JP2006230677A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of giving a player a strong drive to execute an operation for affecting a game, directly relating the operation to a game ball shot by the operation of a shooting handle, raising the player's interest in the game and entertaining the player with the game for a long period of time. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is provided with a game board having an electric accessory capable of executing a predetermined operation and forming a part of a game area into a transparent area, a display means having a display area disposed in the back of the game board and capable of displaying a performance image, a performance operation means executing an operation related to the performance image, a display control means controlling to display the performance image and move an operation object image, a detecting means detecting a game ball passing through a detecting area, and a control means, when determining that the operation object image is displayed on a corresponding area of the display area in detecting the game ball, controlling the generator to execute a predetermined operation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a pachislot gaming machine, or a slot machine.

In the pachinko gaming machine, when a player operates the launch handle, a game ball is launched on the game board, and the game ball launched on the game board collides with a obstacle nail or the like and changes the traveling direction while moving on the game board. It flows down while rolling. When a game ball enters the start opening provided on the game board, an internal lottery is performed to determine whether or not the game is a big hit, and a plurality of special symbols are usually displayed on a display device such as an LCD. The change display of is started. When the internal lottery is won, a plurality of special symbols are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, etc.), and then a special gaming state occurs. When the special game state occurs, the player can acquire many game balls.

Generally, in a pachinko gaming machine, an effect image is displayed on a display device in order to enhance the interest of the game. For example, when the display mode of a plurality of special symbols is reach, an effect image that enhances the player's expectation for the occurrence of the special gaming state is displayed, and when the special gaming state occurs, the special gaming state The effect image is displayed so as to enhance the joy and excitement of the player with respect to the occurrence of the occurrence. In addition, various effect images for preventing the player from getting bored are displayed even in the normal gaming state in which no reach or special gaming state has occurred. Such an effect image is unilaterally determined according to a gaming state or the like by a computer included in the pachinko gaming apparatus, and does not directly reflect the player's intention.

As a conventional pachinko gaming apparatus, for example, provided with operation buttons other than the operation of the launch handle, and the player operates the operation buttons etc., the type of effect image displayed on the display device, etc. There are pachinko gaming devices that can be added (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). According to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to omit or shorten the effect image in the normal gaming state by operating the operation button in advance before starting the game.
In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 2, an operation button is operated in advance before the game is started, and an effect image displayed on the display device during the game is selected from a plurality of types of effect images. You can choose. In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Document 3, by operating the operation buttons in advance before the game is started, the display mode of the effect image and the special symbol displayed when the reach is reached is selected in advance. Can be set.
With such a pachinko gaming apparatus, it is possible to change the effect image displayed during the game at the player's will, and therefore the willingness to operate the operation buttons that can change the contents of the effect Can be given.

JP 2004-113359 A JP 2004-121509 A JP 2004-154444 A

However, in the pachinko gaming devices described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, even if the operation button can be operated to change the contents of the effect, the gaming situation itself cannot be changed. In other words, even if the operation button is operated, it is not possible to change to a situation where game balls can be easily paid out. Therefore, a player who is not interested in the production is motivated to operate the operation button. It ’s difficult.

In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the operation button is operated before the game is started, but the operation button is not operated during the game, and only the operation of the launching handle is performed. Therefore, in these pachinko gaming machines, the relationship between the operation of the operation button and the trend of the game ball fired by the operation of the firing handle is weak, and it is difficult to increase the interest and interest in the game.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and its purpose is to allow a player to have a strong willingness to perform an operation for affecting the game, and to further It is intended to provide a gaming machine that can increase the interest and interest in the game and enjoy the game for a long time by directly associating with the game ball that is launched by operating the launch handle.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.
(1) A game area in which a game ball can roll is provided, and the game area is provided with an electric accessory capable of performing a predetermined operation, and at least a part of the game area is defined as a permeable area. Game board
Display means disposed behind the transmissive area on the game board and having a display area capable of displaying an effect image;
Production operation means for performing operations related to the production image;
Display control means for displaying an effect image including an operation target image to be operated by the effect operation means on the display means, and performing control for moving the operation target image in accordance with an operation of the effect operation means; ,
Detecting means for detecting a game ball passing through a predetermined detection area on the game board;
When the detection means detects a game ball, the determination means for determining whether or not the operation target image is displayed in the corresponding area in the display area located behind the detection area and the operation target in the corresponding area A gaming machine comprising: control means for controlling the electric accessory to perform a predetermined operation when the determination means determines that an image is displayed.

According to the invention of (1), when the operation target image is moved in accordance with the operation of the effect operation means by the player and a game ball passing in front of the operation target image is detected, a predetermined action is applied to the electric accessory. To do. As described above, the player can perform a predetermined operation by the operation of the player, so that the player can have a strong willingness to perform an operation for influencing.
Furthermore, in order to play a game while considering the operation of the effect operating means for moving the operation target image and the operation of the launching handle for firing the game ball, the game ball to be launched by the operation of the effect operating means and the operation of the launching handle By directly associating with the trend, interest and interest in the game can be enhanced, and the player can enjoy the game for a long time.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) The gaming machine of (1) above,
The electric accessory includes an opening / closing plate,
The control means performs control to operate the open / close plate included in the electric accessory to an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter.

According to the invention of (2), in order to operate the open / close plate provided in the electric accessory to an open state in which the game ball is easy to enter, a large number of game balls are inserted into the electric accessory and the game is advantageously advanced. It becomes possible. Therefore, the willingness to perform an operation for influencing can be improved.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
A reach state generating means for generating a reach state based on a result of a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to a player;
A ball detection means for detecting that a game ball has entered the electric accessory,
The display control means, when the game state is a reach state, when the entry detection means detects that a game ball has entered the electric accessory, a specific indication effect image on the display means. It is characterized by performing control to display.

According to the invention of (3), when it is detected that a game ball has entered the electric accessory during the reach state period, a specific sign effect image (a special game that is a game state advantageous to the player) The state operation means is operated so that a specific predictive effect image is displayed in the reach state because an image informing the player that the state will occur or that the probability of occurrence is high is displayed. By doing so, it becomes possible to predict whether or not a special gaming state will occur, and it is possible to increase the expectation for the occurrence of the special gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to dramatically improve the willingness to perform an operation for affecting the production.

According to the present invention, when the detection means detects a game ball, if the operation target image is displayed in the corresponding area in the display area located behind the detection area, a predetermined operation is performed on the electric accessory. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a strong willingness to perform an operation for influencing the game, and to directly associate the operation with the game ball launched by the operation of the launch handle It is possible to provide a gaming machine that can increase the interest and interest in games and enjoy games for a long time.

Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a pachinko gaming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the pachinko gaming apparatus shown in FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko gaming apparatus 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 for displaying an effect image, a spacer 31, a game board 14 and the like are arranged as will be described later. 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 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) having permeability. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin.
In addition, the game board 14 is provided with a game board frame 17 in the periphery thereof, and the game board frame 17 includes an infrared light emitter 260 and an infrared light receiver 261 that constitute a game ball detection device 264 as a detection means. Is arranged (see FIG. 5).
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. On the other hand, the game board 14 has a round number display 51 in the vicinity of the center of the back surface thereof.

The liquid crystal display device 32 as a display means is disposed 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. . Various images such as effect images (not shown) are displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

By providing the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14 as in the present embodiment, for example, an area for providing a game member such as an obstacle nail planting area, an accessory, or a decorative member can be enlarged, and the layout can be freely set. The degree can be further increased.

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 material having permeability, and a large through hole 31a is provided at the center. An electrical decoration unit 53 is provided in the through hole 31a. As shown in FIG. 4, 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.

For ease of understanding, FIG. 2 shows a first warp path 47 provided on the back of the game board 14 and a round number display 51 as a round number display means. 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 display 51 is provided near the center of the back surface of the game board 14, but is not limited thereto, and the round number display 51 is, for example, the outer rail 30 a on the game board 14. It may be provided near the upper right end of. The round number display 51 will be described later.

Next, 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 with reference to FIG. 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 numeric symbol (for example, a numeric symbol “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed, the gaming state is changed from a normal gaming state to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player. Transition. In this special game state, 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 special winning 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 fluctuation display is held once, the special symbol hold lamp 34a is turned on.

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 apparatus 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.

A track ball 80, a determination button 81, a selection button 82, a return button 83, and a ball rental button 84 operated by the player are provided on the lower front side of the protection plate 19 (upper side of the upper plate 20).
The trackball 80 is for inputting an operation for moving a character image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. The character image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 moves according to the operation input by the trackball when the gaming state is the reach state. In the present embodiment, the case where the effect operation means in the present invention is the trackball 80 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this example.

The decision button 81 and the selection button 82 are for inputting predetermined instructions such as selection of an image indicating various information displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32.
The return button 83 and the ball lending button 84 are for inputting an instruction for requesting the return of a card inserted into the card unit 150 described later. The ball lending button 84 is for inputting an instruction for requesting lending of game balls.

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.

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. In the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming apparatus 10 using FIG. 4, portions that overlap with the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming apparatus 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 a start port 44 (hereinafter also referred to as an electric accessory 44a), a shutter 40, a big prize port 39, and general prize ports 56a, 56b, 56c, and 56d are provided on the game board 14. 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. The start port 25 corresponds to the accessory provided at a predetermined position in the present invention.

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. An obstacle 58 is also provided on the right side of the center of the game board 14.

The two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b that 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 has the plurality of obstacle nails (see FIG. (Not shown), due to a collision with the obstacles 55, 57, 58, etc. provided on the game board 14, it flows down toward the lower side of the game board 14 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 from a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the obstacle 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

Furthermore, the start port 44 is provided on the right side of the obstacle 55. The starting port 44 is provided with blade members 48 on both the left and right sides. The blade member 48 corresponds to the opening / closing plate in the present invention.

When a game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above, the special symbol 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.

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 48 provided on both the left and right sides of the electric accessory 44a are changed from the closed state to the open state, and the game ball is placed in the start port 44. It becomes easier to enter. 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 special 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. 7) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 7). 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. This round game is counted as the number of rounds such as “1” round and “2” round. Also, the first round game is referred to as the “1” round, and the second round is referred to as the “2” 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 round game of the first “1” round to the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game.

In addition, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start ports 25 and 44, the general winning ports 56a to 56d, 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 (see FIG. 1) or the lower plate 22.

On the other hand, the round number indicator 51 provided near the center of the back of the game board 14 transmits the game area 15 of the game board 14 and displays the number of rounds near the center of the game area 15. The round number display 51 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs 52, and can display numbers of at least one digit. The round number display 51 may be composed of a dot LED, a liquid crystal display unit, a transmissive liquid crystal display unit, and the like. A liquid crystal display device 32 is provided behind the round number display 51.

In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 composed of a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like. Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is shown in the case where it is provided at substantially the front center of the game board 14 in the pachinko gaming machine 10 which is a gaming machine. For example, the liquid crystal display device 32 may be provided at any position. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are provided separately from the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the liquid crystal display device 32 is provided with the special symbol and the normal symbol. You may comprise so that a fluctuation | variation display may be carried out. Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 is adopted as the fluctuation display means, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be adopted. For example, a drum, a belt, a leaf, or the like may be adopted as the fluctuation display means.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the game ball detection device 264.
FIG. 5 is a front view of the game board 14, but the description of game members and the like disposed on the game board 14 is omitted here.

The game ball detection device 264 includes an infrared light emitter 260 and an infrared light receiver 261.
The infrared light emitters 260a to 260l are arranged on the left frame 17L of the game board frame 17 in the order of the infrared light emitters 260a, 260b, 260c,. On the other hand, the infrared receivers 261a to 261l are arranged on the right frame 17R of the game board 14 in the order of the infrared receivers 261a, 261b, 261c,.
The infrared light emitters 260a to 260m disposed on the left frame 17L and the infrared light receivers 261a to 261l disposed on the right frame 17R correspond to each other, and the infrared rays emitted from the infrared light emitters 260a to 260l are respectively associated with each other. Are respectively received by the infrared receivers 261a to 261l. For example, infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260a is received by the infrared light receiver 261a, and infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260b is received by the infrared light receiver 261b.

The infrared light emitters 260m to 260x are arranged on the upper frame 17U of the game board frame 17 from the left in the order of the infrared light emitters 260m, 260n, 260o,. On the other hand, the infrared receivers 261m to 261x are arranged on the lower frame 17D of the game board 14 from the left in the order of the infrared receivers 261m, 261n, 261o.
The infrared light emitters 260m to 260x disposed on the upper frame 17U and the infrared light receivers 261m to 261x disposed on the lower frame 17D correspond to each other, and the infrared rays emitted from the infrared light emitters 260m to 260x. Are received by the infrared receivers 261m to 261x, respectively. For example, the infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260m is received by the infrared light receiver 261m, and the infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260n is received by the infrared light receiver 261n.
The infrared light emitter 260 and the infrared light receiver 261 are arranged so as to be on the same plane as the game area 15 on the game board 14. In addition, a small hole is provided in the game member or the like disposed on the infrared passage position, and the infrared light irradiated from the infrared light emitter 260 is not blocked by the infrared light receiver 261 except for the game ball. Received light.

Coordinates X1, X2, X3,... X12 or coordinates Y1, Y2, Y3,..., Y12 are set in a column made up of a pair of infrared emitter 260 and infrared receiver 261, respectively. For example, a coordinate Y1 is set for a column composed of a pair of the infrared emitter 260a and the infrared receiver 261a, and a coordinate X1 is set for a column composed of the pair of the infrared emitter 260m and the infrared receiver 261m. The position of the game area 15 specified by the X coordinate and the Y coordinate is a detection area for detecting the passage of the game ball.

If the infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260 is not received by the corresponding infrared light receiver 261, it is detected that a game ball is present in the detection area. For example, when the infrared light receiver 261b and the infrared light receiver 261m do not receive infrared light, the infrared detection circuit 263, which will be described later, detects that the game ball 18 exists at the coordinates (X2, Y2).

Next, an image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 are front views of the liquid crystal display device 32. Here, for convenience of explanation, the game ball 18 flowing down on the game board disposed on the front surface of the liquid crystal display device 32, and the electric accessory 44a. The obstacle 58 is also described. In the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, the same coordinates as the detection area (coordinates) are set at positions (corresponding areas) on the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the detection area (coordinates).

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 in the reach state.
An image imitating a pass gate (pass gate image) is displayed at the coordinates (X10, Y10) on the liquid crystal display device 32 in FIG. The passing gate image corresponds to the operation target image in the present invention. On a game board (not shown) arranged in front of the liquid crystal display device 32, the game ball 18 flows down while rolling. It is detected that the coordinates (detection area) of the game ball 18 are (X2, Y2) by a game ball detection device 264 (not shown). In addition, the blade member 48 included in the electric accessory 44a is in a closed state, and the game ball can enter the electric accessory 44a only from the gap between the left and right blade members 48. Furthermore, since the obstacle 58 is disposed above the electric accessory 44a, it is difficult for a game ball to enter the electric accessory 44a.

When the image shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, if the player operates the trackball 80 to rotate leftward, the passing gate image is displayed in the leftward direction according to the operation input to the trackball 80. Move (see FIG. 7). In FIG. 7, the passing gate image is displayed at (X6, Y10). During this time, the game ball 18 is flowing down on the game board, and it is detected by the game ball detection device 264 that its coordinates (detection region) are (X2, Y6).

Then, as shown in FIG. 8, when a passing gate image moved by operating the trackball 80 is displayed behind the detection area (X2, Y10) of the game ball 18, the blades included in the electric accessory 44a Since the member 48 is in an open state and the entrance route is widened, the game ball can easily enter the electric accessory 44a.

Thereafter, when a game ball enters the start opening 44 of the electric accessory 44a, if the reach is a big hit, a firework image as a specific predictive effect image is displayed behind the electric accessory 44a. (See FIG. 9). The sign effect image is an image that notifies the player in advance that a special gaming state that is a gaming state advantageous to the player occurs or that the probability of the occurrence is high.

As described above, the player can open the blade member 48 included in the electric accessory 44a by operating the trackball 80, moving the passing gate image, and displaying the image behind the game ball 18. It is. Then, it is possible to display a firework image as a specific sign effect image by causing a game ball to enter the start opening 44 provided in the electric accessory 44a. Hereinafter, a game in which the passing gate image is moved behind the game ball is referred to as an “operation game”. Although the present embodiment will be described as performing an “operation game” when the gaming state is a reach state, the present invention is not limited to this example.

Next, the internal configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 and the processing performed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.
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 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 according to a program stored in the main ROM 68.
The main ROM 68 stores a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66. In addition, various tables such as a jackpot determination table that is referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery. Is also remembered.

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. In the main RAM 70, a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a loss symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, a grand prize opening number counter, a grand prize A command is supplied to the winning control counter, the round number display counter, the waiting time timer, the large winning opening opening time timer, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol, and the sub-control circuit 200 described later. Data, variables, etc. 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 variation patterns include a plurality of types of reach variation patterns that generate a reach state when a predetermined time has elapsed since the variation display of the special symbol was started. There are a plurality of types of reach fluctuation patterns having different reach generation timings when reach states occur.

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. The main CPU 66 functions as reach state generating means. 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.

In the present invention, the reach state is a game state that occurs after the normal game state, and is a state that occurs when there is a possibility that a big hit will be established (a special game state will occur).
Therefore, when a big hit is established (a special gaming state occurs), a reach state occurs after the normal gaming state, and then a special gaming state occurs. On the other hand, when the game is lost (the special game state does not occur), the game is ended in the normal game state, or the game is ended after the reach state is generated. In general, the occurrence of the reach state is indicated by a plurality of special symbol display modes. However, in the pachinko gaming machine 10, since there is one special symbol, the occurrence of the reach state is indicated by the display mode of the special symbol. Instead, it is indicated by the contents of the effect image.

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 special prize opening number counter indicates the number of special prize opening times (so-called round number) in the special gaming state. 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 holds the start of the normal symbol game when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b, but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed. 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, the return button 83, the ball lending button 84, 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 start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 are provided at the start ports 25 and 44, respectively. The start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball wins the start opening 25 or 44. The start winning ball sensor 117 functions as a ball entry detecting means for detecting that a game ball has entered the start port 44 (the electric accessory 44a). 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 special prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 5 and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the special prize opening open or closed. The seesaw solenoid 122 has a plate shape and is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided in the shutter 40. 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 return button 83 is for inputting an instruction to request the return of the card inserted into the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the main control circuit 60 when operated by the player. The main control circuit 60 transmits a control signal to the card unit 150 based on the signal.
The ball lending button 84 is for inputting an instruction for requesting lending of a game ball, and transmits a predetermined signal to the main control circuit 60 when operated by the player. The main control circuit 60 transmits a control signal to the card unit 150 based on the signal.
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.

Based on the control signal received from the main control circuit 60, the card unit 150 returns the card inserted into the unit, transmits a ball rental control signal to the payout / launch control circuit 126, and the like. The payout / firing control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a ball rental control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. The paying 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 the present embodiment, the case where the payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to the main control circuit 60 and controlled by the main CPU 66 will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the sub control circuit It may be connected to 200 and controlled by the sub CPU 206.

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, a lamp control circuit 76 for controlling the lamp 74 is connected to the main control circuit 60, 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 incandescent bulbs, LEDs, 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 52) and the like are included.

In addition, the main control circuit 60 specifies the detection area (coordinates) of the game ball detected by the ball rotation detector 85, the infrared generation control circuit 262 that controls the irradiation of infrared rays from the infrared emitter 260, and the infrared receiver 261. An infrared detection circuit 263 is connected.

When the rotation of the trackball 80 is detected, the ball rotation detector 85 detects a displacement (x, y) due to the rotation of a predetermined reference point, and sends a rotation detection signal indicating the displacement to the main CPU 66. Send. When the main CPU 66 receives a rotation detection signal from the ball rotation detector 85 in the reach state, the main CPU 66 performs an operation representing the display position of the passing gate image based on the displacement (x, y) indicated by the rotation detection signal. Processing for setting the target image coordinates (X, Y) is performed.

The infrared generation control circuit 262 controls infrared irradiation from the infrared light emitter 260.
The infrared detection circuit 263, when receiving infrared light, that is, when receiving a signal indicating that a game ball has been detected from the infrared light receiver 261, determines the detection area (coordinates) of the game ball based on the received signal. A game ball detection signal that identifies and detects the detection coordinates of the game ball is transmitted to the main CPU 66.

Furthermore, the main control circuit 60 is connected with a determination button 81, a selection button 82, and the like. The decision button 81 and the selection button 82 output predetermined signals according to the player's operation, and the main control circuit 60 detects signals received from the decision button 81, the selection button 82, etc., and ball rotation detection. Based on the rotation detection signal received from the device 85 and the game ball detection signal received from the infrared detection circuit 263, the program stored in the main ROM 68 is read out and executed, and various functions are executed.

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 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 controls the sub-CPU 206, the program ROM 208, the work RAM 210, the display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, the sound control circuit 230 for controlling sound generated from the speaker 46, and the lamp 132. It is comprised from the lamp control circuit 240 which performs. 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.

A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. 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 display control means.

The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effects of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206. The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns.
The effect pattern is related to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the change display of the special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as “effect pattern based on the change pattern”), and the electric accessory 44a in the reach state. The game ball is composed of an effect display that is executed when a game ball enters the ball (hereinafter also referred to as a “predictive effect pattern”).
The effect patterns based on the change pattern include a plurality of types of reach effect patterns in which the effect content changes from the normal effect to the reach effect when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the change display of the special symbol. . In such reach production patterns, there are a plurality of types of reach production timings that change from a normal production to a reach production.

Further, the program ROM 208 stores a big hit effect condition selection table that is referred to when the lottery result in the main control circuit 60 is a big win, and a lost effect condition selection table that is referred to when the lottery result is a loss. Has been. The effect condition selection table stores a plurality of types of effect patterns, and each effect pattern is associated with a random value included in a predetermined numerical range. Each effect pattern is selected based on a variation pattern designation command supplied from the main control circuit 60. For example, when the change pattern designation command supplied from the main control circuit 60 is a reach change pattern, the reach effect timing is the same as the reach occurrence timing indicated by the supplied reach change pattern from among a plurality of types of reach effect patterns. A reach production pattern that is timing is selected.

All the effect patterns stored in the jackpot effect condition selection table are reach effect patterns, while the effect patterns stored in the loss effect condition condition selection table are only part of the reach effect patterns, and the rest are normal effects. It is a pattern.

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 and the like such as an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern are positioned. 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.

The display control circuit 250 includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 that stores various image data, a D / A converter 218 that converts image data as an image signal, and a reset signal when the power is turned on. The initial reset circuit 220 is generated. 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 causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. 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. The VDP 212 functions as a display control unit.

The image data ROM 216 stores effect image data representing effect images (for example, background images, passing gate images, fireworks images, etc.) corresponding to each effect pattern.

The VDP 212 extracts various image data from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with an image display command (command) supplied from the sub CPU 206.

The VDP 212 stores various images extracted from the image data ROM 216 in a buffer (for example, a video RAM or the like) by superimposing, in order, for example, a background image, a passing gate image, and a firework image from the rear image. As a result, the screen image is synthesized and supplied to the D / A converter 218.
The D / A converter 218 converts the screen image as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32. As a result, in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 32, for example, effect images as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 are displayed.

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.

The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp (LED) control signal, and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns (LED lighting patterns) are stored.

The processes executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 are shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 and FIGS. 15 to 21 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 13) performed with the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11 shows main processing executed in the main control circuit 60.
First, as shown in FIG. 11, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 13, the special symbol game is executed, and a special symbol control process relating to the special symbol is executed in the special symbol display 33 (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.

Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. The following system timer interrupt process is executed in response to a clock pulse generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process so as to increase the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, etc. by “1” (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 variation pattern designation command indicating a variation display pattern of special symbols. 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.

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 management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation management and the variation time has elapsed. The waiting time after determination (for example, 1 second) is set 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 management process is executed. 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. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

In step S76, a round number display 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 variable display and stop 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 process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter to “ Update the memory so that it increases by 1 ″. 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 the 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 extra 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 residual ball monitoring in the special winning opening, and when the monitoring time for the residual winning ball in the special winning slot has elapsed, It is determined whether or not the condition that the ball has not passed or the condition that the special winning opening opening number counter is equal to or greater than the maximum number of consecutive rounds (the final 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. On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating management of the special winning opening reopening waiting time in 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 result of the big hit determination is lost in the special 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, when the main CPU 66 is not in the special gaming state and the result of the big hit determination is a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03”, 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 special gaming state is executed. Furthermore, when the control to the special gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The process of step S79 and step S77 is executed at a predetermined timing, and a special game is executed. When the special game end condition (special game end condition) is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order to perform steps from step S78 shown in FIG. The process of S81 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the special game is ended. Further, in the present embodiment, the special game end condition is that there is no passing of the game ball to the specific area (puncture) and the maximum number of continuous rounds ends before the predetermined time elapses.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of special symbol memory check processing that is called and executed in step S72 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 15, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101). 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 management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

In step S105, a big hit 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 special gaming state that is advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106.

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, processing for determining a special symbol variation pattern is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines a variation pattern with reference to the variation pattern distribution table based on the special symbol determined in step S107 or S108, and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76 as a signal (special symbol drive control signal) for driving and controlling the special symbol display 33 by the process of step S46 of FIG. The 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. As a result of the above processing, the special symbol display 33 stops and displays the special symbol after it has been variably displayed and a predetermined time has elapsed.
Further, the data indicating the variation pattern is supplied as a variation pattern designation command 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 of FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

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

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of input detection processing that is called and executed in step S43 of the processing shown in FIG.
First, as shown in FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 executes prize ball related switch check processing (step S231). In this process, the main CPU 66 receives various sensors such as the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the starting winning ball sensor 116, which are switches related to the winning ball. It is detected whether a predetermined detection signal is supplied. Then, the main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals determines the number of prize balls according to the sensor that has supplied the signal, and stores it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S232.

In step S232, special symbol related switch input processing is executed. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 18, it is detected whether a predetermined signal is supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, and the start winning ball sensor 116 related to the special symbol. The main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals executes processing as described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S233.

In step S233, normal symbol related switch input processing is executed. In this process, the passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main CPU 66. The main CPU 66 having received these predetermined signals performs processing such as normal symbol start-up storage. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a special symbol related switch input processing subroutine called and executed in step S232 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether there is a count switch input (step S261). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a count switch input in accordance with a predetermined signal supplied from the count sensor 104, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the large winning award winning counter to be incremented by "1". A count switch detection process is executed (step S262). On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a count switch input, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S263.

In step S263, it is determined whether there is a V / count switch input. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a V / count switch input in accordance with a predetermined signal supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the main CPU 66 sets a flag indicating that the specific area has been passed. A V / count switch detection process is executed to store and update the grand prize winning prize counter to be incremented by “1” (step S264). On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a V / count switch input, the process proceeds to step S265.

In step S265, it is determined whether or not there is a start port switch input. In this process, the main CPU 66 receives a predetermined signal supplied from the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117, and determines whether or not there is a start port switch input. If the main CPU 66 determines that there is a start port switch input, it moves the process to step S266. If it does not determine that there is a start port switch input, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine.

In step S266, it is determined whether or not there is a start port switch input corresponding to the electric accessory 44a. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a predetermined signal is received from the start winning ball sensor 117 in the start port switch input determination (step S265). If it is determined that there is a start port switch input corresponding to the electric accessory 44a, the process proceeds to step S267, and if it is determined that there is no start port switch input corresponding to the electric accessory 44a, the process is performed. Move to S269.

In step S267, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a reach state has occurred. The determination as to whether or not the reach state has occurred is made based on the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern determination process (see FIG. 15, step S109) and the elapsed time elapsed since the selection.
That is, when the reach variation pattern is selected, the reach state occurs after the normal gaming state occurs based on the reach variation pattern, and then the game ends or the special gaming state occurs. Since the time of each gaming state is determined by the reach variation pattern, in step S267, the reach state is determined based on the time of each gaming state determined by the selected reach variation pattern and the elapsed time since the selection. It is determined whether or not this has occurred.
If it is determined that the reach state has not occurred, the process proceeds to step S270. If the reach state has occurred, the process proceeds to step S268.

In step S268, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the data indicating the variation pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is a variation pattern representing a jackpot. The data indicating the variation pattern is the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process (see FIG. 15, step S109). If it is determined that the jackpot is a big hit, the process proceeds to step S269. On the other hand, if it is determined that the jackpot is not a big hit, the process proceeds to step S270.

In step S <b> 269, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating the indication effect command in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the indication effect command set in this way is supplied as an indication effect command 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 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S270.

In step S270, a start port detection time process is executed, and when this process ends, the present subroutine ends. As will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 19, when the main CPU 66 determines that the data indicating the number of reserves is smaller than “4”, the main CPU 70 extracts the jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value, and the main RAM 70. Is stored in a predetermined area. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for starting port detection processing which is called and executed in step S266 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
First, as shown in FIG. 18, the main CPU 66 reads the starting memory number (so-called “data indicating the holding number” described above) from the starting memory number counter, and whether or not the starting memory number is “4” or more. Is determined (step S501). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the start memory number is “4” or more, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine. That is, when the number of reserves reaches the upper limit number, the game ball has won the start opening 44, but this subroutine is ended without storing the start storage information. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the starting memory number is smaller than “4”, the main CPU 66 increments the starting memory number counter by “1” (step S502), and moves the process to step S503.

In step S503, the main CPU 66 extracts a jackpot determination random number from the jackpot determination random number counter, and extracts a jackpot symbol random number from the jackpot determination random number counter. Then, the main CPU 66 stores the extracted jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value as start-up storage information in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (step S504). The data indicating the jackpot determination random number value and the jackpot symbol random number value stored in this way is read out by the main CPU 66 in the processing such as step S105 in FIG. The type of special symbol to be played will be determined. As described above, the main CPU 66 has a predetermined variation display start condition that allows the variation display of the special symbol when the predetermined variation display hold condition is satisfied when the game ball enters the start opening 44. Until then, the start memory information for determining the result of the variable symbol display of the special symbol is stored with a predetermined number as an upper limit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S510.

In step S <b> 510, the main CPU 66 reads data indicating the starting memory number, and sets data indicating a starting memory number designation command based on the data in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the start memory number designation command set in this way is supplied as a start memory number designation command 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 of FIG. . As will be described later, the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect and a notification regarding the start memory number in accordance with the received start memory number designation command. The start memory number command includes data based on the jackpot determination random number value extracted in step S503, the jackpot symbol random number value (for example, whether or not the random symbol value is shifted to the special gaming state, For example, the sub control circuit 200 (sub CPU 206) shifts to the special gaming state by supplying the start memory number command from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200. It is possible to recognize whether or not the value is a random number, the result of the special symbol variation display, and the like. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a ball rotation detection process performed in the ball rotation detector 85.
In this process, first, it is determined whether or not the rotation of the trackball 80 caused by the player operating the trackball 80 is detected (step S240). If the rotation is not detected, the process proceeds to step S240. Return processing. On the other hand, if rotation is detected, the displacement (x, y) of the reference point generated by the rotation is detected (step S241), and a rotation detection signal indicating the displacement is transmitted to the sub CPU 206 (step S241). S242), the process returns to step S240.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a detection process performed in the infrared detection circuit 263.
In this process, first, it is determined whether or not a game ball is detected (step S245). In this process, if the infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitter 260 is not received by the infrared light receiver 261, it is determined that a game ball has been detected, and if received, the game ball is not detected. Judge that If a game ball is not detected, the process returns to step S245. If a game ball is detected, the process proceeds to step S246.
In step S246, the detection area (coordinates) of the game ball is specified based on which infrared receiver 261 did not receive the infrared ray, and a game ball detection signal indicating the detected coordinates is transmitted to the sub CPU 206 (step S247). If this process ends, the process returns to step S245.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation process executed by the main control circuit 60 separately from the main process when the control flag is (01).
First, in step S401, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a reach state has occurred. The determination as to whether or not the reach state has occurred is made based on the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern determination process (see FIG. 15, step S109) and the elapsed time elapsed since the selection.
That is, when the reach variation pattern is selected, the reach state occurs after the normal gaming state occurs based on the reach variation pattern, and then the game ends or the special gaming state occurs. Since the time of each gaming state is determined by the reach variation pattern, in step S401, the reach state is determined based on the time of each gaming state determined by the selected reach variation pattern and the elapsed time since the selection. It is determined whether or not this has occurred.
If it is determined that the reach state has not occurred, the present subroutine is terminated. If the reach state has occurred, the process proceeds to step S402.

In step S402, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not initialization has been completed. Whether or not the initial setting has been completed is determined based on whether or not the operation target image coordinates are stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The operation target image coordinates are set when the reach state is reached, and are cleared when the reach state ends.
If it is determined in step S402 that initialization has been completed, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if it is determined that initialization has not been completed, the process proceeds to step 403.

In step S403, the main CPU 66 performs operation target image coordinate setting. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the operation target image coordinates representing the position where the operation target image is initially displayed from the main ROM 68 and stores it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S404.

In step S404, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a rotation detection signal has been received from the ball rotation detector 85. If it is determined that a rotation detection signal has been received from the ball rotation detector 85, the process proceeds to step S405. If it is determined that a rotation detection signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step S406.

In step S405, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting operation target image coordinates based on the displacement (x, y) indicated by the rotation detection signal received in step S404. In this process, the main CPU 66 moves and sets the operation target image coordinates by the displacement amount in the displacement direction every time the displacement amount (x, y) exceeds a predetermined amount.
The X and Y ranges are determined in advance as Xmin ≦ X ≦ Xmax (X1 ≦ X ≦ X12) and Ymin ≦ Y ≦ Ymax (Y1 ≦ X ≦ Y12) depending on the range in which the operation target image can move. When setting the operation target image coordinates (X, Y), if the X or Y exceeds the upper limit value or falls below the lower limit value, the operation is performed so that the X or Y becomes the upper limit value or the lower limit value. Target image coordinates (X, Y) are set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S406.

In step S <b> 406, the main CPU 66 sets a coordinate command indicating the coordinates of the operation target image in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The data indicating the coordinate command set in this way is supplied as a coordinate command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. As will be described later, the sub control circuit 200 displays the operation target image at a position (coordinates) indicated by the received coordinate command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S407.

In step S407, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a game ball detection signal has been received.
In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that it has not received the game ball detection signal from the infrared detection circuit 263, the main CPU 66 terminates this subroutine, whereas when it determines that it has received the game ball detection signal from the infrared detection circuit 263, The process moves to step S408.

In step S408, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the detection area (coordinates) of the game ball indicated by the game ball detection signal is the same as the operation target image coordinates (X, Y). When it is determined that the game ball detection area (coordinates) and the operation target image coordinates (X, Y) are not the same, the present subroutine ends, while the game ball detection area (coordinates) and the operation target image coordinates (X , Y) is the same, the process proceeds to step S409.
In the processing of step S407 and step S408, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not an operation target image (passage gate image) is displayed behind the game ball when the game ball detection device 264 detects the game ball. It functions as a means.

In step S409, the main CPU 66 sets an opening flag for opening the blade member 48 of the electric accessory 44a in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. In the process of step S46 of FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 outputs a signal for driving and controlling the blade member 48 to the electric accessory 44a based on the release flag set in this way. In this process, the main CPU 66 functions as a control unit that performs control for causing the electric accessory 44a to perform a predetermined operation. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.
When the reach state is completed, in step S403, initial settings such as operation target image coordinates stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210 are cleared.

Thus, in the “operation game” shown in FIG. 21, when the operation target image (passage gate image) moved by the trackball 80 exists behind the detected game ball, the blade member of the electric accessory 44a 48 becomes an open state.

On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60 and executes a command reception process as shown in FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a start memory number designation command has been received (step S280). In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has received the start memory number designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S281. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the start memory number designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S282.

In step S281, the sub CPU 206 executes a pending number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 206 sets start memory information, data indicating the start memory number before the update, and data indicating the start memory number after the update in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. Then, the sub CPU 206 determines the start memory number based on the start memory number designation command received from the main control circuit 60, and updates the data indicating the start memory number positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. In this process, the update is performed regardless of the increase / decrease of the reserved number. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

On the other hand, in step S282, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a variation pattern designation command has been received from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S283. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the variation pattern designation command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S285.

In step S283, the sub CPU 206 determines an effect pattern (an effect pattern based on the change pattern) with reference to the effect condition selection table based on the received change pattern designation command. As a result, an effect based on the determined effect pattern is executed. When the reach effect pattern is selected in step S283, first, an effect image corresponding to the pattern is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32, a normal effect is executed, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the liquid crystal display device The effect image displayed in 32 is changed into a reach effect and executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

In step S285, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an indication effect command has been received. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the sign effect command has been received from the main control circuit 60, the process proceeds to step S286. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that it has not received the indication effect command from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S288.

In step S286, the sub CPU 206 determines a sign effect pattern based on the received sign effect command. As a result, an effect based on the determined sign effect pattern is executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

In step S288, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a coordinate command has been received. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a coordinate command has been received from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S289. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 206 determines that a coordinate command has not been received from the main control circuit 60, it moves the process to step S290.

In step S289, the sub CPU 206 determines coordinate data indicating the coordinates indicated by the received coordinate command. As a result, the operation target image is displayed at the determined position (coordinates). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

In step S290, the sub CPU 206 executes processing corresponding to the received command, and thereafter ends this subroutine.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of display control processing performed in the display control circuit.

First, when the VDP 212 receives the production pattern data based on the variation pattern from the sub CPU 206 (step S300: YES), the VDP 212 extracts the production image data corresponding to the production pattern stored in the image data ROM 216. And stored in the buffer (step S301). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S310.

When the VDP 212 has not received the effect pattern data based on the variation pattern from the sub CPU 206 (step S300: NO), the VDP 212 extracts the demo image from the image data ROM 216 based on the demo display command and stores it in the buffer. Store (step S302).

In step S310, when the VDP 212 receives supply of coordinate data from the sub CPU 206 (step S310: YES), the VDP 212 extracts the operation target image data stored in the image data ROM 216 and puts it at the position (coordinate). Overlay the effect image data and store it in the buffer (step S311). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S312.

In step S312, when the VDP 212 receives the indication effect pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S312: YES), the VDP 212 extracts an indication effect image corresponding to the indication effect pattern data stored in the image data ROM 216. Then, the effect image data and / or the operation target image data are stored in the buffer so as to overlap (step S313).

After executing the processing of step S302 or step S313, the VDP 212 outputs the image stored in the buffer to the liquid crystal display device 32 (step S303). As a result, the image described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32, for example.

Thereafter, when the effect has not ended (step S304: NO), the process returns to step S300. On the other hand, when the effect is finished (step S304: YES), the effect pattern data is cleared (step S305), and the process returns to step S300.

In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which a game ball is detected using an infrared sensor (game ball detection device 264), but the detection means in the present invention is not limited to this, for example, an ultrasonic sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like. It may be.

In the present embodiment, the case where the blade member (opening / closing plate) is provided on the left and right sides of the electric accessory has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. A shutter may be provided.
In the present embodiment, the blade members (open / close plates) provided on the left and right of the electric accessory perform the opening / closing operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. Alternatively, a rotating operation or the like may be performed.

In the present embodiment, the case where the main control circuit 60 includes the detection means (game ball detection device 264) and the effect operation means (trackball 80) has been described, but the sub control circuit 200 may include the detection means. In this case, a command indicating that the detection area (coordinates) of the game ball and the position (coordinates) of the operation target image overlap each other is transmitted from the sub-control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60 to be sent to the electric accessory 44a. Will be operated.

As described above, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, when the game ball detecting device 264 detects a game ball that moves in front of the passing gate image by moving the passing gate image in accordance with the operation of the trackball 80 by the player, The electric accessory 44a is caused to perform a predetermined operation (for example, opening / closing operation). As described above, the player can perform a predetermined operation by the operation of the player, so that the player can have a strong willingness to perform the operation for influencing.
Furthermore, in order to play a game while considering the operation of the track and ball 80 for moving the pass gate image and the operation of the launch handle 26 for firing the game ball, the game is fired by the operation of the track ball 80 and the launch handle 26. The trend of game balls can be directly linked to increase the interest and interest in the game, and the player can enjoy the game for a long time.

In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, in order to move the blade member 48 included in the electric accessory 44a to an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter, a large number of game balls enter the electric accessory 44a to play a game. Can be advantageously advanced. Therefore, the willingness to perform an operation for influencing can be improved.

In addition, according to the pachinko gaming apparatus 10, since it is detected that a game ball has entered the electric accessory 44a during the reach state, a specific sign effect image is displayed. In addition, by operating the trackball 80 so that a specific predictive effect image is displayed, it is possible to predict whether or not a special gaming state will occur, and to expect the occurrence of the special gaming state. It becomes possible to increase. Therefore, it is possible to dramatically improve the willingness to perform an operation for affecting the production.

In addition, as a pachinko gaming apparatus, (i) the contents of the effect on the display means are changed based on the operation status of the operation means such as operation buttons, and (ii) the special symbol varies depending on the number of operations of the operation means. While changing the display mode (for example, speed of change, direction of change, etc.), and (iii) depending on the change of the change display mode of special symbols, depending on the action mode of the character previously included in the effect image or a different character A pachinko gaming apparatus that produces an effect that increases the player's expectation can be considered. The main purpose of this pachinko gaming apparatus is to change the special symbol variation display mode according to the operation of the operation means.
According to this pachinko gaming apparatus, it is possible to increase the enjoyment of operating the operating means because the change display of the special symbol is changed by operating the operating means. If you are, you will become familiar with the changing contents of the production, and it will be difficult to receive the stimulus due to the changes in the contents of the production, and it will be easy to fall into the feeling that the thought circuit will partially stop, and the production contents will change It is easy to feel bored with the game because you are not interested in it.
For this reason, when changing the display mode of the effect image by the operation of the operation means, it is desired to provide a gaming machine that can make the operation of the operation means more enjoyable by adding new conditions and opportunities. .

On the other hand, the present invention does not simply operate the operation means while looking only at the display means on which an image is displayed, but the trend of game balls that try to pass through a predetermined detection area on the game board. When the operation means is operated while observing the above and a predetermined result is obtained by the content of the operation, the electric accessory is caused to perform a predetermined operation.
That is, in order to have a predetermined influence on the game content, the player must observe the trend of the game ball in addition to the content of the displayed image, thereby achieving such a difficult task. For the first time, the electric accessory can be caused to perform a predetermined operation.
It is difficult for the above-mentioned prior art to easily cause the electric accessory to perform a predetermined operation by operating the operation means in accordance with the movement of the game ball, and it is difficult to estimate this. It is.

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 schematically showing a pachinko gaming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the pachinko gaming apparatus shown in FIG. 1. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit with which the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 is provided. FIG. 2 is a front view schematically showing the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a figure for demonstrating a game ball detection apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display device. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko gaming machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the system timer interruption process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the special symbol control process called and performed in step S15 of the process shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition by the special symbol control process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the special symbol memory | storage check process called and performed in step S72 of the subroutine shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the input detection process called and performed in step S43 of the process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the special symbol related switch input process called and performed in step S232 of the subroutine shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the process at the time of the starting port detection called and performed in step S266 of the subroutine shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the ball rotation detection process performed in a ball rotation detector. It is a flowchart which shows the detection process performed in an infrared detection circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the operation process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the command reception process performed in a subcontrol circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the display control process performed in a display control circuit.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko gaming machine 11 Door 12 Main body frame 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 15 Game area 17 Game board frame 25 Start opening 26 Launch handle 32 Liquid crystal display 32a Display area 33 Special symbol display 35 Normal symbol display 39 Grand prize opening 40 Shutter 44 Start port 44a Electric accessory 51 Round number display 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
76 Lamp control circuit 80 Track ball 81 Enter button 82 Select button 83 Return button 84 Ball lending button 85 Ball rotation detector 116, 117 Start winning ball sensor 120 Large winning opening solenoid 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
212 Image data processor 216 Image data ROM
250 Display control circuit 260 (260a to 260x) Infrared light emitter 261 (261a to 261x) Infrared light receiver 262 Infrared generation control circuit 263 Infrared detection circuit 264 Game ball detection device

Claims (3)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball can roll, wherein the game area is provided with an electric accessory capable of performing a predetermined operation, and at least a part of the game area is a transparent area When,
Display means arranged behind the transmissive area on the game board and having a display area capable of displaying an effect image;
Production operation means for performing operations related to the production image;
Display control means for displaying an effect image including an operation target image to be operated by the effect operation means on the display means, and performing control for moving the operation target image in accordance with an operation of the effect operation means; ,
Detecting means for detecting a game ball passing through a predetermined detection area on the game board;
When the detection means detects a game ball, a determination means for determining whether or not the operation target image is displayed in a corresponding area in a display area located behind the detection area, and an operation target in the corresponding area A gaming machine comprising: control means for performing control to cause the electric accessory to perform a predetermined operation when the determination means determines that an image is displayed. The electric accessory includes an opening / closing plate,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs control to operate an opening / closing plate included in the electric accessory to an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter. A reach state generating means for generating a reach state based on a result of a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to a player;
A ball detection means for detecting that a game ball has entered the electric accessory,
The display control means, when the game state is a reach state, when the ball detection means detects that a game ball has entered the electric accessory, a specific indication effect image on the display means. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that control for displaying is performed.

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