JP2006006392A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can realize the playing potentialities unavailable in the conventional game machines. <P>SOLUTION: Two kinds of special figures are made displayable on a liquid crystal display 27 and when the game ball wins the specified prize winning slot, any one of the two kinds of special figure is variably displayed. Upon the winning of the special figure, the player is granted a special favor. The probability of hitting the first special figure as the specified one is set lower than the probability of hitting the second special figure as such. The game machine thus arranged has the novel structure in which two kinds of special figures are available and when the specified prize winning slot is won by the game ball, any one of the figures is varied and moreover, upon the establishment of the first game conditions, the shift is made to the lower-probability game state or upon the establishment of the second game conditions, the shift to the higher-probability game state is done. This can realize the playing potentialities so far unavailable. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a so-called seven machine, a winged article, a right article, an arrangement ball or the like.

  There are various types of conventional ball game machines such as a so-called seven machine, a right item, or an arrangement ball. Among these, when the game ball wins or passes through the start winning opening, the seven machine displays the special symbol on the variable display device in a variable manner. When the display state of the variable display device becomes a big hit in a specific manner, for example, after a reach display, a combination of special symbols such as “7, 7, 7” is a combination of special symbols When stopped at the same time, it is configured to give interest to the player. Specifically, a special winning opening of a specific winning opening is opened, and a large amount of winning balls are paid out by allowing a game ball to be awarded to the special winning opening. The opened big prize opening is once closed when a predetermined number of game balls win or a predetermined time elapses, but the game ball passes through a specific area formed in the big prize opening during the opening. If so, it is opened again, and the opening and closing operations are repeated up to 16 times (so-called special game).

Depending on the special symbol (hit symbol) at the time of the big hit, there is a model to which a high probability gaming state (so-called probability variation state) is given that increases the probability of a big hit in the normal game after the special game ends (for example, patent literature) 1). For example, when the winning symbol is “7, 7, 7”, “3, 3, 3”, the high probability gaming state is given. In the high probability gaming state, for example, when the winning symbol is “2, 2, 2”, “8, 8, 8”, the game is configured to return to the low probability gaming state.
JP-A-7-613

However, at the present time, many models have the same specifications, and there has been a problem that it is not possible to provide gameability that further impacts the player.
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can realize gaming properties not found in conventional gaming machines.

Another object of the present invention is to enable a user to receive a privilege only for a “predetermined number of times” as long as the player is in a high-probability gaming state while achieving the object.
Another object of the present invention is to make it possible to enjoy a thrilling game in which the high probability gaming state may end without receiving a privilege while achieving the above object.

Another object of the present invention is to suppress the occurrence of an unlucky state in which no special benefits can be received no matter how much the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.
Another object of the present invention is to enable the provision of a further privilege in a high-probability gaming state until the first game condition is satisfied as long as the privilege is granted.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a pseudo-graphic that displays in a variable manner in accordance with either the first special symbol or the second special symbol depending on the gaming state, so that the player can play by watching only the pseudo-graphic. There is in doing so.

  Another object of the present invention is to make it difficult to recognize which one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is variably displayed and make it difficult to recognize a gaming state (low probability gaming state or high probability gaming state) Is to make it difficult to stop playing.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the invention described in claim 1, the game board is provided with a first special symbol display unit and a second special symbol display unit, and the first special symbol display unit has a first special symbol, In the second special symbol display section, the second special symbol can be variably displayed. When a game ball wins a specific winning opening provided on the same game board, either one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Then, when the special symbol that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed and a predetermined specific symbol is displayed, a privilege is given to the player from the privilege granting means.

  The probability that the first special symbol is a specific symbol is lower than the probability that the second special symbol is a specific symbol. In other words, the probability that a player will receive a privilege from the privilege grant means when a game ball wins a specific winning opening is the second special in the state where the first special symbol is variably displayed (low probability game state). The symbol is set to be lower than the state in which the symbols are variably displayed (high probability gaming state). When the predetermined first gaming condition is established in the high probability gaming state, the low probability gaming state is established. When the predetermined second gaming condition is established in the low probability gaming state, the high probability gaming state is established. .

  According to the gaming machine configured as described above, there are two kinds of special symbols, and any one of them changes when a game ball wins a specific winning opening. The two types of special symbols have different probabilities that a specific symbol is displayed after the variable display, and when the first gaming condition is satisfied, the low probability gaming state is established, and when the second gaming condition is established, the high probability gaming state is achieved. Therefore, it has become a gaming machine that can realize unprecedented gameplay. For example:

  That is, in the present invention according to claim 2, the first gaming condition is that a privilege is given to the player by the privilege granting means a predetermined number of times in a high probability gaming state (a state in which the second special symbol is variably displayed). It has become. In this way, a predetermined number of benefits can be received in an advantageous state of “high probability gaming state”. In a conventional gaming machine called a stochastic machine, the number of times that a jackpot (privilege) can be granted is entrusted, whereas in the gaming machine of the present invention, the number of times that the jackpot (privilege) is continuously granted in advance. By determining this, it is possible to receive the “predetermined number of times” of benefits.

  In addition, by setting a plurality of “predetermined number of times” and determining the predetermined number of times by lottery upon the transition to the high-probability gaming state, it is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation together with the effect display performed on the display device. . An example of the effect display includes a predetermined number of notification means. As an example of the notification, it can be expressed by a background color (10 times for red, 5 times for blue, 2 times for white), a numerical value, a character (a predetermined number of times varies depending on the type of character that appears), and the like. . The timing of these notifications can be made variable, and the reliability of notification may be varied (eg, when the background color is red, 80 times with a probability of 10 times, 20 times with a probability of 8 times, background When the color is blue, 5 times with 50% probability, 2 times with 50% probability, etc.).

  In this invention of Claim 3, if it loses to the lottery predetermined in the high probability game state, it will transfer to a low probability game state. Therefore, there is a possibility that the high-probability gaming state will end without receiving a privilege, and it is possible to provide a thrilling game and enhance the interest.

  In the present invention described in claim 4, in the low probability gaming state, the second gaming condition is that the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined number of times. With this configuration, if the display is variably displayed as many times as described above, it will surely shift to a high-probability gaming state, so the occurrence of an unlucky state where no special benefits can be received no matter how much the special symbol is variably displayed. Can be suppressed.

  The present invention according to claim 5 is provided with a pseudo symbol that is variably displayed according to one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol according to the gaming state, and the pseudo symbol is the first special symbol. Or, if the second special symbol becomes a specific symbol, it becomes a special symbol correspondingly. With this configuration, even if the gaming state is one in which the first special symbol or the second special symbol is variably displayed, the pseudo symbol is variably displayed in accordance with the special symbol that is variably displayed. It is not necessary to change the line of sight in accordance with the switching between the special symbol and the second special symbol, and it is possible to play while watching only the pseudo symbol.

  In the present invention according to claim 6, the player can determine which one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is in a gaming state in which it is variably displayed (whether it is a low probability gaming state or a high probability gaming state). It is difficult to identify. Then, the game state is notified, provided with a notification means having a plurality of types of notification modes, making it difficult to determine whether the notification state itself is a low-probability gaming state or a high-probability gaming state. It can make it difficult for the player to stop playing (increase the operating rate of the gaming machine).

  As an example of notification by the game state notification means, the background color of the display section (80% high probability game state in red, 50% high probability game state in blue, 20% high probability game state in white), numerical value, character (appears) The probability of being in a high-probability gaming state differs depending on the type of character). Of course, a 100% high probability gaming state or a 100% low probability gaming state can also be expressed. Even if it is difficult for the player to recognize the first special symbol and the second special symbol as in the present invention, since the above-mentioned pseudo symbol is displayed, the player can easily play the game by looking at the pseudo symbol. it can.

  Also, in the high probability gaming state, when the second special symbol is displayed with a predetermined number of fluctuations, it is possible to shift to the low probability gaming state. In this case, there is a possibility that the high probability gaming state will end without receiving a privilege, but rather it will provide a thrilling game to the player by limiting the period of the high probability gaming state and enhance the interest Can do. Moreover, it is possible to prevent the euphoria from becoming extremely high.

  In addition, in the low probability gaming state, when a privilege is given from the privilege granting means, the state shifts to the high probability gaming state. According to the gaming machine configured as described above, as long as the privilege is given during the game in the low probability gaming state, the bonus game further increases in the high probability gaming state until the first gaming condition is satisfied. It can be aimed at grant. Further, in the low probability gaming state, when the first special symbol becomes a specific symbol, it is possible to shift to the high probability gaming state.

  The first special symbol and the second special symbol may be visually indistinguishable from each other or difficult to distinguish. Although described as “predetermined specific symbol”, the same type of symbol may be used for the first special symbol and the second special symbol. What is required is that the second special symbol is more likely to be displayed as a specific symbol than the first special symbol.

  In addition, the pseudo-design is “predetermined special design”, but it may be any pseudo-design such as numbers, figures, characters, etc. It is required to have a symbol that allows the player to recognize that they are not aligned.

  Further, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be displayed on different display devices, or may be displayed on the same device. For example, the first special symbol may be displayed on the first liquid crystal display device, and the second special symbol may be displayed on the second liquid crystal display device. In addition, the first special symbol is displayed at a predetermined location (first location) of one liquid crystal display device, and the second special symbol is displayed at a predetermined location (second location) different from the predetermined location. May be. In the above example, the liquid crystal display device is exemplified as the display device. However, other display devices such as a CRT, LED, dot matrix, and EL may be used.

  Further, the first game condition and the second game condition may be exactly the same.

As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to realize gaming properties that are not found in conventional gaming machines.
Further, as long as the player is in a high-probability gaming state, a privilege (big hit, special game) can be received for a “predetermined predetermined number of times”.

And it is possible to enjoy a thrilling game that the high probability gaming state may end without receiving a privilege.
Moreover, no matter how much the special symbol is variably displayed, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an unlucky state where no special benefits can be received.

  As long as the privilege is granted, it is possible to aim for further privilege in the high probability gaming state until the first game condition is satisfied.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, examples showing embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. This embodiment exemplifies a pachinko machine of a type called a so-called seven machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) as a specific example of the gaming machine.

  First, the structure of the gaming machine 1 main body will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 is mainly composed of an outer frame (main body frame) 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 7, a game board 10 and the like. It has. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 10 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is an assembly of wooden plate-like bodies in a substantially rectangular frame shape, and constitutes an outer frame of the gaming machine 1. The entire inner frame 3 is made of plastic, is fitted inside the outer frame 2, and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 10 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part.

  In addition, the lower plate portion has a launch unit (not shown) for launching a game ball onto the game board 10, a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launch device unit, sound effects and the like according to the game state. A speaker 400a (see FIG. 5) to be generated is provided. Note that. The speaker 400a of the present embodiment is configured to include a middle / high tone speaker (tweeter) and a bass speaker (woofer).

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 10 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4.

  The front frame 4 is provided with a left LED display unit 4b, a right LED display unit 4c, an upper left LED display unit 4d, an upper right LED display unit 4e, and an upper LED display unit 4f as lamps for game effects and the like. . These LED display portions 4b to 4f are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the gaming effect. The left LED display portion 4b and the right LED display portion 4c are provided in an arc shape on the right side and the left side around the opening 4a, respectively. The upper left LED display portion 4d is provided at the upper left of the left LED display portion 4b, and the upper right LED display portion 4e is provided at the upper right of the right LED display portion 4c. The upper LED display portion 4f is formed in an arc shape, and two are provided between the upper end portion of the left LED display portion 4b and the upper end portion of the right LED display portion 4c.

  In addition, two prize ball LED display portions 4g are provided between the two upper LED display portions 4f. A fan-shaped error LED display unit 4h is provided above the prize ball LED display unit 4g.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an arrangement relationship between the various LED substrates 4i to 4o. Various LED boards 4i to 4o shown in FIG. 2 are provided in positions corresponding to the above-described various LED display portions 4b to 4h in the frame body portion of the middle frame 3. Specifically, the left LED substrate 4i corresponds to the left LED display portion 4b, the right LED substrate 4j corresponds to the right LED display portion 4c, the upper left LED substrate 4k corresponds to the upper left LED display portion 4d, and the upper right LED substrate. 4l corresponds to the upper right LED display section 4e, the upper LED board 4m corresponds to the upper LED display section 4f, the prize ball LED board 4n corresponds to the prize ball LED display section 4g, and the error LED board 4o corresponds to the error LED display section. It corresponds to 4h.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the upper plate 5 is provided below the front frame 4 and is supported on the left side of the middle frame 3 so that it can be opened and closed. The upper dish portion 5 includes a dish outer edge portion 5a provided with a ball removal button, a game ball lending / returning button, and the like, and a discharge port 5b for discharging the game ball from the inside of the gaming machine 1. . Furthermore, a first audio output unit 5c is formed in a substantially central part of the upper plate part 5 in which a plurality of long holes and a large number of small holes are formed in the upper part. The first audio output unit 5c is connected to a middle / high tone speaker (tweeter) of the speakers 400a (see FIG. 5) via a duct, and the sound from the middle / high tone speaker is output via the duct. A volume switch board 12 (see FIG. 5) is provided on the back surface of the upper plate part 5.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate part 6. An ashtray 6 b is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. In addition, a slide lid capable of opening and closing the upper surface of the ashtray 6 b is provided on the upper portion of the lower tray portion 6. In addition, a ball hole (not shown) is provided on the bottom surface of the lower plate portion 6. The ball removal hole is normally closed, and is opened when the game ball stored in the lower dish portion 6 is discharged from the gaming machine 1.

  A discharge knob 6c that opens and closes the ball hole is provided on the near side of the center of the lower dish portion 6. The discharge knob 6 c constitutes a part of the peripheral edge of the lower plate part 6. The discharge knob 6c is normally in an upright state, and can be rotated by pressing the lower end to the back side with the upper end as a rotation axis. The ball hole is linked to the discharge knob 6c. When the discharge knob 6c is in the upright state, the ball hole is closed, and the ball hole is opened by pressing the discharge knob 6c to the back side.

  The discharge knob 6c is configured as a push lock type. When the player operates to scrape out the game balls accumulated in the lower plate portion 6 to the front side, the discharge knob 6c rotates to the back side around the rotation axis, and is locked in this state. At the same time, the ball release hole is opened in conjunction with the rotation of the discharge knob 6 c, and the game ball is discharged from the lower dish portion 6. By pushing the discharge knob 6c, the lock is released, the discharge knob 6c can be returned to the upright state, and the ball hole is closed.

  On the right and left sides of the discharge knob 6c in the lower plate part 6, second sound output parts 6d are provided. The second audio output unit 6d is connected to a low-frequency speaker (woofer) of the speaker 400a via a duct, and audio from the low-frequency speaker is output from the second audio output unit 6d.

  On the right side of the lower plate portion 6, a firing handle 9 for operating a launching device unit (not shown) is provided. Further, the launch handle 9 is provided with a touch switch 9a for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 9, a launch stop switch 9b for temporarily commanding the stop of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 7 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3, and locks the front frame 4 when it is closed. A prepaid card unit 13 is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 10 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view of the game board 10. The game board 10 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body, and is detachably attached to the front surface side of the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board 102 (see FIG. 4) described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a substantially circular gaming area 11 is formed on the gaming board 10 by an outer rail 14 and an inner rail 15 provided on the surface of the gaming board 10. In the game area 11, there are a central device 26, a start port (ordinary electric accessory) 17, a variable winning device 18, a left winning port 19, a right winning port 209, a lower left winning port 21, a lower right winning port 22, and a number of obstacles. A nail 23, a pair of lamp wind turbines 24, 25, and the like are disposed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the central display device 16 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 11 and includes a center accessory 26 and a liquid crystal display device (liquid crystal display panel) 27.
In the liquid crystal display device 27, a substantially rectangular video screen 272 is disposed in a rectangular frame-shaped frame portion 271. Further, on the video screen 272 of the liquid crystal display device 27, one or more special symbols (identification information) are displayed while changing one after another in a predetermined direction, and then stopped in a first special symbol display area (first display). 1 identification information display area) and a second special symbol display area (second identification information display area) are formed (not shown). In each special symbol display area, a symbol variation direction is set, and a plurality of symbols (first special symbol, second special symbol) as identification information are sequentially displayed so as to vary in that direction.

  The liquid crystal display device 27 causes each special symbol displayed in the display area (not shown) of the video screen to change and stop display when the game ball enters the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 17. Is. Then, for example, when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is aligned with the same three-digit symbol “7, 7, 7” and stopped (determined display), the big prize to be described later disposed in the variable prize winning device 18 is displayed. The special winning opening 311 of the device 31 is opened. In addition, each special symbol is changed (that is, a plurality of pieces of identification information are variably displayed) by “satisfaction of a predetermined condition” that “a game ball enters the starting port (ordinary electric accessory) 17”. When the stop condition of the specific condition “the symbols are arranged in the same pattern of 3 digits” is achieved, the “specific value” of “big hit” is given.

  The center accessory 26 is mounted so as to protrude from the front peripheral portion of the liquid crystal display device 27, and is formed at a substantially center of the stage 264, a flask portion 263 disposed above, a stage 264 disposed below, and the like. And a discharge port 262 for guiding the game ball that has entered the center hole 271 to the upper side of the start port 17 and returning it to the game area 11.

  Normal symbol operating gates 36 and 37 are provided diagonally below the left and right of the center accessory 26, respectively, and left and right normal symbol operating gate detection switches 36s and 37s (see FIG. 5) in the left and right normal symbol operating gates 36 and 37, respectively. Reference) is provided. Then, the normal symbol displayed on the liquid crystal display device 27 is variably displayed by passing one of the normal symbol actuating gate passage detection switches 36s and 37s of the game ball.

  The start port 17 is disposed below the center position of the center accessory 26 in the central device 16. The start port 17 is a so-called tulip type, and is formed such that a pair of wing pieces are opened and closed on the left and right. Inside the start port 17, there are a start port (normal electric accessory) winning detection switch 17s (see FIGS. 5 and 23B) for detecting the passage of the game ball, and a start port for operating the wing piece. (Ordinary electric accessory) solenoid 17c (see FIG. 5) is provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the game ball is likely to enter the open state. When the pair of wing pieces are erected, the game ball is likely to enter the normal state. .

  The variable winning device 18 is disposed below the starting port 17, and a large winning device 31, a lower left winning port 21, and a lower right winning port 22 are provided on a substrate 34 whose front side is formed in a substantially inverted trapezoidal shape. I have. Here, the grand prize winning device 31 is formed at a substantially central position and is opened in a strip shape. The big prize winning opening 311, the opening / closing plate 312 for opening / closing the special winning prize opening 311, and the opening / closing plate 312 for opening / closing. A grand prize opening solenoid 313 (see FIG. 5), a winning ball detection switch 318 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a winning ball, and a specific area (not shown) through which a game ball passes after winning the big winning opening 311 And a general winning opening), an interlocking bowl (not shown), a back box (not shown), and a large winning opening relay board (not shown).

  The lower left winning opening 21 is arranged on the left side of the big winning device 31, and a lower left winning opening passing switch 21s (see FIG. 5) is provided therein. A plurality of lower left prize opening LEDs 223 to 225 are attached to the lower left prize opening LED board 21f (see FIG. 5) and covered with a decorative lens. Further, the lower right winning opening 22 is disposed on the right side of the big winning device 31, and a lower right winning opening passing detection switch 22s (see FIG. 5) is provided therein.

  A left winning port 19 and a right winning port 20 are respectively arranged obliquely above and to the left and right of the variable winning device 18. Inside these, a left winning opening passing detection switch 19s (see FIG. 5) and a right winning opening passing detection switch 20s (see FIG. 5) are respectively provided. A pair of lamp wind turbines 24 and 25 are disposed obliquely above and to the left and right of the central device 16. Further, a pair of side lamps 38 and 39 are respectively arranged in a vertical arc shape and symmetrical with respect to both left and right end portions of the game area 11.

  An out port 48 is provided below the game board 10, and a back ball preventing member 58 is provided below the out port 48, so that the game ball that has returned without reaching the game area 11 is again at the launch position. Prevents returning. Further, a foul ball preventing member 59 is attached to the tip of the inner rail 15, and the return rubber 60 is attached to the outer rail 14 at a position on the right half side of the game board 10, which is substantially opposite to the position of the foul ball preventing member 59. Attached along the fitting.

A number of obstacle nails 23 are arranged in the game area 11 so as to be suitable for a pachinko game in consideration of the positional balance with each gaming device described above.
Next, the back surface structure of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a rear view showing the back surface of the gaming machine. The front frame 4 shown in FIG. 1 is supported by the middle frame 3 so as to be openable and closable by a pair of hinges 101 provided at the positions of the upper and lower ends.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the back mechanism panel 102 is supported by the pair of hinges 103 provided at the upper and lower ends of the back mechanism panel 102 in the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. A prize ball tank 105 provided with a tank ball cut detection switch 104 at the bottom of the tank and a tank rail 106 connected to the prize ball tank 105 are attached to the left side as viewed from the position of the hinge 101 on the upper end side. ing. In addition, a ball removal lever 107 is provided on the right side of the tank rail 106, a supply ball breakage detection switch (not shown) is provided on the downstream side thereof, and further on the downstream side, an award as a backside gaming device is provided. A ball payout device 109 is provided.

  Subsequently, a game ball distribution unit (not shown) is provided on the downstream side of the prize ball payout device 109. Under the tank rail 106, a back case 111 with a lid for storing the liquid crystal display device 27 is provided. The back side of the back case 111 serves as a main control unit 140 (see FIG. 5) to be described later. A main control board case 112 as a storage container storing a main control board 340 (see FIG. 6A) as a gaming apparatus is provided. On the lower back side of the main control board case 112, a launcher control board case 113 storing a launcher control board and a launch control assembly relay board (not shown) are provided as a launch controller 193 (see FIG. 5). Yes. The above-mentioned launcher unit (not shown) is provided in the lower left part of the back mechanism panel 102. A payout control board case 118 as a storage container storing a payout control board 350 (see FIG. 6B) is provided as a payout control section 150 (see FIG. 5) at the lower right portion of the back mechanism panel 102. Yes.

  On the upper right side of the main control board case 112, a relay board 190 as a backside gaming device is mounted. In the first embodiment, the main control board case 112, the relay board 190, and the payout control board case 118 are detachably attached to a metal plate (not shown), and the metal plate is rotated with respect to the back mechanism board 102. It is suspended freely.

  At the upper right end of the back mechanism panel 102, a fuse box 119, a power switch 120, a power terminal board 121 and a jackpot, launch device control, ball breakage, door opening, prize ball, ball rental, etc., external connection for gaming machine frames A terminal substrate 122 having terminals is provided. A power cable 123 for receiving power from the outside is also provided on the upper side of the terminal board 122. A connection cable 124 extends upward from the payout control board case 118 storing the payout control board 350 (see FIG. 6B), and is connected to the prepaid card unit 13 including the power cable 125. Further, a ball passage member 126 for a lower plate portion is provided at the lower end of the center of the back mechanism panel 102. Note that a RAM clear switch (not shown) for generating a “RAM clear signal” is connected to the power terminal board 121.

  Next, the electronic control device 130 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the electronic control unit 130. 6 to 8 show the configuration of each control unit 140 to 170. FIG. 6 shows the main control unit 140 and the payout control unit 150, FIG. 7 shows the symbol control unit 160, and FIG. 8 shows the voice / lamp control unit 170. Show.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electronic control device 130 includes a main control unit 140, a payout control unit (prize ball payout control unit that mainly performs a payout control of prize balls) 150, a symbol control unit 160, and a sound / lamp control unit 170. It is configured to include. The main control unit 140 includes a main control board (main board) 340, and the sub-control units 150, 160, and 170 include sub-control boards (sub-boards) 350, 360, and 370, respectively. The main controller 140, the payout controller 150, and the voice / lamp controller 170 are connected by a signal transmission path 500a, and the voice / lamp controller 170 and the symbol controller 160 are connected by a signal transmission path 500b.

  Command data, which is a command signal for instructing processing contents, is transmitted from the main control unit 140 to the sub control units 150 to 170 via the signal transmission paths 500a and 500b. Data is transmitted from the main control unit 140 to each of the sub control units 150 to 170 in a one-way format. Further, power is supplied to each of the control units 140 to 170 from the power receiving board 410 via the power unit 420 and further the distribution board 430, and a system reset signal at the time of power-on described later is sent to all control boards. Sent to.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the main control unit 140 includes a main control board 340. The main control board 340 includes a main circuit unit 400 including a CPU 401 and an input / output circuit unit 500. The main control board 340 is usually housed in a case that is difficult for an unauthorized person to open and close (that is, the main control board case 112). Therefore, it is difficult for this fraudster to gain unauthorized access (attaching a hanging board).

  As shown in FIG. 6A, an external terminal unit 145 is connected to the input / output circuit unit 500. A “Hall computer” of a pachinko hall is connected to the external terminal portion 145. Then, the main control board 340 turns on the RAM clear signal after executing the RAM clear process, and turns it off after a predetermined time has elapsed. The main control board 340 outputs the RAM clear signal to the outside of the gaming machine 1 to the pachinko hall system or the like. Can be notified. For this reason, the manager of the pachinko hall can know the cheating while the cheating is not known.

  The output terminal of the relay board 190 shown in FIG. 5 is connected to the input / output circuit unit 500 of the main control unit 140. As shown in FIG. 5, the relay board 190 is a board for relaying the winning ball detection switch 318 and the main control unit 140. Further, the input / output circuit unit 500 of the main control unit 140 includes a start opening winning detection switch 17s, a normal symbol display device board 32f, various solenoids 17c and 313, a right normal symbol operating port passage detector 37s, and a left normal symbol operating port. A passage detector 36s is connected.

  FIG. 11 shows the configuration of the main circuit unit 400 and the input / output circuit unit 500 of the main control board 340. As shown in FIG. 11, the main circuit unit 400 includes a CPU 401, an oscillation unit 410, a data bus stabilization unit 411, an I / O decode circuit unit 420, a first external input circuit unit 430, and a reset circuit unit 450. Yes. The input / output circuit unit 500 includes a prize ball command output circuit unit 510, a lamp command output circuit unit 520, a display command output circuit unit 530, a voice command output circuit unit 540, a solenoid drive circuit unit 550, and an LED drive / information output circuit unit 560. And a second external input circuit portion 570.

  FIG. 12 shows the configuration of the CPU 401 of the main circuit unit 400, and FIG. 13 shows a typical one of the memories stored in the built-in RAM. As shown in FIG. 12, the CPU 401 includes a CPU core 480, a built-in RAM 481, a built-in ROM 482, a memory control circuit 483, a clock generator 484, an address decoder 485, a watchdog timer 486, a counter / timer 487, a parallel input / output port 488, A reset / interrupt controller 489, an external bus interface 490, and an output control circuit 491 are provided. The built-in RAM 481 stores various memories 481a to 481w shown in FIG.

  The CPU 401 controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (that is, basic progress control of the game) using the RAM 481 as a work area by a control program stored in the ROM 482. Further, the CPU 401 is the main player to perform the go / no-go decision control by the go / no-go determination program stored in the ROM 482.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (b), the payout control unit 150 includes a payout control board 350. The payout control board 350 includes a main circuit part 600 and an input / output circuit part 700 similar to the main control board 340, and is connected to the signal transmission path 500a shown in FIG. The input / output circuit unit 700 is connected to a prize ball payout device 109, a launching device control unit 193, and the like shown in FIG. Further, the output terminal of the payout terminal board 191 is connected to the input / output circuit unit 700. The payout terminal board 191 is connected with a touch switch 9a, a firing stop switch 9b, a volume switch 192, a tank ball breakage detection switch 104, a supply ball breakage detection switch 108, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the symbol control unit 160 includes a symbol control board 360. The symbol control board 360 includes a CPU 161, a RAM 162, a ROM 163, an input / output port 164, and a VDP (video display processor) 166 as arithmetic circuit components. These arithmetic circuit components are connected to each other via a bus 165, and are connected to the signal transmission path 500b at the input / output port 164. A liquid crystal display device 27 is connected to the input / output port 164. The CPU 161 controls the operation of the central device 16 (liquid crystal display device 27 and the like) using the RAM 162 as a work area by a control program stored in the ROM 163.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the voice / lamp control unit 170 includes a control circuit board 370. The control circuit board 370 includes a CPU 171, a RAM 172, a ROM 173, an input / output port 174, and a sound generator 175 as arithmetic circuit components. These components 171 to 175 are connected to each other by a bus 176 and connected to the signal transmission path 500b at the input / output port 174.

  The sound / lamp control unit 170 includes a drive circuit board 371 and a connector output board 372 separately from the control circuit board 370. The drive circuit board 371 is provided with a drive circuit unit (driver unit) 177 having a drive circuit such as a lamp. The connector output board 372 is provided with a connector output section 178 having a connector for connecting to various LED boards and the like. A drive circuit unit 177 is connected to the input / output port 174 of the control circuit board 370, and a connector output unit 178 is connected to the drive circuit unit 177. The drive circuit unit 177 and the connector output unit 178 constitute an interface unit of the present invention.

  The connector output unit 178 is connected to various lamp boards 261f and 262f, various LED boards 4i to 4o, and the like. One or more lamps or LEDs are connected to each of these substrates. These lamps, etc. are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game. In addition, a stepping motor 800 is connected to the connector output unit 178. Further, the control circuit board 370 is configured to perform drive control of a solenoid 850, a motor (not shown) or the like that drives a movable part that does not affect the entry of the game ball, and the connector output unit 178. Is connected to a solenoid 850 or the like.

  FIG. 9 shows the configuration of the control circuit board 370 and the drive circuit board 371, and FIG. 10 shows the configuration of the connector output board 372. In addition, in the control circuit board 370 of FIG. 9, illustration of components other than CPU171 is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the drive circuit board 371 is provided with a plurality of drive circuits 177a to 177e. The first drive circuit 177a drives the LEDs of the winning ball LED board 4n and the error LED board 4o, and the second drive circuit 177b drives the solenoid 850 and the stepping motor 800, and the third to fifth drives. Circuits 177c to 177e drive the LEDs of various LED boards 4i to 4m provided on the middle frame 3. The third drive circuit 177c outputs a common signal, and the fourth drive circuit 177d and the fifth drive circuit 177e output data signals.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the control circuit board 370 is provided with a connector CN1 for connection to the interface board 371, and the connector CN2 of the drive circuit board 371 is connected thereto. The control circuit units 171 to 175 and the drive circuit unit 177 are connected by a signal line (not shown), and transmission of signals from the control circuit units 171 to 175 to the drive circuit unit 177 is performed by serial communication. . A control command from the CPU 171 is transmitted to the drive circuit unit 177 by serial communication, and then distributed to the drive circuits 177a to 177e.

  The drive circuit board 371 is provided with a connector CN3 for connecting to the prize ball LED board 4n and the error LED board 4o (FIG. 2). The drive signal of the first drive circuit 177a is transmitted to the prize ball LED board 4n and the error LED board 4o via the connector CN3. The drive circuit board 371 is provided with a connector CN4 for connection to the connector output board 372, and the connector CN5 of the connector output board 372 is connected thereto. The drive signals of the second drive circuit 177b to the fifth drive circuit 177e are transmitted to the connector output unit 178 via the connector CN4 and the connector CN5.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the connector output board 372 includes a connector CN6 for connecting to the solenoid 850, a connector CN7 for connecting to the stepping motor 800, and various LED boards 4i to 4m provided on the middle frame 3 (see FIG. 10). 2) connectors CN8 to CN12 for connection, and connectors CN13 to CN15 for connection to various LED boards provided on the game board 10 are provided.

  The upper LED board 4m is connected to the connector CN8, the upper left LED board 4k is connected to the connector CN9, the upper right LED board 4l is connected to the connector CN10, the left LED board 4i is connected to the connector CN11, and the connector CN12 Is connected to the right LED substrate 4j. The connector CN13 is connected to an LED board corresponding to a special symbol hold display LED and a normal symbol hold display LED (both not shown), and the connector CN14 is connected to a lamp board corresponding to the side lamps 38 and 39, The lamp substrate corresponding to the LEDs 72 and 74 is connected to the connector CN15. The connector output unit 178 distributes the common signal and the data signal output from the third drive circuit 177c to the fifth drive circuit 177e of the interface unit 177 to the connectors CN8 to CN15.

  Further, as described above, the control circuit board 370 is provided with the sound generator 175, and the control circuit units 171 to 175 of the sound / lamp control unit 170 of the present embodiment perform sound control in addition to lamp control. It is configured. The volume switch board 12 is connected to the input / output port 174 of the control circuit board 370 via an amplifier circuit (not shown). The volume switch board 12 is used to set the output volume by operating a volume switch (not shown). A speaker 400 a is connected to the volume switch board 12. The sound generator 175 provided on the control circuit board 370 performs various sound outputs corresponding to the progress of the game from the speaker 400a via the volume switch board 12 based on the stored sound data and sound output module. .

  In addition, various lamps, LEDs, and voices are displayed as special symbol fluctuation / stop display modes controlled by the symbol control unit 160, whether or not reach occurs, reach display modes described later, special game modes, and game modes (probability variation, time reduction, etc.) ) And the like. The command signal of the control command is transmitted via the signal transmission path 500a as a command signal for which the voice / lamp control unit 170 is an operation command target.

  Note that the symbol control unit 160 and the sound / lamp control unit 170 described above may be configured by the same circuit units as the main control unit 140 and the payout control unit 150. That is, a CPU that includes a main circuit portion and an input / output circuit portion and has a built-in ROM and RAM can also be used.

Next, the winning ball operation is executed in the following order.
The main control unit 140 transmits a predetermined number of award ball number data to the payout control unit 150 via the signal transmission path 500a in the order of detection as a command signal for which the payout control unit 150 is an operation command target. The number of unique prize balls is 6, 10, or 15 in the first embodiment. Specifically, 15 when the game ball passes the winning ball detection switch 318, 6 when the game ball passes the start opening winning detection switch 17s, and other cases (for example, the left and right lower winning holes 21, For example, when the passage of 22 passage detection switches 21 s and 22 s is detected, the number is 10 for example. The payout control unit 150 receives the prize ball number data from the main control unit 140 and operates the prize ball payout device 109 by transmitting a prize ball payout signal.

  Further, the main control unit 140 determines a gaming state based on the outputs of the various detection switches described above. Further, the main control unit 140 determines whether or not the game is successful based on the gaming state and reads data for performing screen display control in a symbol display mode corresponding to the determination content. For example, the main control unit 140 uses the detection results of the start opening winning detection switch 17s, the winning ball detection switch 318, etc., the acquired value of the special symbol success / failure determination random number, and the like to wait for a customer who is not playing a game. Also, a state in which a game is played but no start prize is won (variable preparation state), a state in which a start prize has been won, a special game state, and the like are also determined. In addition, when a start winning is detected, determination of success / failure is performed based on a random value described later, and for the display mode control such as change of special symbols (including reach display mode) or confirmation based on the determination result Data is read. This data is transmitted via the signal transmission paths 500a and 500b as a command signal for which the symbol control unit 160 is an operation command target.

  Next, jobs executed by the main control unit 140 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 14 shows an example of a main job executed by the CPU 401 of the main control unit 140 based on a program stored in the ROM 482.

  First, the stack pointer is set to a predetermined address in the RAM 481 (S10), and it is determined whether or not the RAM clear switch 144 is operated (pressed) (S12). As a result, when the RAM clear switch 144 is operated, the RAM 481 is initialized (S800). On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch 144 is not operated, it is determined whether or not the backup flag is set (S15). As a result, when the backup flag is set, the “recovery processing for power interruption” shown in FIG. 16 is performed.

  Note that the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment performs processing when a power interruption occurs, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15, when a power interruption occurs due to a power failure or the like. First, the used register is saved in the RAM 481 (S630), and the value of the stack pointer is saved in the RAM 481 (S632). Then, the special winning opening solenoid 313 and the starting opening solenoid 17c are turned off (S634), and the polling processing time (for example, about 85 milliseconds) of the winning ball sensor is set (S636). The passage of the game ball is monitored by the sensor (S638). Next, when the polling processing time elapses (S640), a checksum (excluding checksum, backup flag, and stack area) of the RAM 481 used is created (S642), stored, and the backup flag is set in the RAM 481 ( S646). Then, access to the RAM 481 is prohibited (S648), and an infinite loop process prepares for power down. It is also possible to execute HALT processing or STOP processing instead of the unlimited loop processing.

  In the “return process” shown in FIG. 16, a checksum is calculated (S664), and it is determined whether or not it matches the checksum stored when the power is turned off (S666). As a result, if the checksums do not match, the RAM 481 is initialized (S800). On the other hand, if the checksums match, the stack pointer before power-off is restored (S668), the backup flag is cleared (S670), and a command for returning the sub-board to the state before power-off is transmitted. (S672). Then, each register is returned to the state before the power is turned off (S674), the permission / non-permission of interruption is returned to the state before the power is turned off (S676, S678), and the address is returned to the address before the power is turned off (S680). In the first embodiment, since a backup power supply for power interruption measures is added to the gaming machine 1, “information advantageous to the player” that occurred before the power failure even during a power failure in the pachinko hall, etc. Can be saved.

  Returning to FIG. 14, if it is determined in step S15 that the backup flag is not set, the initialization end is determined (S20). As a result, if the initialization has not ended, the initialization end determination in S20 is performed again after executing the initialization job (S190). Note that the initialization process of the RAM 481 is performed when the gaming machine 1 is turned on for the first time from the shipment state, when the RAM clear switch 144 is operated (pressed), when the backup flag is abnormal, and when the checksum is one. If you did not do it.

  On the other hand, when the initialization is completed, each job from the LED job (S30) to the switch job (S70) is executed. In the LED job (S30), the display pattern data of the normal symbol and the normal symbol unstarted count, the display pattern data of the special symbol unstarted count, and the like are output. In the constant speed random number job (S40), a special symbol success / failure random number memory, a general-purpose count memory, and the like of the RAM 481 described later are updated. In the non-constant speed random number job (S50), the initial value counter and the off-normal symbol random number memory (not shown) are updated. The general-purpose count memory (not shown) is used, for example, for creating values “0” to “255” for each interrupt, executing command jobs, and decoration jobs.

  In the voice job (S60), data related to music and voice is read, and in the switch job (S70), various detection switches are read. That is, various signals such as the left and right winning opening passing detection signals are taken into the main control unit 140 via the relay board 190, and various signals such as the firing stop detection signal, the touch detection signal, and the volume detection signal are sent to the payout terminal board 191. Via the frame controller 150. In addition, the main control unit 140 receives a start port winning detection signal from the start port winning detection switch 17s, and receives a winning ball detection signal and a normal symbol operation gate passage detection signal from the large winning device 31.

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is an abnormality in various switches such as a count detection switch, a count detection and a specific area passage detection switch (S80). As a result, if there is an abnormality (ball clogging or disconnection), an error job (S130) is executed.

  On the other hand, if there is no abnormality, a special symbol main job (S90) and a normal symbol job (S100) are executed. In the special symbol main job (S90), a job related to data necessary for the main control unit 140 and the symbol control unit 160 to operate in cooperation is executed. Further, in the normal symbol job (S100), the display pattern data of the normal symbol and the normal symbol unstarted number of times is read.

  Thereafter, the state of each flag is set in the backup memory (S140), and a prize ball signal job (S150), an information signal job (S160), a command job (S170), and a remaining time job (S180) are executed. In the prize ball signal job (S150), data relating to prize ball payout is read and output, and in the information signal job (S160), data necessary for outputting information to other control units is read. Further, in the command job (S170), a command for special symbol management or the like is output, and in the remaining time job (S180), a non-constant random number is called. The initial value random number is also updated in the remaining time job of S180.

  Next, the success / failure determination job executed in the series of the main job will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the success / failure determination job, FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the jackpot process, and FIG. 19 is a flowchart of the losing process. The success / failure determination job is executed at the time of starting winning, that is, when winning at the starting port 17 (starting winning). In these jobs, various memories stored in the built-in RAM 481 of the main control unit 140 shown in FIG. 16 are used.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not there has been a start prize (S200). As a result, if there is no start prize, the process skips to S250 and confirms whether there is a hold. As a result, when there is no hold (when the number of holds is zero), the process returns to S200, and when there is a hold (when the number of holds is 1 to 4), the process proceeds to S255.

  On the other hand, if there is a start winning, it is determined whether or not the number of holds (number of unstarted times) exceeds a certain value (“3” in the first embodiment) (S210). If the number of reserves (the number of unstarted times) exceeds a certain value, the start winning is invalid and skips to S255. On the other hand, if the number of holdings (the number of unstarted times) does not exceed a certain value, the number of holdings stored in the special symbol holding number memory 481b is increased by 1 (S220).

  Next, a special symbol validity determination random number (hereinafter also referred to as a validity random number or a determination random number) is generated and read by the random number generation means for validity determination (S230). The validity random number generation means may use software or hardware. The read determination random number value is stored in a special symbol success / failure determination random number memory 481a (hereinafter also referred to as a determination random number memory) (S240). Here, it is assumed that the determination random number value is obtained from 300 integer values of 0 to 299. The determination random number memory 481a stores the read determination random number value in a time series of start winnings in a shift memory format.

  Next, the oldest first determination random number value stored from the determination random number memory 481a is read (S255), and a big hit number reading process for reading a big hit number (winning determination value) from the big hit number memory 482a in the ROM 482 is performed ( S260).

  The big hit number reading process is as shown in FIG. 21. First, it is determined whether or not the current flag is 1 (specifically 0). This flag indicates which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is variably displayed when a game ball enters the start port 17. When the flag is 0, the first special symbol and the flag are In the case of 1, the second special symbol is changed (hereinafter referred to as a special symbol when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not distinguished from each other. Or “2) Special symbols are changed” is also simply referred to as “using first (or second) special symbols”). Note that the initial value of the flag is 0.

  When the flag is 1, that is, when the second special symbol is changed (S700: YES), the process proceeds to S710, and the jackpot number for high probability is read. The jackpot numbers for high probability are 6, 57, 107, 157, 207, and 257, all of these 6 are read and the process is terminated. On the other hand, when the flag is 0, that is, when the first special symbol is used (S700: NO), the process proceeds to S720, and the jackpot number for low probability is read. The jackpot number for low probability is only 7, and “7” is read and this processing is terminated. Since the determination random number value is obtained from 300 integer values from 0 to 299, when the flag is 1, the probability of being a big hit is 1/50 (= 6/300). When 0 is 0, the probability of a big hit is 1/300.

  Returning to FIG. Then, it is determined whether or not the determined random number value matches the jackpot number (S265). When the flag is 1, the determination random number value is compared with all six jackpot numbers. If it matches one of them, it is determined as “match”. As a result, if the two match, the big hit determination is made, and the big hit processing is performed (S270).

  Next, the big hit process (S270) will be described with reference to FIG. First, a big hit symbol determination random number (identification information determination random number) is generated and read (S272). Note that the big hit symbol determination random number is read simultaneously with the reading of the determination random number at the time of starting winning, but may be read simultaneously with the determination of the hit determination or after a predetermined time after the determination of the hit determination.

  Next, in S274, it is determined whether or not the current flag is 1. When the flag is 0, that is, in a low probability state (S274: NO), the process proceeds to S276, and the flag is inverted (that is, the flag is set to 1). In S278, 4 is set in the counter. This counter represents the number of times that a big hit is continuously given to the player, and the gaming machine 1 is configured to obtain five (1 + 4 = 5) big hits including the win based on the first special symbol. ing. When 4 is set in the counter, the determination result of “big hit” (“1” in the first embodiment) is stored in the determination result memory 481j (S300), and this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the flag is 1, that is, a high probability state (S274: YES), the process proceeds to S280, and 1 is subtracted from the counter. Subsequently, in S282, it is determined whether or not the counter is zero. If the counter is 0 (S282: YES), the process proceeds to S284, the flag is inverted (that is, the flag is set to 0), and then the process proceeds to S300. If the counter is not 0 (S282: NO), the process proceeds to S300 without inverting the flag.

  The special symbol determined by the jackpot symbol determination random number value is subjected to a variable display state on the liquid crystal display device 27 on the basis of the symbol image data stored in the ROM 163 of the symbol control unit 160, and in a predetermined arrangement mode. Is displayed. The liquid crystal display device 27 includes a first special symbol display area (first special symbol display unit) for variably displaying the first special symbol and a second special symbol display area (first special symbol display) for variably displaying the second special symbol. Part). The symbol image data is stored in the RAM 481 of the main control unit 140 as an identification information determination value in association with the jackpot symbol determination random number value, and the read jackpot symbol determination random number is compared with the identification information determination value. It is good also as what determines the symbol which stops by this.

  Furthermore, the reach display mode specified by the reach mode determination random number value is displayed in a predetermined reach mode after the variable display state based on the reach display mode image data stored in the ROM 163 of the symbol control unit 160. The In this case as well, the reach display mode image data is stored in the reach mode determination value memory 4811l of the RAM 481 of the main control unit 140 as a reach mode determination value in association with the reach mode determination random number value and read. The reach mode to be displayed may be determined by comparing the reach mode determination random number value with the reach mode determination value.

  Next, the detachment process (S310) will be described with reference to FIG. First, it is determined by a random number whether or not an outreach job is performed. Specifically, a reach mode determining random number is generated, read (S315), and the reach number stored in the reach number memory 481i is read (S320). If the reach mode determination random number and the reach number match, it becomes a missed reach job, and if it does not match, it becomes a normal missed job (S330).

  In the case of a miss reach job, at least two symbols to be aligned (for example, a left symbol and a right symbol among three-digit symbols) are determined using a miss reach symbol determination random number (S340). Or you may make it match the right design with it referring to the random number of the left design. The determined symbol is removed and stored in the reach symbol number memory 481m (S350). Further, the out-of-line symbol is similarly determined by a random number (S360), and the determined random number value is stored in the out-of-line symbol number memory 481g (S370). Then, the determination result of “outgoing reach” (“2” in the first embodiment) is stored in the determination result memory 481j (S380).

  On the other hand, in the case of a normal off-job, each pseudo symbol (for example, left symbol, right symbol, middle symbol) is determined by random numbers, and the determined random number values are stored in the corresponding off symbol number memories 481e, 481f, 481g. (S390 to S440). Also, the determination result “normally off” (“3” in the first embodiment) is stored in the determination result memory 481j (S450).

Next, an outline flow of the special symbol main job executed in the series of the main job will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, in S500, it is determined whether or not the current flag is 1. When the flag is 1, that is, in a high probability state (S500: YES), the process proceeds to S502, and the variation of the second special symbol is started. When the flag is 0, that is, in a low probability state (S500: NO), the process proceeds to S505, and the variation of the first special symbol is started.

  Next, the determination result for each winning obtained in the success / failure determination job shown in FIGS. 17 to 19 is read from the determination result memory 481j (S510), and it is determined whether or not the determination result is a big hit determination (S520).

  As a result, in the case of the big hit determination (“1”), the reach mode determining value stored in the reach mode determining value memory 481l corresponding to the above-described reach mode determining random value is read (S580), and the big hit number ( The identification information determination value) is read from the jackpot number memory (determination value storage means) 482a (S600). Next, proceeding to S610, for example, the left symbol and the right symbol are aligned with the same symbol, and after a predetermined reach display mode, the middle symbol is aligned with the same symbol as the left symbol and the right symbol, and is stopped and displayed (S610). ).

  On the other hand, if it is not a big hit determination, it is determined whether or not it is a missed reach determination ("2") (S530). As a result, in the case of the detachment reach determination (“2”), the detachment symbol number is read from the aforementioned detachment symbol number memory 481m, and the detaching symbol number is read from the detaching symbol number memory 481g (S570). Then, the difference between the number of outreach symbols and the number of symbols out of middle (for example, the difference between the left symbol and the middle symbol) is calculated (S571), and the outreach mode is determined from the outreach mode memory 481n based on these differences. Determine (S572). For example, when the middle symbol is the symbol immediately before the left symbol and the difference is “−1”, one type is selected from a plurality of types (for example, three types) outliers (for example, a predetermined random number). Can be selected by acquisition) and read. Thereafter, for example, after the left symbol and the right symbol are aligned to the same symbol and subjected to a predetermined reach display mode, the middle symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol different from the other symbols (S610).

  On the other hand, if it is not outlier reach determination, it is normal outage determination ("3") (S540), each out symbol number is read from outnumber memory 481e, 481f, 481g (S550), and each special symbol (for example, , The left symbol, the right symbol, and the middle symbol) are stopped and displayed at a timing shifted from each other (S560). Even in the case of normal deviation determination, the display mode is changed to various modes by “slip display” or the like. This is because the display mode image data is stored in a normal out display mode determination value memory (not shown) in the RAM 481 of the main control unit 140 as a normal out display mode determination value in association with the reach mode determination random number value. Another example is to determine the normal off mode to be displayed by comparing the read reach mode determining random number value with the normal off display mode determining value.

  When the big hit determination is made, the first or second special symbol is fixedly displayed on the liquid crystal display device 27 in a predetermined arrangement mode (for example, an arrangement mode of the same three-digit symbols of “7, 7, 7”), After that, a special game state (a big hit game state) in which a special game is executed is entered. In the special gaming state, first, the opening / closing plate 312 of the big winning device 31 is in an open state, so that the game ball can be easily received by the player in the big winning opening 311.

  In this special game state, the special winning device 31 is kept in the game ball receiving state until a predetermined end condition is satisfied. For example, when a predetermined time t1 (for example, 30 seconds) elapses or when a predetermined number n1 (for example, 10) of winning balls is detected by the winning ball detection switch 318, the end condition is satisfied, and the game ball receiving state Is ended once, and the opening / closing plate 312 is closed, and one round is completed. If a predetermined continuation condition (passing to a specific area not shown) is satisfied after a predetermined time t2 (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed after the opening / closing plate 312 is closed, the opening / closing plate 312 is again opened. The big winning device 31 enters the game ball receiving state. It should be noted that the game ball receiving state in which the end condition is one round is continuously repeated up to a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (16 rounds in the first embodiment). Further, if the continuation condition is not satisfied when the end condition is satisfied, the special gaming state ends (so-called puncture) in that round.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine 1 described above, a total of five big hits can be obtained as long as the second special symbol is changed to a high probability gaming state, and an unprecedented gaming interest can be obtained. .

  Here, the correspondence between the present embodiment and the configuration requirements of the present invention is shown. The liquid crystal display device 27 corresponds to the first special symbol display unit and the second special symbol display unit of the present invention, the start port 17 corresponds to the specific winning port of the present invention, and the special symbol main job is the special symbol variation of the present invention. It corresponds to the control means, and the big hit processing corresponds to the privilege giving means of the present invention.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and is not limited to the wording of each claim without departing from the scope described in each claim. Can be easily replaced by these, and improvements based on knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate.

For example, the gaming machine 1 may be applied to other models (not to mention a model whose front view is different from that shown in FIG. 1, for example, an arranged ball pachinko machine).
Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment, the condition for shifting from the high probability state to the low probability state (first game condition) is that it is a big hit four times in the high probability game state. Other conditions may be used. Further, in the gaming machine 1, the condition (second game condition) for shifting from the low probability state to the high probability state is only a big hit, but when the other conditions are satisfied, the transition is made. Anyway. FIG. 23 shows a second embodiment of the present invention in which the conditions for shifting the probability are changed.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 23 is an alternative to the jackpot number reading process shown in FIG. 20. First, it is determined whether or not the current flag is “1”. When the flag is 0, that is, when the probability is low (S700: NO), the process proceeds to S705 to determine whether the counter is 5000 or more. This “counter” is not for counting the number of big hits described above, but for counting the number of times the first special symbol has changed. The initial value of the counter is 0. When the counter is less than 5000 (S705: NO), the process proceeds to S715, and the jackpot number for low probability is read. Then, the counter is incremented by 1, and this process is terminated.

  If the counter is 5000 or more (S705: YES), the process proceeds to S730, and the high probability jackpot number is read (note that the specific values of the high probability jackpot number and the low probability jackpot number are the first embodiment. Can be the same). In step S735, the counter is set to 0. In step S740, the flag is inverted (that is, the flag is set to 1), and this process ends. According to such a configuration, when the first special symbol is variably displayed 5000 times, the state automatically shifts to a state in which the second special symbol fluctuates (that is, a state with a high probability).

  On the other hand, if the flag is 1, that is, if the probability is high (S700: YES), the process proceeds to S745 to determine whether the counter is 30 or more. This “counter” is for counting the number of times the second special symbol has changed. If the counter is less than 30 (S745: NO), the process proceeds to S750, and the jackpot number for high probability is read. Then, the counter is incremented by 1, and this process is terminated.

  When the counter is 30 or more (S745: YES), the process proceeds to S760, and the jackpot number for low probability is read. In step S765, the counter is set to 0, and in step S770, the flag is inverted (that is, the flag is set to 0), and this process ends. According to such a configuration, when the second special symbol is variably displayed 30 times, the state automatically shifts to a state where the first special symbol fluctuates (that is, a low probability state).

  In this jackpot number reading process, the number of times of display of special symbols is adopted for both the condition for transition from low probability to high probability (second game condition) and the condition for transition from high probability to low probability (first game condition). However, it is good also as a structure which employ | adopted only one side. Also, if the jackpot number reading process of FIG. 20 is changed to the jackpot number reading process of FIG. 23, the transition condition to the low probability gaming state is based on the number of jackpots defined by the jackpot process, and is defined by the jackpot number reading process. The one based on the number of times the special symbol is displayed will coexist. If it is desired to shift to the low-probability gaming state only based on the number of times the special symbol is changed, the process related to flag change may be removed from the big hit process.

  Conditions other than these may be used as conditions for shifting the probability. For example, the number of game balls that have been fired, the number of game balls that have entered the out port 48, a specific variation pattern of special symbols performed on the liquid crystal display device 27, and a specific character being displayed on the liquid crystal display device 27 And the elapsed time after the probability is changed. In addition, as a condition for shifting from the high probability gaming state to the low probability gaming state, a random lottery (falling lottery) is performed at each start winning prize separately from the special symbol success / failure determination, and the low probability gaming state when the lottery is lost You may make it transfer to. “Lots in lottery” means that one value is obtained from 100 integer values from 0 to 99 at the time of starting winning, and the obtained random number value is a predetermined random number value (for example, 0 to 9). In some cases, the transition to a low probability gaming state. In this case, the probability of winning in one lottery is 10%, but the probability is set arbitrarily (predetermined probability).

  In the big hit process of FIG. 18, the value set in the counter in S278 is fixed to 4, but it may be variable. For example, after the condition for shifting to a high probability is established, a random number lottery (continuous number lottery) is separately performed, and the number of jackpots (special game) guaranteed in the high probability gaming state (continuous number of times) may be lottery. Good. For example, it is assumed that the number of continuations is drawn from 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10. However, the probability of selecting each continuation number is 1 (30%), 2 (35%), 3 (20%), 5 (10%), 10 so as not to unnecessarily increase euphoria. It is desirable to set the average number of continuations to an appropriate number by setting the number of times (5%). Of course, the number of continuations and the number of continuations are set arbitrarily (predetermined number, predetermined number). In this configuration, since the number of times of continuation is determined in advance when the condition for shifting to a high probability is satisfied, the number of times of continuation can be notified by a continuation number notifying means (not shown) provided in the liquid crystal display device 27. Examples of the notification include the background color of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 27 (10 times for red, 5 times for blue, 2 times for white), a numerical value, and a character (the number of times that appears depends on the type of character that appears). To express. Make the appearance timing of these notifications variable (actually, a notification indicating twice even if 10 times are confirmed, and a notification indicating the number of remaining times after (or during) the second time) Etc., or the reliability of notification may be different (eg, when the background color is red, 10 times with a probability of 80%, 8 times with a probability of 20%, 50% when the background color is blue) Probability 5 times, 50% probability 2 times, etc.).

  In the first embodiment, the display area of the liquid crystal display device 27 is divided into the first special symbol display unit and the second special symbol display unit, and the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed, respectively. Other embodiments can also be used. FIG. 22 shows an example in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 27. The symbols 84a, 84b and 84c displayed at the approximate center of the liquid crystal display device 27 are pseudo symbols. The symbol 84c is transformed into a character symbol having identification information like the symbol 84a. The area where the pseudo symbol is displayed is referred to as a central area (pseudo symbol display portion) 86c. A first special symbol is displayed in the lower left region (first special symbol display portion) 86a of the liquid crystal display device 27, and a second special symbol is displayed in the lower right region (second special symbol display portion) 86b of the liquid crystal display device 27. Also in the present embodiment, the timing at which the first special symbol or the second special symbol starts / ends the variable display, and the condition for shifting from the state in which the first special symbol is variably displayed to the state in which the second special symbol is variably displayed. Control and the like are the same as in the first embodiment.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, since the two special symbols, the first special symbol and the second special symbol, are provided, the special symbol that is variably displayed according to the gaming state is shifted. The pseudo symbol is displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with (in synchronization with) the variable display timings of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol. That is, the pseudo symbol also starts to fluctuate when the first (second) special symbol starts to fluctuate, and the fictitious symbol also stops to fluctuate (confirm) when the first (second) special symbol fluctuates. When the first (second) special symbol becomes a jackpot symbol (specific symbol) that generates a special gaming state, the pseudo symbol also becomes a jackpot symbol (specific symbol), and the first (second) special symbol When the symbol becomes a detached symbol, control is performed so that the pseudo symbol also becomes a detached symbol.

  In the present embodiment, the central region 86c is a larger region than the lower left region 86a and the lower right region 86b. This is a configuration for eliminating the need to change the player's viewpoint in accordance with the transition between the state in which the first special symbol is variably displayed and the state in which the second special symbol is variably displayed. That is, in this configuration, by providing a pseudo symbol, even if either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is in a variable display state, the player displays the pseudo symbol in a variable manner in synchronization with both special symbols. All you have to do is to watch and play. With such a configuration, the pseudo-design display area (the central area 86c) that is constantly viewed is large, and the special-design display areas (the lower left area 86a and the lower right area 86b) that do not need to be constantly viewed are configured to be small.

  Further, in the first embodiment, the symbol arrangement of the first special symbol and the second special symbol in the case of the big hit determination is exemplified as “7, 7, 7”, but in this embodiment, the display area of the special symbol is displayed. Since it is set to be small, it is desirable to adopt a symbol (character) that can be expressed with a small number of digits such as “◯ (per unit)” and “× (out)”. And, it is desirable to adopt a three-digit symbol such as “7, 7, 7”, etc., adopted as a special symbol in the first embodiment as a pseudo symbol (of course, a two-digit character may be adopted instead of a number) .

  Furthermore, depending on the shape and display control mode of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is variably displayed (high probability gaming state or low probability gaming state) It can also be difficult for the player to identify. For example, by combining a plurality of color bars and making some of them special symbols, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to identify which part is the real special symbol.

  As another method for making it difficult to identify the special symbol, the display area of the liquid crystal display device 27 shown in FIG. 3 is a pseudo symbol display unit 86f, and light emitting means (lamps and LEDs) provided on the left and right sides of the substrate 34 are respectively first. The special symbol display unit 86d and the second special symbol display unit 86e may be used. In this case, the first special symbol display unit 86d configures the first special symbol by a change in lighting pattern such as a change in color or lighting, extinguishing, or blinking. For example, the light emitting means 86d can be lit in red when it is determined to be off, flashing when it is changing, and lit in blue when it is determined to hit. The same applies to the second special symbol.

  In this way, the pseudo symbol is displayed in a large area on the liquid crystal display device 27, and the first special symbol and the second special symbol are sub-displayed in a small area of the liquid crystal display device 27 or a small area at a distant position. Thus, the player plays the game while paying attention only to the pseudo symbols. Then, it is difficult for the player to recognize the game state (low probability game state or high probability game state), and the game state is notified by the game state notification means (not shown) provided in the liquid crystal display device 27. As an example of the gaming state notification, the background color of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 27 is changed (80% high probability gaming state in red, 50% high probability gaming state in blue, 20% high probability gaming state in white), For example, a predetermined character may appear (the probability of being in a high-probability gaming state differs depending on the type of character that appears). Of course, it can also indicate that the game state is 100% high probability game state or 100% low probability game state.

  As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the condition for shifting from the low probability gaming state to the high probability gaming state (second gaming condition) and the condition for transitioning from the high probability gaming state to the low probability gaming state (first game) Various examples of (conditions) have been given, but in the gaming machine of the present invention, a plurality of these conditions may be used in combination or may be used alone. In the first embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed and controlled by the symbol control unit 160. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, but the first special symbol. In addition, the main control unit 140 controls display of the second special symbol, and the symbol control unit 160 controls display of the pseudo symbol, the continuation frequency notification unit, and the gaming state notification unit described in the third embodiment. .

It is a front view which shows the game machine which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the various LED board which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a front view which shows the game board of the game machine which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a back view which shows the game machine which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus with which the game machine which concerns on the Example of this invention is provided. (A) is explanatory drawing of the main control part which comprises the electronic control apparatus with which the gaming machine which concerns on the Example of this invention is equipped, (b) is the electronic control apparatus with which the gaming machine which concerns on the Example of this invention comprises It is explanatory drawing of the frame control part to do. It is explanatory drawing of the special symbol control part which comprises the electronic control apparatus with which the game machine which concerns on the Example of this invention is provided. It is explanatory drawing of the audio | voice / lamp control part which comprises the electronic controller with which the game machine which concerns on 1st Example of this invention is provided. It is explanatory drawing of the control circuit board of the audio | voice / lamp control part with which the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Example of this invention is equipped, and a drive circuit board. It is explanatory drawing of the connector output part board | substrate of the audio | voice / lamp control part with which the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Example of this invention is provided. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is an explanatory diagram showing a main control unit. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is an explanatory diagram showing a CPU constituting the main control unit. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is an explanatory diagram showing a representative example of various memories and the like stored in the internal RAM of the main control unit. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the main job which the main control part of the game machine based on the Example of this invention performs. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is a flowchart showing a process when a power cut (such as a power failure) occurs. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is a flowchart showing a power recovery process when a power interruption (such as a power failure) occurs. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a success / failure determination job in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a jackpot process in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a detachment process in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an outline of a special symbol main job in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the big hit number reading process performed in the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the center bonus. It is a flowchart of the big hit number reading process performed in the gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 10 ... Game board 11 ... Game area 16 ... Central apparatus 17 ... Starting port 17s ... First kind start port winning detection switch 26 ... Center actor 27 ... Liquid crystal display device 38, 39 ... Side lamp 140 ... Main control Part 150 ... Dispensing control part 160 ... Special symbol control part 170 ... Voice / lamp control part

Claims (6)

A game board in which a game area is formed;
A first special symbol display unit provided on the game board and capable of variably displaying the first special symbol;
A second special symbol display unit provided on the game board and capable of variably displaying a second special symbol;
A specific winning opening provided in the game board;
Special symbol variation control means for displaying one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol in a predetermined period when a game ball wins the specific winning opening;
Benefit granting means for granting a bonus to the player when the first special symbol or the second special symbol displayed after the end of the fluctuation display by the special symbol fluctuation control means becomes a predetermined specific symbol. When,
In a gaming machine equipped with
The probability that the first special symbol becomes the specific symbol is lower than the probability that the second special symbol becomes the specific symbol;
A low-probability gaming state in which the first special symbol is variably displayed when a game ball wins the specific winning opening, and a high-probability gaming state in which the second special symbol is variably displayed when a gaming ball wins the specific winning opening. Has two states,
In the high probability gaming state, there is provided a gaming state switching means for setting the low probability gaming state when the first gaming condition is satisfied and setting the high probability gaming state when the second gaming condition is satisfied in the low probability gaming state. A featured gaming machine.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first gaming condition is that the privilege is given a predetermined number of times in the high probability gaming state. Continuation determining means for determining whether or not to continue the current gaming state,
3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first game condition is that the continuation determination unit determines that the continuation determination unit does not continue in the high probability gaming state.   4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second game condition is that the first special symbol is displayed in a predetermined number of times in the low probability game state. 5. Gaming machine. It has a pseudo-symbol display unit that can display multiple types of pseudo-symbols in a variable manner,
The pseudo symbol is variably displayed corresponding to the variation display of the first special symbol in the low probability gaming state, and is varied corresponding to the variation display of the second special symbol in the high probability gaming state. Display
5. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the first special symbol or the second special symbol becomes the specific symbol, the pseudo symbol becomes a predetermined special symbol. The gaming machine described. Informing means for informing which state is the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state,
The first special symbol and the second special symbol are configured so that it is difficult for the player to identify which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is variably displayed,
The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the reliability of the notification itself varies depending on a type of notification by the notification means.

Images