total time of the time required for the second symbol variation display and the stop maintenance display and the first symbol symbol start area expansion time, the first symbol start area expansion time control means, The time for expanding the symbol starting area of the first symbol is controlled to a time that allows a plurality of game balls to enter, and is stored in the game information holding storage unit of the first symbol by the holding memory number change control unit. Therefore, the number of fluctuations of the first symbol per unit time can be varied.

Along with this, when the control period by the symbol starting area expansion time control means of the first symbol is set as a period in which the predetermined symbol variation display and stop display of the first symbol are set a predetermined number of times,
The number of times that the symbol starting area of the first symbol is expanded is varied, and the winning game balls can also be varied. As a result, a difference occurs in the number of game balls that a player can obtain, and the player's interest can be enhanced.

  According to the ball and ball game machine according to the invention of claim 2, the change in the number of storable storage by the storage storable number change control means is performed over a predetermined period, so that the player obtains depending on the setting of the predetermined period. It becomes possible to make a difference in the number of game balls that can be played, and to provide an interest to the player.

  According to the ball game machine according to the invention of claim 3, since the predetermined period is a period in which the first symbol is subjected to the variable display and the stop-maintenance display for the predetermined number of times, the player is changed according to the first symbol. It is possible to enjoy the fun of gaming in association with such aspects.

  According to the ball and ball game machine according to the invention of claim 4, the establishment of the reserve storable number changing condition is determined after the first symbol is changed and displayed, and after the stop and display is performed with the symbol, the predetermined winning opening is released. Since it is performed after execution, the number of game balls that can be obtained by the player in the game after the winning game is likely to be different, and further, the player can be provided with interest.

  According to the ball and ball game machine according to the invention of claim 5, the establishment of the reserve storage possible number change condition is after the execution of the winning game and is stored in the game information hold storage means of the first symbol. Due to the fact that all the game information related to the first symbol is converted into the game information related to the first symbol variation display or the stop-maintenance display, there is game information related to the jackpot in the number of special symbol hold memory already reserved. In such a case, the special symbol reserved memory number is completely erased without being used at all, and it is possible to avoid the occurrence of a significant disadvantage such that the player cannot receive the jackpot game value.

  According to the ball game machine of the sixth aspect of the invention, the first gaming state in which the reserve storage possible number is the first reserve storage possible number, and the reserve storage possible number is the second reserve storage possible number. Since the selection of the two gaming states is performed corresponding to the winning symbol of the first symbol, the number of game balls that the player can obtain in the game after the winning game according to the winning symbol of the first symbol It becomes easier to make a difference in the game, and even more, the player can gain interest.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of an entire ball game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a front view of a game board of the ball game machine, and FIG. 3 is a specific example of image display of each symbol in an image display unit. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing system control of the ball game machine, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing display control of the ball game machine in a simplified manner.

  In the present embodiment, the correspondence of words and phrases is as shown below. The first symbol is the special symbol TL, TM, TR shown in FIG. The second symbol is a normal symbol FZ. The first symbol display device and the second symbol display device are both the symbol display device 43 shown in FIG. The symbol variation areas of the first symbol are the driving start winning opening 10A and the non-driving starting winning opening 10B. The symbol variation area of the second symbol is the normal symbol variation start gate 21. The first symbol game information acquisition means is the special symbol variation start switches SWA and SWB shown in FIG. The second symbol game information acquisition means is the normal symbol variation start switch SW2. The game information hold storage means of the first symbol is the main control circuit 70. The winning ball payout control means is the main control circuit 70 and the payout control circuit 110. The first symbol display control means and the second symbol display control means are a main control circuit 70 and a display control circuit 90 (see FIG. 5). Further, the first symbol start area expansion control means, the first symbol start area expansion time control means, and the reserve storage possible number change control means are all the main control circuit 70.

  The correspondence between the words in the claims and the words in the present embodiment is as described above, but this embodiment is one embodiment of the claims, and the content of the claims is not necessarily limited to the following embodiments. It is not something.

  1 and 2, an outer guide rail 4 and an inner guide rail 5 of the game ball P are erected in a substantially circular shape on the edge of the game board 3 and are surrounded by the inner guide rail 5. On the center line of the game area 6, a display device 9, a non-drive start winning port 10B, a special winning port 15 which is a special electric accessory, and an out port 17 are arranged in order from the upper part to the lower part. Ramp windmills 18a and 18b are provided on both the upper left and right sides of the display device 9, a normal symbol variation start gate 21 that allows a game ball to pass through on the right side, and a windmill 22a on the lower left side. The left sleeve winning opening 23 and the right sleeve winning opening 25 are arranged on the left and right sides of the non-drive start winning opening 10B directly below the display device 9, and the left dropping winning opening 27 and the right dropping winning opening 29 are arranged on both sides of the large winning opening 15. Is arranged. Furthermore, in the ball game machine 1 of the embodiment, the drive start winning opening 10A is provided directly below the normal symbol variation start gate 21. Reference numerals 7, 7a, 7b, and 7c are game nails.

  When the game balls P win the various winning ports, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In addition, a special game state under a specific condition described in detail later, in this example, a win game (a big win state), and during each round, a big winning port 15 (corresponding to a predetermined winning port) which is a variable winning device is opened, and the game Sphere entry is easy. Further, in the normal symbol variation start gate 21, when the normal symbol becomes a predetermined value by the detection signal of the game ball passing, the driving start winning opening 10A (the driving members 11a and 11b) is in the expanded state.

  On the front side of the game board 3, an upper ball receiving tray 32 for receiving the paid-out game balls, a mounting plate 33 for mounting the upper ball receiving tray 32, and the game balls are received when the upper ball receiving tray 32 is saturated. The lower ball tray 34 for the game, the lamp indicators 35 and 36 for informing the game state, and the decoration lamps 39L and 39R, the speaker 37 for informing the player of the game state by sound and sound effect, and the launch handle H are assembled. It has been. Reference numeral 2 denotes a machine frame of the ball game machine 1. Next, each required part will be further described in detail. The lamp indicators 35 and 36, the decoration lamps 39L and 39R, and the speaker 37 described above correspond to notification means.

  The display device 9 is provided with a symbol display device 43 formed of a display device such as a liquid crystal, a dot matrix, or an LED display device in the center. In the embodiment, an image display section (variable display area) 50 including a liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD module) capable of color display is provided in the window frame section 49. The image display unit 50 displays a symbol composed of a plurality of numbers, alphabets, symbols, pictures (characters), etc. in a variable manner together with the symbol display device 43. As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols displayed on the image display unit 50 are a first symbol and a special symbol (or a determination symbol) used for jackpot determination, and a second symbol. There are ordinary symbols used for determining whether or not to hit a jackpot. In the ball game machine 1 of the embodiment, both the special symbol (first symbol) and the normal symbol (second symbol) are displayed in the image display unit 50 in a variable manner for a set time, and a predetermined hit or miss symbol is displayed. The set maintenance time stop is displayed. Therefore, both the first symbol display device and the second symbol display device are configured to be the image display unit 50 (symbol display device 43).

  The drive start winning opening 10A is on the right side of the display device 9, and is provided directly below the normal symbol variation start gate 21. In the winning opening 10A, the two drive members 11a and 11b that operate as ordinary electric accessories are controlled by a starting winning opening solenoid on the back surface (not shown). In a normal state, it is easy to enter a game ball, that is, in a substantially V-shaped enlarged open state (shown by a solid line in FIG. 2), and in a state where it is difficult to enter a game ball, that is, a substantially vertical narrow opening. The winning area is movably controlled so as to change between the states (shown by broken lines in FIG. 2). The opening / opening of the start winning opening 10 is performed when the normal symbol (see FIG. 3) in the normal symbol display area 41 stops changing and comes to the normal symbol on which a specific normal symbol is displayed.

  In the embodiment, in the case of a specific symbol in which the fixed symbol of the normal symbol display area 41 in the normal gaming state described later is a winning symbol, the winning area of the driving start winning opening 10A is expanded and released by 1 for 0.2 seconds. The expansion opening is forcibly terminated. On the other hand, when the fixed symbol of the normal symbol display area 41 is a specific symbol in the normal variation state and the time reduction state, which will be described later, in the probability variation state and time shortening state, the driving start winning opening 10A is 5.5 seconds. The winning area is expanded and released, and the expanded opening is forcibly terminated. Therefore, the movement by the two drive members 11a and 11b in the start winning opening 10 is controlled by a main control circuit 70 described later. That is, the main control circuit 70, the drive start winning opening 10A, and the drive members 11a and 11b correspond to the first symbol start area expansion control means.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the image display unit 50 of this embodiment has three special symbol display areas (a left special symbol display area 51l, a middle special symbol display area 51m, and a right special symbol display area 51r) arranged side by side. The left, middle, and right special symbols TL, TM, and TR (first symbol) are displayed in the set time fluctuation display (1 to 50 seconds) and the set maintenance time stop display (0.5 to appropriately) in the respective symbol display areas. For a few seconds). In addition to the special symbol or the like, a background image (including characters, background, characters, etc.) may be displayed on the image display unit 50. The background image may be a predetermined symbol such as the start of fluctuation of the special symbol. In some cases, variable display is possible due to conditions. In this embodiment, the left, middle, and right special symbols TL, TM, and TR displayed on the image display unit 50 are not all illustrated, but “0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7”, respectively. , 8, 9, 10, and 11 ”. Each special symbol is displayed in a variable manner by, for example, vertically scrolling the special symbol display area. In this embodiment, the special symbol hit, the so-called “big hit”, means that all the three special symbols displayed in the left, middle and right special symbol display areas are the same symbol (spotted symbol), for example, “7 , 7,7 ”to complete and stop.

  On the back side of the game board 3, a special symbol variation start switch SWA (driving) for detecting a winning game ball is provided in a driving start winning port 10A and a non-driving starting winning port 10B which are both first symbol game information acquisition means. SWB (corresponding to the non-drive start winning port 10B) and SWB (corresponding to the start winning port 10A) are provided in the path of the winning ball (not shown). The symbol change of the symbol display device 43 is started due to the detection of the winning ball. At this time, the special symbol (first symbol) which has won (entered) the driving start winning port 10A and the non-driving start winning port 10B during the special symbol variation and has not been used as the special symbol variation display data yet. As shown in FIG. 3, the number of reserved game information stored (up to four (4) in this example) is displayed in the special symbol reserved memory number display area 48 provided on the left side of the image display unit 50. By reducing the number of reserved memories, the number of displays in the display area 48 (special symbol reserved memory number Nt) is reduced (in the figure, the white star is changed to the black star).

  In addition, the image display section 50 is provided with a normal symbol display area 41 (see FIG. 3), and the normal symbol FZ (second symbol) can be displayed in a variable manner and stopped. The normal symbols FZ displayed in the normal symbol display area 41 are not all illustrated, but each of ten symbols “0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9”. It has become a pattern. The normal symbol is displayed as a changeover display (3 seconds or 50 seconds) and a set maintenance time stop display (for 0.5 seconds) as a switching display for sequentially switching the display. In this embodiment, the normal symbol hit in this embodiment, so-called “small hit”, means that the normal symbol displayed in the normal symbol display area 41 in a variable manner for a set time is “1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9”. ] To make a definite stop, that is, to make a definite stop at other than “0”. Needless to say, the variation display mode is appropriate for both the special symbol and the normal symbol, and a plurality of types of variation display can be used.

  Similarly, a normal symbol variation start switch SW2 (not shown) is provided on the back of the game board 3 in correspondence with the normal symbol variation start gate 21 (the symbol start region of the second symbol). The normal symbol variation in the normal symbol display area 41 is started by detecting the game ball passing through the passing gate 21 with the normal symbol variation start switch. As shown in FIG. 3, the normal symbol reserved memory number display area 47 is provided in the image display unit 50 in the same manner as the special symbol reserved memory number display area 48, and the game ball passes through the normal symbol variation start gate 21. In this example, the number of stored game information on the normal symbol (second symbol) that is not yet used as the normal symbol display data is displayed (up to four times (four in this example)). By reducing the number of reserved memories, the number of displays in the display area 47 (normal symbol reserved memory number Nf) is reduced (in the figure, the white circle is changed to a black circle).

  The special symbol reserved memory number Nt and the normal symbol reserved memory number Nf are stored and held in a RAM 73 (first symbol game information acquisition means) in a main control circuit 70 described later, and a CPU 71 (hold) in the circuit 70 is stored. The change control is performed in cooperation with the storable number changing means). In particular, “4”, which is the number of reserved memories of both the special symbol (first symbol) and the normal symbol (second symbol), is a fixed number stored in the main control circuit or the like. This is the upper limit value (maximum value) stored in the circuit or the like.

  It should be noted that the left sleeve winning port detection switch and the right sleeve winning port detection switch for detecting the winning balls of the left sleeve winning port 23 and the right sleeve winning port 25, and the left dropping winning port 27 and the right dropping winning port 29 are won. A detection switch for a left drop winning opening and a detection switch for a right drop winning opening for detecting a ball are provided on the back of the corresponding game board.

  The large winning opening 15 is provided below the non-drive start winning opening 10B, and includes a large winning opening opening solenoid and an opening / closing plate 61 opened and closed by the solenoid. The special winning opening 15 is normally in a state in which the opening / closing plate 61 is closed, and the special winning area 63 is opened inside the special winning opening 15 so that it can be opened simultaneously with the opening of the special winning opening 15. Have Further, the specific area winning opening 63 is provided with an open / close door (not shown) that is opened and closed by a specific area opening solenoid in a predetermined condition. Further, the specific area winning opening 63 is provided with a continuous winning ball detection switch for detecting a continuous winning ball, and a continuation right to reopen the large winning opening 15 is established by detecting the winning ball. In addition, a winning ball count switch for detecting a winning ball that has won the big winning port 15 and has not won the specific area winning port 63 is provided in the approximate center of the big winning port 15.

  The operation of the symbol display device 43 and the operation of the special winning opening 15, that is, the operation when the special game is executed (when the winning game is established or when the winning game is established) will be described. As described above, when a game ball wins one of the driving start winning opening 10A and the non-driving starting winning opening 10B and the winning ball is detected by the special symbol change start switches SWA, SWB (see FIG. 4), the special ball is detected. A winning signal is sent to the main control circuit 70 shown in FIG. 4 to be described later by the symbol variation start switches SWA and SWB, and various random values (Q1 and the like) such as a label -TRND-A of the main control circuit 70 are obtained ( The obtained numerical value is temporarily stored in various random number storage areas of the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70. Based on each stored numerical value, determination of jackpot, determination of reach, determination of special symbol variation / stop pattern, determination of special symbol stop symbol combination (creation), etc. are performed. The variation of the special symbol is started in each predetermined display area of the image display unit 50. The main control circuit 70 corresponds to main control means for performing main control of the gaming machine 1.

  The special symbol (the first symbol) is a special symbol as a stop symbol after the change is displayed after the variation start time (set in each special symbol variation / stop pattern, in this example, a minimum of about 1 second to a maximum of 50 seconds). In the symbol display area (shown in FIG. 3), the set maintenance time fixed stop is displayed. In one variation mode in the embodiment, first, the special symbol starts to fluctuate in the left special symbol display region 51l, the middle special symbol display region 51m, and the right special symbol display region 51r, and the left special symbol display region and the right special symbol display region 51r. The special symbols are variably stopped in the order of the symbol display area and the middle special symbol display area, and are finally displayed as the stopped symbols. At that time, for example, the reach state may be established depending on the display mode of the reach symbol determined by setting the reach determination process.

  Here, the reach state is a stage before the display result is stopped and the display result is stopped and displayed after the special symbol variation display is started in the left, middle and right special symbol display areas of the image display unit 50. , A display mode for causing the player to think that a specific display mode, that is, a variable display mode in which a combination of jackpot symbols (a combination of the same symbols) is easily displayed. In this embodiment, as one of the reach states, among the left, middle and right special symbol display areas of the image display unit 50, a display region (here, the middle special symbol) for displaying the final stop symbol (here, the middle special symbol). Reach fluctuation display processing is performed in which only the symbol display area) is left and the remaining two display areas are temporarily stopped so that the symbols have a specific combination (for example, the same symbol).

  Further, during the reach state, the variation time of the special symbol (mainly the final stop special symbol) in the image display unit 50 is lengthened, or the symbol use effect using the special symbol in the image display unit 50 or behind the special symbol is used. A reach action is produced by displaying a character or background displayed on the screen. In addition, before entering the reach state, a notice (predictor) for notifying that there is a high possibility of reaching the reach state or a big hit may be produced. Examples of the advance notice include character display and afterimage display on the image display unit 50.

  When the combination of the stopped symbols (special symbols that have been confirmed and stopped) is, for example, a jackpot symbol combination (spotted eye) composed of a combination of the same symbols or the like, the game shifts to a special game (a winning game) that means a jackpot state. In the special game (winning game), the open / close plate 61 of the special prize opening 15 (corresponding to a predetermined prize opening) is opened by the excitation of the special prize opening solenoid and the game ball falling on the surface of the game area 6 is removed. When a prize is received at the grand prize opening 15, and a prize is received at the big prize opening 15, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out as prize balls by a prize ball payout device (not shown).

  The opening / closing plate 61 is temporarily closed after a predetermined time (for example, 29.5 seconds) has elapsed or when the number of winning balls detected by the winning ball count switch reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). The number of winning balls is counted accurately (for example, 10). A state in which the game ball is easy to win due to the opening of the opening / closing plate 61 is referred to as a round. The number of winning balls detected by the winning ball number counting switch is displayed on the image display unit 50 of the symbol display device 43 as a number from 0 to 10 or as a bar graph.

  Then, when the winning ball detecting switch detects the winning ball to the specific area winning port 63 within about 2 seconds after the winning port 15 is opened or within about 2 seconds after the closing of the big winning port 15, the right to repeat the jackpot again. And the opening and closing of the opening / closing plate 61 is repeated a predetermined maximum number of times (for example, a maximum of 15 times).

  Furthermore, in the ball ball game machine 1 of this embodiment, after the jackpot (special game or winning game) is finished, a “privilege game” is executed in which a privilege different from the jackpot privilege is given to the player. Specifically, the ball game machine 1 is a model having a probability variation (probability variation) function and a time reduction (time reduction) function. In particular, when the jackpot is established, the special symbol winning symbol combination that is displayed with the set maintenance time fixed / stopped is one of the probable symbol combinations ('1', '3', '5', '7', '9', '11') In the case of a sloppy eye), after the jackpot ends, the probability variation and the time shortening in which the variation time of the special symbol (first symbol) and the normal symbol (second symbol) are shortened occur. That is, the next jackpot occurrence probability is shifted to a probability fluctuation state (high probability state, 10/630) higher than the normal gaming state (normal probability state, 2/630) in normal times, and the special symbol (first symbol) and normal The time from when the symbol (second symbol) starts to change until it is confirmed and stopped (time required for displaying the determination result) is shorter than usual (with changes to each set time), and the time is shifted to the time reduction state. . In this case, the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue until the next jackpot.

  On the other hand, if the winning symbol combination that is confirmed and stopped is not the probability variation symbol combination, that is, if it is a non-probability variation symbol combination, the normal gaming state (normal probability state, 2/630) remains after the jackpot ends. At the same time, the state is shifted to the time reduction state. Here, the time reduction in the normal gaming state is a period in which the special symbol set time fluctuation display and the set maintenance time stop display are repeated a predetermined number of times as a predetermined period (in the embodiment, the special symbol is changed and stopped for 100 times as the number of bonus games. This period is continued for a period until the bonus game number of 100 is sequentially subtracted to zero.

  In addition, in the embodiment, when the probability variation state and the time shortening state due to the bonus game execution after the jackpot, the winning rate to the start winning opening 10 is improved to determine whether or not to win the jackpot. Opportunities are being increased. That is, the extended opening time of the driving start winning opening 10A (driving members 11a and 11b) which is the symbol starting area of the first symbol by the normal symbol (small hit) is lengthened (from 0.2 seconds to 5.5 seconds). In addition, by increasing the frequency of occurrence of the expanded open state of the driving start winning opening 10A by shortening the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display area 41 (from 50 seconds to 3 seconds), etc. .

  In addition, when the jackpot is again established in the probability variation pattern combination in the probability variation state, the time shortening state, and the determination opportunity increasing state, the probability variation state, the time shortening state, and the determination opportunity increasing state are again performed after the jackpot ends. Become. As described above, during the award game, the extended opening time of the driving start winning opening 10A becomes longer, so that the player can enter the driving start winning opening 10A that is easier to win (enter) than the non-drive starting winning opening 10B. The projectile will be controlled as a target.

  Further, as will be described in detail later, even in the normal gaming state (non-probability variation state) during the bonus game, a difference is made in the progress of the special symbol set time variation display and the set maintenance time stop display. For this reason, the time from when the number of bonus games (100 times) is subtracted until it reaches 0 times is different, and as a result, the bonus game time is extended, leading to an increase in the number of prize balls.

  In this way, the game value given to the player, such as the award value at the time of special game execution such as the number of possible rounds where a jackpot continuation right can be generated, and the benefit value by the award game such as probability fluctuation, time reduction or increased decision opportunity If the (big hit mode) is changed according to the symbol in the winning symbol combination displayed in the fixed stop display, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the winning symbol combination, broaden the game, and make the game even more interesting. .

  In the embodiment, a special symbol variation display (reach mode) resulting from winning in the normal start winning opening 10 is generated and light emission related to this is performed, thereby enhancing the effect of playing the game.

  FIG. 4 shows a main control circuit 70 that performs main control of the game system installed on the back side of the ball game machine 1, and a special display in the image display unit 50 of the symbol display device 43 under the control of the main control circuit 70. Display, various display modes at the time of reach production, display control circuit (sub-control circuit) 90 for selecting and controlling prior notification, sound control circuit 85 for controlling sound of the speaker 37, lamp indicators 35 and 36, decorative lamp A system control block of the ball game machine 1 is shown, such as a light emitter control circuit 88 that controls various light emitters such as 39L, 39R, and LEDs, a payout control circuit 110, and the like.

  The main control circuit 70 includes a CPU 72 that performs a control operation in accordance with a game control program, a RAM 73 that functions as a work memory for the CPU 72, a ROM 74 that stores a game control program, a one-chip microcomputer 71, It is composed of I / O (input / output) buses 75 and 76 for connecting the computer 71 and the display control circuit 90, an output port 77, a driver 78, a buffer gate 79, an interface 80, an initial reset circuit 81, a periodic reset circuit 82, and the like. ing. In the embodiment, the main control circuit 70 includes a first symbol game information hold storage means, a prize ball payout control means, a first symbol display control means, a second symbol display control means, and a first symbol start area. This corresponds to the expansion control means, the first symbol start area expansion time control means, and the reserved memory number change control means.

  The CPU 72 includes a control unit, a calculation unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc., and performs calculation control, as well as a probability of occurrence of a big hit (special gaming state) or a normal symbol (enlargement of the driving start winning opening 10A) A random number that determines the probability of occurrence of the release, and the main control circuit 70 together with the first symbol game information hold storage means, the prize payout control means, the first symbol display control means, the second symbol display control means The first symbol start area expansion control means, the first symbol start area expansion time control means, and the reserve storage possible number change control means.

  The RAM 73 temporarily stores a storage area for detection signals of the special symbol variation start switches SWA and SWB and a detection signal of the normal symbol variation start switch SW2, a storage area for various random values generated by the CPU 72, and various data. A storage area, a flag, and a work area for the CPU 72 are provided. In addition, the RAM 73 has a predetermined number of game balls which are won (entered) in the driving / non-drive start winning ports 10A and 10B (the symbol starting area of the first symbol) during the special symbol variation display or the stop maintenance display. It acts as a game information hold storage means of the first symbol for storing game information related to the fixed stop display of the special symbol (first symbol) up to (in the embodiment, four). Here, the game information represents data relating to game progress such as random numbers of various counters, flag states, commands, and the like generated by the CPU 72.

  Further, the RAM 73 has a predetermined number (in the embodiment,) of game balls that have won (entered) the normal symbol variation start gate 21 (the symbol start area of the second symbol) during normal symbol variation display or stop display. Up to four), it acts as a second symbol game information hold storage means for holding and storing game information related to the fixed stop display of the normal symbol (second symbol).

  In the ROM 74, game control programs, control data such as variable time data, and control commands are written, as well as jackpots and judgment values for normal symbols.

  The initial reset circuit 81 is a circuit for resetting the one-chip microcomputer 71 when the power supply circuit 87 is turned on. In response to the initial reset pulse sent from the initial reset circuit 81, the one-chip microcomputer 71 initializes various control information. The periodic reset circuit 82 periodically gives a reset pulse to the one-chip microcomputer 71 (every 2 msec in this example), and repeatedly executes the game control program stored in the ROM 74 of the one-chip microcomputer 71 from the top. It is a circuit for making it.

  Based on a control signal output from the main control circuit 70, a driving start winning port 10A (not shown, but a solenoid for moving the driving members 11a and 11b) connected to the driver 78, a large winning port 15 and the like are controlled. ing. In addition, various information such as jackpot information, symbol determination information, probability variation information, prize ball payout information, and the like are output to the hall management device 84, which is a host computer, via the driver 78 and the information output circuit 83.

  In addition, a display control circuit 90 is connected to the one-chip microcomputer 71 via the output port 77. The display control circuit 90 includes a symbol comprising an image display section 50 including special symbol display areas 51l, 51m, 51r, a normal symbol display area 41, a special symbol reserved memory number display area 48, and a normal symbol reserved memory number display area 47. A display device 43 is connected and controlled. Further, the light emitter control circuit 88 receives the light emitter control signal via the output port 77 and the display control circuit 90, and based on the control signal, the lamp indicators 35 and 36, which are various light emitters, and the decoration lamps 39L and 39R, etc. The light emission control of the light emitting means is performed.

  In addition, an audio control circuit 85 is also connected to the one-chip microcomputer 71 via an I / O bus 75 and a display control circuit 90. A speaker 37 is connected to the sound control circuit 85, and sound generation control of the speaker 37, which is sound generating means, is performed based on the control signal.

  In addition, special symbol variation start switches SWA, SWB for detecting game balls won in various winning holes, normal symbol variation start switch SW2, winning ball count switch, continuous winning ball detection switch, other winning port detection switches, etc. Detection signals output from the detectors are transmitted to the main control circuit 70 via the interface 80.

  In addition, the main control circuit 70 includes a power supply circuit 87, a launch control circuit 100 for controlling the launch of the game ball by the launch device H, and a set number resulting from the entrance by the payout device (not shown). A payout control circuit 110 (prize ball payout control means) is connected to control the payout of prize balls and balls.

  The display control circuit 90 corresponds to a sub control circuit that performs predetermined display control processing based on a control signal from the main control circuit 70. The display control circuit 90 corresponds to the first symbol display device and the second symbol display device in the bullet ball game machine 1 together with the main control circuit 70, and the display device 9 (in particular, the symbol display device 43). Receives a signal related to display control of a game image (special symbol, normal symbol, not shown, background image such as character, landscape, etc.) displayed on the image display unit 50) from the main control circuit 70, and sets display data Display control.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the display control circuit 90 includes image data ROM 96 that stores special symbol and normal symbol fluctuation / stop display data, a notification image for advance notification, and the like as control signals for the main control circuit 70. The display control CPU 91 (which includes a control unit, a calculation unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc.) for controlling display control data based on the display device 9 is further provided. A control data ROM 92 for storing control data for displaying the control data, and a control data RAM 93 for storing the control data in a rewritable manner, and necessary data from the image data ROM 96 based on a command (command) from the display control CPU 91. Read the special symbol, the normal symbol, the number of special symbol hold storage, the number of normal symbol hold storage number, etc. VDP94 of generating Updater, VRAM95 stores data generated by said VDP94, consisting reset circuit 98 and the like. In the display control circuit 90, the composite synchronization signal SYNC is supplied from the VDP 94 to the symbol display device 43 of the display device 9, and an image is displayed on the image display unit 50 based on the transmitted composite synchronization signal SYNC.

  Although not shown, the audio control circuit 85 and the light emitter control circuit 88 shown in FIG. 4 are appropriately provided with a control CPU, a control data ROM, and a control data RAM, respectively. Various game commands (reach, jackpot, jackpot, special game execution, special game execution, etc.) transmitted from the display control circuit 90 are received, and sound and light emission in response to the various commands are executed.

  The main counter of the CPU 72 of the main control circuit 70 in this embodiment includes a label-TRND-A (random number: Q1, random number range: 0-629) used for determining whether or not the jackpot is won, and a special jackpot stop special symbol combination. Label-TRND-AZ1 (random number: Q2, random number range: 0 to 11) used for determination, label-TRND-B1, B2, B3 (random number: Q3, Q4) used for determination of special symbol combination for stoppage determination , Q5, random number range: 0 to 11), and label-TRND-F (random number: Q6, random number range: 0 to 9) used for determining whether or not to hit a small hit. The numerical value of each counter stored in the RAM 73 is cleared after a series of game operation processes based on the counter. The operation of each counter is as follows.

  The label-TRND-A is a random number counter that determines whether or not the jackpot is successful, and corresponds to a winning / nothing determination unit in the bullet ball game machine 1. This label-TRND-A starts from “0” when the power of the ball game machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every predetermined interruption time (for example, 2 msec). Returning to 0 ', the addition is repeated. The numerical value of the label-TRND-A is acquired when the game ball is won by the driving / non-driving starting winning opening 10A, 10B and is detected by the special symbol variation start switch SWA, SWB, and is determined in advance. Numerical values, in this embodiment, are compared with '5' and '500' in normal time (normal probability state) which is a normal symbol combination, and in the probability variation state (high probability state) which is the probability variable symbol combination. It is judged whether or not it is a big hit by comparing with 5 ',' 50 ',' 100 ',' 200 ',' 300 ',' 350 ',' 400 ',' 450 ',' 500 ',' 600 '. In addition, since the game ball may win the driving / non-drive start winning opening 10A, 10B and the numerical value of the label-TRND-A may be acquired again until the determination of the success / failure is completed, the label-TRND The stored acquisition values (update acquisition numerical values) of -A are temporarily stored in the special symbol variation pattern random number storage area of the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70, not including the acquisition value currently being determined, and are used for sequential determination. Is done.

  The label-TRND-AZ1 determines a definite jackpot special symbol combination that is fixedly stopped in the left, middle, and right special symbol display areas 51l, 51m, and 51r when the jackpot is established. The label-TRND-AZ1 repeats starting from “0” at the time of power-on, incrementing by “1” every interrupt time, and returning to “0” again when reaching “11”. The numerical value of the label-TRND-AZ1 is acquired when the winning ball to the driving / non-driving starting winning opening 10A, 10B is detected by the special symbol variation start switch SWA, SWB, and the value for the symbol in the variation display. Up to four, not including, are stored in the special symbol random number storage area of the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70. To the numerical value of the label-TRND-AZ1, a definite jackpot stop special symbol combination corresponding to each numerical value is assigned in advance. In the examples, as shown in Table 1 below, the special symbol tread corresponding to the obtained numerical values “0” to “11” of the label-TRND-AZ1 is displayed as a fixed jackpot stop symbol combination in a variable manner. After that, the set maintenance time fixed stop display is finally displayed.

  At the same time, as understood from the post-special game (after winning game) aspect attached to Table 1 above, the numerical value Q2 (game information) of the label-TRND-AZ1 for determining the above-mentioned probability variation pattern is acquired. In such a case, in the bonus game state after the special game (after the winning game), the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue until the next jackpot. On the other hand, when the numerical value Q2 of the label-TRND-AZ1 for determining the above-mentioned non-probable variable symbol is determined, the probability shortening state is not brought about during the period in which the special symbol fluctuates 100 times. continue.

  In particular, in the non-probable variable symbol of the numerical value Q2 (= 0, 4, 8), if it is “zero, fourth, eighth,” special symbol corresponding to the winning symbol The number of holdable storable numbers is selected and controlled to be changed from the first gaming state where the number is 4 (first storable number) to the second gaming state where the number is 1 (second storable number). As described in detail in a later time chart, the first game state is a state in which the subtraction of the number of privilege games (100 times) continues. On the other hand, the second game state is a state in which the subtraction of the number of bonus games (100 times) continues intermittently. Therefore, in the second gaming state, the time until the end of the number of bonus games is extended, and the number of prize balls during that time can be improved.

  The labels -TRND-B1 to B3 are used to determine a special combination of detachment symbols that are confirmed and stopped and displayed on each of the image display units 51l, 51m, and 51r when the result of determining whether or not the jackpot is determined by the label -TRND-A. Is. The label -TRND-B1 is the left special symbol in the left special symbol display area 51l, the label -TRND-B2 is the right special symbol in the right special symbol display area 51r, and the label -TRND-B3 is the middle special symbol display area 51m (final stop) It corresponds to the medium special symbol in the symbol display area).

  The label -TRND-B1 starts from '0' when the power is turned on and is incremented by '1' every interrupt time. After reaching '11', the addition starts again from '0' and is repeated. The label-TRND-B2 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” when the numerical value of the label-TRND-B1 returns to “0” again to reach “11”. Thereafter, the addition is repeated starting from “0” again. Further, the label-TRND-B3 starts from “0” when the power is turned on, and is incremented by “1” when the numerical value of the label-TRND-B2 returns to “0” again to reach “11”. Thereafter, the addition is repeated starting from “0” again. Thereby, even if the random number ranges of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 are the same, it is possible to avoid the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 from being synchronized (added in the same combination).

  Symbols corresponding to the respective numerical values are assigned in advance to the numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3. In this embodiment, as shown in Table 2 below, special symbols corresponding to the obtained numerical values “0” to “11” of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 are assigned. Then, each time a winning ball is detected by the special symbol variation start switch SWA, SWB, the left, middle, and right special symbol display area 51l at the time of detachment by a combination of numerical values acquired from the labels -TRND-B1 to B3. The fixed stop special symbol displayed on 51m and 51r is determined. Further, the obtained numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 are stored in the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70 up to four.

  In this embodiment, when all the numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 coincide with each other and the reach state is established by the numerical values of the label -TRND-R1, the numerical value of the label -TRND-B3 is set. 1 is added, and the special symbol assigned to the value and the numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 and B2 is displayed in a fixed stop state. Further, when all of the numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 to B3 match at the time of detachment and the reach state is not established, and two numerical values of the labels -TRND-B1 and B2 match (label -TRND-B3 If the reach state is not established, 1 is added to the value of label-TRND-B2, and the special symbols assigned to the value and the values of labels-TRND-B1, B3 are determined. The stop is displayed. Further, when the reach state is established by the numerical value of label-TRND-R1 at the time of detachment, but the numerical values of label-TRND-B1 and B2 do not match, the numerical value of label-TRND-B2 is labeled- The numerical value of TRND-B1 is changed to the same numerical value, the numerical value of label-TRND-B3 is changed to a numerical value obtained by adding 1 to the numerical value of label-TRND-B1, and the changed value and the value of label-TRND-B1 are changed. Each special symbol assigned to the numerical value is displayed in a fixed stop state.

  The label-TRND-F is a random number counter that determines whether or not a small hit or miss, and corresponds to a success / failure determination unit in the gaming machine 1. This label-TRND-F starts from “0” when the power of the ball game machine 1 is turned on, and is incremented by 1 every predetermined interruption time (for example, 2 msec). Returning to 0 ', the addition is repeated. The numerical value of the label-TRND-F is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol variation start gate 21 and is detected by the normal symbol variation start switch SW2, and is a small hit value determined in advance. In the example, it is compared with '1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9' and it is determined whether or not a small hit. Further, since the game ball may pass through the normal symbol variation start gate 21 and the numerical value of the label-TRND-F may be acquired again until the determination of whether or not is completed, the label-TRND-F The maximum four stored acquisition values (update acquisition numerical values) are temporarily stored in the normal symbol variation pattern random number storage area of the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70, and are used for sequential determination. As shown in Table 3 below, the correspondence between the acquired numerical value Q6 ('0' to '9') of the label-TRND-F and the normal symbol is shown. After each normal symbol is displayed as a small hit stop symbol combination with a set time fluctuation display, it is finally displayed with a set maintenance time fixed stop display.

  Further, as other counters provided in the main control circuit 70, a counter for determining the presence or absence of reach and a counter for determining the type of reach are provided. In addition, a counter for determining whether or not to produce a notice for notifying that there is a high possibility of being in a big win or reach state when the special symbol changes, and determining the form of the notice Before the final stop display of the counter and the special symbol combination per finalization, the temporary special symbol combination (here, the glance) is temporarily displayed in each special symbol display area 51l, 51m, 51r in a predetermined operation mode such as subtle fluctuation. A so-called re-lottery, in which all special symbols once aligned by the temporary stop are scrolled and changed together for a predetermined time while the symbols are aligned, and then the combination of symbols is confirmed and stopped. A counter or the like for determining whether or not to produce an effect may be added as appropriate.

  The plurality of flags provided in the main control circuit 70 or the display control circuit 90 include a jackpot flag (special game flag), a special game execution flag, a special game execution flag, a probability change flag (probability change flag), a time reduction flag ( Time reduction flag), small hit flag (ordinary symbol per flag), normal symbol variation flag, and the like, and a reach flag established by an appropriate counter. These flags are all set to 0 at the initial setting.

  Next, a series of processes performed by the main control circuit 70 in the ball game machine 1 according to the present invention will be described in detail from the relationship with the counter. The CPU 72 of the main control circuit 70 shown in FIG. 4 executes each program (main routine) stored in the ROM of the main control circuit 70 every interruption time (2 msec).

  As understood from the flowcharts of FIGS. 6 and 7, in the main process M, it is first confirmed whether or not the power is turned on (S10), the initial setting (S20), the output process (S30), the input Processing (S40), Random number update processing (S50), Confirmation of winning to driving / non-driving starting winning openings 10A, 10B (S60), Random number acquisition processing (S70), Confirmation of establishment of jackpot determination / determination condition (special symbol starting condition) (S80), jackpot determination processing (S90), fixed stop special symbol determination processing (S100), special symbol variation mode determination processing (S110), confirmation of normal symbol variation start gate 21 passage (S120), small hit determination determination Processing (S130), fixed stop normal symbol determination processing (S140), normal symbol variation mode determination processing (S150), confirmation of special game execution condition establishment (S160) , Special game execution process (S170), confirmation of establishment of small hit game conditions (S180), drive start winning opening release process (S190), confirmation of establishment of special game conditions (S200), special game execution process (S210), special symbol A pending storage count change process (S220) and other processes (S230) are performed.

  In the initial setting (S20), stack setting, constant setting, CPU setting, SIO, PIO, CTC setting and the like are performed. It should be noted that processing required only when the power is turned on is executed only in the first order, and is not executed after that.

  In the output process (S30), the presence or absence of output data is confirmed in the output buffer in the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70. If there is output data, the output data in the output buffer is output. If there is no output data, no data is output and the process ends. The output data includes a special game state transition command, a special game state end command, a bonus game transition command, a special symbol stop command, a normal symbol stop command, a variation pattern designation command, a pending storageable number change command, a first game There are a state setting command, a second gaming state setting command, and the like. Each command is transmitted to the display control circuit 90, the sound control circuit 85, the light emitter control circuit 88, the payout control circuit 110, and the like.

  In the input process (S40), as described above, the various switches SWA, SWB, SW2 and the like attached to the driving and non-driving start winning ports 10A and 10B, the normal symbol variation starting gate 21, the big winning port 15 and the like are prepared. When the detected sensor detects a game ball, various data related to the game are input.

  In the random number update process (S50), each numerical value Qn (n = 1, 2, 3, 6) of each counter is incremented by 1 every predetermined time, and each numerical value Qn is added to a predetermined maximum value X (label -TRND-). In the case of A, when 629) is reached, the process of returning to “0” again is performed. The updated numerical values of the counters are stored in random number storage areas corresponding to the counters of the RAM 73 of the main control circuit 70, respectively. Each counter is incremented by 1 every interruption time (2 msec) and stored in the random number storage area of the RAM.

  After the random number update process (S50), the presence / absence of detection signals of the special symbol variation start switches SWA and SWB provided in the driving / non-driving start winning ports 10A and 10B is confirmed (S60). When there is the detection signal, a random number acquisition process (S70) is performed.

  In the random number acquisition process (S70), first, update numerical values Qn (n = 1 to 5) of label-TRND-A, label-TRND-AZ1, label-TRND-B1 to B3 are acquired. Next, the acquired numerical values Qn are stored in the acquired random number storage area of the RAM of the main control circuit 70, respectively.

  Subsequently, it is confirmed whether or not the jackpot winning / failing determination condition is satisfied (S80). Here, the condition for determining whether or not the jackpot is true means that the special game is not currently being executed, that the special symbol is not changing, and that there is game information that is reserved and stored for the special symbol. When it is determined that the jackpot winning determination condition is satisfied, the subsequent processes up to the jackpot winning determination process (S90), the fixed stop special symbol determination process (S100), and the special symbol variation mode determination process (S110) are performed. Done. Of course, when the jackpot determination condition is not satisfied, the processing from S90 to S110 is omitted.

  In the big hit determination process (S90), first, the state of the probability variation flag is confirmed. When the probability variation flag is not ON (that is, OFF), that is, in the normal probability state (2/630), the label-TRND-A The stored game information Q1 is compared with “5” and “500” which are jackpot values. If the value is any of the jackpot values, the special game can be executed, that is, the jackpot, the jackpot flag is set to ON, and the jackpot flag (ON state) is stored in the RAM of the main control circuit 70. On the other hand, when the probability variation flag is ON, that is, in the high probability state (10/630), the stored game information Q1 is a jackpot value “5”, “50”, “100”, “ Contrast with “200”, “300”, “350”, “400”, “450”, “500”, “600”. If it matches any of the jackpot values, the jackpot is set, the jackpot flag is set to ON, and the jackpot flag (ON state) is stored in the RAM of the main control circuit 70.

  In the confirmed stop special symbol determination process (S100), the image display unit 50 of the symbol display device 43, in particular, the left, middle and right special symbol display areas 51l, 51m, 51r is confirmed (S90) based on the jackpot winning / failing determination process (S90). Final) A special symbol to be stopped is determined. Therefore, each of the special symbol that is confirmed and stopped when the jackpot is reached, the special symbol that is confirmed and stopped when the reach is lost, and the special symbol that is confirmed and stopped when the reach is lost are determined. Although the illustration of the processing of S100 is omitted, when the big win / fail determination processing of S90 is a big win, the label -TRND-AZ1 is used, and in the case of a loss (including a reach failure), a label is used. -TRND-B1 to B3 are used. Then, the combination of special symbols for winning or losing at the time of final stop based on the stored value (Q2 to Q5) of each counter is determined, and the determined items are stored in the output buffer in the RAM of the main control circuit. In addition, in accordance with the counter obtained numerical value Q2 (winning symbol), a determination is made as to whether to select the first gaming state or the second gaming state during the bonus game, and this determination is also stored in the output buffer. Stored.

  In the special symbol variation mode determination process (S110), the image display unit 50 (left, middle) of the symbol display device 43 is based on the jackpot determination / determination process (S90) and the fixed stop special symbol determination process (S100) described above. , Right special symbol display areas 51l, 51m, 51r) are determined. Although illustration of the processing of S110 is omitted, a reach type determination counter is provided, and the type of reach mode is determined by corresponding to an appropriate update acquisition numerical value, and the determined matter is determined by the RAM of the main control circuit. Stored in the output buffer. Examples of the reach mode include vertical scroll, horizontal scroll, and diagonal scroll. Needless to say, the types of reach modes are not limited to these, and can be set in various ways. In the special symbol variation mode determination process (S110), variation time data based on a special symbol variation time timer (special operation timer) is formed.

  Next, whether or not the game ball has passed through the normal symbol variation start gate 21, that is, whether or not the small hit / fail determination condition is satisfied is confirmed by detection of the normal symbol variation start switch SW <b> 2 (S <b> 120). After the confirmation, the update numerical value Q6 of the label-TRND-F is acquired. Next, the acquired numerical values Q6 are stored in the acquired random number storage area of the RAM of the main control circuit 70, respectively. When the small hit / fail determination condition is satisfied, the small hit / fail determination process (S130), the fixed stop normal symbol determination process (S140), and the normal symbol variation mode determination process (S150) are performed. If the small hit / fail judgment condition is not satisfied, the processing from S130 to S150 is omitted.

  In the small hit / fail determination process (S130), first, the game information Q6 stored and stored in the label-TRND-F is a small hit value of '1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, In contrast to 9 ', the small hit value is a small hit, that is, per normal symbol, the small hit flag is set to ON, and the small hit flag (ON state) is stored in the RAM of the main control circuit 70. Stored. On the other hand, when the game information Q6 stored on hold is “0”, the normal symbol loss is set as the normal symbol loss. In the embodiment, the probability that the normal symbol hits is a configuration that does not change depending on the gaming state.

  In the fixed stop normal symbol determination process (S140), the normal symbol to be fixed (finally) stopped and displayed on the image display unit 50 of the symbol display device 43, in particular, the normal symbol display area 41, based on the small hit / fail determination process (S130). A decision is made. When determining the symbol, as shown in Table 3 above, the winning or losing number is determined according to the acquired numerical value Q6 of the label-TRND-F, and the determined matter is stored in the output buffer in the RAM of the main control circuit. .

  In the normal symbol variation mode determination process (S150), first, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are confirmed for the probability variation and the time reduction state in the bonus game. If neither the probability fluctuation nor the time shortening is set, the normal symbol fluctuation time timer (normal operation timer) is set to 50 seconds. Set the time timer (normal operation timer) to 3 seconds. As a result, the normal symbol variation flag is set to ON and the flag (ON state) is stored in the RAM 73. In the normal symbol variation mode determination process (S150), variation time data based on a normal symbol variation time timer (normal operation timer) is formed.

  In the confirmation (S160) that the special game execution condition is satisfied, the special symbol determined by the processing after the jackpot determination process (S90) is a jackpot, and the set time (in the embodiment, the special symbol is stopped and displayed). The minimum 0.5 seconds) is confirmed. In response to this confirmation, a special game (win game) is executed (S160). Of course, when the elapse of the set time is not confirmed, the special game execution process (S170) is not performed.

  In the special game execution process (S170), the special game state transition command is stored in the output buffer in the RAM 73, the special game execution flag is set ON, and the jackpot flag is set OFF. Then, as described above, a continuation right that the special winning opening 15 is opened again, that is, a special game (winning game) consisting of 15 opening (15 rounds) by the opening / closing plate 61 is executed. Subsequently, the establishment of the special game end condition (predetermined game ball winning or the like) is confirmed, and a special game state end command is stored in the output buffer in the RAM 73.

  Here, whether or not the jackpot fixed stop special symbol determined this time is the above-mentioned probability variation symbol (probability variation symbol), specifically, '1', '3', '5', '7', It is confirmed whether or not the symbol is a special symbol consisting of any one of '9' and '11'. If it is a probability variation symbol (that is, a probability variation state that is a probability variation symbol combination), a probability variation flag ( The probability variation flag) and the time reduction flag (time reduction flag) are set to ON. On the other hand, when it is not a probability variable symbol (that is, a non-stochastic variation state that is a normal symbol combination consisting of any of '2', '4', '6', '8', '10', '12') ), The probability variation flag (probability variation flag) is set to OFF, and the time reduction flag (time reduction flag) is set to ON. These flags and various commands to be determined are stored in an output buffer in the RAM 73.

  In the confirmation of the establishment of the small hitting game condition (S180), the normal symbol determined by the small hitting success / failure determination processing (S130) or the like is a small hit, and further, the set time (in the embodiment, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed) The minimum 0.5 seconds) is confirmed. With this confirmation as an opportunity (the small hit flag is set to the ON state), a drive start winning opening releasing process which is a small hit game is executed (S190). Of course, when the elapse of the set time is not confirmed, the drive start winning opening releasing process (S190) is not performed.

  In the drive start winning port opening process (S180), it is confirmed whether or not the small hit flag is in the ON state, and further, it is confirmed whether or not any of the probability variation flag or the short time flag is in the ON state. The When the probability variation flag is in the ON state, the open area is set to 3 times for 1.7 seconds in the winning area of the driving start winning opening 10A. On the other hand, when the hourly flag is in the ON state, the extended opening is set so that the winning area of the driving start winning opening 10A is once every 3 seconds. In this way, the drive start winning opening enlargement / release command is set and stored in the output buffer in the RAM 73.

  In the confirmation of satisfaction of the special game conditions (S200), the end of the special game in the special game execution process (S170), that is, the end of the predetermined number of rounds (15 times) is confirmed. As a result, when the privilege game can be executed, the privilege game execution processing (S210) is performed, and when the privilege game cannot be executed, the processing S210 is not executed.

  In the bonus game execution process (S210), when the special symbol determined by the process after the jackpot determination process (S90) is the probability variation symbol (probability variation symbol), as described above, the probability variation and time reduction are performed. Execution of the associated privilege game is determined. The bonus game in this case is continued until the next jackpot.

  On the other hand, when the determined special symbol is the normal symbol (non-stochastic variation symbol), first, the number of times that the set time variation display and the set maintenance time stop display are performed by the special symbol as the predetermined period (the number of bonus games) is 100. Set to times. Subsequently, the number of bonus games of one time is subtracted from the number of bonus games of 100 times for each set time variation display and set maintenance time stop display. Then, when the number of 100 bonus games is 0, the bonus game is ended and the time reduction state is canceled. In any case, the award game end determination command is stored in the output buffer in the RAM 73.

  In the special symbol hold storable number changing process (S220), as understood from the flowchart of FIG. 8, it is confirmed whether or not the special game state (winning game state) has ended (S221), and has ended. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the number of special symbol reservation storage is 0 (S222). When the number of reserved memories is 0, as shown in Table 1 above, when the numerical value (Q2) of the label -TRND-AZ1 for determining the uncertain variable symbol is determined, in particular, the numerical value Q2 If the non-probable symbol of (= 0,4,8) is "No.4, No.4, No.8", the number of special symbols that can be stored corresponding to this special symbol combination Is selected and changed from the first gaming state with 4 (first pending storable number) to the second gaming state with 1 (second pending storable number) (S233). During the same process (S220), if the special game state has not ended in S221, that is, if a special game is being executed, or if the number of reserved symbols of the special symbol is 1 or more in S222 even if the special game has ended, The special symbol reservation storable number is not changed, and the process S220 is terminated as it is.

  In addition, when performing the process of S223, the following requirements are added in S222 as well as after the execution of the special game (winning game). That is, the confirmation of whether or not the number of special symbol reservation storage in S222 is zero will be described in detail. Game information stored in the RAM 73 in the main control circuit 70 (for example, random numbers related to whether or not a big hit is possible) Is converted into game information (for example, change mode determination, change mode, command, flag, etc.) related to the change start or stop maintenance display of all the special symbols, and is used as a result of being used for all the game information stored on hold, This is confirmation of whether or not the number of reserved memories is zero.

  If the above requirement does not apply, for example, if there is game information related to a special symbol jackpot that is already stored on hold, all the stored game information is erased without any use, and the jackpot There will be significant disadvantages such as the inability to receive game value. However, since it is confirmed whether or not the game information that is stored on hold for all the special symbols is used, it is possible to avoid such a disadvantage that the player is disadvantaged.

  In the main process M, in addition to the above-described processes, as other processes (S230) required in the gaming state, for example, an error process or the like is performed, and the control is executed from the beginning of the main process.

  The time chart of FIG. 9 shows a preferable example of variation and stop of the normal symbol FZ, the driving members 11a and 11b, and the special symbols TL, TM, and TR in the time shortening state without the probability variation state in the bonus game state. .

  In the time chart of (I) in the upper part of the figure, as game information, after selecting a jackpot, a random number Q2 (= 2, 6, 10) meaning a non-probable variable combination is determined in the label -TRND-AZ1, and the jackpot is confirmed and stopped. The bonus game state in the time-reduced state without the probability fluctuation state after finishing the special game consisting of 15 rounds.

  In the case of the time chart of (I), since the time is shortened, the set time is changed so that the normal symbol is displayed for 3 seconds for the set time fluctuation and then the set time stop display is displayed for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, a game ball is launched toward the normal symbol variation start gate 21. In particular, since the probability of hitting the ball ball game machine of the embodiment is set as high as 9/10, the operation of the driving members 11a and 11b of the driving start winning opening 10A in conjunction with the small hitting (enlarged opening) Becomes easy. Since the award game is in progress, the drive members 11a and 11b are in a state of expansion for 5.5 seconds in which a plurality of game balls can enter (first symbol start area expansion time control means: controlled by the main control circuit 70, etc. ). When 10 balls are won in the driving start winning opening 10A, the winning opening is closed within 5.5 seconds.

  As described above, with the operation (expansion and release) of the drive member, it is easy to win a game ball in the drive start winning opening. In the state where the driving start winning opening is expanded for 5.5 seconds, as shown in the drawing, the special symbol is changed and stopped a maximum of four times. In other words, the special symbol variation is due to the setting for displaying the setting time stop for 0.5 seconds after displaying the variation in the setting time for 1 second in the time reduction state.

  In particular, as shown in the time chart of (I), even when the driving member is not in operation, that is, even when the driving start winning opening is in the narrow open state for 3.5 seconds, the number of storable memories is four. The winning symbol is displayed while the driving start winning opening is opened, and the special symbol variation display and the stop maintaining display are repeatedly performed based on the game information of the special symbol already held. In this way, the special symbol is changed and stopped based on the game information of the special symbol already held during the entire period when the driving start winning opening is closed (narrow open state), and is set to 100 times in the embodiment. A state in which the number of bonus games is sequentially decreased is the first game state.

  On the other hand, in the time chart of (II) in the lower part of the figure, as game information, after selecting the jackpot, a random number Q2 (= 0, 4, 8) meaning an uncertain variable symbol combination is determined in the label -TRND-AZ1. This is a privilege gaming state in a time-reduced state without a probability variation state after finishing a special game consisting of 15 rounds after the jackpot definite stop. In the case of the time chart of (II), the fluctuation and stop of the normal symbol and the operation of the driving member are the same as those of the time chart of (I).

  Here too, the probability of winning a small hit is set as high as 9/10, so it is easy to win a game ball at the driving start winning opening with the operation of the drive member (expansion and release) in conjunction with the small hit It becomes. In the state where the driving start winning opening is expanded for 5.5 seconds, as shown in the drawing, the special symbol is changed and stopped a maximum of four times. However, as can be understood from the time chart of (II), as a result of the change in the number of special symbols that can be stored in this example (holding number change control means: controlled by the main control circuit 70 or the like), four (first The number can be held only from 1 (maximum 1 which is the second holdable number). Therefore, if the drive member is not activated, that is, in the narrow open state of the drive start winning opening for 3.5 seconds, if there is a reserved special symbol storage number, the special symbol for that one Only the change display and the stop maintenance display occur.

  In the embodiment, game nails 7a, 7b and 7c are provided at the upper part of the drive start winning opening 10A so as to prevent winning (entrance) to the drive start winning opening when the opening is not expanded (see FIG. 2). ), Winning in the driving start winning opening 10A does not occur. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the special symbol stop-maintenance display will continue until the special symbol changes due to the winning of the game ball due to the next operation of the driving member. As described above, the second game state is a state in which the number of bonus games set to 100 is gradually decreased with a gap. In the time charts (I) and (II), the special symbols are both out of symbol, and the symbols are displayed in a fixed stop state, and no wins are generated.

  That is, according to the ball game machine 1 of the embodiment, the time (1 second + 0.5 second) required for the change display and the stop maintenance display when the special symbol (first symbol) is removed and the stop maintenance display is performed with the symbol is as follows. Time required for normal symbol fluctuation display (3 seconds) and stop-maintenance display (0.5 seconds) when the normal symbol (second symbol) is stopped and displayed as a stop symbol, and the drive that is the symbol start region of the special symbol The setting is shorter than the total time (9 seconds) of the expansion time (5.5 seconds) of the start winning opening 10A.

  Based on the above settings, the first symbol start area expansion time control means such as the main control circuit 70 (CPU 72) or the like makes the time for expanding the symbol start area of the special symbol to be a time when a plurality of game balls can enter. In addition to the control, the reserved storage possible number change control means such as the main control circuit 70 (CPU 72) changes the reserved storage possible number stored in the game information hold storage means of the first symbol such as the main control circuit 70 (RAM 73). In this configuration, the first holdable number (4) is changed to the second holdable number (1).

  Next, the number of prize balls is estimated using the illustrated time charts (I) and (II). In the case of the first gaming state of the time chart (I), the operating time of the driving member (5.5 seconds), the normal symbol fluctuation display time (3 seconds), and the normal symbol is hit and the symbol is stopped and displayed. In the total (9 seconds) with the time (0.5 seconds), the special symbol displays the fluctuation display and the stop maintenance display for 6 times (6 fluctuation execution). Then, in the subtraction of the number of bonus games of 100 times, if all the normal symbols are hit and stopped at the symbol, 100 times ÷ 6 times≈16.67 times, and the drive start winning opening is expanded and opened by that number.

  In addition, in the bullet ball game machine of the embodiment, about 100 (100 balls) game balls are shot and launched into the game area per minute. Therefore, in the operation time of the drive member (5.5 seconds), the number of game balls that can be won in the drive start winning opening is 100 ÷ 60 seconds × 5.5 seconds≈9. In other words, there is a possibility that approximately nine game balls may win a prize at the time of expanding and opening the drive start winning opening once.

  Accordingly, in a predetermined period in which the number of bonus games of 100 times in the first gaming state is subtracted, 16.67 × (9 pieces: one extended opening) × (15 pieces: one drive start prize) The number of winning balls when winning in the mouth) ≈2250 winning balls can be obtained.

  In the case of the second gaming state of the time chart (II), the operating time of the driving member (5.5 seconds), the normal symbol fluctuation display time (3 seconds), and the normal symbol is hit and the symbol is stopped and displayed. In the total (9 seconds) with the time (0.5 seconds), as described above, in the state of the drive start winning opening where the drive member is not operating, the game nail 7a, 7b, 7c Winning to the drive start winning opening 10A does not occur. Therefore, if there is a special symbol hold storage number that is already held, there is a high possibility that only one special symbol change display and stop maintenance display will occur. For this reason, the special symbol is subjected to five times of fluctuation display and stop maintenance display (five fluctuation executions). Accordingly, if all the normal symbols are hit and stopped at the symbol, the subtraction of the number of bonus games of 100 times is 100 times / 5 times = 20 times, and the drive start winning opening is expanded and opened by that number.

  Therefore, in a predetermined period in which the number of bonus games is subtracted 100 times in the second gaming state, 20 × (9 pieces: 1 extended opening) × (15 pieces: 1 drive start prize opening) Number of prize balls when winning) = 2700 prize balls can be obtained. As a result of the above calculation, the number of prize balls that can be obtained between the second gaming state and the first gaming state is 2700-2250 = 450, and the second gaming state is clearly advantageous for the player. It becomes.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A part of structure can be changed suitably and implemented in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of invention. For example, in the ball game machine of the embodiment, it is configured to have two game states like the first and second game states, but of course, depending on the acquisition random number (big hit fixed stop symbol), three or more It is possible to enter a gaming state. In addition, as long as a predetermined condition is satisfied, it is needless to say that the set time for the variable display and the stop-maintenance display, the number of winning balls for winning (winning) at each winning opening, the extended opening time at the driving start winning opening, and the like can be appropriately changed. Yes. In addition to the game nail, an appropriate accessory such as a windmill can be arranged as a member for restricting winning (winning) to the driving start winning opening.

It is a front view of the whole bullet ball game machine concerning one example of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board of the same ball game machine. It is the specific example in the design fluctuation of each special design in each image display part. It is a block diagram which shows simply the system control of the same ball game machine. It is a block diagram which shows simply the display control of the same ball game machine. It is a 1st flowchart regarding the main process which the main control circuit of the same ball game machine performs. It is a 2nd flowchart regarding the main process which the main control circuit of the same ball game machine performs. It is a flowchart regarding a special symbol reservation storable number change process. It is a time chart regarding the fluctuation | variation and stop of the normal symbol of a 1st game state in a privilege game state, and a 2nd game state, a drive member, and a special symbol.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ball game machine 3 Game board 10A Drive start winning opening 10B Non-driving start winning opening 15 Large winning opening 21 Normal symbol change start gate 43 Image display device 50 Image display section 70 Main control circuit 72 CPU
73 RAM
90 Display control circuit SWA, SWB Special symbol variation start switch SW2 Normal symbol variation start switch

Claims (6)

A first symbol display device for displaying a first symbol;
A symbol starting area of the first symbol;
First symbol game information acquisition means for acquiring game information related to the first symbol due to a game ball entering the symbol start area of the first symbol;
If the acquired game information related to the first symbol is winning information, the first symbol is displayed in a variable manner for a set time, then the set symbol is stopped and displayed for a set time, and the acquired game information related to the first symbol is lost. In the case of information, first symbol display control means for displaying the first symbol fluctuating for a set time and then maintaining and stopping the set symbol for a set time,
When entering the symbol start area of the first symbol during the variation display or stop maintenance display of the first symbol, up to a predetermined number of game information relating to the first symbol is stored on hold. Game information hold storage means;
Prize ball payout control means for paying out a set number of prize balls due to the entry of game balls into the symbol starting area of the first symbol;
A second symbol display device for displaying a second symbol;
A symbol starting area of the second symbol;
Second symbol game information acquisition means for acquiring game information related to the second symbol due to the entry of the game ball into the symbol start area of the second symbol;
If the acquired game information related to the second symbol is winning information, the second symbol is displayed in a set time variation after the second symbol is displayed,
When the acquired game information related to the second symbol is outlier information, a second symbol display control means for displaying the second symbol in a set time variation after the second symbol is displayed in a set time variation,
In the ball game machine comprising the first symbol starting area expansion control means for expanding the symbol starting area of the first symbol for a predetermined time when the second symbol is the winning symbol and maintaining and displaying the stop.
A first symbol start area expansion time control means for controlling a time during which a plurality of game balls can enter the first symbol start area;
Due to the establishment of the condition for changing the number of reserved storable numbers, the number of storable memories in the game information suspending storage means of the first symbol is changed from the first storable number to the second storable number. A number change control means,
The time required for the variable display and the stop and maintenance display when the first symbol is out of display and stopped and displayed as a symbol is the time required for the second symbol and the second symbol when the second symbol is stopped and displayed as a symbol. When the time required for the stop maintenance display is shorter than the total time of the symbol start area expansion time of the first symbol, the symbol start area of the first symbol is controlled by the first symbol start area expansion time control means. Is controlled to a time that allows a plurality of game balls to enter, and the number of holdable memories stored in the game information hold storage means of the first symbol is controlled by the hold memoryable number change control means. A bullet ball game machine, wherein the change control is performed from the first holdable number to the second holdable number.   2. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the change of the storable storable number by the storable storable number change control means is performed over a predetermined period.   3. The ball game machine according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined period is a period in which the first symbol is subjected to a variable display and a stop-maintain display for a predetermined number of times.   2. The hold-storable-number changing condition is established after the first game is displayed after the variable display is displayed, the game is stopped and displayed after the display, and then the game is executed after the winning game is opened. 4. The ball game machine according to any one of items 3 to 3.   The condition for changing the number of storable memories can be satisfied after the winning game is executed and all the game information relating to the first symbol stored in the game information suspending storage means of the first symbol is first stored. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 4, wherein the game machine is converted into game information relating to a change display or a stop-maintenance display.   The selection of the first gaming state in which the reserve storage possible number is the first reserve storage possible number and the second gaming state in which the reserve storage possible number is the second reserve storage possible number is the first symbol The ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the game is performed in accordance with a winning symbol.

Images