JP2006305005A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine improving the taste of a game by allowing a player to actually aim a big win and increasing an intervention to the game. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is provided with a game state shift determination means capable of shifting to a big win game state advantageous for a player according to a prescribed big winning lottery probability value by entering of a game ball in a start winning hole 14, a storage means 19 storing game balls and capable of winning the stored game balls in a start winning hole 14, a storage release means 27 releasing the storage by the storage means, and a storage release operation means 28 operating the storage release by the storage release means based on the operation of the player. This game machine is further provided with a shift probability determination means determining whether or not shifting to either game state of a shift high probability state having a high big winning lottery probability value and a shift low probability state having a low big winning lottery probability value, and a notification means notifying that the game state is the shift high probability probability state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a player can operate a game ball that wins a predetermined winning opening at an arbitrary timing.

  A ball ball game machine (a so-called pachinko machine) rotates a lever of a launcher handle clockwise, for example, operates a built-in launch solenoid to launch a game ball into the game area of the game board. A predetermined game state that is advantageous to the player when the game ball rolls down with a large number of game nails and game ball guiding members (for example, a stage, a heaven passage, etc.) provided and flows down, and is triggered by a desired winning port, for example By winning the game ball at the start winning opening which can be shifted to (so-called big hit game state), the big hit determination and the payout of the winning ball are performed.

Such a jackpot determination is performed by extracting a random number at the time when the game ball wins the start winning opening, and whether or not the extracted random number matches the jackpot random number.
Therefore, the player can be involved in the winning rate by aiming to hit the game ball in a predetermined area in the gaming area that is likely to win the starting prize opening and adjusting the lever of the handle. is there.
However, as described above, a large number of game members such as game nails and stages are arranged in the game area, so that it is possible to win a game ball at the start winning opening at an arbitrary timing even if advanced technology is used. Even if you have a player, it was very difficult.
The winning timing of the game ball to the start winning opening is a timing for extracting a random number, and is an important factor for determining whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state.
Therefore, in the conventional gaming machine, since the player could not arbitrarily participate in the winning timing as described above, the gameability was low. Moreover, even if it was a case where the jackpot was judged, it was difficult to become aware that the player had won the jackpot himself, so it was not interesting.
Therefore, recently, a ball game machine has been proposed in which a player can be involved in the winning timing and can aim for a big hit at any timing. That is, the game area includes storage means capable of storing a plurality of game balls, and the storage means is configured to release the storage by any operation of the player. Can be aimed at a big hit by being guided to the start winning opening (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP-A-7-194777

However, usually, the big hit timing of the gaming machine is a large number of random numbers used so that it can not be aimed arbitrarily, and the big hit random number value is updated at a predetermined period, so even if the player can be involved in the winning timing In fact, it was very difficult to hit the jackpot. In addition, as a result of aiming for a big hit, there is a risk of disappointing the player and reducing the interest of the player if the game is only lost.
The present invention has been made in order to solve such problems, and the purpose of the present invention is to make it possible for a player to aim for a big hit and to increase interest in the game. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the performance.

In order to achieve such an object, the first invention provides a game board 11 having a predetermined game member on the game board base 12 to form a game area A in which a game ball rolls, and the game board. Based on the fact that the game ball has won the start winning port 14 provided in 11 game areas A, it is determined whether or not to shift to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player according to a predetermined jackpot lottery probability value. Game state transition determination means to be performed (main CPU 32) and storage means capable of storing game balls flowing down the game area A and allowing the stored game balls to win a predetermined winning opening (start winning opening 14) 19, a game having a storage release means 27 for releasing the storage by the storage means 19, and a storage release operation means 28 that can be operated by the player and operates the storage release by the storage release means 27 based on the operation. In the machine Whether or not to shift to the gaming state of either a transition high probability state with a high jackpot lottery probability value or a transition low probability state with a low jackpot lottery probability value based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning port 14 The game machine is characterized by comprising a transition probability determining means (main CPU 32) for determining whether or not and a notifying means (effect display device 10) for notifying that the gaming state is a high transition probability state. is there.
According to the present invention, when the player operates the storage release operation means 28, the player can be involved in the winning timing, so that gameability and interest are improved. Unlike a game ball that has simply flowed down the game area A and won a determination (for example, a jackpot determination) at a predetermined winning opening (start winning opening 14), the game is improved because of intervention in the game. To do.
In addition, the notifying means allows the player to operate the storage release operating means 28 by sensing that the gaming state is a transition high probability state.
In other words, the participation of the winning timing becomes possible in the transition high probability state where the lottery probability value for the big hit is high, so that the player can aim for the big hit with a realistic and high probability. Further, as the degree of intervention in the game increases, the player strongly recognizes that the determination result is assigned by himself, and the interest is improved.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the notifying means notifies the fact that the gaming state is a transition high probability state based on the achievement of the predetermined condition. .
According to the present invention, it is not necessary to immediately notify whether or not the transition to the transition high probability state has been made, but the achievement of a predetermined condition (for example, achievement of a predetermined start memory number, achievement of a predetermined reach, elapse of a predetermined time, etc.) As a result, the interest of the game is improved.
In other words, with such a configuration, even when the transition to the transition high probability state is not reported internally, or vice versa, even if the transition to the transition low probability state is performed internally, the transition high probability state Therefore, the player can always play with a sense of expectation as to which transition probability state the player is in.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, further comprising lottery means for performing a lottery for determining whether or not to notify that the state is a high transition probability state.
According to the present invention, in addition to the effect of the second invention, since it is determined whether or not to notify by lottery by the lottery means, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for each lottery.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine according to any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a restricting means for restricting the operation of the storage releasing operation means 28 in a predetermined gaming state.
According to the present invention, since the operation of the storage release operation means 28 is restricted in a predetermined gaming state, it is possible to prevent the player from operating the storage release operation means in vain. That is, for example, when the reserve is full (when the number of game balls won at the start winning opening is held at a predetermined number) or when the transition is in a low probability state, the operation of the storage release operation means is controlled by the storage means. It is possible to prevent the stored game balls from being wasted.

A fifth invention is the gaming machine according to the fourth invention, wherein the restricting means restricts the operation of the storage release operating means 28 in the low transition probability state. That is, in the fourth invention, the predetermined gaming state is a transition low probability state.
According to the present invention, together with the effect of the fourth invention, the low-probability state when the storage release operation means 28 is restricted, the high-probability state when the operation is not restricted, Since the player can recognize which game state the game is in, the interest is improved.

  According to the present invention, the player can aim for the big hit with a realistic and high probability, and the degree of intervention in the game is increased, so that the interest can be improved.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that this embodiment is merely an example of the present invention, and is not construed as being limited thereto, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a ball game machine (also referred to as a pachinko machine) to which the present invention is applied. In the ball game machine, for example, an inner frame (base door) 2 is pivotally supported on the front surface of the outer frame 1, and a game ball as shown in FIG. 2 rolls on the front surface of the inner frame 2. A game board 11 that flows down is detachably mounted.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 11 used in this embodiment. On the back of the game board 11, an effect display device 10 for performing a decorative effect display or the like is mounted, and the back of the effect display device 10 is shown. 1 and 2 show a main control board (main control circuit 31) for controlling the progress of the performance not shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, and each effect device (effect display device) according to a signal from the main control board (main control circuit 31). 10. A control device such as a sub-control board (sub-control circuit 42) for controlling a speaker 29, a lamp 30 and the like, and a pay-out control board (pay-out / launch control circuit 38) for controlling the paying of balls and prize balls is mounted. Has been.
For example, the main CPU 32 constituting the main control circuit 31 shifts to a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player according to a predetermined jackpot lottery probability value based on the winning of a game ball in a start winning opening 14 described later. It functions as a game state transition determination means for determining whether or not to perform. In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has a high transition probability state with a high jackpot lottery probability value (hereinafter also simply referred to as a transition high probability state) and a low transition probability state with a low jackpot lottery probability value (hereinafter simply referred to as a low transition probability). The main CPU 32 determines whether the game state is one of the transition high probability state and the transition low probability state based on the fact that a game ball has won a winning winning opening 14 described later. It functions as a transition probability determination means for determining whether or not to shift to the above.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a front door 3 fitted with a glass plate 4 is pivotally supported on the front surface of the inner frame 2. When the front door 3 is closed, the front door 3 is opened from the front side of the front door 3. The game board 11 is visually recognized through the glass plate 4.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a speaker 29 as a sound production device is provided on the front surface of the inner frame 2.
As shown in FIG. 1, a lamp 30 as an effect device using light is provided on the front side of the front door 3.

As shown in FIG. 1, the game ball paid out from the payout device is supplied from the game ball receiving port 5 a to the lower front portion of the front door 3 and the game ball is supplied to the launching device 9. A game ball supply tray (upper plate) 5 is integrally provided.
The lower part of the front surface of the inner frame 2 that pivotally supports the front door 3 has a lower tray discharge port 6a that discharges a ball overflowing inward of the game ball receiving port 5a when the game ball supply tray 5 is full. A mounting base 7 having a lower plate 6 is pivotally supported.
Reference numeral 8 shown in FIG. 1 denotes a handle of a launching device 9 that launches a game ball toward the game area. When the lever 8a of the handle 8 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the launch stop switch is turned on and driven. The tip is actuated by driving a launching solenoid (not shown) to strike the game ball supplied from the game ball supply tray 5 and launch the game ball into the game area provided in the game board.

The effect display device 10 displays, for example, a liquid crystal effect display device (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) that displays decorative effects such as “7”, “7”, and “7”, and a moving image or a still image from a projector. The projection image effect display device that is refracted and displayed by the reflecting plate is also a target, and is not particularly limited, and various effect display devices are applied within the scope of the present invention.
The effect display device 10 is display-controlled by display control means (for example, the image control circuit 46 of the sub-control circuit 42).
Further, the size of the effect display device 10 can be changed in accordance with the size of the transparent member portion of the game board base 12 described later, but is not particularly limited.
Embodiments that do not include the effect display device 10 are also within the scope of the present invention.

  The game board 11 includes a predetermined game member on the game board base 12 to form a game area A.

The game board base 12 is formed of a material that can fix a game member and has hardness, strength, and the like that do not easily deform (bend) or change quality.
Further, in this embodiment, the game board base 12 is formed of a highly transparent hard synthetic resin material (transparent member) such as a colorless and transparent acrylic resin material, polycarbonate resin, polyarylate resin, and the like, The effect display device 10 disposed on the back side is visible through the transparent member.
It is also within the scope of the present invention to adopt a material other than resin, such as glass, and the design can be changed.

  The game members refer to all members necessary for the game in the ball game machine. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, a game area A where the game ball rolls is defined, and the game area A A guide rail 13 for guiding a game ball launched from the launching solenoid, and a start winning device (also referred to as a start winning port) 14 for starting a variation display of the effect display device 10 and starting a lottery process for determining whether or not to win. A prize-winning device (also called a prize-winning opening) 15 that constitutes a special electric accessory called an attacker that is opened at the time of a big hit, a general prize-winning slot 16 in which a game ball (prize ball) is paid out when a game ball wins, a game An out port 17 for discharging an out ball that missed a winning in the area, a gate 18 for operating a normal symbol display device, a number of game nails (not shown) that change the flow of the game ball, and the present invention The game balls flowing down the game area A are stored, and the stored game balls can be awarded to a predetermined winning port (for example, the start winning port 14 in this embodiment). Storage means 19 and the like are provided.

The storage unit 19 includes a storage unit 20 for storing game balls, a lead-out port 24 for leading the stored game balls to a predetermined winning port (for example, a start winning port 14), and the storage unit 20 to the lead-out port 24. It is comprised with the derivation | leading-out path 25 which guides a game ball.
For example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, an accessory having a pistol (handgun) shape is adopted, and the stored game ball is configured to be able to win a start winning opening 14. Hereinafter, an example of the storage means 19 will be described based on the present embodiment. In the following description, the storage means 19 may be described with the same reference numeral as a pistol-shaped accessory. Further, in this embodiment, the accessory 19 having the pistol shape is taken as an example as described above, but the appearance shape of the accessory used as the storage means 19 is not particularly limited, and is related to the gameability of the gaming machine. The shape can be changed accordingly, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the pistol-shaped accessory 19 is provided in the area between the display area (the area where the screen of the effect display device 10 is displayed) B in the game area A and the start winning opening 14. The muzzle portion 19b of the side (left side in the drawing) 19a is positioned near the upper portion of the start winning port 14, and the rear side (right side in the drawing) 19c is raised to the right with respect to the front side 19a. It is located. And as shown in FIG. 3, the outlet 24 is provided in the muzzle part 19b of the said front side 19a, and the storage part 20 is provided in the said rear side 19c. In addition, a cylindrical lead-out path that guides the game ball released from the storage part 20 toward the lead-out opening 24 inside the barrel portion 19d provided between the storage part 20 and the lead-out opening 24. 25 is provided.

  In the present embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the storage unit 20 is disposed in the storage space 21 in which the introduction port 21 a is opened in the height direction of the game board 11, and is disposed in the storage space 21. The storage member 22 is controlled to be rotatable in the clockwise direction (right rotation in the drawing).

In this embodiment, the storage member 22 is configured to be able to store one game ball. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the storage member 22 penetrates over the front and back surfaces of the game board base 12, and the game board base. The four flat plates 22b are arranged at equal intervals around the rotating shaft 22a protruding so as to be orthogonal to the surface of the twelve surface, and one gaming ball can be accommodated between the adjacent flat plates 22b ( Storage area) 23 is formed.
The rotary shaft 22a is transmitted with intermittent rotation operation (rotation operation by 90 degrees) by a drive mechanism (for example, a storage solenoid) constituting a storage release means 27 described later. The rotation of the open portion 22c is controlled by the sub CPU of the sub control circuit so as to be positioned below the introduction port 21a of the storage space 21. That is, in this embodiment, the four storage areas 23 are provided, but the area where game balls can be stored is only one storage area 23 located below the introduction port 21a. Accordingly, the storage region 23 is sequentially replaced by the rotation operation of the storage member 22 in the right direction.
The storage space 21 is not particularly limited as long as the storage member 22 can store a game ball and has a spatial region that does not hinder the rotation operation of the storage member 22, and has an arbitrary space shape. Is possible. In addition, the storage space 21 is provided with an opening region 21b that communicates with the outlet path 25 in the direction of the outlet 24.

The lead-out path 25 is a continuous cylindrical shape having a hole diameter in which the game ball can roll in a downwardly inclined manner toward the start winning port 14 from the discharge region 21b provided in the storage space 21 toward the inside of the barrel portion 19d. The muzzle portion 19b on the end side is provided with a lead-out port 24 provided by an opening. The outlet port 24 is provided so as to be positioned above the start winning port 14.
The material of the barrel portion 19d constituting the outlet path 25 and the outlet 24 may be configured by a transparent member. By comprising in this way, it can visually recognize from a player that a game ball released | released from the storage part 20 rolls toward the start winning opening 14, and the game can be enjoyed.
In the present embodiment, the storage detecting means 26 is provided in the vicinity of the storage section 20, and the storage release means 27 that releases the storage state of the game balls by the storage section 20 and sends the game balls to the lead-out path 25. I have.

The storage detection unit 26 detects that a game ball has been stored in the storage space 21 of the storage unit 20 and sends a detected signal to the sub CPU 43 of the sub control circuit 42 (hereinafter, storage detection unit). And the storage ball detection sensor will be described with the same reference numeral 26), and the storage ball 20 is provided at a predetermined position on the side surface of the storage unit 20 facing the storage space 21. For example, in this embodiment, a non-contact detection sensor 26 having a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit is employed.
In addition, a well-known detection sensor can be adopted as the storage ball detection sensor 26 within the scope of the present invention. For example, as another example of a non-contact detection sensor similar to the present embodiment, a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit are provided. Each may be configured to face each other, or a well-known contact type detection sensor may be employed. Further, when the game ball is stored, the fact that it is stored may be notified via the effect display device 10, or may be notified by voice or lamp.
In addition, in the present Example, although the structure provided with such a storage detection means 26 is employ | adopted, even the structure which does not employ | adopt the storage detection means 26 is within the scope of the present invention.

  The storage release means 27 is a drive mechanism such as a storage solenoid (hereinafter referred to as a storage release means, a storage solenoid, or the like) that transmits a rotation operation to a rotary shaft 22a that rotatably supports a storage member 22 that constitutes the storage section 20. The drive mechanism is described with the same reference numeral 27), and the storage member 22 is released by rotating the storage member 22 so that the open portion 22c of the storage member 22 faces the discharge region 21b. The drive mechanism 27 is driven and controlled by the release operation of the storage operation release means 28 controlled by the sub CPU 43 of the sub control circuit 42. In this embodiment, the rotation is controlled so as to be intermittently rotated 90 degrees in the left direction on the drawing.

In this embodiment, the storage release operation means 28 is a storage release operation button for the player to operate the rotation operation of the drive mechanism constituting the storage release means 27 (hereinafter referred to as the storage release operation means and the storage release operation). The button is described with the same reference numeral 28).
The storage release operation button 28 is provided in the upper platen portion 5 as disclosed in the present embodiment, but the arrangement location is not limited to the present embodiment, and the game on the front of the gaming machine It is provided in a place where a person can easily operate.

  Further, in the present embodiment, there is provided an informing means for informing that the gaming state is a high transition probability state.

  That is, when the gaming state is a transition high probability state, a notification means for displaying the screen (“highly probable”) as shown in FIG. 5 on the effect display device 10 and notifying the operation timing of the storage release operation button 28 is provided. The configuration provided was adopted. The player can know from the notification by the screen display that the current state is a high probability state, and during a predetermined time during which the notification is made, the player releases the storage release operation button 28 and plays the game ball by the storage unit 20. The game ball flowing down from the outlet port 24 is released to the start winning port 14, and the big hit timing can be intentionally aimed. For example, if the notification to the effect display device 10 is made on condition that the predetermined requirement is achieved or by lottery, even if the transition to the transition low probability state is actually made, the transition high probability state It may be notified that

  In the present embodiment, means for notifying the user of the transition to the high transition probability state is used. However, the speaker 29 or the like is used for voice notification, or the lamp 30 is used for light notification. The notification means and contents are not particularly limited, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.

  Further, in this embodiment, a form in which the player is informed of the operation timing of the storage release operation button 28 via the notification means is adopted, but it is determined that the game has shifted to the high probability state without using the notification means. The design can be changed within the scope of the present invention without the need to notify the person.

  Here, a block diagram of a control system of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The main control circuit 31 includes a main CPU 32, a main ROM (read only memory) 33, a main RAM (read / write memory) 34, and an I / O 35 which are control means. The main control circuit 31 controls the progress of the game.
Further, in this embodiment, the main CPU 32 determines a game state transition to transition to a predetermined game state (a big hit game state, a specific reach occurrence state, a probability change transition state, etc.) based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening 14. However, the sub CPU 43 of the sub control circuit 42 may function, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.

  The main CPU 32 is connected to a main ROM 33, a main RAM 34, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes in accordance with programs stored in the main ROM 33. Thus, the main CPU 32 functions as various means described later. That is, as described above, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the main CPU 32 functions as a gaming state transition determination unit and a transition probability determination unit.

  A program for controlling the operation of the gaming machine by the main CPU 32 is stored in the main ROM 33. In addition, a jackpot determination table (for example, a transition shown in FIG. 13) referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery. High probability jackpot determination table / transition low probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 14) or transition probability determination table (eg, transition high probability table shown in FIG. 11 / transition low probability table shown in FIG. 12) Various tables such as an effect condition selection table that is referred to when selecting an effect are also stored.

  In the present embodiment, the main ROM 33 is used as a medium for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded and recorded in the main RAM 34 or the like after the power is turned on. Furthermore, each of the programs may be recorded on separate storage media. In this embodiment, the main CPU 32, the main ROM 33, and the main RAM 34 are provided separately, but a one-chip microcomputer in which these are integrated may be used.

The main RAM 34 has a function of storing various flags, counters, timers, and data values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 32.
The main control circuit 31 includes a command output port 36 for supplying a command to a sub control circuit 42 described later. The command output port 36 is connected to the main CPU 32. The command output port 36 corresponds to transmission means for transmitting various commands to the sub control circuit 42 (various means included in the sub control circuit 42).

  The main control circuit 31 has an I / O 35, and various devices are connected to the I / O 35. For example, a V / count switch 15a, a count switch 15b, a general winning port switch 16a, a passing gate switch 18a, a starting winning port switch 14a, a starting winning port solenoid 14b, a large winning port solenoid 15c, a seesaw solenoid 15d, and a backup clear switch 37 are provided. Connected.

  The V / count switch 15 a is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening 15 provided on the game board base 12. The V / count switch 15 a supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 31 when a game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening 15.

  The count switch 15 b is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening 15. The count switch 15 b supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 31 when the game ball passes through the general area in the special winning opening 15.

  The general winning opening switch 16 a is provided in the general winning opening 16 provided on the game board base 12. The general winning opening switch 16 a supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 31 when a game ball passes through each general winning opening 16.

  The passing gate switch 18 a is provided in the passing gate 18 provided on the game board base 12. The passing gate switch 18 a supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 31 when a game ball passes through the passing gate 18.

  The start winning port switch 14 a is provided in the start winning port 14 provided on the game board base 12. The start winning port switch 14 a supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 31 when a game ball wins the start winning port 14.

  The start winning port solenoid 14b is connected to a blade member 14c provided in the start winning port 14 via a link member, and drives the blade member 14c in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 32 to start start winning. The mouth 14 is opened or closed.

  The special prize opening solenoid 15c is connected to a shutter (door) 15e, and drives the shutter 15e in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 32 to make the special prize opening 15 open or closed.

  The seesaw solenoid 15d is a plate-like body and is connected to a seesaw provided inside the shutter 15e. The seesaw solenoid 15d displaces the seesaw according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 32, and changes the inclination of the seesaw. As a result of the tilting of the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through a specific area in the special winning opening 15 or to easily pass through a general area.

  The backup clear switch 37 is provided on the front side of the gaming machine, is connected to the main CPU 32 via the I / O 35, and is further connected to the payout / launch control circuit 38 to store backup data at the time of power interruption or the like. It has a function to clear according to the operation of the administrator.

A payout / firing control circuit 38 is connected to the main control circuit 31.
To the payout / launch control circuit 38, a prize ball payout device 39 for paying out game balls and a launch device 9 for launching game balls are connected. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 38 is connected to the card unit 40, and the payout / fire control circuit 38 and the card unit 40 transmit / receive data related to the prepaid card inserted into the card unit 40, and a ball lending operation panel. A game ball is lent by the operation of 41.

  The payout / launch control circuit 38 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 31, receives a ball lending control signal supplied from the card unit 40, and sends a predetermined signal to the prize ball payout device 39. By transmitting, the prize ball payout device 39 is paid out. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 38 controls the launching of the game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launching device 9. The prize ball payout device 39 is employed as an example of a payout means for paying out a prize ball when the launched (injected) game ball passes through a predetermined area.

  In addition, the launching device 9 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching motor (launching solenoid) and the touch sensor described above. When the handle 8 is gripped by the player and the lever 8a is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing motor according to the rotation angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 5 is The launch motor sequentially fires the game area A of the game board 11. Note that such a launching device 9 is employed as an example of a launching unit that launches (injects) a game ball in accordance with the player's operation.

Further, a sub control circuit 42 is connected to the command output port 36.
In this embodiment, a command is supplied from the main control circuit 31 to the sub control circuit 42 and a signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 42 to the main control circuit 31. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if the signal is transmitted from the sub control circuit 42 to the main control circuit 31.

  The sub control circuit 42 performs display control in the effect display device 10, control related to sound generated from the speaker 29, control of the lamp 30, and control of the lamp 30 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 31. 28 and the storage solenoid 27 are controlled.

  The sub-control circuit 42 is a sub CPU 43 as storage control means such as control of the storage release operation button 28 and control of the storage solenoid 27 as program display control means, sound control means, lamp control means, and program ROM 44 as storage means. , Work RAM 45, image control circuit 46 for performing display control in effect display device 10 (liquid crystal display device: LCD), sound control circuit 47 for controlling sound generated from speaker 29, decoration lamp / LED (not shown) ) Including a lamp control circuit 48 for controlling the lamp 30 and a command input port 49 for inputting a signal from the command output port 36 of the main control circuit 31.

  The sub CPU 43 is connected to a program ROM 44, a work RAM 45, and the like. The sub CPU 43 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 44. In particular, the sub CPU 43 controls the sub control circuit 42 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 31.

The program ROM 44 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the gaming machine by the sub CPU 43, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect.
The program ROM 44 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display. The effect display is, for example, a display for changing the identification information.

  In the present embodiment, the program ROM 44 is used as the storage means for storing programs, tables, etc., but the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be stored in a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Of course, the main ROM 33 may be used as the storage means. These programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after power-on and recorded in the work RAM 45 or the like. Furthermore, each of the programs may be recorded on separate storage media.

The work RAM 45 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 43. For example, various variables such as an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern are positioned.
In the present embodiment, the work RAM 45 is used as a temporary storage for the sub CPU 43. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  Next, the operation of the main CPU 32 of the main control circuit 31 which is a control means for controlling the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Main control circuit main processing]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing main processing which is a part of the operation of the main CPU 32 according to the present embodiment.
In step 100 (S100), the main CPU 32 restores the various settings stored in the main RAM 34 to the settings when the power was last turned off (or initializes the various settings stored in the main RAM 34).

  In step 110 (S110), the main CPU 32 sets a state in which execution of a system interrupt process described later is permitted.

  In step 120 (S120), the main CPU 32 performs a special symbol control process for variably displaying symbols on the effect display device 10. Details will be described later.

  In step 130 (S130), the main CPU 32 performs a normal symbol control process that is performed when a game ball passes through the gate 18 of the game board 11. Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the start winning opening 14 is in an open state (normal symbol determination), and drives the pair of blade members 14a and 14a provided in the starting winning opening 14. Control and so on.

  In step 140 (S140), the main CPU 32 sets a state in which execution of a system interrupt process described later is prohibited.

  In step 150 (S150), the main CPU 32 updates a variable display pattern selection random number or the like used to determine the variable display pattern.

  In step 160 (S160), the main CPU 32 sets a state in which execution of a system interrupt process described later is permitted.

  The main CPU 32 repeats the processing from step 100 to step 160 described above.

[System timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a system timer interrupt process which is a part of the operation of the main CPU 32 according to the present embodiment.
The system timer interruption process is a process executed by interruption every predetermined time during execution of the main process.
In step 200 (S200), the main CPU 32 saves the information stored in the register.

  In step 210 (S210), the main CPU 32 updates values such as a jackpot determining random number and a jackpot symbol determining random number.

  In step 220 (S220), the main CPU 32 performs processing for detecting a start winning port (processing for detecting a gate passage) and each switch (start winning port switch 14a, passing gate switch 18a, general winning port switch 16a, V / count switch). 15a and the count switch 15b) is determined whether or not the signal is input to the I / O 35. Further, when there is a signal input to the I / O 35, the main CPU 32 performs processing according to the input signal.

  In step 230 (S230), the main CPU 32 updates values such as a waiting time timer and a special prize opening time timer.

  The waiting time timer is a timer in which a waiting time until the main CPU 32 moves to the next process is set in each process of the special symbol control process. The big prize opening time timer is a timer in which the maximum time (big prize opening time) for which the big prize opening 15 is opened in one round is set.

  In this embodiment, each timer described above is configured to count down the time set in the timer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and counts up the time. It may be configured.

  In step 240 (S240), the main CPU 32 generates game information such as the number of game balls paid out as prize balls and that the game state is a big hit state, and the hall installed in the game hall. Output to computer.

  In step 250 (S250), the main CPU 32 controls the start winning port solenoid 14b to drive the pair of blade members 14a, 14a provided in the starting winning port 14, and the shutter of the big winning port 15. A signal for controlling the special winning opening solenoid 15c is output so as to drive 15e.

  In step 260 (S260), the main CPU 32 outputs the set command (variation pattern designation command associated with the special symbol control process) to the sub-control circuit 42.

  In step 270 (S270), the main CPU 32 determines a predetermined number of game balls as winning balls according to the types of winning holes (starting winning port 14, large winning port 15, and general winning port 16) into which game balls have entered. A prize ball control command for instructing the payout is output to the payout / firing control circuit 38.

  In step 280 (S280), the main CPU 32 restores the information saved in step 200 to the register.

  In step 290 (S290), the system timer interrupt processing is set to be permitted.

  In the system timer interrupt process, after the above steps are processed, the address before the interrupt occurrence is restored.

[Special symbol control processing]
Hereinafter, the special symbol control process executed in step 120 (S120) of the main process described above will be described.
In the special symbol control process, as shown in FIG. 9, in step 120-1 (S120-1), the main CPU 32 executes a process of loading a control state flag. The control state flag is a flag indicating the state of the game in the special symbol game, and the main CPU 32 determines from step 120-2 (S120-2) to step 120-10 (S120-) based on the control state flag. It is determined whether or not each process in 10) is executed.

  In step 120-2 (S120-2), the main CPU 32 determines that the control state flag is a value (00) indicating the special symbol storage check process and the number of special symbol hold storage number data is “1” or more. Then, it is determined whether or not the jackpot determination random number value matches the jackpot determination value (jackpot determination). In addition, when the big hit determination random number value matches the big hit determination value, the main CPU 32 determines a special symbol stop symbol (big hit symbol) based on the big hit symbol determination random number value and selects a variable display pattern. The variable display pattern is determined based on the random number value for use. On the other hand, when the big hit determination random number value does not coincide with the big hit determination value, the main CPU 32 determines the special symbol loss symbol based on the loss symbol determination random number value, and sets the variable display pattern selection random number value to the random symbol value. Based on this, the variable display pattern is determined.

  In addition, the main CPU 32 sets a value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management process in the control state flag, and sets the variation display time corresponding to the determined variation display pattern in the waiting time timer.

  In step 120-4 (S120-4), the main CPU 32 sets the control state flag to a value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the variation display time is set is “0”. In this case, a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process is set in the control state flag and set in the waiting time timer after determination.

  In step 120-5 (S120-5), the main CPU 32 sets the control state flag to a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the waiting time after determination is set is “0”. If "", the following processing is performed.

That is, the main CPU 32 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management process to the control state flag and starts the big hit when the big hit determination random number value is determined to match the big hit determination value in the big hit determination. The time corresponding to the interval is set in the waiting time timer.
Further, the main CPU 32 turns off the high probability flag. The high probability flag is a flag for determining whether or not the gaming state is a transition high probability state.

  On the other hand, the main CPU 32 sets a value (08) indicating a special symbol game end process in the control state flag when it is determined in the jackpot determination that the random number for jackpot determination does not match the jackpot determination value.

  In step 120-5 (S120-5), the main CPU 32 sets the control state flag to a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the big hit start interval is set. In the case of “0”, the special prize opening solenoid 15c is controlled so that the special prize opening 15 is opened. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a value (05) indicating the process for opening the big prize opening in the control state flag, and at the same time, the maximum time for which the big prize opening 15 is opened in one round (big prize opening opening time). Is set in the big prize opening time timer.

  In step 120-6 (S120-6), the main CPU 32 waits for the control state flag to be a value (04) indicating the waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening, and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds is set. When the value of the time timer is “0”, “1” is added to the value of the special winning opening opening number counter. In addition, the main CPU 32 sets a value (05) indicating a process for opening the big prize opening to the control state flag, and sets the big prize opening time to the big prize opening time timer.

  In step 120-7 (S120-7), when the control state flag is a value (05) indicating the process for opening the big winning opening, the main winning opening opening time in which the big winning opening is set. Whether any one of the conditions that the timer value is “0” or the condition that the value of the big prize counter is a predetermined value (for example, “10” or more) is satisfied. judge.

  Further, the main CPU 32 controls the special prize opening solenoid 15c so that the special prize opening 15 is closed when any of the above-described conditions is satisfied. Further, the main CPU 32 sets a value (06) indicating the special winning opening residual ball monitoring process in the control state flag, and sets the special winning prize residual ball monitoring time in the waiting time timer.

  In step 120-8 (S120-8), the main CPU 32 sets a waiting time timer in which the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the winning ball remaining ball monitoring process and the winning ball remaining ball monitoring time is set. When the value is “0”, the condition that the game ball has not passed through the specific area provided in the big prize opening 15 or the value of the big prize opening number counter is a predetermined value (for example, “15”). It is determined whether or not any one of the conditions (the condition that the number of rounds is the final round) is satisfied. The big prize opening number counter is a counter for counting the number of rounds in the big hit state.

  When any of the above-described conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 32 sets a value (07) indicating the big hit end interval process in the control state flag and sets a time corresponding to the big hit end interval. Set to the wait timer. On the other hand, when none of the above conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 32 sets a value (04) indicating a waiting time management process before the big winning opening reopening to the control state flag, and rounds. The time corresponding to the interval is set in the waiting time timer.

  In step 120-9 (S120-9), the main CPU 32 sets the control state flag to a value (07) indicating the big hit end interval process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the time corresponding to the big hit end interval is set is " If it is 0 ", a value (08) indicating the special symbol game end process is set in the control state flag. Moreover, the main CPU 32 sets a high probability flag when the jackpot symbol stopped and displayed on the effect display device 10 is a specific symbol (probability variation symbol).

  In step 120-10 (S120-10), when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the special symbol game end process, the main CPU 32 subtracts 1 from the special symbol hold memory number data and also the special symbol. A value (00) indicating the storage check process is set in the control state flag.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The special symbol memory check process (special symbol memory check process) executed in step 120-2 (S120-2) of the special symbol control process described above will be described below.
In the special symbol memory check process, as shown in FIG. 10, in step 120-2-1 (S120-2-1), the main CPU 32 sets the control state flag to a value (00) indicating the special symbol memory check process. It is determined whether or not. When the control state flag is a value (00) indicating the special symbol storage check process, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the process of step 120-2-2 (S120-2-2), and the control state flag is special. If it is not the value (00) indicating the symbol memory check process, the special symbol memory check process is terminated.

In step 120-2-2 (S120-2-2), the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the value of the special symbol reserved storage number data (starting storage number data) stored in the main RAM 34 is "0". To do.
On the other hand, when the value of the special symbol reserved memory number data is “0”, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the processing of step 120-2-3 (S120-2-3), and the value of the special symbol reserved memory number data. Is equal to or greater than “1”, the process proceeds to step 120-2-4 (S120-2-4).

  In step 120-2-3 (S120-2-3), the main CPU 32 sets a command (demonstration display command) for instructing to display a predetermined demonstration on the effect display device 10. The predetermined demonstration is an operation for preventing the player from getting bored when the special symbol is not variably displayed on the effect display device 10.

  In step 120-2-4 (S120-2-4), the main CPU 32 sets a value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management process in the control state flag.

In step 120-2-5 (S120-2-5), the main CPU 32 reads the gaming state flag (whether it is a high transition probability state or a low transition probability state), and based on the read gaming state flag, it is shown in FIG. Either the transition high probability table (transition high probability state table) or the transition low probability table shown in FIG. 12 (transition low probability state table) is selected, and transition probability determination processing is performed (transition) A determination is made as to whether to transition to a high probability state or a transition low probability state.)
Specifically, a random number value is extracted from a transition probability determination random number (in this embodiment, a big hit determination random number is used), and the transition high probability table shown in FIG. The determination is made with reference to the table for low transition probability shown. For example, when the table for transition high probability shown in FIG. 11 is referred to, if the random value is in the range of 0 to 32, the gaming state is shifted to the transition low probability state, and the random value is in the range of 33 to 256. If it is within, the game state is not shifted.
Further, when the table for transition low probability shown in FIG. 12 is referred to, if the random value is in the range of 0 to 2, the gaming state is shifted to the transition high probability state, and the random value is in the range of 3 to 256. If it is within, the game state is not shifted.

In step 120-2-6 (S120-2-6), the main CPU 32 performs jackpot determination processing based on the transition probability state determined by the transition probability determination processing.
That is, one jackpot determination table is generated based on the transition probability state from a plurality of tables having different jackpot determination values (the transition hit probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 13 or the transition low probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 14). The jackpot determination process is performed.
Specifically, a random number value is extracted from the jackpot determination random number, and the jackpot determination table (the transition high probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 13 or the transition low probability jackpot shown in FIG. 14) based on the random value. The determination is made with reference to the determination table. For example, when the transitional high probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 13 is referenced, if the random number value is in the range of 0 to 20, it is determined that the jackpot is hit, and the random value is in the range of 21 to 256. If it is not a big hit, it is determined that it is not lost.
Further, when the transition low probability jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 14 is referred to, if the random value is within the range of 0 to 1, it is determined to be a jackpot, and the random value is within the range of 2 to 256. If it is not a big hit, it is determined that it is not lost.

  In step 120-2-7 (S120-2-7), the main CPU 32 confirms whether or not it is determined to shift the gaming state to the big hit state as a result of the big hit determination. When the main CPU 32 determines that the gaming state is to be shifted to the big hit state, the main CPU 32 proceeds to the processing of step 120-2-8 (S120-2-8) and determines not to shift the gaming state to the big hit state. In this case, the process proceeds to step 120-2-9 (S120-2-9).

  In step 120-2-8 (S120-2-8), the main CPU 32 executes a special symbol variation display based on the random symbol value for determining the big hit symbol included in the start-up stored data, and as a result, the big hit to stop display. Determine the design. Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines the probability variation symbol as a jackpot symbol when the jackpot symbol determination random number value matches the probability variation determination value. On the other hand, the main CPU 32 determines the normal symbol as the big hit symbol when the random number for determining the big hit symbol does not match the probability variation determination value.

  In step 120-2-9 (S120-2-9), the main CPU 32 executes the special symbol variation display on the effect display device 10 based on the random symbol value for determining the lose symbol, and as a result, the effect display device. 10 Decide which symbols to stop and display.

  In step 120-2-10 (S120-2-10), the main CPU 32 determines whether or not to shift the gaming state to the big hit state in step 120-2-6 (S120-2-6), and Based on whether or not the high probability flag is on (whether or not the gaming state is a probable variation state), the variation pattern is determined and a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation pattern is set.

  Specifically, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not to shift the gaming state to the big hit state, and whether or not the high probability flag is on (whether or not the gaming state is a probable change state). Thus, the corresponding variation pattern selection table is selected from the variation pattern selection table group. The main CPU 32 refers to the selected variation pattern selection table, selects a variation pattern based on the variation pattern selection random value, and sets a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the selected variation pattern.

  In step 120-2-11 (S120-2-11), the main CPU 32 sets the fluctuation display time corresponding to the selected fluctuation pattern in the waiting time timer.

  In step 120-2-12 (S120-2-12), the main CPU 32 clears the storage area used for the current variation.

  Next, the operation of the sub CPU 43 in the sub control circuit 42 which is a control means for controlling the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation (main processing) of the sub CPU 43 according to the present embodiment.

  In step 300 (S300), the sub CPU 43 returns the various settings stored in the work RAM 45 to the settings when the power was cut off last time. (Or, initialize various settings stored in the work RAM 45.)

In step 310 (S310), the sub CPU 43 receives the command (the command input from the main control circuit 31 and the signal from the storage detection sensor), analyzes the command stored in the reception buffer, and determines the result of the analysis. Perform the corresponding process.

  In step 320 (S320), the sub CPU 43 performs display control processing according to the data set in the command analysis processing. Specifically, the sub CPU 43 displays an identification symbol, a preview image, a background image, or the like on the effect display device 10 by controlling the image control circuit 46. Further, in this embodiment, when the transition to the transition high probability state is determined, the effect display device 10 displays (notifies) that the gaming state has transitioned to the transition high probability state (see FIG. 5). . That is, as described above, since the big hit probability value in the transition high probability state is about 20/256, if the storage release operation means 28 is operated when notified in this way, the big hit can be intentionally aimed. Is possible. This display is performed until the winning lottery from the high probability state to the low probability state is won.

  In step 330 (S330), the sub CPU 43 performs voice control processing according to the data set in the command analysis processing. Specifically, the sub CPU 43 outputs sound effects, voices, and the like from the speaker 29 by controlling the voice control circuit 47.

  In step 340 (S340), the sub CPU 43 performs lamp control processing according to the data set in the command analysis processing. Specifically, the sub CPU 43 controls the lamp control circuit 48 to turn on / off the lamp 30 in a predetermined pattern.

  In step 350 (S350), the sub CPU 43 performs storage control processing in accordance with a signal from the storage ball detection sensor 26. The details of the storage control process will be described later (see FIG. 15).

[Sub CPU interrupt processing]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating interrupt processing that is a part of the operation of the sub CPU 43 according to the present embodiment. The interrupt process is a process executed by interrupting every predetermined time during the execution of the main process of the sub CPU 43.

  In step 400 (S400), the sub CPU 43 saves the information stored in the register.

In step 410 (S410), the sub CPU 43 performs a timer update process.
Specifically, the operation valid timer for the storage control process is updated.

In step 420 (S420), the sub CPU 43 performs a stored ball detection process.
The sub CPU 43 detects whether or not a game ball (also referred to as a stored ball) is stored in the storage unit 20 by the storage ball detection sensor 26, and the game ball is stored in the storage unit 20 based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the sensor 26. It is checked whether or not the game ball is stored. If there is a game ball, an operation activation flag (a flag for enabling the storage release operation button 28) is set. If there is no game ball, processing is performed. finish.

In step 430 (S430), the sub CPU 43 performs storage cancellation operation button input processing.
The sub CPU 43 checks whether or not the storage release operation button 28 has been operated (inputted), and sets the storage release flag when the button operation is performed, and when the button operation is not performed. The process is terminated.

  In step 440 (S440), the sub CPU 43 restores the information saved in step 400 (S400) to the register.

Command analysis process
Hereinafter, command analysis processing according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the command analysis process, as shown in FIG. 17, in step 310-1 (S310-1), the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not a command has been received. Further, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to the process of step 310-2 (S310-2) when the command is received, and ends the command analysis process when the command is not received.

  In step 310-2 (S310-2), the sub CPU 43 reads the received command, and determines whether or not the gaming state is a transition high probability state. Further, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to the processing of step 310-3 (S310-3) when the gaming state is the transition high probability state, and proceeds to step 310-4 (step 310-4 (S310-3) when the gaming state is not the transition high probability state. The process proceeds to S310-4).

Further, in this embodiment, in step 310-3 (S310-3), when the gaming state is the transition high probability state, the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not to notify that the gaming state is the transition high probability state. Determine whether or not. For example, there is an example in which determination processing is performed using a lottery means such that notification is performed only when a predetermined random number value is extracted, and notification is not performed when other random number values are extracted.
Moreover, it is good also as what alert | reports that a gaming state is a transition high probability state based on having achieved predetermined requirements. For example, a predetermined starting memory number has been achieved, a predetermined reach has been achieved, a predetermined time has passed, etc., are examples of requirements for achieving the predetermined condition, and only when such requirements are satisfied, A notification that the gaming state has shifted to the transition high probability state may be made, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.

  In Step 310-4 (S310-4), the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not the gaming state is a transition low probability state. Further, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to the processing of Step 310-8 (S310-8) when the gaming state is the low transition probability state, and proceeds to Step 310-6 (S310-8) when the gaming state is not the high transition probability state. The process proceeds to S310-6).

In step 310-5 (S310-5), the sub CPU 43 confirms whether or not it is determined to notify that there is a transition high probability state as a result of performing the transition high probability state notification determination. Also, if the sub CPU 43 determines to notify that it is in the transition high probability state, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to the process of step 310-7 (S310-7), and if determined not to notify, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to step 310-8 ( The process proceeds to S310-8).
In the present embodiment, there is a lottery means for performing lottery to determine whether or not to notify that there is a transition high probability state when it is in the transition high probability state. The lottery for determining whether or not to make a notification is performed with a predetermined probability. If the lottery is not won, even if the lottery shifts to the transition high probability state, the notification that the transition high probability state is not performed (step 310). -8 (S310-8). Therefore, for example, in the notification (display) of the transition low probability state, there may be a transition to the transition high probability state in terms of internal processing.
That is, the determination lottery of whether or not to notify that the transition is in a high probability state is performed, and if the determination lottery is won, the state falls down to the transition low probability state or is not notified in the notification determination process Notification that the transition is in a high probability state is made until winning. On the other hand, if the determination lottery is not won, the transition high probability state is not notified even in the transition high probability state.
In this embodiment, the notification determination process is performed for each game even in the transition high probability state, but once the transition high probability state notification lottery is won, the transition high probability state until the transition to the transition low probability state. You may make it alert | report that it is. Further, even if the transition is in a low probability state, a lottery may be performed with a predetermined probability, and notification that the transition is in a high probability state may be made even when the transition is not in a high probability state.
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the process of determining whether or not the transition high probability state is to be notified is performed, but the present invention may be notified without fail in the case of the transition high probability state. The design can be changed within the scope of the invention.

  In step 310-6 (S310-6), the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not the customer is waiting. If the sub CPU 43 determines that the customer is waiting, the process proceeds to step 310-9 (S310-9). If the sub CPU 43 determines that the customer is not waiting, the sub CPU 43 proceeds to step 310-10 (S310). -10).

  In step 310-7 (S310-7), the sub CPU 43 sets control data for a transition high probability state notification effect.

  In step 310-8 (S310-8), the sub CPU 43 sets control data for a transition low probability state notification effect.

  In step 310-9 (S310-9), the sub CPU 43 sets control data according to the demonstration effect pattern table.

  In step 310-10 (S310-10), the sub CPU 43 sets control data corresponding to the other received command.

"Storage control processing"
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a storage control process that is a part of the operation of the sub CPU 43 according to the present embodiment. This storage control process is employed in an example of an embodiment provided with a limiting unit that limits the operation of the storage cancellation operation unit 28.
For example, the control unit limits the operation of the storage release operation unit 28 when the gaming state is a low transition state. For example, in the command analysis process, when it is determined that the gaming state is a high transition probability state, a storage cancellation operation enable state flag for enabling the operation of the storage cancellation operation means 28 is set, and the transition low probability state is set. If it is determined, the flag is not set. In addition, for example, it is within the scope of the present invention to limit the time when the reserve is full (when a predetermined number of game balls are held at the start winning opening).

  In the storage control process, as shown in FIG. 18, in step 350-1 (S350-1), the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not the flag of the storage release operation validation state is ON (whether or not the flag is set). If the flag is set, the process shifts to the storage release operation validation state and the process proceeds to step 350-2 (S350-2). If the flag is not set, The process is terminated. That is, when the gaming state is the low transition probability state, the operation of the storage release operation means 28 is limited, and the storage release operation means 28 is controlled to be operable only in the high transition probability state. Therefore, it is possible to aim at a big hit with a high probability.

  In step 350-2 (S350-2), the sub CPU 43 determines whether or not the storage release flag is ON (whether or not the flag is set). If the flag is set, step 350 is executed. -3 (S350-3), the process is terminated when the flag is not set. Specifically, it is detected whether or not the storage cancellation flag is set based on the input of the storage cancellation operation button 28.

  In Step 350-3 (S350-3), the sub CPU 43 controls storage cancellation. Specifically, when the storage release flag is detected in step 350-2 (S350-2), the storage solenoid 27 is driven and the storage member 22 is moved as the storage release control, and the storage of the game ball is released. Is done.

  In step 350-4 (S350-4), the sub CPU 43 clears the storage release flag.

  In step 350-5 (S350-5), when the sub CPU 43 clears the storage release flag, the sub CPU 43 clears the operation validation state flag and ends the operation validation state.

FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the storage means 19 can store a plurality of game balls, and the released game balls are released one by one at the time of release. It is what. In this embodiment, the number of storage areas is three, but the number of game balls that can be stored can be increased by increasing the storage area, and the design can be changed within the scope of the present invention.
The basic configuration of the storage means and the other configurations of the present invention are the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

A specific configuration will be described with reference to FIG. 4. The storage means 19 employs a pistol-shaped accessory similar to that in the first embodiment, and in this embodiment, the derivation is performed at predetermined intervals in the cylinder axis direction of the derivation path 25. Two flat storage plates 50 configured to be able to enter and exit perpendicular to the path 25 are provided, and each storage plate 50 is independently driven via a separate drive mechanism (storage solenoid) 27. By setting it as the structure, the 1st and 2nd game ball storage part (storage area) 51 and 52 is formed. A first storage area 51 and a second storage area 52 are configured from the front side (outlet) to the rear side.
In this embodiment, the rotatable storage member 22 employed in the first embodiment is configured to function as a third game ball storage section (storage area) 53 and also as a game ball feeding member.
The first storage area 51 to the third storage area 53 are each provided with a storage ball detection sensor 26. When it is detected that a game ball is stored in each storage area, the signal is sub-signaled. It is sent to the sub CPU 43 of the control circuit 42.

A specific operation according to the above configuration will be described below.
First, in a gaming state in which no game balls are stored in any of the storage areas, the storage member 22 constituting the third storage area 53 functions (controls) as a game ball feeding member. When the storage of the game ball is detected by the detection sensor 26, the sub CPU 43 of the sub control circuit 42 drives the storage solenoid 27 based on the detection, and the storage member 22 turns clockwise in the drawing by driving the storage solenoid 27. Rotating operation.
Then, the game balls stored in the third storage area 53 are sent out to the lead-out path 25 and roll toward the first storage area 51.
That is, when the storage ball detection sensor 26 detects the storage of the game ball as described above, the sub CPU 43 of the sub control circuit 42 derives from the storage plate 50 constituting the first storage region 51 based on the detection. Each storage solenoid 27 is moved toward the inside of the path 25 and moved from the inside of the lead-out path 25 to the inside of the game board 11 with respect to the storage plate 50 constituting the second storage area 52. In order to control the drive, the game ball can roll to the first storage area 51 along the lead-out path 25.

  Next, when it is detected that the game ball is stored in the first storage area 51, the sub control circuit is configured to drive the storage plate 50 constituting the second storage area 52 inward of the lead-out path 25. The sub CPU 43 of 42 controls. Thereby, the 2nd storage area | region 52 is comprised and it prepares for the next game ball storage.

  For example, when a game ball is newly stored in the third storage region 53 in this state, the storage member 22 is rotated and the game ball is stored in the second storage region 52 in the same manner as described above. .

  When a game ball is stored in the second storage region 53, no drive signal is sent to the storage solenoid 27 linked to the storage member 22, and the storage member 22 is in the third storage region 53. It stops at a predetermined position.

  For example, when the gaming state is a high transition state, each storage solenoid 27 is driven so as to move the storage plate 50 from the inside of the lead-out path 25 to the inside of the game board 11 by operating the storage release operation means 28. When controlled, the game ball stored in the first storage area 51 is released, and the game ball is dropped (discharged) from the outlet port 24 toward the start winning port 14.

  Then, when the storage ball detection sensor 26 facing the first storage area 51 does not detect the storage of the game ball, the storage plate 50 constituting the first storage area 51 is directed inward of the outlet path 25. The storage solenoid 27 is driven so as to be moved at the same time, and at the same time, the storage solenoid 27 is driven and controlled so that the storage plate 50 constituting the second storage region 52 is moved from the inside of the lead-out path 25 to the inside of the game board 11. . As a result, the game balls that have been stored in the second storage area 52 until now are stored in the first storage area 51. Therefore, such an operation is sequentially repeated.

In the first and second embodiments, the accessory provided on the surface of the game board base 12 has been described as an example of the storage unit 19. However, the storage unit may be configured in the following manner.
For example, a planar pistol-shaped pattern (hereinafter also referred to as a pistol picture) is drawn on a predetermined area on the surface of the game board base 12, and the game is placed at predetermined positions on the front side (muzzle side) and rear side of the pistol picture. A through-hole is provided over the front and back of the board base 12, and a back-side passage is provided on the back side of the game board base 12 to connect the respective through-holes. It is also possible to employ a configuration comprising storage release means. In addition, a receiving part shall be provided in the corresponding position of the game board base in the rear side through-hole.
By adopting such a configuration, the same operational effects as in the first and second embodiments can be obtained, and the game area can be widely used because the game area on the front side is not limited by the accessory.
In addition, as a structure of a storage area | region, the structure of Example 1 and the structure of the said Example 2 are also employable. Other configurations and operational effects are the same as those of the first and second embodiments, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.
"Modification 1"

Although not limited in particular, for example, when the storage release operation button 27 is pressed or when the game ball is derived from the outlet 24, the sound is emitted as if the pistol ball had been launched. It is also possible to control the production.
"Modification 2"

  In each of the above embodiments, the game balls stored in the storage means 19 are configured to win the start winning opening 14, but the present invention is not construed as being limited thereto. A predetermined winning opening is targeted, and for example, the big winning opening 15 is cited as one of the other winning openings. That is, the outlet 24 of the storage means 19 is positioned above the V zone of the big prize opening 15, and when the big prize opening 15 is opened, a game ball is won in the V zone at an arbitrary timing. If it is possible, the consciousness that the player was involved in the prize will become stronger and the interest will be improved.

The schematic perspective view which shows one Example of this invention ball game machine. The schematic front view of a game board. The schematic sectional drawing which shows an example of a storage means. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a storage unit in the second embodiment. Schematic which shows an example of the production | presentation display apparatus which alert | reported having shifted to the transition high probability state. The block diagram of the game machine of a present Example. The flowchart of the control system of a present Example (main control circuit main process). FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the control system of this embodiment (interrupt processing). The flowchart of the control system of a present Example (special symbol control process). The flowchart of the control system of a present Example (special figure memory check process). The figure which shows the table for transition high probability time of a present Example. The figure which shows the table for a transition low probability time of a present Example. The figure which shows the table for jackpot determination at the time of the transition high probability of a present Example. The figure which shows the table for jackpot determination at the time of the transition low probability of a present Example. The flowchart of the control system of a present Example (sub control circuit main process). FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the control system of this embodiment (interrupt processing). FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a control system of this embodiment (command analysis processing). The flow figure (storage control processing) of the control system of a present Example.

Explanation of symbols

A game area 11 game board 12 game board base 14 start winning opening 19 storage means 26 storage detection means 27 storage release means 28 storage release operation means 32 main CPU
42 Sub CPU

Claims (5)

A game board having a predetermined game member on a game board base and forming a game area where a game ball rolls; and
Based on the fact that the game ball has won a start winning opening provided in the game area of the game board, it is determined whether or not to shift to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player according to a predetermined jackpot lottery probability value. A gaming state transition determination means to perform;
Reserving means capable of storing game balls flowing down the game area, and allowing the stored game balls to win a predetermined winning opening;
Storage release means for releasing storage by the storage means;
In a gaming machine provided with a storage release operation means operable by a player and operating the storage release by the storage release means based on the operation,
Judgment whether or not to shift to a gaming state of either a transition high probability state with a high jackpot lottery probability value or a transition low probability state with a low jackpot lottery probability value based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening A transition probability judging means for performing
A gaming machine comprising an informing means for informing that a gaming state is a transition high probability state.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the notifying means notifies that the gaming state is a transition high probability state based on the achievement of the predetermined condition.   The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not to notify that the state is a high transition probability state.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising restriction means for restricting operation of the storage release operation means in a predetermined gaming state. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the restricting means restricts the operation of the storage releasing operation means in the low transition probability state.

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