JP2006230463A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine having a new game form allowing, for example, many game balls rollingly discharged without entering an accessory or passing a gate to affect a change in a display in a display game and giving much fun to a player based on the change in the display. <P>SOLUTION: On condition that a first light detecting part 410 and a second light detecting part 420 detect a game ball and before becoming a ready-to-win condition where performance identification information 94a, 94b and 94c, may become a prescribed mode, this game machine 10 displays a forenotice performance image (for example, a forenotice performance image 97d) previously noticing the player to display a specific ready-to-win performance image 92 (not shown) when it becomes a ready-to-win state in a liquid crystal device 32. <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 detection means for detecting a game ball rolling on the game board, a display means provided behind the game board for displaying an effect image, and the display Display control means for controlling the display of the effect image in the means, and control means for controlling the progress of the game for repeatedly performing the variation display and the stop display of the identification information, wherein the detection means On the condition that a sphere is detected, before the identification information becomes a predetermined reach state, the display means informs that a specific reach effect image is displayed when the reach state is reached. A gaming machine that performs control to display a notice effect image.

  According to the invention of (1), the detecting means for detecting the game ball that rolls on the game board (for example, the game balls on the game board are arranged at two locations so as to face the outside of the game area where the ball rolls. A long-distance sensor that is a transmission type optical sensor), and the display means before the reach of the identification information in a predetermined mode, on the condition that the detection means has detected a game ball. A notice effect image for notifying that a specific reach effect image is displayed when the state is reached is displayed. 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. In particular, for the player, the above-mentioned notice effect image is displayed before entering the reach state, so that the player expects to reach the reach state, and further, for example, the big hit gaming state that is advantageous to the player from the reach state. Expectation to move to is increased. Therefore, before entering the reach state, the game means rolls the game ball to a region where the detection means on the game board detects the game ball and provides the player with a new enjoyment to display the notice effect image. Is possible.

  (2) The detection means is provided at a plurality of locations on the game board, and the display control means causes the display means to display different notice effect images each time the game ball is detected by the detection means. The gaming machine according to (1), wherein control is performed.

  According to the invention of (2), each time a game ball is detected by each detection means, a different notice effect image is displayed on the display means. For this reason, for example, on the game board, display means for increasing the player's expectation even with respect to many game balls that roll and be discharged without passing through a ball or a gate. It is possible to influence the change in the display. Therefore, in the display means, it is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment of rolling the game ball so that different detection means detect the game ball on the game board and displaying different notice images. It becomes possible.

  According to the present invention, on the condition that the detecting means has detected a game ball, the display means displays a notice effect image for notifying that a specific reach effect image is displayed before entering the reach state. It is possible to influence the change in display on the display means for the rolling game ball on the game board, increasing the expectation for the reach state, and the detection means before the game state is reached. It is possible to provide the player with new enjoyment based on the change in the display, such as by playing the game so as to roll the game ball in the region where the event is detected and to display the notice effect image.

  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 the transition to the big hit game state (special game state) advantageous to the player, an effect image for effect is displayed during execution of the special game.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by providing the (display) display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14 including the transmissive 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, An electrical decoration unit 53 including 50b, 50c, and 50d is provided. 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, the gaming state is changed from a normal gaming state to a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Transition. 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 the display means for displaying an image, the detection means (for example, the first light detection unit 410 (see FIG. 10) and the second light detection unit 420 (see FIG. 10)). Preliminary notice that a specific reach effect image will be displayed when the reach state is reached before the reach state where the identification information (for effect) is in a predetermined mode, on condition that a game ball is detected The notice effect image to be displayed is displayed. Furthermore, detection means are provided at a plurality of locations on the game board 14, and different notice effect images are displayed for each detection of the game ball by each detection means. 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. In the present embodiment, a plurality of detection means are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and only one detection means may be provided.

  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 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 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 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 using the character 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, and the effect identification information will be described with reference to FIGS. To do. 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.

  In addition, as will be described later, in the present embodiment, when the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for production is in a reach state that is a predetermined display mode, a specific reach production image 92 ( Specifically, a character image 92 a simulating a firework craftsman and a firework launcher image 92 b) are displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  First, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for presentation that has been stopped and displayed starts to change. In FIG. 5, the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for effects is continuously displayed in a variable manner.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 corresponds to the specific positions V to Z on the condition that the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for production has started the variable display. An image indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have not detected a game ball at specific positions of the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, which are examples of detection means. 96a to 96e (for example, character images of question marks) are displayed. That is, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, the first light detection unit 410 corresponds to the specific positions V to Z on the condition that the display identification information 94a, 94b, 94c has started to be displayed in a variable manner. And an image as a notification effect image for informing a detection state at a specific position of the second light detection unit 420 (for example, whether or not the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect a game ball). 96a to 96e are displayed. Note that the display times of the images 96a to 96e as the notification effect images can be appropriately changed as long as the identification information 94a, 94b, and 94c for the effect is before reaching the reach state that is a predetermined display mode. .

  Note that the reach state means that, among the identification information for a plurality of effects, the identification information for the effects that are displayed in a stopped state is left out while the identification information for the effects that is variably displayed remains. It means that it becomes a display mode (for example, it becomes the same design). Specifically, the reach state refers to a state in which two pieces of identification information among three pieces of identification information for presentation are stopped and displayed with the same design, and the remaining one piece of presentation identification information is variably displayed. .

  Further, in the present embodiment, five images 96a to 96e are displayed as notification effect images in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any number of one to four is possible. A notification effect image may be displayed, and six or more notification effect images may be displayed. That is, the number of notification effect images displayed can be an arbitrary number.

  Further, the notification effect image can be displayed as a designated image. The designated image is an image that designates and notifies the player of a location (region) through which the game ball should pass in a location (region) where the detection means detects the game ball.

  FIGS. 6 and 7 are examples of display screens when the detecting means detects a game ball rolling on the game board 14.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, presentation identification information 94b and 94c are displayed in a variable manner from the state of FIG. On the other hand, the production identification information 94a is stopped and displayed.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 includes a first light detection unit 410 and a second light detection unit 420 that are detected on the first position on the condition that the game ball is detected at the specific position Y. An image 97d (for example, a character image imitating a firework craftsman) indicating that the light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected a game ball at the specific position Y is a back region Y1 of the specific position Y as a notification effect image. Is displayed.

  Here, the character image of this image 97d uses the same kind of character image as the character image 92a displayed in the specific reach effect image 92 described above. That is, the character image of the image 97d notifies that the specific reach effect image 92 is displayed in the reach state. In other words, the image 97d (the character image thereof) is displayed as the notice effect image 97d for notifying that the specific reach effect image 92 is displayed when the reach state is reached.

  On the other hand, images 96a to 96c and 96e (indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are not detecting the game ball are located at the specific positions V to X and Z where the game ball is not detected. For example, a question mark character image) is displayed as a notification effect image.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, the identification information 94b, 94c for effect is continuously displayed in a variable manner, as in FIG. Information 94a is stopped and displayed.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 includes a first light detection unit 410 and a second light detection unit 420 that have detected a game ball at a specific position Z on the first condition. An image 97e (for example, an image of a firework launch tube) indicating that the light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected a game ball at the specific position Z is displayed in the back region Z1 of the specific position Z as a notification effect image. Is displayed.

  Here, the image of the firework launch tube of the image 97e is the same type of firework launch tube image as the firework launch tube image 92b displayed in the specific reach effect image 92 described above. That is, the image of the fireworks cylinder of the image 97e notifies that the specific reach effect image 92 is displayed in the reach state. In other words, the image 97e (an image of a firework launch tube) is displayed as a notice effect image 97e for notifying that a specific reach effect image 92 is displayed when the reach state is reached.

  On the other hand, images 96a to 96d (for example, question marks) indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 do not detect the game ball are located at the specific positions V to Y where the game ball is not detected. Is displayed as a notification effect image.

  FIG. 8 is an example of a display screen when a specific reach effect image is displayed in the reach state in which the identification information is in a predetermined mode.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the liquid crystal display device 32, among the plurality of symbol rows, the identification information for presentation in the first stop row (eg, the left row) and the second stop row (eg, the right row) is stopped. The combination of the production identification information displayed and stopped is a predetermined display mode (combination), and the production identification information is in a reach state.

  Specifically, among the production identification information 94a, 94b, and 94c, the production identification information 94a and 94c that are stopped and displayed are all “7” of the numeric symbol, and the third stop string (for example, the middle When the identification information 94b for the production in the column is stopped and displayed with the numeral symbol “7”, the combination of the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for the production has a specific display mode (for example, the identification information 94a for the production) 94b and 94c are all stopped in the numerical symbol “7”), and the combination of the stop-displayed effect identification information 94a and 94c is a reach state that is a predetermined display mode. Yes. That is, the production identification information 94a, 94b, 94c is in a reach state that is a predetermined display mode.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, a specific reach effect image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. In this specific reach effect image 92, when the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for effect is in a reach state in which the display information is in a predetermined display mode, the character image 92a fires fireworks from the launch tube 92b, and the fireworks fired up. Thus, the presentation identification information 94b is an image that is about to be stopped and displayed from the numeral symbol “8” to the numeral symbol “7”.

  As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 32, a notification effect image (for example, a question mark is displayed) indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, which are examples of detection means, have not detected a game ball. The first light detection is based on the simulated images 96a to 96e) and a notification effect image (for example, a character image of the image 97d) indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected the game ball. The detection states of the unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are notified. For this reason, the player can know in which detection means the detection state of the detection means, for example, whether or not a game ball is detected. Thereby, the player tries to pass the game ball aiming at a specific position where the game ball is detected by aiming at the notification effect image (for example, images 96a to 96e imitating question marks (see FIG. 5)). It is possible to provide a new game form.

  Further, on the condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball, the liquid crystal display information 94a, 94b, and 94c for the effect is changed to the reach state in a predetermined mode. On the display device 32, a notice effect image (for example, a notice effect image 97d or a notice effect image 97e) for notifying that a specific reach effect image 92 is displayed when the reach state is reached is displayed. 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. In particular, for the player, the above-mentioned notice effect image is displayed before entering the reach state, so that the player expects to reach the reach state, and further, for example, the big hit gaming state that is advantageous to the player from the reach state. Expectation to move to is increased. Therefore, before the reach state is reached, the game balls are rolled to an area where the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 on the game board 14 detect the game balls, and the announcement effect image is displayed. It is possible to provide the player with new fun.

  In addition, each time a game ball is detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, different notice effect images, specifically, a notice effect image 97 d or a notice in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. An effect image 97e and the like are displayed. For this reason, for example, on the game board 14, the liquid crystal is increased so that the player's expectation is enhanced even with respect to many game balls that roll and be discharged without passing through the balls or the gates. It is possible to influence the change in display on the display device 32. Therefore, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a new fun to roll the game ball so that different detection means detect the game ball on the game board 14 and display different notice effect images respectively. Can be provided to the player.

  In the present embodiment, on the condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball at the specific position, in the display region 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, in the region behind the specific position. The notice effect image is displayed, but the notice effect image may be displayed not only in the back area of the specific position but also in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. The position can be changed as appropriate. In addition, the size of the notice effect image can be changed as appropriate.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, when the 1st light detection part 410 and the 2nd light detection part 420 detect a game ball in a different specific position, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, in the back area | region of each specific position. Although different notice effect images are displayed, the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are not limited to this, and the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 may detect the game ball at the same specific position. A different notice effect image may be displayed each time the light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect a game ball.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect a game ball, there are two types of notice effect images displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and one type of notice effect image or three or more types of notice effect images may be displayed.

[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 jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, a presentation condition selection random number counter, a grand prize opening number counter, and a grand prize. Oral winning counter, round number display counter, round number display effect start counter, waiting time timer, large winning opening opening time timer, data indicating the number of reserved for a special symbol, data indicating the number of reserved for a normal symbol, which will be described later Data, variables, etc. for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 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 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 is a display control circuit 250 as display control means for performing display control in the sub CPU 206, program ROM 208, work RAM 210, and liquid crystal display device 32 (control for displaying effect images in the liquid crystal display device 32). The audio control circuit 230 performs control related to audio generated from the speaker 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 decision regarding the effect, there is a notice effect pattern selection table that is referred to when a new effect pattern for the notice effect is selected.

  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 FIGS. 11 to 17 below.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 11, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup recovery processing, work area initialization, special game total execution time timer, special game number counter, etc. is executed (step S11). Then, a special symbol control process is performed on the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol on the special symbol display 33, and the identification information for the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 (step S15). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the process in step S15 is repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 updates the random numbers so that the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, the round number display effect start counter, etc. are incremented by “1”. Processing is executed (step S42). And the input detection process which detects the winning or passage of game balls, such as the start openings 25 and 44, is performed (step S43). A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, etc. Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demonstration display command, a stop design designation command for effect indicating the type of effect identification information to be stopped and displayed in the left column, the middle column, and the right column, and an identification for effect. A variation pattern designation command indicating a variation pattern of information is included. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Further, the main CPU 66 supplies the payout / launch control circuit 126 with a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning ports. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is restored to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 13, the numerical values drawn from step S72 to step S81 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  Note that in steps S72 to S81, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main winning prize port 39 read from the main ROM 68 is obtained. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S46 in FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 reads data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal indicating that the big prize opening 39 is opened to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from the open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts the game ball to the closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts the game ball) is provided a plurality of times. A special game that may be repeated is executed.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened in the control state flag, and sets the upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of special game execution means for executing a special game. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 uses the special game execution time timer in the main RAM 70 to start measuring the execution time of the special game. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

  In step S76, a round number display management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects one round number display pattern from a plurality of types of round number display patterns stored in the main ROM 68 based on the numbers assigned to the round number display counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. And the selected round number display pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the round number display pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is a signal (round number display control signal) for controlling the display of the round number display 51 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Is transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the round number display control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the round number display 51 based on the round number display control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the special winning opening opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (06) indicating the waiting time management before the big winning opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the special ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S79 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

  In step S79, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (05) indicating that the control state flag indicates the supervised ball residual ball monitoring, and the game ball is placed in a specific area in the special payout port 39 when the supervised mouth residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. The special prize opening number counter is “2” (when the specific number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “3”) or “15” (special symbol display) In step 33, it is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the specific number symbol stopped and displayed is “7” or more (the last round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S80 is executed. Further, the main CPU 66 increments the special game number counter in the main RAM 70 by “1”.

  On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the management of the big winning opening reopening waiting time before the big winning opening reopening to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 updates the storage so that “1” is subtracted from the round number display counter stored in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, jackpot end interval processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S81.

  In step S81, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 updates the memory (starting storage information) indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol so as to decrease by “1”. To do. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a start memory number designation command indicating that the start memory information is decreased by “1” in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 70. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the big hit gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 13 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 13 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Further, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The processes of step S79 and step S77 are executed at a predetermined timing, and a special game is executed. If the special game (big hit game state) end condition (special game end condition, big hit game end condition) is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, “08” should be set in order. Thus, the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. 13 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the special game is ended. In the present embodiment, the game ball has not passed through the specific area (puncture) until a predetermined time has elapsed, and the maximum number of continuous rounds (in this embodiment, “2” rounds or “15 The end of the “round” round game is also a special game end condition.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, in step S101, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

  In step S102, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”, the process proceeds to step S103. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S104. Transfer.

  In step S103, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demonstration display. As a result, the display of the demonstration screen is executed in the sub control circuit 200. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects a jackpot determination value stored in the jackpot determination table. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of lottery means for lottery of whether or not to execute a special game.

  In step S106, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S105. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S107, and if it determines that it is not a big hit, moves the process to step S108.

  In step S107, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random number value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 based on the jackpot symbol determination random number value, Data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S108, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random symbol value for determining a symbol out of the random symbol counter for determining a symbol out of symbol, and based on the random number value for determining a symbol out of symbol, the special symbol display unit 33 stops and displays the special symbol. The data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S109.

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining the variation pattern of the effect display based on the special symbol determined in step S107 and step S108. Here, the variation pattern of the effect display means the variation display pattern of the identification information for the effect, the variation display pattern of the effect image, and the variation display and stop of the identification information for the effect based on the variation pattern of the effect display. A game in which display is repeatedly performed is controlled, and display of the effect image is controlled. Then, the main CPU 66 determines the effect display variation pattern based on the effect condition selection random number extracted from the effect condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To do. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a control unit that controls the progress of a game (variable display game) in which variation display and stop display of identification information (for production) are repeatedly performed.

  In step S109, the data indicating the variation pattern of the effect display stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is transferred from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a fluctuation pattern designation command. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, stores the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and based on the stored effect pattern, Data for displaying the effect pattern is transmitted to the display control circuit 250. The display control circuit 250 controls the effect display on the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the data for displaying the effect pattern. In other words, based on the effect pattern, a game that repeatedly performs change display and stop display of the identification information for effect is controlled, and display of the effect image is controlled. In particular, when the identification information for production is in a reach state that is a predetermined mode, as will be described later, the reach production pattern is selected as the production pattern, and the identification information for production is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Is in a reach state where a predetermined display mode is achieved, and a (specific) reach effect image is displayed as the effect image.

  Further, in step S109, the main CPU 66 has a function as a control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the special symbol which is the identification information is repeatedly displayed and stopped. That is, in step S109, based on the data indicating the special symbol stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the processing of step S107 and step S108, the main CPU 66 uses a plurality of types of LED lighting patterns stored in the main ROM 68. One LED lighting pattern is selected, and the selected LED lighting pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the LED lighting pattern stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is used as a signal (special symbol drive control signal) for driving and controlling the special symbol display 33 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Are transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the special symbol drive control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the special symbol display device 33 based on the special symbol drive control signal. With the above processing, the special symbol display unit 33 displays the special symbol in a variably manner, and the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed after a predetermined time. Thus, the lamp control circuit 76 is an example of a round number display control unit.

  In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern for production in a waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the variation time corresponding to the effect variation pattern determined by the process of step S109 from the table, and stores a value indicating the variation time in the waiting time timer. And the process which clears the memory area where the random number for jackpot determination used for the present fluctuation display etc. was memorized is performed (Step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Operation of sub-control circuit]
On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60 and executes the following effects.

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

  In step S210, command reception processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 receives the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main CPU 66, selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, and places the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Store. In particular, when the production identification information is in a reach state in a predetermined form, the sub CPU 206 selects a reach production pattern as the production pattern and stores the selected reach production pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S220.

  In step S220, a process for determining whether or not reach is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the production identification information is in a predetermined form based on the variation pattern designation command received in step S210, and the production identification information is determined as reach. If so, the process proceeds to step S240, and if the effect identification information does not reach, the process proceeds to step S260. As described above, the sub CPU 206 that executes the process of step S220 functions as a reach determination unit that determines whether or not the identification information for presentation is a reach in a predetermined form.

  In step S240, a game ball detection process is performed. As will be described in detail later, in this process, the sub CPU 206 displays a notification effect image for notifying whether or not the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected a game ball at a specific position on the liquid crystal display device 32. Control to display on the screen. That is, the sub CPU 206 controls the liquid crystal display device 32 to display a notification effect image that notifies the detection states of the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420. In addition, the sub CPU 206 determines that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 perform the identification on condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball at each specific position. Control is performed to display an image indicating that a game ball has been detected at a position as a notice effect image for notifying that a specific reach effect image is displayed in the region behind the specific position. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S250.

  In step S250, reach effect display control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for displaying the reach effect pattern to the display control circuit 250 based on the reach effect pattern stored in the predetermined area of the work RAM 210. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the reach effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. Then, a specific reach effect image as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Thereafter, all the identification information for presentation is stopped and displayed.

  In step S260, normal effect display processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for displaying the effect pattern to the display control circuit 250 based on the effect pattern stored in the predetermined area of the work RAM 210. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Game ball detection processing]
The subroutine executed in step S240 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S310, a timer setting process is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 substitutes a value (for example, 10 seconds) stored in the reach time table in which the reach effect display period in the program ROM 208 is set into a timer variable in the work RAM 210, and sets a timer. . If this process ends, the process moves to a step S320.

  In step S320, notification effect control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 displays the reach effect pattern based on the effect pattern set in the predetermined area of the work RAM 210, that is, the effect pattern (reach effect pattern) in which the effect identification information is in the reach state. Is sent to the display control circuit 250.

  In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on the data for displaying the reach effect pattern from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. Then, the display of the variation of the identification information for the effect is started, and a notification effect image for notifying the detection state of the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 which is an example of the detection unit is displayed.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the display control circuit 250 performs a control to start the variable display of the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for the effect in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, and the effect. As a notification effect image for notifying the detection state at the specific position corresponding to the specific positions V to Z, which are the locations where the game ball is detected, on the condition that the identification information 94a, 94b, 94c for use has started to be changed. Control is performed to display the images 96a to 96e. Thus, the display control circuit 250 functions as a display control unit that performs control to display a notification effect image at a location where the detection unit detects a game ball. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S330.

  In step S330, processing for determining whether or not the detection means has detected a game ball is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a detection signal is received from the first light detection unit 410 or the second light detection unit 420, which is an example of detection means for detecting a game ball that rolls on the game board. To do. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the detection signal has been received, the sub CPU 206 calculates the position at which the game ball is detected based on the positions of the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 that have detected the game ball. The processing is moved to S340. If the sub CPU 206 does not determine that it has received the detection signal, it moves the process to step S370. As described above, the sub CPU 206 is an example of a calculation unit that calculates the position of the game ball detected on the game board.

  In step S340, a notice effect display control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 refers to the notice effect pattern selection table based on the detection position calculated in step S330, selects a new effect pattern, and the effect set in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Update the data to display the pattern. The sub CPU 206 transmits data for displaying the updated effect pattern to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250 as display control means, the VDP 212 converts various image data such as background image data and effect image data into image data based on data for displaying the updated effect pattern from the sub CPU 206. The data is read out from the ROM 216, overlapped, and displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Specifically, the display control circuit 250 performs the first light detection as shown in FIG. 6 on condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball at the specific position Y. An image 97d (for example, a character image imitating a firework craftsman) indicating that the unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected a game ball at the specific position Y is used as a notification effect image, and further, a specific reach effect image Control is performed to display in the rear area Y1 of the specific position Y as a notice effect image for notifying that it will be displayed later (see FIG. 8). Similarly, the display control circuit 250 indicates that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are not detecting the game ball at the specific positions V to X, Z where the game ball is not detected. Control is performed to display 96a to 96c, 96e (for example, character images of question marks) as notification effect images.

  In addition, the display control circuit 250, as shown in FIG. 7, on condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball at the specific position Z, An image 97e (for example, an image of a firework launch tube) indicating that the second light detection unit 420 has detected a game ball at the specific position Z is used as a notification effect image, and a specific reach effect image (see FIG. 8). ) Is displayed in the rear region Z1 of the specific position Z as a notice effect image for notifying that it will be displayed later. Similarly, the display control circuit 250 displays images 96a to 96 indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are not detecting the game ball at the specific positions V to Y where the game ball is not detected. Control is performed to display 96d (for example, a character image of a question mark) as a notification effect image.

  That is, on the condition that the detection means has detected a game ball, the display control circuit 250 determines that a specific state is obtained when the display means enters the reach state before the identification information is in a predetermined state. It functions as a display control means for performing control to display a notice effect image for notifying the display of the reach effect image. In addition, the display control circuit 250 functions as a display control unit that performs control to display different notice effect images on the display unit each time a game ball is detected by each detection unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S370.

  In step S370, timer update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 updates the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210 (for example, decreases the value of the timer variable by 2 mm seconds). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S380.

  In step S380, a process for determining whether or not it is within a predetermined period is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not it is within a predetermined period depending on whether or not the value of the timer variable stored in the work RAM 210 is a predetermined value (for example, 0 or more). If the sub CPU 206 determines that it is within the predetermined period, it moves the process to step S330. If the sub CPU 206 does not determine that the time is within the predetermined period, the sub CPU 206 ends this subroutine.

  As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 32, a notification effect image (for example, a question mark is displayed) indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, which are examples of detection means, have not detected a game ball. The first light detection is based on the simulated images 96a to 96e) and a notification effect image (for example, a character image of the image 97d) indicating that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 have detected the game ball. The detection states of the unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 are notified. For this reason, the player can know in which detection means the detection state of the detection means, for example, whether or not a game ball is detected. Thereby, the player tries to pass the game ball aiming at a specific position where the game ball is detected by aiming at the notification effect image (for example, images 96a to 96e imitating question marks (see FIG. 5)). It is possible to provide a new game form.

  Further, on the condition that the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 detect the game ball, the liquid crystal display information 94a, 94b, and 94c for the effect is changed to the reach state in a predetermined mode. The display device 32 displays a notice effect image (for example, the notice effect image 97d or the notice effect image 97e) for notifying that the specific reach effect image 92 is displayed when the reach state is reached. 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. In particular, for the player, by displaying the above notice effect image before entering the reach state, the player expects to reach the reach state, for example, from the reach state to a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Expectation to move will increase. Therefore, before the reach state is reached, the game balls are rolled to an area where the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420 on the game board 14 detect the game balls, and the announcement effect image is displayed. It is possible to provide the player with new fun.

  In addition, each time a game ball is detected by the first light detection unit 410 and the second light detection unit 420, different notice effect images, specifically, a notice effect image 97 d or a notice in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. An effect image 97e and the like are displayed. For this reason, for example, on the game board 14, the liquid crystal is increased so that the player's expectation is enhanced even with respect to many game balls that roll and be discharged without passing through the balls or the gates. It is possible to influence the change in display on the display device 32. Therefore, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a new fun to roll the game ball so that different detection means detect the game ball on the game board 14 and display different notice effect images respectively. Can be provided to the player.

  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 mainly provided with a game board on which a game ball rolls, detection means for detecting a game ball rolling on the game board, and behind the game board, and displays an effect image. A display means, a display control means for controlling the display of the effect image on the display means, and a control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the variation display and stop display of the identification information are repeated, the display control means comprising: On the condition that the detection means has detected a game ball, the display means displays a specific reach effect image when the reach state is reached before the identification information becomes a predetermined reach state. Although it is a gaming machine characterized by performing a control to display a notice effect image for notifying the display, the specific configuration of the game board, detection means, display means, display control means, control means, etc. Yibin is a possible design changes.

  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. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed 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. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed 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. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed 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 Large winning 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 Obstacle Object 58 Obstacle 60 Main control circuit 62 Reset clock pulse generation circuit 64 Initial reset circuit 74 Lamp 76 Lamp control circuit 92 Specific reach production image 92a Character image 92b Images 94a, 94b, 94c Identification information 96a to 96e for production Production images 97d, 97e 98 character image 99 character image 102 V / count sensor 104 count sensor 118 ordinary electric accessory solenoid 120 large winning opening solenoid 122 seesaw solenoid 124 backup clear switch 126 payout / fire control circuit 128 payout device 130 fire 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 detector 412 Light detector 416 Light blocking member 420 Second light detector

Claims (2)

A game board on which game balls roll,
Detecting means for detecting a rolling game ball on the game board;
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;
Control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the variation display and stop display of the identification information are repeated;
With
The display control means is specified when the display means is in the reach state before the identification information is in a reach state in which the identification information is in a predetermined mode, on condition that the detection means has detected a game ball. A game machine that performs control to display a notice effect image for notifying that the reach effect image is displayed. The detection means is provided at a plurality of locations on the game board,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit performs control for displaying different notice effect images on the display unit for each detection of a game ball by the detection units.

Images