JP2006192292A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To supply a pleasant pinball game machine to which a player can display a performance reflecting player's will by changing performance pattern displays according to a predetermined operation. <P>SOLUTION: The pinball game machine is provided with a performance pattern performing means 627 to carry out by a pattern display unit 20 a performance pattern display selected by a performance pattern selecting means 624e, an operation switch 6 operable by a player, and an operation detector 6b to detect a predetermined operation by the operation switch 6. The performance pattern performing means 627 is structured to carry out a second performance image in place of a first performance image when a predetermined operation of the operation switch 6 is detected by the operation detector 6b during a display of the first performance image set by the performance pattern selected by the performance pattern selecting means 624e. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine represented by a pachinko machine, and more particularly to a ball game machine that performs a special game when a symbol displayed on a symbol display device becomes a preset hit symbol.

  In conventional ball game machines such as pachinko machines, it is generally known that a symbol display device such as a liquid crystal display is provided at the center of the game board constituting the game area, and the start provided in the game area When a game ball wins in the winning opening, if the symbol (stop symbol) when the symbol is stopped after changing the symbol on the symbol display device is a pre-set winning symbol, the special gaming state (big hit) It is comprised so that may be materialized. In this special gaming state, the variable winning opening (large winning opening) provided at the lower part of the gaming area is opened to facilitate the winning of game balls, and the player can acquire a large number of game balls. Yes.

  By the way, in such a ball game machine as described above, the symbol variation display is performed based on a variation pattern set in advance, and this variation pattern is acquired when winning a game ball start winning opening. What is selected based on a random number lottery result is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). A plurality of types of variation patterns are set in advance, and include variation patterns (hereinafter referred to as reach variation patterns) that are highly likely to establish a big hit. When the reach variation pattern is displayed, the player has a sense of expectation for the jackpot for the first time.

JP-A-9-70475

  However, even if the reach variation pattern having a high probability of jackpot as described above is displayed, the player cannot simply intervene in the game simply by looking at the display, and is not interesting.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and provides an amusing bullet ball game machine capable of providing an effect display reflecting the player's will by changing the display of the effect pattern in accordance with a predetermined operation by the player. The purpose is to do.

  In order to achieve such an object, the present invention provides a symbol display device capable of displaying a variation of symbols, and random number acquisition means for acquiring a random number each time a game ball wins a winning prize opening (for example, the symbol in this embodiment) Variable element acquisition means 621), execution determination means for determining whether or not to execute the special game based on the random number acquired by the random number acquisition means (for example, the hit random number determination means 623 in the present embodiment), The symbol control means for controlling the symbol variation process for stopping and displaying the symbol after the symbol is variably displayed on the display device based on the determination result by the execution determining means, and the symbol stopped and displayed by the symbol control means is a predetermined hit symbol A game provided with a special game execution means for making a game that makes it easy to win a variable winning opening provided in the gaming area (for example, the big winning opening 13 in this embodiment) at a certain time. , The first effect image for informing the player that the game state performed after the display of the symbol variation process (for example, the variation pattern in the present embodiment) can be notified, and the symbol variation process is displayed after the display ends. Obtained by effect pattern storage means (for example, effect pattern group memory 624d in the present embodiment) that stores a plurality of effect patterns composed of a second effect image that informs the player about the gaming state, and random number acquisition means. An effect pattern selecting means for selecting one of the effect patterns from the plurality of effect patterns stored in the effect pattern storage means based on the generated random number, and a display of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means Effect pattern execution means executed by the apparatus, operation means operable by the player, and operation means Operation detecting means (for example, the operation detecting device 6b in the present embodiment) for detecting a predetermined operation, and the effect pattern executing means is the first effect set in the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means. When a predetermined operation of the operating means is detected by the operation detecting means during the display of the image, the second effect image is displayed instead of the first effect image.

  The effect pattern executing means is configured to display the first operation image when a predetermined operation of the operation means is not detected by the operation detecting means during display of the first effect image set in the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means. It is configured to continue displaying one effect image.

  With such a configuration, according to the present invention, the display of the effect pattern changes according to the predetermined operation by the player, and the effect display reflecting the player's will is possible. As a result, it is possible to provide an amusing bullet ball game machine in which a player can actively participate in the game.

  The predetermined operation means that the operation means is operated within a first time limit set in advance after the display of the first effect image of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means is executed, and then the preset operation is set in advance. It may be configured to be set to stop this operation within the set second time limit. With such a configuration, it is possible to provide a timeless game that gives diversity to the operation by the player and makes the player entertained.

  Moreover, you may comprise so that the 1st time limit and the 2nd time limit may be preset for every production | presentation pattern. With such a configuration, the timing of operating the operating means is different for each effect pattern, so that a variety of gaming situations can be created.

  Moreover, you may comprise so that the operation validity determination means which determines whether operation of an operation means is validated based on the production pattern selected by the production pattern selection means may be provided. With such a configuration, the game is sharpened and a game full of fun can be provided.

  Further, it may be configured to include operation validity notifying means (for example, the operation effective lamp 6a in the present embodiment) for notifying the player that the operation validity determining means has determined that the operation of the operation means is to be enabled. . With such a configuration, the player can grasp whether the operation set for each performance pattern is valid or not.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. A pachinko machine PM as an example of a ball game machine in the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine PM.

  The pachinko machine PM is provided with an outer frame 1 that forms an outer frame of the gaming machine, and a front frame 2 (not shown) that is pivotally supported by the outer frame 1 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 2 includes a glass door 3 (not shown), a ball receiving tray 4, a hitting ball handle 5, an operation switch 6, a game board 8 including a game area 10 partitioned by rails 7, and the like. .

  The operation switch 6 that can be pressed is provided with an operation effective lamp 6a (a portion indicated by hatching in FIG. 1) composed of LEDs and the like, and operation of the operation switch 6 is enabled by an operation effective determination means 625 described later. It is notified to the player by lighting or flashing that it is determined to be. In this embodiment, the operation effective lamp 6a is lit to notify the player that the pressing operation of the operation switch 6 is effective, and the operation of the operation switch 6 being pressed by the flashing of the operation effective lamp 6a. The player is informed that he will stop. The operation effective lamp 6a is not limited to the present embodiment. For example, instead of being provided on the operation switch 6, it may be provided at another position where the player can see. Further, in order to know that the operation of the operation switch 6 has become effective, it may be notified by a symbol or image display (using a speaker or the like) or a voice or the like (in a symbol display device or the like).

  The game area 10 includes a plurality of general winning holes 11 that serve as payout conditions for prize balls, a start winning opening 12 that serves as conditions for paying out the prize balls and serves as a condition for starting the change of the symbols of the symbol display device 20 described later. There are provided a winning port 13, an out port 14 for collecting game balls, a windmill (not shown), a large number of game nails, and the like that affect the falling of the hit ball. In the approximate center of the game area 10, there is provided a symbol display device 20 for displaying images and symbols such as a variation symbol (variation pattern), a stop symbol, and an effect pattern.

  On the upper part of the symbol display device 20, there is provided a holding ball lamp 30 composed of four LEDs or the like for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the start winning opening 12 during the variation of the symbol by the symbol display device 20. . In the present embodiment, with the upper limit being four, the holding ball lamp 30 is turned on one by one every time there is a prize at the start prize opening 12 (during symbol variation). Then, each time the variation display of the variation symbol is started in the symbol display device 20, the lighted holding ball lamps 30 are turned off one by one.

  In the pachinko machine PM configured as described above, when the player operates the hitting handle 5, the game balls are sent one by one from the ball receiving tray 4 to the hitting ball launching unit (not shown), with a strength corresponding to the operation amount. 10 hits the ball. The fired hit ball flows down to the above-described winning ports 11, 12 or the out port 14, and when winning is made to the above-mentioned winning ports 11, 12, a predetermined winning ball is paid out to the ball receiving tray 4. Further, when a hit ball wins the start winning opening 12 among the winning openings 11 and 12, the predetermined winning ball is paid out to the ball receiving tray 4, and the symbol displayed on the symbol display device 20 starts to change. Here, although details will be described later, in the present invention, after the symbol display apparatus 20 displays the predetermined moving image and the symbol variation mode for a predetermined time, the symbol variation is stopped. At this time, when the symbol display mode displayed on the symbol display device 20 is a predetermined winning symbol (for example, 1 to 9), it is a big hit and the winning is facilitated. When a hit ball wins the big winning opening 13, a large amount of prize balls are paid out to the player.

  A control device provided in the pachinko machine PM configured as described above will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of control by the control device. This control device controls the game by the game control means 50 which is composed of various electronic components such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM.

  The game control means 50 includes an operation detection device 6b built in the operation switch 6 for detecting a (pressing) operation of the operation switch 6, a start opening prize detection device 12a built in the start winning opening 12, and a large The big prize opening winning detection device 13a built in the winning opening 13 and the specific area passage detecting device 13b built in a specific area (not shown) in the big winning opening 13 are electrically connected. The detection signal is input to the game control means 50.

  The game control means 50 performs various operation controls in accordance with these input signals. As control objects, the game control means 50 includes an operation effective lamp 6a indicating that the operation of the operation switch 6 is effective, and a special prize opening. The prize winning hole drive device 13m that opens the door 13, the symbol display device 20 that displays images and symbols, the holding ball lamp 30, and the prize ball payout device 45 that pays out the prize balls are electrically connected. Yes. These are all controlled based on a control signal from the game control means 50.

  Subsequently, the control contents of the game control means 50 will be described below with reference to FIGS. The game control means 50 includes a normal game execution means 60, a special game execution means 70, a high probability game setting means 80, and a payout control means 90 for controlling this game.

  The normal game execution means 60 is for executing and controlling the normal game of the ball game machine, and a winning opening winning prize processing means 61 for performing processing related to winning in each winning opening provided in the game area 10; Special game transition determining means 62 for determining whether or not to shift from a normal game to a special game is provided. The winning opening winning prize processing means 61 is not different from the conventional one, and a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  The special game transition determining unit 62 includes a symbol variation factor acquiring unit 621, a holding ball information storage unit 622, a winning random number determining unit 623, an effect determining unit 624, an operation validity determining unit 625, a symbol control unit 626, Effect pattern execution means 627.

  The symbol variation element acquisition means 621 is for acquiring an element for determining a symbol or an image to be displayed on the symbol display device 20 (for example, a hit random number, a stop symbol random number, an effect random number), and a hit random number acquisition means 621a. And stop symbol random number acquisition means 621b and effect random number acquisition means 621c.

  The winning random number acquisition means 621a is for acquiring a random number for determining whether or not to generate a big hit (hereinafter referred to as a "winning random number"). For example, a random number of 0 to 65535 (65536 ways) generated by the hardware increment counter is acquired based on the winning signal from the start opening winning detecting device 12a described above. Note that the random number in the specification is a concept including a thing that functions as a random number because there is no regularity in the acquisition timing even if it is regular like an increment counter.

  The stop symbol random number acquisition means 621b is for acquiring a random number for determining a stop symbol to be displayed on the symbol display device 20 (hereinafter referred to as “stop symbol random number”). For example, the left symbol determination random number for acquiring 0-9 (10 patterns) random numbers for the left symbol, the middle symbol determination random number for acquiring 0-9 (10 patterns) random numbers for the middle symbol, and the right symbol It consists of the right symbol determination random number for acquiring 0 to 9 (10 types) random numbers.

  The effect random number acquisition means 621c is for acquiring a random number (hereinafter referred to as “effect random number”) for acquiring a later-described variation pattern and effect pattern. For example, 0 to 255 (256 types) of random numbers generated by the software increment counter are acquired by the random number determination means 623 before determining the hit.

  The reserved ball information storage unit 622 receives the winning information of the game ball that has won the start winning port 12 (that is, detected by the starting port winning detection device 12a) during the symbol change display by the symbol control unit 626. This is for storing predetermined upper limit pieces (four pieces in this embodiment) corresponding to the sphere. In this embodiment, a winning random number, a stop symbol random number, a production random number, the number of reserved balls, etc. are stored as winning information. In the present embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved balls that can be stored is four, but is not limited to this and can be changed as appropriate. When a predetermined upper limit piece of winning ball winning information is stored in the holding ball information storage means 622, even if more gaming balls win the start winning opening 12, winning information for the gaming ball is received. Is not remembered and is invalid. That is, the information acquired for the four game balls passing through the start winning opening 12 during symbol variation can be stored, but the fifth and subsequent game balls may pass through the start winning opening 12. It is ignored and only prize balls are paid out.

  The winning random number judging means 623 is for judging whether or not to play a special game according to the winning random number, that is, whether or not it is a big hit. For example, the hit value “0 to 200” stored in the ROM is compared with the random number value (one of 0 to 65535) acquired as the previous hit random number, and the random value is determined to be the hit value “0 to 200”. ”Is determined as“ winning ”. Note that, during the probability fluctuation described later, the high probability game setting means 80, for example, for the random number value of the odd number among the above "0-200", a jackpot is established in the game after the end of the special game The probability of winning (big hit probability) is changed to a high probability (that is, the hit value is “0 to 1280”).

  The effect determining means 624 is for determining various effects displayed on the symbol display device 20 from the start of the change of the symbol to the stop display. The stop symbol determining means 624a and the change pattern A group memory 624b (see FIG. 3A), a variation pattern selecting unit 624c, an effect pattern group memory 624d (see FIG. 3B), and an effect pattern selecting unit 624e are provided.

  The stop symbol determination means 624a is for determining a stop symbol according to the stop symbol random number. In this embodiment, the stop symbol is composed of a left symbol, a right symbol, and a middle symbol, and a number from 0 to 9 can be displayed for each symbol. In addition, when the winning symbol is determined to be winning by the winning random number determining means 623, as shown in FIG. 4A, the three symbols displayed on the left symbol, the right symbol, and the middle symbol are the same symbols. is there. As a symbol other than the winning symbol, for example, when the winning random number judging means 624 does not determine that the winning symbol is hit, that is, when it is off, as shown in FIG. . However, among the off symbols, as shown in FIG. 4 (c), the symbols on the left and right are the same, but the symbols that are different from the numbers in the center are called reach symbols.

  The variation pattern group memory 624b is a memory that stores a plurality of variation patterns in which a symbol variation process for stopping and displaying a stopped symbol after the variation display of the variation symbol is displayed on the symbol display device 20 is performed. As shown in a), a special hit fluctuation pattern group memory H1, a normal hit fluctuation pattern group memory H2, a reach fluctuation pattern group memory H3, and a deviation fluctuation pattern group memory H4 are provided.

  The special hit variation pattern group memory H1 is selected when the hit random number determination means 623 is determined to be hit and the stop symbol is selected as a probable variation symbol among the winning symbols, from the symbol variation start to the symbol stop. This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of symbol variation patterns (special hit variation patterns).

  In the special hit variation pattern group memory H1, a specific effect that is performed when the jackpot probability changes is set, and reach change and premium notice are set. This premium notice is a notice effect with a very low appearance frequency, and when this effect is made, the probability that the lottery result in the change is a win is extremely high. By using such a specific performance, it is possible for a player to increase his / her recognition that the jackpot probability varies from a normal low probability to a high probability during symbol variation, and to increase the player's concentration in the variation. It has become.

  The normal hit variation pattern group memory H2 is displayed on the symbol display device 20 which is selected when the hit random number determination means 623 is determined to be hit and the stop symbol is determined as a symbol other than the probability variation symbol among the winning symbols. This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of symbol variation patterns (hit variation patterns) from the symbol variation start to symbol stop.

  The reach variation pattern group memory H3 is selected when it is determined that the hit random number determination means 623 is out, and the stop symbol is determined to be a reach symbol (the symbols on the left and right are the same and only the middle symbol is different). This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of symbol variation patterns (reach variation patterns) from the symbol variation start to the symbol stop.

  The variation variation pattern group memory H4 is selected when the winning random number judging means 623 determines that the variation is unsuccessful and when the stop symbol is determined as a deviating symbol (the left and right symbols are different, non-reach symbols). This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of symbol variation patterns (displacement variation patterns) from the start to the symbol stop.

  The variation pattern selection unit 624c first selects any variation pattern group memory H1 to H4 from the variation pattern group memory 624b based on the stop symbol determined by the stop symbol determination unit 624a. Next, one variation pattern is selected from one of the selected variation pattern group memories based on the effect random number acquired by the effect random number acquisition means 621c.

  The effect pattern group memory 624d displays a first effect image (see, for example, FIG. 18A) for notifying the player that the game state performed after the display of the change pattern is completed, and the display of the change pattern. This is a memory storing a plurality of effect patterns composed of second effect images (for example, see FIG. 18 (b)) for notifying the player of the game state to be performed after the end, as shown in FIG. 3 (b). As shown, a special hit effect pattern group memory E1, a normal hit effect pattern group memory E2, a reach effect pattern group memory E3, and a loss effect pattern group memory E4 are provided.

  The first effect image and the second effect image have display contents related to each other. The second effect image is displayed in place of the first effect image being displayed when the operation switch 6 is operated in a predetermined manner during the display of the first effect image (details will be described later). is there.

  In addition to the first effect image and the second effect image, the effect pattern includes whether the operation switch 6 is enabled or not, whether the operation switch 6 is displayed after the first effect image is displayed. Various information such as a first time limit until the operation is validated and a second time limit until the display of the second effect image is executed when this operation is stopped after the operation switch 6 is operated are set in advance. Yes.

  The special hit effect pattern group memory E1 has a plurality of types of effect patterns (special hit effect patterns) that are selected when the hit random number determination means 623 is determined to be a win and the stop symbol is determined as a probable variation among the win symbols. It is a memory for storing.

  The normal winning effect pattern group memory E2 determines an effect pattern (winning effect pattern) selected when the winning random number determining means 623 determines that the winning symbol is a winning symbol and the stop symbol is determined to be a symbol other than the probable variation symbol among the winning symbols. This is a memory for storing a plurality of types.

  The reach effect pattern group memory E3 is selected when the winning random number determination means 623 determines that it is out of reach, and the stop symbol is determined to be a reach symbol (the symbols on the left and right are the same and only the middle symbol is different). This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of patterns (reach effect patterns).

  The off-effects pattern group memory E4 is judged to be off by the hit random number determination means 623, and the effect pattern (off-going) selected when the stop symbol is determined to be off and the left and right symbols are different (non-reach symbols are different) This is a memory for storing a plurality of types of effect patterns).

  The effect pattern selection unit 624e first selects any one of the effect pattern group memories H1 to H4 from the effect pattern group memory 624d based on the stop symbol determined by the stop symbol determination unit 624a. Next, one effect pattern is selected from the selected effect pattern group memory based on the effect random number acquired by the effect random number acquisition means 621c.

  The operation validity determining means 625 is for determining whether or not to enable the operation of the operation switch 6 in the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means 624e. If it is determined by the operation validity determining means 625 that the operation of the operation switch 6 is to be enabled, the operation effective lamp 6a is turned on to notify the player to that effect.

  The symbol control means 626 is for controlling the symbol variation process in which the symbol display device 20 displays the symbols in a variable manner and then stops the display based on the determination result by the hit random number determination means 623. For example, in the present invention, when a game ball wins in the start winning opening 12 (that is, detected by the start opening winning detection device 12a), it is based on the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern selection means 624c in the symbol display device 20. After the symbol changing process is displayed for a predetermined time, the stop symbol determined by the stop symbol determining means 624a is displayed.

  The effect pattern execution means 627 is for executing the display of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 624e during the display of the symbol variation process based on the variation pattern in the symbol display device 20.

  In other words, the effect pattern executing means 627, when the operation detection device 6b detects a predetermined operation of the operation switch 6 during the display of the first effect image set in the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 624e. The display of the second effect image is executed instead of the display of the first effect image. Further, the effect pattern execution unit 627 is configured such that the operation detection device 6b does not detect a predetermined operation of the operation switch 6 during the display of the first effect image set in the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection unit 624e. Continues to display the first effect image and does not display the second effect image.

  Here, the predetermined operation means that the operation means is operated within a first time limit set in advance after the display of the first effect image of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 624e. This is an operation that is performed and then set to stop this operation within a second time limit set in advance. The first time limit and the second time limit are set in advance for each effect pattern.

  The special game executing means 70 is for executing a special game when it is determined that the winning random number determining means 623 determines that it is a winning (that is, when the stop symbol is a winning symbol). The unit game executing means 71 and the continuation determining means 72 and a probability fluctuation transition determining means 73.

  The unit game execution means 71 is for performing a unit game during a special game, and includes a big prize opening drive means 711 and a unit game end determination means 712.

  The special winning opening driving means 711 is for operating the special winning opening driving device 13m so as to open the special winning opening 13 and facilitate the winning of game balls.

  The unit game end determination means 712 is for determining whether or not to end the unit game based on a preset unit game end condition.

  The continuation determination means 72 is for determining whether or not to end the special game based on a preset continuation condition.

  The probability variation transition determining means 73 determines whether or not to execute probability variation after the special game ends (that is, to change the jackpot probability in the game after the equidistant game ends from a normal low probability to a high probability). Is to do. In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the winning symbol displayed on the symbol display device 20 is a predetermined probability variation symbol (that is, a part of the winning symbol).

  The high-probability game setting means 80 is a probability (a jackpot probability) that a jackpot is established in the game after the end of the special game when the decision result is judged by the probability fluctuation transition judging means 73 to be affirmative, that is, a probability symbol. ) To change the probability lottery table so as to vary from low probability to high probability. For example, the hit value referred to by the hit random number determination means 624 is increased by “201 to 1280” in addition to “0 to 200” so that the jackpot probability is higher than usual.

  The payout control means 90 is for performing control for paying out a prize ball from the prize ball payout device 45.

  Next, an outline of control in the present embodiment will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a main flowchart of the pachinko machine PM. The game control means 50 first performs the initial setting of the entire gaming machine in step S1, performs the normal game process in step S2 and the special game process in step S3, and then returns to the normal game process in step S2. This operation is repeated until the power is turned off. The normal game process in step S2 and the special game process in step S3 will be described later.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the normal game process in step S2. After the normal game process S2 executes a winning opening prize checking process (step S20) for checking a winning entry, and a special game transition determining process (step S21) for determining whether or not to shift a special game. This process is terminated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the winning opening winning check process in step S20. In the winning opening winning check process S20, first, when the winning of a game ball to any of the general winning openings 11 is detected by the general winning opening winning detection device 11a (step S201), the detection signal is sent to the game control means 50. The general winning flag is set (step S202). Based on this flag, the payout control means 90 outputs an operation signal to the prize ball payout device 45. Upon receiving this signal, the prize ball payout device 45 is activated, and a predetermined number (for example, for each winning ball) (for example, (10 balls) prize balls are dispensed from the prize ball dispensing device 45 to the ball tray 4. Note that the flag set here is appropriately reset based on the winning ball operation. When a winning of a game ball at the start winning opening 12 is detected by the start opening winning detection device 12a (step S203), the detection signal is sent to the game control means 50 and a start winning flag is set (step S203). S204). Based on this flag, the payout control means 90 outputs an operation signal to the winning ball paying device 45. Upon receiving this signal, the winning ball paying device 45 is operated to respond to the winning ball to the start winning opening 12. A predetermined number (for example, five balls) of prize balls are paid out from the prize ball payout device 45 to the ball tray 4.

  Next, the special game transition determination process in step S21 is executed. 8 is a preceding flowchart of the special game transition determination process in step S21, FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the symbol variation element acquisition process in step S210, and FIG. 10 is a middle flowchart of the special game transition determination process in step S21 (continued from FIG. 8). FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the effect execution process S260 of step S260, and FIG. 12 is a subsequent flowchart of the special game transition determination process of step S21 (continuing from FIG. 10).

  As shown in FIG. 8, first, the special game transition determination process S21 performs a symbol variation element acquisition process S210. In the symbol element acquisition process S210, as shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the start winning flag is on in order to confirm whether or not the start winning opening 12 has been won (step S211). If it is not on, this process is terminated, and if it is on, the start winning flag is turned off (step S212). Next, it is possible to store the winning information in the stored ball number storage means 622 as to whether or not the number of held balls that have been won in the stored start winning opening 12 has reached the upper limit of storage (for example, four). Whether or not (step S213). Here, if the number of holdings does not reach the upper limit of storage and can be stored, one holding ball lamp 30 is turned on (step S214), and a winning random number is acquired by the winning random number acquiring means 621a ( Step S215), the stop symbol random number acquisition means 621b acquires the stop symbol random number (Step S216), the effect random number acquisition means 621c acquires the effect random number (Step S217), and the winning information is stored in the number n (n = 1, 2, 3, 4), the data is stored in a predetermined area provided in the holding ball information storage unit 622 (step S218), and this process is terminated. In step S213, when the number of reserved balls has reached the upper limit, the symbol variation element acquisition process S210 is terminated.

  Subsequently, the special game transfer determination process S21 proceeds to FIG. 8, and it is confirmed whether or not there is a storage ball (step S230). Here, when there is no storage of the holding ball, this processing is ended, and when there is a storage of the holding ball, the information stored in the holding ball information storage unit 622 corresponding to the number n of the holding balls is n = 1. Is read (step S231), and the information stored in the reserved ball information storage means 622 is shifted (step S232).

  Here, step S231 and step S232 will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, in step S231, the value A of the winning random number corresponding to the number n = 1 of the reserved balls is read in the reserved ball information storage means 622, and as shown in FIG. Then, the values B, C, and D stored in the area corresponding to the number n of reserved balls n = 2, 3, and 4 are shifted and stored in the area corresponding to the number n-1 of reserved balls.

  Subsequently, the special game transition determination process S21 proceeds to step S233 shown in FIG. 10 and determines whether or not a special game is performed according to the winning random number read in step S231 by the winning random number determining means 623, that is, whether or not it is a big hit. judge. When the determination result is a win, a predetermined stop symbol (that is, a win symbol) is determined by the stop symbol determining means 624a based on the stop symbol random number read in step S231 (step S234). Then, it is determined whether or not the winning symbol is a probability variation symbol (step S235). Here, if the winning symbol is a probability variable symbol, the special winning variation pattern is determined from the special winning variation pattern group memory H1 by the variation pattern selecting means 624c based on the stop symbol and the effect random number read in S231. At the same time, the special winning effect pattern is determined from the special winning effect pattern group memory E1 by the effect pattern selecting means 624e (step S236), and the process proceeds to step S242. In step S235, when the winning symbol is not a probability variation symbol, the variation pattern selecting means 624c uses the normal symbol variation pattern group memory H2 based on the stop symbol and the effect random number read in step S231 to change the normal symbol variation pattern. Is determined by the effect pattern selection means 624e from the normal hit effect pattern group memory E2 (step S237), and the process proceeds to step S242.

  On the other hand, in step S233, when the determination result is not successful, that is, it is out of place, a predetermined stop symbol, that is, an out symbol is determined by the stop symbol determination means 624a based on the stop symbol random number read in step S231. (Step S238). Then, it is determined whether or not the off symbol is a reach symbol (step S239). Here, if the out symbol is a reach symbol, the reach variation pattern is determined from the reach variation pattern group memory H3 by the variation pattern selection means 624c based on the stop symbol and the effect random number read in step S231. The reach effect pattern is determined from the reach effect pattern group memory E3 by the effect pattern selecting means 624e (step S240), and the process proceeds to step S242. Further, when the out symbol is not the reach symbol in step S239, the variation pattern selection means 624c creates the out variation pattern from the out variation pattern group memory H4 based on the stop symbol and the effect random number read out in step S231. At the same time, the effect pattern selection means 624e determines a deviation variation pattern from the deviation effect pattern group memory E4 (step S241), and the process proceeds to step S242.

  In step S242, one holding ball lamp 30 is turned off. Subsequently, a symbol variation process S250 and an effect execution process S260 (see FIG. 11) are performed. Note that these processes (that is, the symbol variation process S250 and the effect execution process S260) are performed in parallel.

  In the symbol variation process S250, the symbol display means 20 controls display of the variation pattern and stop symbol acquired above by the symbol control means 626. That is, when the lottery result in step S233 is a win and the stop symbol is a probability variation symbol, a probability variation symbol (win symbol) is displayed after a special symbol variation pattern is performed on the symbol display device 20. If the lottery result in step S233 is a win and the stop symbol is not a probability variation symbol, the symbol display device 20 performs a normal hit variation pattern and then stops and displays the winning symbol. On the other hand, when the lottery result in step S233 is out and the stop symbol is a reach symbol, the reach symbol (out symbol) is stopped and displayed after the reach variation pattern is performed in the symbol display device 20. Further, when the lottery result in step S233 is out and the stop symbol is not a reach symbol, the symbol symbol is stopped and displayed after the symbol variation pattern is performed in the symbol display device 20.

  The effect execution process S260 is a process that is performed in parallel with the above-described symbol variation process S250, from the start of the variation pattern variation display to the end of the variation pattern variation display (the stop symbol is displayed). Between. First, as shown in FIG. 11, after starting the variation display of the variation pattern, it is determined whether or not the operation of the operation switch 6 is enabled by the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 624e by the operation validity determination means 625. (Step S261). Here, when it is determined that the operation of the operation switch 6 is to be enabled based on the selected effect pattern, the operation effective lamp 6a is turned on to notify the player (step S262), and this effect The display of the first effect image set in the pattern is executed by the effect pattern executing means 627 on the symbol display device 20 (step S263), and the process proceeds to step S264. On the other hand, when it is not determined that the operation of the operation switch 6 is valid in the selected effect pattern, this process is terminated.

  Subsequently, in step S264, it is confirmed whether or not a predetermined operation (that is, a pressing operation) of the operation switch 6 is detected by the operation detection device 6b. Here, when the pressing operation of the operation switch 6 is not detected, it is determined whether or not a first time limit preset in the production pattern has passed (step S265). If it is determined in step S265 that the first time limit has elapsed, the operation valid lamp 6a is turned off (step S266), and this process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S265 that the first time limit has not elapsed, the process returns to step S264.

  In step S264, when it is determined that the pressing operation of the operation switch 6 is detected (within the first time limit), the operation valid lamp 6a is blinked (step S267), and the operation detecting device 6b presses the operation switch 6. It is confirmed whether or not the operation has been stopped (step S268). Here, when the pressing operation of the operation switch 6 is not stopped, it is determined whether or not the second time limit preset in the effect pattern has passed (step S269). If it is determined in step S269 that the second time limit has elapsed, the operation valid lamp 6a is turned off (step S270), and this process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S269 that the second time limit has not elapsed, the process returns to step S268. In step S268, when the pressing operation of the operation switch 6 is stopped (within the second time limit), the operation valid lamp 6a is turned off (step S271), and the second effect image set in the effect pattern is displayed. The display is executed on the symbol display device 20 by the effect pattern execution means 627 (step S272), and this process is terminated.

  Note that after the above-described effect display process S260 is completed, the variation display of the variation pattern is also terminated, and a stop symbol is displayed.

  In such an effect display process S260, an effect pattern displayed on the symbol display device 20 will be described with reference to a screen example. In the above-described effect pattern group memories E1 to E4, for example, a plurality of effect patterns are respectively set as shown in FIG. 17, and any one of them is selected by the effect pattern selection means 624e according to the stop symbol and the effect random number. A production pattern is selected. Here, it is assumed that an effect pattern (hereinafter referred to as effect pattern A) corresponding to No. 5 in FIG.

  The effect pattern A is composed of a first effect image A1 showing a screen example in FIG. 18A and a second effect image A2 showing a screen example in FIG. The first effect image A1 is an image showing a light aircraft flying and disappearing from the right side to the left side of the screen. In addition, the second effect image A2 is a message of “30%” while the light aircraft (which was flying from the right side to the left side of the screen) changes direction and flies from the left side to the right side of the screen. It is an image which shows a mode that is displayed. When the effect pattern A having such a configuration is selected, first, the first effect image A1 is displayed on the symbol display device 20, and the operation valid lamp 6a is turned on. If the player presses the operation switch 6 while the operation effective lamp 6a is lit, the operation effective lamp 6a blinks. If the pressing operation of the operation switch 6a is stopped while the operation valid lamp 6a is blinking, the second effect image A2 is displayed.

  That is, in the symbol display device 20, when the player performs a predetermined operation as described above from the first effect image A1 in which the light aircraft is merely flying, the light aircraft changes its direction to “30% To the second effect image A2 flying while displaying the message "."

  On the other hand, when the player does not press the operation switch 6 while the first effect image A1 is displayed and the operation effective lamp 6a is lit, and when the first effect image A1 is displayed and the operation effective lamp 6a is lit. If the player presses the operation switch 6, but the player does not stop pressing the operation switch 6 while the subsequent operation valid lamp 6a is blinking, the display is terminated only by displaying the first effect image A1 (that is, The second effect image A2 is not displayed).

  That is, in the symbol display device 20, if the player does not perform a predetermined operation as described above from the first effect image A1 where the light aircraft is merely flying, only the first effect image A1 is displayed. However, the second effect image A2 is not displayed.

  In addition, an effect pattern B (NO.11 in FIG. 17) composed of a first effect image B1 showing a screen example in FIG. 19A and a second effect image B2 showing a screen example in FIG. 19B. 20), and the effect pattern C (in FIG. 17) composed of the first effect image C1 showing the screen example in FIG. 20A and the second effect image C2 showing the screen example in FIG. No. 13) is also displayed in the same manner as the effect pattern A described above.

  The production pattern includes NO. Like the effect pattern D corresponding to 16, the operation of the operation switch 6 is not effective during the effect pattern display, and the first effect image and the second effect image are not set (that is, in the symbol display device 20). (Only the variation pattern and the stop symbol are displayed).

  By setting the effect pattern in this way, for example, the effect as described above that makes the operation of the operation switch 6 effective compared to the case where the effect pattern D that does not enable the operation of the operation switch 6 as described above is displayed. When the patterns A to C are displayed, the game can be sharpened by setting the probability of becoming a special game (big hit) to be high.

  After the symbol variation process S250 and the effect display process S260 are completed, the process proceeds to step S280 shown in FIG. In this step, it is determined whether or not the special game is played, that is, whether or not it is a big hit, according to the winning random number read in step S231 by the winning random number determining means 624. Here, when the determination result is a win, the special game flag is turned on (step S281), and the process proceeds to step S282. On the other hand, if the determination result is out of the range, the process proceeds to step S282 as it is. In step S282, the information read in step S231 is erased, and this special game transition determination process S21 is terminated.

  Next, the special game process of step S3 is performed. This special game process S3 is a process of establishing a special game that can execute a unit game a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) when the acquired winning random number lottery result is a win. FIG. 13 is a preceding flowchart of the special game process S3, FIG. 14 is a subsequent flowchart of the special game process S3, and FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the special game end process S320.

  As shown in FIG. 13, first, it is confirmed whether or not the special game flag is turned on, that is, whether or not the acquired winning random number has been won (step S301). To do. In the case of a win, for example, a special game initial setting is performed such as turning off the special game flag, or changing the normal game probability to a low probability if the jackpot probability is high (step S302). Next, various initial settings for performing the unit game are performed (step S303), and the unit game is started.

  In the unit game, the special winning opening driving device 711 is operated by the special winning opening driving means 711 to open the special winning opening 13 to start the first unit game. When the grand prize winning opening 13 is opened, the game ball moving in the game area space is in a state where it is very easy to win the big winning prize opening 13. In this state, when a game ball wins the big winning opening 13, a predetermined number (for example, 13) of winning balls are paid out to the ball receiving tray 4 by the payout control means 90.

  When the first unit game is started in this way, the unit game end determination means 712 determines whether or not a unit game end condition as described below is achieved, and this unit game end condition is achieved. Until then, the opening operation of the special winning opening 13 is continued.

  The unit game end condition is set with “number of winning balls” and “time limit” as requirements. First, the requirement “number of winning balls” is determined that the unit game ending condition is achieved when the total number of game balls won in the grand prize opening 13 reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the big prize opening 13 is won by the big prize opening detection device 13a (step S304). In the case of winning, 1 is reduced from the number of winning balls (for example, 10 balls) necessary for the completion of the unit game condition set in advance from a winning ball counter (not shown) attached to the big winning opening 13. (Step S305). Further, it is determined whether or not a game ball has won a specific area (not shown) by the specific area passage detection device 13b (step S306), and if it has won, a specific area flag is set (step S307). Then, it is determined whether or not the number of winning balls in the special winning opening 13 has reached a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) (step S308). If the number of winning balls meets the predetermined number, the unit game ends. Since the condition is achieved, the process proceeds to step S310. If the number of winning balls does not satisfy the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S309, which is the next unit game end condition.

  Next, the requirement of “opening time” is determined that the unit game end condition is achieved when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses after the opening time of the special winning opening 13 after the unit game starts. In step S309, it is determined whether or not this end condition has been achieved. If the time limit has not ended (that is, the unit game end condition is not satisfied), the process returns to step S304 to perform the next unit game. On the other hand, when the time limit ends (that is, the unit game end condition is satisfied), the process proceeds to step S310.

  As described above, the unit game end determination means 712 determines that the unit game end condition has been achieved when either the “number of winning balls” or “time limit” condition is satisfied, and ends the unit game. To do.

  When the unit game end condition as described above is achieved, the opening of the special winning opening 13 is stopped, and it is determined by the continuation determination means 72 whether the continuation determination condition is achieved (step S310). This continuation condition is a condition that whether or not a game ball has won in a specific area during a unit game and the specific area flag is set, and the continuation condition only when there is a win in the specific area during a unit game Is determined to be achieved. For this reason, when the unit game is ended without winning the specific area, the special game end process S320 is performed from step S310.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S310 that the continuation condition is satisfied (that is, if there is at least one winning ball in the specific area during the current unit game), the specific area flag is cleared (step S311). There is a counter for counting the number of rounds of the unit game after starting the current special game, and a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) is set in advance in this counter. The counter is decremented by 1 (step S312). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the counter of the number of rounds has become less than 0, that is, whether or not the number of unit games has been repeated a predetermined number of times (step S313). Here, when the counter of the number of rounds is not less than 0, that is, when it has not been repeated a predetermined number of times, the process returns to step S303 and the next unit game is performed. When the round number counter is less than 0, that is, when the unit game is repeated a predetermined number of times, the process proceeds from step S313 to the special game end process S320.

  In the special game end process S320, as shown in FIG. 15, first, the probability variation transition determining means 73 determines whether or not the stop symbol at the time of winning is a probability variation symbol (step S321). When it is determined that the probability variation symbol is determined, the probability variation lottery table in which the winning value is set so that the jackpot probability is higher than usual is set by the high probability game setting means 80 (step S322). This probability lottery table is reset as appropriate in step S302. Subsequently, the probability variation winning screen is displayed on the symbol display device 20 (step S323). This probability variation winning screen is a screen display mode in which, for example, the word “probability variation” is displayed in a large size so that it can be easily grasped that the jackpot probability has fluctuated to a high probability by attracting the player's attention. . On the other hand, when it is determined in step S321 that the stop symbol is not a probable variation symbol, a notification is given on the probability variation non-winning screen (step S324). The probability variation non-winning screen is a screen display mode in which, for example, a letter “Zanen” is displayed in a large size in order to notify that the jackpot probability remains normal and does not become a high probability.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, It can improve suitably.

  For example, an effect pattern is added to the first effect image and the second effect image, and a third effect image (different from these) is provided, and the operation switch 6 is operated by the operation detection device 6b during the display of the first effect image. When the predetermined operation is not detected, the third effect image may be displayed in place of the first effect image without continuing the display of the first effect image as in the present embodiment.

  Further, when a predetermined operation of the operation switch 6 is detected by the operation detection device 6b during the display of the first effect image, the display of the first effect image is replaced (that is, in the middle of the first effect image) as in the present embodiment. Instead of executing the display of the second effect image, the display of the second effect image may be executed after the display of the first effect image is completed.

  As described above, according to the ball game machine of the present invention, the symbol display device capable of displaying the variation of the symbol, the random number acquisition means for acquiring a random number each time the game ball wins the start winning opening, and the random number Execution determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game based on the random number acquired by the acquisition means, and determination by the execution determination means for a symbol change process in which the symbol display device displays the symbols in a variable manner and then stops the display. When the symbol control means to be controlled based on the result and the symbol stopped and displayed by the symbol control means is a predetermined winning symbol, the variable winning opening provided in the game area is made to make it easy to win a game. In a gaming machine provided with special game execution means, a first effect image for notifying the player that a game state to be performed after the display of the symbol variation process is completed, and the symbol variation process display end An effect pattern storage means for storing a plurality of effect patterns composed of a second effect image for notifying the player of the game state to be performed later, and an effect pattern storage based on the random number acquired by the random number acquisition means Effect pattern selecting means for selecting any one of the effect patterns stored in the means, and effect pattern executing means for executing the display of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means on the symbol display device. The operation means operable by the player and the operation detection means for detecting a predetermined operation in the operation means are provided, and the effect pattern execution means is set to the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means. If a predetermined operation of the operation means is detected by the operation detection means during display of the effect image, the first effect image It is configured to perform a display of the second effect image on behalf of the display.

  With such a configuration, according to the present invention, the display of the effect pattern changes according to the predetermined operation by the player, and the effect display reflecting the player's will is possible. As a result, it is possible to provide an amusing bullet ball game machine in which a player can actively participate in the game.

It is a front view of the above-mentioned bullet ball game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the game control means which performs the game control of the said bullet ball game machine. FIG. 3A is a diagram showing the configuration of the variation pattern group memory of the bullet ball game machine, and FIG. 3B is a block diagram showing the configuration of the effect pattern group memory of the bullet ball game machine. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the stop symbol in the symbol display apparatus by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is a flowchart which shows the control content by the said game control means. It is an image figure for demonstrating the control content regarding the number of reservation balls by the said game control means. It is a figure for demonstrating the said production | presentation pattern. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen set to the said production pattern A. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen set to the said production pattern B. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen set to the said production pattern C. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

PM Pachinko machine 1 Outer frame 4 Ball tray 5 Hitting ball handle 6 Operation switch 6a Operation effective lamp 6b Operation detection device 7 Rail 8 Game board 10 Game area 11 General prize opening 11a General prize opening prize detection device 12 Start prize opening 12a Start opening prize Detecting device 13 Large winning opening 13a Large winning opening winning detection device 13b Specific area passing detecting device 13m Large winning opening driving device 14 Out port 20 Symbol display device 30 Reservation ball lamp 45 Prize ball payout device 50 Game control means 60 Normal game execution means 61 winning mouth winning processing means 62 special game transition judging means 621 symbol variation element obtaining means 621a per random number obtaining means 621b stop symbol random number obtaining means 621c effect random number obtaining means 622 reserved ball information storage means 623 per ball random number judging means 624 effect determining means 624a Stop symbol determination means 624b Fluctuation pattern group memory H1 Special hit fluctuation pattern group memory H2 Normal hit fluctuation pattern group memory H3 Reach fluctuation pattern group memory H4 Outlier fluctuation pattern group memory 624c Fluctuation pattern selection means 624d Fluctuation pattern group memory E1 Special hit effect pattern group memory E2 Normal Winning effect pattern group memory E3 Reach effect pattern group memory E4 Outlier effect pattern group memory 624e Effect pattern selection means 625 Operation validity determination means 626 Symbol control means 627 Effect pattern execution means 70 Special game execution means 71 Unit game execution means 711 Big prize opening Driving means 712 Unit game end judging means 72 Continuity judging means 73 Probability change transition judging means 80 High probability game setting means 90 Payout control means

Claims (6)

Whether to execute a special game based on a random number acquisition unit that acquires a random number each time a game ball wins a winning prize opening, a random number acquisition unit that can display a variation of the symbol, and a random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit An execution determination means for executing the determination, a symbol control means for controlling a symbol variation process for stopping and displaying the symbol after the symbol display on the symbol display device based on a determination result by the execution determination means, and the symbol In a gaming machine comprising special game execution means for performing a game that makes it easy to win a variable winning opening provided in a game area when the symbol stopped and displayed by the control means is a predetermined winning symbol ,
A first effect image for notifying the player that the game state performed after the display of the symbol variation process is finished, and a second effect for notifying the player of the game state performed after the display of the symbol variation process is completed. Effect pattern storage means for storing a plurality of effect patterns composed of images;
Based on the random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit, the production pattern selection unit that selects any production pattern from the plurality of production patterns stored in the production pattern storage unit;
Effect pattern executing means for executing display of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means on the symbol display device;
Operation means operable by the player;
Operation detection means for detecting a predetermined operation in the operation means,
When the first operation image is set to the production pattern selected by the production pattern selection unit and the operation detection unit detects a predetermined operation of the operation unit when the production pattern execution unit displays the first production image. A bullet ball game machine, wherein the display of the second effect image is executed instead of the display of the first effect image.   When the first operation image set in the production pattern selected by the production pattern selection unit is being displayed, the operation detection unit does not detect a predetermined operation of the operation unit. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the display of the first effect image is continued.   The predetermined operation means that the operation means is operated within a first time limit set in advance after the display of the first effect image of the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means is executed, and thereafter 3. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein the ball game machine is set to stop the operation within a set second time limit.   The ball game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first time limit and the second time limit are set in advance for each effect pattern.   5. The operation validity determining means for determining whether or not to validate the operation of the operation means based on the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selecting means. The bullet ball game machine described.   6. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 5, further comprising operation validity notifying means for notifying a player that the operation validity determining means has determined that the operation of the operation means is to be validated.

Images