JP2006223574A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine having a new game style which can provide players with greater enjoyment based on changes in the display by affecting the changes in the display on a display means, for example, as for a number of game balls which roll to be discharged without entering role objects nor passing through gates as well. <P>SOLUTION: In a pachinko game machine 10, an image 96a (for example, image simulating a fire work as a one-meter dia. big ball) is displayed, on the display region 32a of a liquid crystal display device 32, as seen flowing downward starting from a background area V1 at a specific position V with the condition that the game balls are sensed by a first and second photodetecting parts 410 and 420 at the specific position V on the game board 14. In other words, the image 96a is displayed as a followup image following the game balls 17a flowing down ahead starting from the background area V1 at the specified position V. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine capable of displaying a predetermined effect image based on a detection result by a detection means.

  In a conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball enters the start port, a special symbol variation display and an accompanying effect display are performed on the display means. When the game ball passes through a predetermined gate, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Such a display is performed in response to reception of a detection signal when a detection sensor provided on an accessory or a gate detects a game ball. Such a change in display is a pleasure for a player to play a game.

  In addition, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination after the special symbol is displayed, the special game, which is a game advantageous to the player, may be executed. Gives a sense of expectation to move to an advantageous gaming state.

As a gaming machine having a display change as described above, for example, a plurality of types of effect modes are prepared, and while the effect display is performed, the game ball wins the winning device, A gaming machine has been proposed in which the mode is switched to change the timing of switching the effect mode (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2004-344253 A

  However, in the above gaming machines, when the game ball wins the winning device, the effect mode is switched and the change timing of the effect mode is changed, but most of the game balls on the game board are Since it is discharged to the discharge port without entering the accessory or passing through the gate, the display is not affected, and the opportunity to change the display is limited.

  Therefore, even on many game balls that enter the game object or roll and discharge without passing through the gate on the game board, the display change on the display means will be affected in some way, Therefore, it is desired to provide a gaming machine capable of providing new enjoyment based on the change in the display.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems. The purpose is, for example, for many game balls that are rolled and discharged without passing through balls or gates, which affect the display change on the display means. It is to provide a gaming machine that gives a new enjoyment based on the change of.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) A game board on which a game ball rolls, a plurality of detection means for detecting the game balls rolling on the game board at a plurality of locations, and a presentation image provided behind the game board. Display means, display control means for controlling the display of the effect image on the display means, and the display control means, provided that the detection means detects a game ball at a predetermined location on the game board. The game machine is characterized in that in the display means, control is performed to display a follow-up image that follows the game ball, starting from the back area of the predetermined location.

  According to the invention of (1), a plurality of detection means for detecting a game ball on the game board is provided, and the display means is provided on the condition that the detection means detects the game ball at a predetermined location on the game board. , A follow-up image that follows the game ball is displayed starting from the back area of the predetermined location. For this reason, for example, on the game board, it is possible to influence the change in the display on the display means even for many game balls that roll and discharge without passing through the balls or passing through the gate. It becomes. Therefore, the detection means on the game board rolls the game ball to the predetermined location where the game ball is detected, and tries to display a follow-up image that follows the game ball starting from the area behind the predetermined location. It is possible to provide new fun to the player.

  (2) The display control means detects the game ball at a different location from the predetermined location after the detection device detects the game ball at the predetermined location on the game board. The gaming machine according to (1), wherein a control is performed to display a follow-up image that moves from the predetermined location toward the different location on the condition.

  According to the invention of (2), on condition that after the detecting means detects the game ball at the predetermined place on the game board, the detecting means detects the game ball at another place different from the predetermined place. In order to display a follow-up image that moves from a predetermined location to another location, in addition to the effect of the invention of (1), the follow-up image is displayed in a manner more similar to the rolling manner of the game ball. Is possible. Accordingly, the following image that moves from the predetermined location to another location is obtained by rolling the game ball from the predetermined location to another location where the detection means on the game board detects the game ball and to another location. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment to be displayed in a manner similar to the rolling manner.

  According to the present invention, on the condition that the detection means has detected a game ball at a predetermined location on the game board, the following image is displayed on the display means that follows the game ball starting from the area behind the predetermined location. In order to display, for example, it is possible to influence the change in display on the display means for the game ball rolling on the game board. Therefore, the detection means on the game board rolls the game ball to a predetermined location where the game ball is detected, and tries to display a follow-up image that follows the game ball starting from the area behind the predetermined location. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment based on the change in the display.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

[Composition of gaming machine]
First, an overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12, and a main body frame. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the door 12 so as to be openable and closable. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state. Further, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12.

  Inside the opening 12a of the main body frame 12, a liquid crystal display device 32, a spacer 31, a game board 14 and the like are disposed. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14, the spacer 31, and the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.

  The game board 14 on which the game ball can roll is formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) that has permeability. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 4 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. In addition, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 of the game board 14. Further, a round number display 51 is provided on the game board 14 near the upper right end of the outer rail 30a.

  (Production) The liquid crystal display device 32 as display means is arranged behind (on the back side of) the game board 14 with the spacer 31 in between. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the transparent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap the whole or a part of the game board 14 from the back side with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as a production effect image and a decoration image are displayed in the display area 32a. In particular, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, after transitioning to the big hit game state, an effect image for effect is displayed during execution of the special game.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, by providing (effect) display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14 provided with a permeable member, for example, an obstacle nail planting region or an accessory, It is possible to increase a region where a game member such as a decoration member is provided, and to further increase the degree of freedom of layout.

  The spacer 31 is disposed on the rear side (back side) of the game board 14 and on the front side (front side) of the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the spacer 31 is sandwiched between the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a permeable material, and has a large through hole 31a at the center. An electrical decoration unit 53 is provided in the through hole 31a. As shown in FIG. 3, the illumination unit 53 includes a display case 37 for storing a special symbol display 33 and a normal symbol display 35, special symbol holding lamps 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, and a normal symbol holding lamp 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d. The front side of the display case 37 is covered with a transparent lens (not shown) for the purpose of improving visual recognition.

  In FIG. 2, a first warp path 47 provided on the back surface of the game board 14 is illustrated for easy understanding. The first warp path 47 is formed of a permeable material so that a game ball won in the winning opening 24 (see FIG. 4) passes through a second warp path 49 (see FIG. 4) described later. Is provided.

  In the present embodiment, the round number indicator 51 is provided near the upper right end of the outer rail 30a on the game board 14, but is not limited thereto, and the round number indicator 51 is, for example, the game board 14. In some cases, it may be provided on the back surface. The round number display 51 functions as a round number display means for displaying the round number.

  With reference to FIG. 3, the special symbol display 33, the normal symbol display 35, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d and the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d will be described. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the electrical decoration unit 53.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the special symbol display device 33 accommodated in the display device case 37 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs 41. The 7-segment LED 41 is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. When the 7-segment LED 41 is turned on / off, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols (also referred to as identification information). As a special symbol, when a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed, a big hit gaming state (a specific gaming state) which is advantageous to the player from the normal gaming state ) Will change the gaming state. When this big hit game state is reached, as will be described later, the shutter 40 (see FIG. 4) is controlled to the open state, and the game ball can be received in the big prize opening 39 (see FIG. 4). On the other hand, when a numerical symbol other than a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol other than “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, the normal gaming state is maintained. As described above, a game in which a special symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and the game state is shifted or maintained according to the result is referred to as a “special symbol game”.

  A normal symbol display 35 is provided on the right side of the special symbol display 33. The normal symbol display 35 is composed of two display lamps (not shown). When these display lamps are alternately turned on and off, symbols such as “O” and “X” are displayed. Fluctuated display as a normal symbol.

  On both the left and right sides of the display case 37, special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d display the number of executions of the special symbol variable display held by turning on or off (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to special symbols”). For example, when the execution of the special symbol variation display is held once, the special symbol hold lamp 34a is turned on. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held twice, the special symbol hold In addition to the lamp 34a, the special symbol hold lamp 34b is turned on. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held three times, the special symbol hold lamp 34c is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a and 34b. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held four times, the special symbol hold lamp 34d is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a, 34b, 34c.

  Under the display case 37, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are provided. As will be described later, the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d display the number of executions of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol held by turning on or off (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to normal symbols”). . Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol holding lamp 50a is turned on.

  The description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is continued. A protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the door 11. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds.

  In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14, an effect image related to the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 described above is displayed.

  For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, from a number, a symbol or the like for each of a plurality of symbol columns (three columns in this embodiment). The symbol (which is also the identification information for presentation. For example, a number from “0” to “9”) is variably displayed. Further, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed, and the identification information for presentation is also stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Further, when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, an effect image for allowing the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display device 33, a combination of effect identification information displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display. A mode (for example, a mode in which all of “1” to “9” are stopped and displayed in each of a plurality of symbol rows).

  In this way, whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, in other words, a game for determining whether or not to execute a special game described later is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. A game (game) in which such variation display and stop display of identification information for presentation is repeated is called a “variable display game”. In addition, when the combination of the identification information for presentation displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 becomes a specific display mode, the character that is pleased with the character image such as “big hit! An image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Next, an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment. Note that in the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 4, portions that overlap with the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIGS. 1 and 2 are omitted. In FIG. 4, the description of the plurality of obstacle nails 13 driven into the game board 14 is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 4, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), obstacles 55 and 57, passage gates 54a and 54b, a second warp path 49, an obstacle 58, a starting port 25, and a blade member 48 are provided. Game members such as the start opening 44, the shutter 40, the big winning opening 39, the round number display 51, and the general winning openings 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are provided on the game board 14. As will be described later, the guide rail 30 is provided with a light detection unit (light projecting units (refer to FIG. 5 such as 412a, 412b, and 412c) and light receiving units (refer to FIG. 5 such as 414a, 414b, and 414c)). ing. In addition, in the upper part of the game board 14, the electrical decoration units 53 such as the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are visible.

  An obstacle 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and an obstacle 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14. A starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area is provided below the obstacle 57. An obstacle 58 is also provided on the right side of the center of the game board 14. Note that the gaming member such as the obstacle 55 functions as an example of a light shielding member 416 (see FIG. 9) described later.

Two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 define the game area 15 (
The outer rail 30a is defined, and the inner rail 30b is disposed inside the outer rail 30a. The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14, moves to the upper part of the game board 14, passes through the electric decoration unit 53, and the plurality of obstacle nails 13 ( 2), due to the collision with the obstacles 55, 57, 58, etc. provided on the game board 14, the downward flow of the game board 14 is made while changing its traveling direction.

  In addition, a winning opening 24 is formed at the left end of the obstacle 55. When a game ball wins the winning opening 24, the game ball moves behind the game board 14 via the first warp path 47 and further along the rail-shaped second warp path 49 and is guided behind the obstacle 57. It is burned. The game ball guided behind the obstacle 57 is discharged to the front side of the game board 14 through a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the obstacle 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

  Furthermore, a start port 44 that forms a predetermined area is provided on the right side of the obstacle 55. The starting port 44 is provided with blade members (so-called ordinary electric accessories) 48 on both the left and right sides.

  When a game ball wins at the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the predetermined special symbol variation display starts), the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display 33 is started. . Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display of the special symbol, the game ball to the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 until the special symbol under the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the special symbol variation display based on the winning of is suspended. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. It should be noted that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variation display is suspended, that is, the number of suspensions. For example, the special symbol variation display is suspended up to four times (number).

  In addition, as another condition (start of variable display of a predetermined special symbol), the special symbol is stopped and displayed. In other words, every time a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is started.

  Further, also in the variable display game in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, when a game ball is won in the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the start of variable display of identification information for a predetermined effect). )), The change display of the identification information for effect is started. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display regarding the special symbol, the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 is continued until the identification information for the effect during the variation display is stopped and displayed. Execution (start) of the change display of the identification information for presentation based on the winning of the game ball is suspended. Thereafter, when the identification information for presentation that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variability display of the identification information for presentation that has been suspended is started.

  Further, as another condition (variable display start of identification information for predetermined effect), the identification information for effect is stopped and displayed. In other words, the display of the identification information for the effect is started each time the change display start condition for the identification information for the effect is satisfied.

  In the present embodiment, the fact that a game ball has won a prize at the start openings 25 and 44 is set as a variable display start condition for a predetermined special symbol or a variable display start condition for identification information for a predetermined effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gates 54a and 54b are provided with passing ball sensors 114 and 115 (see FIG. 10) described later. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b. When the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 35, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. . As described above, this normal symbol is a symbol such as “◯” or “x”.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) 48 provided on the left and right sides of the start port 44 are changed from the closed state to the open state, It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start port 44. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is closed so that it is difficult for the game ball to enter the start port 44. As described above, a game in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member 48 varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

  Similarly to the special symbol variation display, when a game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b during the normal symbol variation display, the passing gate is displayed until the normal symbol in the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball to 54a and 54b is suspended. After that, when the normal symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed normal symbol that has been suspended is started.

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). The shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33 and the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 includes a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 10) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 10). There are general areas (not shown) having a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls, or the shutter 40 is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. Driven. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball (second state). It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Therefore, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds, such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 that is driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again operated on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V-count sensor 102. Driven to the open state. In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed the V · count sensor 102. A game from the first round game until the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game. That is, the special game is a game advantageous for the player.

  During execution of the special game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continuous rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued differs depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in the present embodiment, when the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 3, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is two, and the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 7. In this case, the maximum number of continuous rounds is 15 rounds. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by a round number lottery means (a main control circuit 60 including a main CPU 66 described later (see FIG. 10)). It may be.

  Further, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, the start ports 25 and 44, and the big winning port 39 described above, it is set in advance according to the type of each winning port. A certain number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22.

  On the other hand, a round number display 51 is provided in the outer area 16 of the game area on the game board 14. The round number display 51 is composed of at least one 7-segment LED, and can display at least one digit number design (in this embodiment, two digit number). In the present embodiment, the round number display 51 displays a “round number” indicating how many rounds the currently executed round game is.

  Thus, since the round number display means for displaying the number of rounds during execution of the special game is provided separately from the effect display means for displaying the effect image, the number of rounds can be displayed accurately and easily.

  Further, since the round number display means is provided in front of the liquid crystal display device 32 that functions as display means for performing the effect display related to the round number, the number of rounds depends on the positional relationship between the round number display and the effect display. Can be displayed more clearly.

[Game Ball Detection and Display Screen Description]
In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, which is an example of a display means for displaying an image, the area behind the predetermined position on the condition that the detecting means has detected a game ball at a predetermined position on the game board 14. A follow-up image that follows the game ball is displayed starting from. In addition, after the detection means has detected the game ball at the predetermined location on the game board 14, the predetermined location on the condition that the detection means has detected the game ball at a location different from the predetermined location. A follow-up image that moves toward the other part is displayed. Hereinafter, the detection and display screen of the game ball rolling on the game board will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Description of game ball detection]
An example of the detection means will be described with reference to FIG. A first light detection unit 410 (see FIG. 10) and a second light detection unit 420 (see FIG. 10) are disposed outside the game area 15 of the game board 14. The detection means is a long distance sensor or the like which is a transmission type sensor arranged at two locations so as to face the outside of the game area 15 where the game ball rolls on the game board 14. The light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are detection means for detecting the game ball 17 at a plurality of locations on the game board 14.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the first light detection unit 410 (see FIG. 10) includes a light projecting unit 412a, 412b, 412c and a light receiving unit 414a arranged on the guide rail 30 outside the game area 15 (see FIG. 4). 414b, 414c, and the second light detection unit 420 (see FIG. 10) includes a light projecting unit 422a, 422b, 422c and a light receiving unit 424a disposed on the guide rail 30 outside the game area 15 (see FIG. 4). 424b, 424c. Each of the light projecting units (412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, 422c) and each of the light receiving units (414a, 414b, 414c, 424a, 424b, 424c) has a corresponding light receiving unit (for example, a light projecting unit). The light receiving unit 414a corresponding to the light projecting unit 412a from the light unit 412a is disposed on a position where a specific position exists on the optical axis L (see FIG. 9) of light. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, each light projecting unit and each light receiving unit are arranged at a position where a specific position exists on a straight line connecting each light projecting unit and the corresponding light receiving unit. However, for example, when the light emitted from the light projecting unit reaches the light receiving unit via the reflecting unit, there may be a specific position on the optical axis of the light emitted from the light projecting unit to the light receiving unit. This embodiment can be similarly applied. In the present embodiment, the specific positions are locations on the game board 14 where the game balls 17 are detected by a plurality of detection means. That is, the specific position is a place where a plurality of detecting means detect a game ball, and there are a plurality of such places on the game board.

  The first light detection unit 410 (or the second light detection unit 420) detects the game ball 17 that has passed the specific position V (or specific positions W to Z) based on the light reception state in the light receiving unit. An example of a specific description is as follows. The game area 15 has a plurality of specific positions V to Z, and a first light detection unit 410 and a second light detection unit 420 are provided corresponding to the specific positions V to Z, respectively. The first light detection unit 410 (or the second light detection unit 420) includes three sets of a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit, and includes a light projecting unit 412a and a light receiving unit 414a (or a light projecting unit 422a and a light receiving unit). Unit 424a), a light projecting unit 412b and a light receiving unit 414b (or a light projecting unit 422b and a light receiving unit 424b), a light projecting unit 412c and a light receiving unit 414c (or a light projecting unit 422c and a light receiving unit 424c). The specific position is one position specified by the optical axis of light irradiated from the light projecting unit to the light receiving unit. As a specific example of such a specific position, as shown in FIG. 5, the specific position V is a straight line connecting the light projecting unit 412 b and the light receiving unit 414 b when viewed from the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10. This is one position where the straight line connecting the light projecting unit 422a and the light receiving unit 424a intersects in common. The specific position W is one position where a straight line connecting the light projecting part 412a and the light receiving part 414a and a straight line connecting the light projecting part 422b and the light receiving part 424b intersect in common when viewed from the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10. It is. Similarly, in the specific positions X to Z, a straight line connecting the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit of the first light detection unit 410 and a straight line connecting the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit of the second light detection unit 420 are common. It is a position determined by crossing.

  In the present embodiment, five specific positions V, W, X, Y, and Z are provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the specific positions can be provided at an arbitrary number of places, such as when two specific positions are provided, V and W, or when ten specific positions are provided. Further, in the present embodiment, the detection means detects the game ball at each of the specific positions V, W, X, Y, and Z as an area for detecting the game ball, but is not limited thereto. That is, the detection means may detect a game ball in the area. For example, in this embodiment, one game ball is detected at one place where a straight line connecting a pair of light projecting units and a light receiving unit and a straight line connecting another pair of light projecting units and a light receiving unit intersect in common. However, in the present invention, it is possible to detect a game ball in a region having a plurality of common intersections. That is, with respect to the detection means for detecting the game balls 17 at a plurality of locations on the game board 14, the size of the region through which the game balls should pass can be set as desired by appropriately changing the arrangement situation and the number of arrangements. Is possible.

  The first light detection unit 410 (or the second light detection unit 420) is based on the light reception status of the light receiving units 414a, 414b, and 414c (or the light receiving units 424a, 424b, and 424c) corresponding to the respective groups. 14, the game ball 17 that has passed through a plurality of locations (for example, the specific positions V to Z) is detected.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9, the guide rail 30 corresponds to each of the light receiving units 414 a, 414 b, 414 c of the first light detection unit 410 (or the light receiving units 424 a, 424 b, 424 c of the second detection unit 420). Wall portions 418a and 418b. The wall portions 418a and 418b act to accurately detect the passing of the game ball at a specific position, and are provided to face the light from the light projecting portions 412a, 412b and 412c with respect to the light receiving portions 414a, 414b and 414c, Reflecting at least a part of light entering from a position other than the predetermined allowable acceptance angle (for example, irregularly reflected light reflected on the glass surface of the front door or an object), and receiving the light in the light receiving units 414a, 414b, and 414c. Intrusion light from other than the allowable angle is not received. That is, if the wall portions 418a and 418b are not provided, light from other than a predetermined acceptance allowable angle such as irregularly reflected light can enter even when passing through the game ball, and the amount of light in the light receiving portions 414a, 414b and 414c changes. May be small and it may not be possible to detect the passage of a game ball. Accordingly, by providing the walls 418a and 418b as in the present embodiment, the change in the amount of light when the game ball passes is increased, and the passage of the game ball can be detected more accurately. The predetermined acceptance allowable angle is, for example, an angle at which light from the light projecting unit 412a can be received by the light receiving unit 414a without being reflected at any place, and is not particularly limited. The allowable angle can be designed within the range.

  Further, the light shielding member 416 such as the obstacle 55 (see FIG. 4) has an effect of accurately detecting the passing of the game ball at the specific position, and the light projecting units 412a, 412b, 412c with respect to the light receiving units 414a, 414b, 414c. Light is received by reflecting at least a part of light (for example, irregularly reflected light reflected on the glass surface of the front door or an object) that enters from outside the predetermined permissible acceptance angle. Intrusion light or the like other than a predetermined acceptance allowable angle in the portions 414a, 414b, and 414c is not received. In other words, if this light blocking member 416 is not provided, light from other than a predetermined acceptance allowable angle such as irregularly reflected light can enter even when passing through the game ball, and the change in the amount of light in the light receiving portions 414a, 414b, 414c is small. In some cases, the passage of a game ball cannot be detected. Therefore, as in the present embodiment, by providing the light blocking member 416, the change in the amount of light when the game ball passes is increased, and the passage of the game ball can be detected more accurately. In FIG. 9, the light projecting unit 412a and the light receiving unit 414a are illustrated as examples of the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit, but the light projecting units are the other light projecting units 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, and 422c. The light receiving unit may be another light receiving unit 414b, 414c, 424a, 424b, 424c.

  An example of a detailed description of detection processing by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 is as follows. The light projecting units 412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, and 422c are always in a light emitting state. The light emitted by the light projecting units 412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, and 422c is, for example, light other than visible light (for example, infrared light). The light receiving units 414a, 414b, 414c, 424a, 424b, and 424c receive light transmitted from the light projecting units 412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, and 422c, respectively. Here, the light projecting unit 412a performs a light emitting operation so that only the light receiving unit 414a can receive emitted light, and the light projecting unit 412b can receive only the light receiving unit 414b. In addition, the light projecting unit 412c can receive only the light receiving unit 414c, and the light projecting unit 422a can receive only the light receiving unit 424a. The light emitting unit 422b performs the light emitting operation so that only the light receiving unit 424b can receive the emitted light, and the light projecting unit 422c receives only the light receiving unit 424c. A light emission operation is performed so that

  The light projecting units 412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, and 422c may transmit light to the light receiving units 414a, 414b, 414c, 424a, 424b, and 424c by a modulation pulse method.

  For example, the game ball that has passed the specific position V based on the light receiving status of the light receiving portions 414a, 414b, 414c of the first light detecting portion 410 and the light receiving status of the light receiving portions 424a, 424b, 424c of the second light detecting portion 420. Detection is performed. The specific description is as follows. When viewed from the front side of the gaming machine, the gaming ball is positioned on a straight line connecting the light projecting unit 412a and the light receiving unit 414a of the first light detection unit 410, or the game ball is the light projecting unit 412b of the first light detection unit 410. When the light passes through a linear position connecting the light receiving unit 414b or a linear position connecting the light projecting unit 412c and the light receiving unit 414c of the first light detecting unit 410, the light projecting unit 412a From the light projecting unit 412b does not reach the light receiving unit 414b, or the light from the light projecting unit 412c does not reach the light receiving unit 414c.

  A game ball is positioned on a straight line connecting the light projecting unit 422a and the light receiving unit 424a of the second light detection unit 420, or a game ball is positioned on a straight line connecting the light projecting unit 422b and the light receiving unit 424b, or a game ball Passes through a linear position connecting the light projecting unit 422c and the light receiving unit 424c, the light from the light projecting unit 422a does not reach the light receiving unit 424a or the light from the light projecting unit 422b passes at the passing timing. The light receiving unit 424b does not reach or the light from the light projecting unit 422c does not reach the light receiving unit 424c.

  When the game ball passes the specific position V, the light from the light projecting unit 412b does not reach the light receiving unit 414b at the time when it passes, and the light from the light projecting unit 422a does not reach the light receiving unit 424a. The first light detection unit 410 transmits a detection signal based on the fact that the light from the light projecting unit 412b does not reach the light receiving unit 414b to the sub control circuit 200 (see FIG. 10). The second light detection unit 420 transmits a detection signal based on the fact that the light from the light projecting unit 422a does not reach the light receiving unit 424a to the sub control circuit 200 (see FIG. 10). The sub-control circuit 200 detects that the game ball has passed the specific position V by calculating based on these detection signals. The specific positions W to Z are detected in the same manner.

[Description of image displayed on liquid crystal display]
Next, the effect image displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 which is an example of the display means for displaying the effect image will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9, for convenience of explanation, the liquid crystal display device 32, the light detection unit (each light projecting unit (412a, 412b, 412c, 422a, 422b, 422c), and each light receiving unit (414a, 414b, 414c, 424a, 424b, 424c)) only, the game board 14 and the start opening 25, 44 provided on the game board 14, the blade member 48, the guide rail 30 (30a and 30b), obstacle Description of game members such as the object 55 is omitted.

  First, the game balls 17a stored in the upper plate 20 (see FIG. 1) are sequentially fired onto the game board 14 by a launch solenoid (not shown) and roll on the game board 14. In FIG. 5, the game ball 17a is detected by a first light detection unit 410 and a second light detection unit 420, which are examples of a plurality of detection means, at a predetermined location, specifically, at a specific position V. Shows the case.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of a display screen when a follow-up image is displayed on the condition that a game ball rolling on the game board 14 is detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 5, as shown in FIG. 6, on condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect a game ball at a specific position V which is an example of a predetermined location. In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, an image 96a (for example, a fireworks display) starts from the back area V1 of the specific position V located at the position detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420. An image simulating a three sphere) is displayed so as to flow downward. That is, the image 96a is displayed as a follow-up image that follows the gaming ball 17a that has flowed down first, starting from the back region V1 of the specific position V.

  As described above, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, which are examples of a plurality of detection means, have detected the game ball 17a at the specific position V, which is a predetermined location on the game board 14. For example, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, an image 96a as a follow-up image that follows the game ball is displayed starting from the back area V1 of the specific position V, which is the back area of the predetermined location. For this reason, for example, on the game board 14, the display change in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 also relates to many game balls that roll and be discharged without passing through the balls or passing through the gate. Can be affected. Therefore, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 on the game board 14 rolls the game ball to the specific position V where the game ball is detected, and the game starts with the back area V1 of the specific position V as the starting point. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment to display a follow-up image that follows the ball.

  Next, FIG. 7 shows that the game ball 17a that has flowed down on the game board 14 after the game ball 17a is detected at the specific position V by the first light detection unit 410, the second light detection unit 420, etc. The case where it detected by the said 1st light detection part 410 and the 2nd light detection part 420 in the different location different from a predetermined location, specifically, the specific position Z is shown.

  In FIG. 8, unlike FIG. 6, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball that has flowed down at the specific position Z after the game ball is detected at the specific position V. This is an example of a display screen when a follow-up image that moves from the specific position V toward the specific position Z (game ball) is displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, the specific position V is obtained on condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball 17a at the specific position V. The image 96a is displayed so as to flow downward from the back area V1 of the image. On the other hand, after the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball 17a at the specific position V, the game ball that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 flow down from the specific position V. On the condition that 17a is detected at the specific position Z, as shown in FIG. 8, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, from the specific position V to the specific position, starting from the back area V1 of the specific position V. An image 96b following the game ball 17a flowing down toward Z (for example, an image imitating a three-dimensional ball of fireworks) is displayed. That is, the image 96b is displayed as a game ball following image that follows the game ball 17a that moves from the specific position V toward the specific position Z.

  Thus, after the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball 17a at the specific position V on the game board 14, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light are detected at the specific position Z. An image 96b as a follow-up image that moves from the specific position V to the specific position Z (game ball) is displayed on condition that the detection unit 420 or the like has detected the game ball 17a. For this reason, the follow-up image can be displayed in a manner more similar to the rolling manner of the game ball. Accordingly, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 on the game board 14 roll the game ball to the specific position V and the specific position Z where the game ball is detected, and from the specific position V to the specific position Z. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment to display the follow-up image that moves toward the player in a manner similar to the actual rolling state of the game ball.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the main control circuit 60 as the game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes in accordance with programs stored in the main ROM 68. Thus, the main CPU 66 functions as various means to be described later, such as functioning as a special game execution means or a lottery means.

  A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table to be referred to at the time are also stored.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

  The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a detection flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, and a big prize opening number counter. , Grand prize opening prize counter, Round number display counter, Round number display effect start counter, Wait time timer, Big prize opening time timer, Data indicating the number of reserved for special symbols, Data indicating the number of reserved for normal symbols Data, variables, and the like for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 to be described later are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area. The detection flag is used to determine whether or not a game ball is detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 which are examples of detection means.

  The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determining random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The random symbol counter for losing symbol determination is for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed when it is not a big hit. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. The round number display effect start counter is for determining whether or not to display on the round number display during the normal game. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened in the big hit gaming state (so-called round number). The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big winning prize during one round and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is that when the game ball is won at the start ports 25 and 44, but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed, the special symbol game is suspended, but the reserved symbol is retained. It shows the number of times the special symbol game is held. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol is that when the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b, but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed, the normal symbol game start is reserved, but the It shows the number of times the normal symbol game is held. The round number display counter indicates the number of rounds displayed on the round number display 51.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later.

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage The ball sensors 114 and 115, the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, the big prize opening solenoid 120, the seesaw solenoid 122, and the backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening 39. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening 39.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening 39. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening 39.

  The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, respectively. The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d.

  The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 are provided at the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively.

  The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 48 open or closed according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

  The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 4, and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening open or closed.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided in the shutter 40 in the shape of a plate. The seesaw solenoid 122 is displaced in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to tilt the seesaw. change. As a result of tilting the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through the specific region or to pass through the general region.

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power failure or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. Connected to the payout / launch control circuit 126 are a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130.

  In addition, the launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the turning angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid.

  Further, the main control circuit 60 is connected to a lamp control circuit 76 which is an example of lamp control means for controlling the lamp 74, and the lamp 74 is connected to the lamp control circuit 76. The lamp control circuit 76 supplies a lamp (LED) control signal to the lamp 74. The lamp 74 includes an incandescent light bulb, an LED, and the like. Specifically, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, the special symbol display device 33 (7-segment LED 41), and the normal symbol display device 35. (Display lamp), round number display 51 (7-segment LED) and the like are included.

  On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp 74 and lamp 132, and the like in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Note that the lamp 132 includes an incandescent lamp, an LED, and the like, specifically, a decorative lamp (not shown) that displays light and dark on the game board 14.

  In the present embodiment, the command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 and the signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if it is configured such that a signal can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  The sub control circuit 200 performs display control in the sub CPU 206, the program ROM 208, the work RAM 210, and the liquid crystal display device 32 (controls to display an effect image on the liquid crystal display device 32), a display control circuit 250 as a display control means, and a speaker. The audio control circuit 230 performs control related to the audio generated from the audio signal 46. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

  The sub-control circuit 200 is connected to a first light detection unit 410 and a second light detection unit 420 which are examples of detection means for detecting a game ball. The first light detection unit 410 is connected to a plurality of light projecting units such as the light projecting units 412a, 412b, and 412c and a plurality of light receiving units (for example, an optical sensor) such as the light receiving units 414a, 414b, and 414c. The second light detection unit 420 is connected to a plurality of light projecting units such as the light projecting units 422a, 422b, and 422c and a plurality of light receiving units (for example, an optical sensor) such as the light receiving units 424a, 424b, and 424c. The first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 supply a predetermined detection signal to the sub-control circuit 200 when the game ball passes. In the present embodiment, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have been described as an example of a plurality of detection units. However, the number of detection units is not limited to two, and a plurality of detection units. May be any number greater than or equal to two.

  A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. In particular, the sub CPU 206 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. The sub CPU 206 functions as various means described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. As a table for making a determination regarding the effect, a follow-up image effect pattern selection table referred to when selecting a follow-up image effect pattern, a game ball following image effect pattern referred to when selecting a game ball following image effect pattern There is a selection table.

  In addition, as described above, the program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display that is executed in association with the variable symbol display. In addition, the program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of special games. The effect pattern during execution of the special game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the round game in the special game.

  In this embodiment, the main control circuit 60 uses the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 uses the program ROM 208 as storage means for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a computer, a program, a table, and the like are recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM and a DVD-ROM, and a ROM cartridge. May be. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as an alternative to the program ROM 208. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60 and the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200. . Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. For example, various variables are positioned such as a timer variable for controlling the reach effect time, an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern, and the like.

  In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  A display control circuit 250 functioning as a display control means includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, a D / A converter 218 for converting image data as an image signal, a power supply It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when it is turned on.

  The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216, the D / A converter 218, and the initial reset circuit 220.

  The VDP 212 includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit, and the like, and is a device that can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

  Various image data such as background image data and effect image data are separately stored in the image data ROM 216. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  The VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 in response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, and generates image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores the image data in a buffer, and supplies the data to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown in FIG. In the sub control circuit 200, the following effects are executed.

[Display control processing]
The display control process in the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described below with reference to FIG.

  In step S310, a timer setting process is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 assigns a value (for example, 3 seconds) that defines a predetermined period in the program ROM 208 to a timer variable in the work RAM 210, and sets a timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S320. The sub CPU 206 performs processing for updating the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210.

  In step S320, it is determined whether a detection signal detected at a predetermined location has been received. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 is a first light detection unit 410 or a second light detection unit (which is an example of a plurality of detection means for detecting a game ball at each of a plurality of game balls rolling on the game board 14). For example, it is determined whether a detection signal based on the detection of a game ball at a specific position V is received from 420 at a predetermined location on the game board 14. If the sub CPU 206 does not determine that a detection signal has been received, it moves the process to step S330. If it determines that it has received a detection signal, it moves the process to step S340. The sub CPU 206 that executes the process of step S320 functions as a determination unit that determines whether or not the detection unit has detected a game ball at a predetermined location on the game board.

  In step S330, it is determined whether a predetermined period has elapsed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed depending on whether or not the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (eg, 0 or greater). If the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined period has elapsed, the sub CPU 206 ends the present subroutine. If the sub CPU 206 does not determine that the predetermined period has elapsed, the sub CPU 206 returns the process to step S320.

  In step S340, detection recording processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 calculates a predetermined location where the game ball is detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 based on the received detection signal, and sets a flag corresponding to the predetermined location. (Detection flag) is stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and the process proceeds to step S350. The sub CPU 206 and the work RAM 210 that execute the process of step S340 correspond to an example of a storage unit that stores whether or not a game ball is detected.

  In step S350, it is determined whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed depending on whether or not the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (eg, 0 or greater). If the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined period has elapsed, it moves the process to step S360, and if it does not determine that the predetermined period has elapsed, it moves the process to step S370.

  In step S360, a follow-up image display process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a follow-up image display process based on the detection flag stored in the process of step S340. Specifically, the follow-up image effect pattern is selected based on the detection flag with reference to the follow-up image effect pattern selection table, and stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. The sub CPU 206 transmits data for displaying the stored following image effect pattern to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250 that is a display control means, the VDP 212 images various image data such as background image data and effect image data based on the data for displaying the follow-up image effect pattern transmitted from the sub CPU 206. The data is read out from the data ROM 216, superimposed, and displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 as display means.

  Specifically, when the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect a game ball at a specific position V (see FIG. 5) which is an example of a predetermined location, As shown in FIG. 6, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, an image 96a (for example, a three-dimensional sphere of fireworks) Is displayed as a follow-up image that follows the game ball 17a that has flowed down first.

  Thus, for example, on the condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball 17a at the specific position V that is a predetermined location on the game board 14, for example, the liquid crystal display device 32. In the display area 32a, an image 96a as a follow-up image that follows the game ball is displayed starting from the back area V1 of the specific position V. For this reason, for example, on many game balls that are rolled and discharged without passing through the balls or gates on the game board 14 on the game board 14, the change in display on the display means may be affected. It becomes possible. Therefore, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 on the game board 14 rolls the game ball to the specific position V where the game ball is detected, and the game is started from the back region V1 of the specific position V. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment to display a follow-up image that follows the ball.

  In step S370, it is determined whether a detection signal detected at another location is received. In this process, when the sub CPU 206 receives a detection signal, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the detection signal received in the process of step S320 is different from the detection signal detected in the predetermined location received in the process of step S340. To do. Specifically, when a detection signal is received, it is determined whether a detection signal detected at another location is received based on the detection signal and the detection flag stored in step S340. . In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a detection signal detected at another location has been received, the sub CPU 206 calculates the position at which the game ball is detected based on the received detection signal, and sets the detected position to the detected position. The corresponding flag (detection flag) is stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and the process proceeds to step S380. On the other hand, if it is not determined that a detection signal detected at another location has been received, the sub CPU 206 returns the process to step S350.

  In step S380, game ball following image display processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a game ball following image display process based on the two detection flags stored in the processes of steps S340 and S370. Specifically, referring to the game ball following image effect pattern selection table based on the two detection flags, a game ball following image effect pattern is selected, and the selected game ball following image effect pattern is stored in the work RAM 210. Store in a predetermined area. The sub CPU 206 transmits data for displaying the stored game ball following image effect pattern to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250 that is a display control means, the VDP 212 performs various image data such as background image data and effect image data based on data for displaying the game ball following image effect pattern transmitted from the sub CPU 206. Are read out from the image data ROM 216 and superimposed and displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Specifically, after the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball at the specific position V, the display control circuit 250 detects that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 As shown in FIG. 8, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, the game ball 17a flowing down from the specific position V is detected at the specific position Z, which is an example of another part different from the specific position V. , An image 96b (for example, an image simulating a three-dimensional sphere of fireworks) following the game ball 17a flowing from the specific position V toward the specific position Z, starting from the back region V1 of the specific position V, It is displayed as a game ball following image.

  As described above, after the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball 17a at the specific position V on the game board 14, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection are detected at the specific position Z. On condition that the part 420 has detected a game ball, an image 96b is displayed as a follow-up image that moves from a specific position V that is a predetermined location to a specific position Z that is another location (game ball). For this reason, the follow-up image can be displayed in a manner more similar to the rolling manner of the game ball. Accordingly, the detection means on the game board 14 rolls the game ball to the specific position V and the specific position Z where the game ball is detected, and the following image that moves from the specific position V toward the specific position Z is actually played. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment to be displayed in a manner similar to the rolling manner of the ball.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the second type pachinko gaming machine referred to as wing mono, Hikoki Mono, and the first designated as right mono. It may be a three-type pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine itself such as a pachinko gaming machine. However, the present invention may be applied to a pachislot gaming machine or a game machine.

  In the present embodiment, the 7-segment LED is used as a part for displaying the round number display 51. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a liquid crystal display panel, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) ) Including a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, it has only illustrated the specific example and does not specifically limit this invention. That is, the present invention is provided mainly behind a game board on which a game ball rolls, a plurality of detection means for detecting a game ball rolling on the game board at a plurality of locations, and behind the game board. Display means for displaying the effect image, display control means for controlling the display of the effect image on the display means, and the display control means at a predetermined location on the game board, and the detection means detects the game ball. On the condition that it is detected, the display means is a gaming machine characterized by performing control to display a follow-up image that follows the game ball, starting from the back area of the predetermined location, Specific configurations of the plurality of detection means, display means, display control means, and the like can be appropriately changed in design.

  The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the detection means in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 11 Door 12 Main body frame 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 15 Game area 16 Game area outer area 17 Game ball 19 Protective plate 20 Upper plate 22 Lower plate 24 Winning port 25 Start port 26 Launch handle 30 Guide rail 31 Spacer 32 Liquid crystal Display device 33 Display 35 Display 37 Display case 39 Big prize opening 40 Shutter 44 Start opening 46 Speaker 47 First warp path 48 Blade member 49 Second warp path 51 Round number display 53 Illumination unit 55 Obstacle 57 Fault Object 58 Obstacle 60 Main control circuit 62 Reset clock pulse generation circuit 64 Initial reset circuit 74 Lamp 76 Lamp control circuit 102 V / count sensor 104 Count sensor 118 Ordinary electric accessory solenoid 120 Grand prize opening solenoid 122 Seesaw solenoid 124 Backup clear Switch 126 Discharge / launch control circuit 128 Discharge device 130 Launch device 132 Lamp 150 Card unit 200 Sub control circuit 218 D / A converter 220 Initial reset circuit 230 Audio control circuit 236 Amplifier 250 Display control circuit 410 First light detection unit 412 Light detection Part 416 light shielding member 420 second light detection part

Claims (2)

A game board on which game balls roll,
A plurality of detecting means for detecting the game balls rolling on the game board at a plurality of locations;
Display means provided behind the game board and displaying an effect image;
Display control means for controlling the display of the effect image on the display means;
The display control means follows the game ball at a predetermined location on the game board on the condition that the detection means has detected a game ball, starting from the area behind the predetermined location on the display means. A game machine that controls to display a follow-up image.   The display control means is provided on the condition that the detection means detects the game ball at a different location from the predetermined location after the detection device detects the game ball at the predetermined location on the game board. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein control is performed to display a follow-up image that moves from the predetermined location toward the other location.

Images