JP2007054472A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of preventing a player from being given the sense of disorder in the progress of a game as much as possible even if the monitoring time is prolonged. <P>SOLUTION: A variable winning device is disposed in a game ball passing area between a movable member and a special winning hole, and comprises a winning detecting means for detecting entrance of a game ball into the variable winning device and a discharge detecting means for detecting discharge of a game ball from the variable winning device. A control means comprises a remaining ball determining means for determining the presence of game balls remaining in the variable winning device in a preliminary game state based on the result of detection of game balls by the winning detecting means and the discharge detecting means, a remaining ball error determination time setting means for setting the remaining ball error determination time whenever entrance of a game ball is detected by the winning detecting means, and a remaining ball error determining means for determining a remaining ball error if the remaining ball error determination time elapses before the number of game balls remaining in the variable winning device becomes zero. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  According to the present invention, control is performed so as to cause a preliminary game state by the variable winning device based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning port, and the game ball that has flowed into the variable winning device in the preliminary game state wins the special winning port. More particularly, the present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs control so as to cause a special gaming state that gives a player a gaming value.

  In the variable winning device in which the inlet of the game ball is opened and closed by the movable member, the game ball received by the variable winning device flows down the internal space and wins the special winning port (or general winning port). May win the special prize opening later than the time when the movable member is closed (with a certain time difference or more).

  And in consideration of the player's profit, etc., in order not to invalidate such a late winning, even if the movable member is closed, the winning of the game ball to the special winning opening is made valid for a predetermined period. In addition, the valid time for winning detection is extended.

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, all of the game balls to be awarded to the start winning opening are made effective as conditions for generating the preliminary game state. For this reason, for example, if there is a next start prize just before the movable member closes, the movable member will continue to open and the game ball that won the special prize opening based on the previous start prize will be released this time. In some cases, it is determined that a prize has been won. In this case, the V winning rate becomes unstable, and the actual V winning rate may deviate from the design value, which may cause a problem in the business of the amusement store.

  Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one game unit is defined from the occurrence of the preliminary game state to the end of the extended effective time, and the next start prize is invalidated until this game unit ends. The control to make is proposed. Thereby, within the extended effective time, a new game ball is no longer accepted into the variable prize device, and the guide rate of the game ball to the special prize opening can be made constant.

Furthermore, a variable winning device and a winning detection means are provided, and the control means causes a preliminary gaming state based on winning of the game medium to the start winning opening, and enables the winning of the gaming medium to the special winning opening. In addition, until the predetermined time elapses, the occurrence of the preliminary game state based on the winning of the other game media to the start winning opening is invalidated, and the variable prize apparatus is set to the second state based on the occurrence of the preliminary game state. If a winning of the game medium is not detected by the winning detection means of the variable winning device within a predetermined time after the conversion to the game, the time is shorter than when the winning of the gaming medium is detected by the winning detection means Thus, there has also been proposed a gaming machine that performs a control for canceling the invalidation state of the occurrence of the preliminary game state and validating the occurrence of the preliminary game state based on winning of the game medium at the start winning opening.
JP 2000-334103 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine described above, the auxiliary game time before the occurrence of the special game state is set to a relatively short time, so that it cannot cope with the case where a long time is required for the winning ball to flow down. Therefore, the above-described problem occurs when a game ball stops in the winning device.

  Nevertheless, in many cases, it was sufficient, but in consideration of the responsibility of the gaming machine manufacturer to provide a fair gaming machine, it is desirable to clearly distinguish the winning balls for each starting prize. In such a case, if it is attempted to monitor whether or not the winning ball has been reliably discharged, the monitoring time must be extended. Further, there is a risk that normal game progress may be hindered by prolonging the monitoring time, and it is required to eliminate this trouble as much as possible.

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that does not give the player as much of a sense of discomfort as the game progresses even if the monitoring time is extended.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a variable winning device having a movable member and a special winning opening, and capable of being converted into a second state advantageous to the player and a second state advantageous to the player by operating the movable member, A game area having a start winning port that gives a condition for causing a preliminary gaming state to convert the variable winning device to the second state based on a winning of a ball, and winning a game ball to the starting winning port Based on the fact that a preliminary game state is generated by the variable prize device, and the game ball that has flowed into the variable prize device in the preliminary game state wins the special prize port, In a gaming machine provided with a control means for controlling so as to cause a special gaming state to give value, the variable winning device is provided in a game ball passage region between the movable member and the special winning opening. A winning detection means for detecting the winning of the game ball in the variable winning device, and a discharge detecting means for detecting the discharge of the gaming ball from the variable winning device, wherein the control means includes the winning detection means And a remaining ball determining means for determining the presence or absence of a gaming ball remaining in the variable winning device in the preliminary gaming state based on a detection result of the gaming ball by the discharge detecting means, and a winning of the gaming ball by the winning detection means A remaining ball error determination time setting means for setting a remaining ball error determination time when detected, and when the remaining ball error determination time elapses before the number of game balls remaining in the variable winning device becomes zero. When a remaining ball error determining means for determining a remaining ball error is detected and a winning of a game ball to the special prize opening is detected, the remaining ball error determining means waits for a determination of the remaining ball error. Comprising a fanfare operation setting means for setting a fanfare operation of notifying the Ku the pay, the.

  According to a second invention, in the first invention, the remaining ball error determination time setting means sets a remaining ball error determination time each time a winning of a game ball is detected by the winning detection means. .

  According to a third invention, in the first or second invention, the control means includes special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball in the special winning port is detected, The special gaming state generating means obtains a predetermined random number in the process of detecting the winning of the game ball to the special winning opening, and based on the determination result of the random number, among a plurality of types of special gaming states having different values Any one of them occurs, and during the prize notification by the fanfare operation setting means, the special gaming state is notified of which of the plurality of types of special gaming states.

  According to a fourth invention, in the first to third inventions, the control means includes special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball to the special prize opening is detected, The special gaming state occurrence means does not cause a special gaming state by winning a prize at the special winning opening while the remaining ball error determination means determines that there is a remaining ball error.

  According to a fifth aspect, in the first to fourth aspects, the fanfare operation setting unit sets a winning notification time based on a progress status of the remaining ball error determination time.

  According to a sixth invention, in the first to fifth inventions, when the control means detects a winning of a game ball to the start winning opening, a preliminary gaming state is generated and a game to the special winning opening is performed. Preliminary gaming state generating means for validating a winning of a ball is provided, and the preliminary gaming state generating means includes the starting winning of other game balls until a predetermined time elapses after detection of winning of the gaming ball at the starting winning opening. It is characterized by invalidating the occurrence of a preliminary game state based on a winning in the mouth.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a variable winning device having a movable member and a special winning opening, which can be converted into a first state that is disadvantageous to the player and a second state that is advantageous to the player by operating the movable member, A game area having a start winning port that gives a condition for causing a preliminary gaming state to convert the variable winning device to the second state based on a winning of a ball, and winning a game ball to the starting winning port Based on the fact that a preliminary game state is generated by the variable prize device, and the game ball that has flowed into the variable prize device in the preliminary game state wins the special prize port, In a gaming machine provided with a control means for controlling so as to cause a special gaming state to give value, the variable winning device is provided in a game ball passage region between the movable member and the special winning opening. A winning detection means for detecting the winning of the game ball in the variable winning device and a discharge detecting means for detecting the discharge of the gaming ball from the variable winning device, wherein the control means detects the winning detection And a remaining ball determining means for determining the presence or absence of a gaming ball remaining in the variable winning device in the preliminary gaming state based on a detection result of the gaming ball by the means and the discharge detecting means, and a winning of the game ball by the winning detection means And a remaining ball error determination time setting means for setting a remaining ball error determination time, and the remaining ball error determination time has elapsed before the number of game balls remaining in the variable winning device becomes zero. When a remaining ball error determination means for determining a residual ball error and a winning of a game ball at the special winning opening are detected, the remaining ball error determination means waits for a remaining ball error determination. The fanfare operation setting means for setting the fanfare operation for notifying the winnings without fail is provided, so that even when the remaining ball is being monitored, the player feels uncomfortable with the remaining ball error determination time when the big hit occurs. And the game progresses smoothly.

  In the second invention, the remaining ball error determination time setting means sets the remaining ball error determination time every time a winning of the game ball is detected by the winning detection means, so that a remaining ball error determination that is longer than necessary in advance is set. There is no need to set the time, and the remaining sphere error determination time can be shortened as a whole.

  In a third invention, the control means includes special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball at the special winning opening is detected, and the special game state generating means is the special game state generating means. A predetermined random number is acquired in the process of detecting the winning of a game ball to the winning opening, and based on the determination result of the random number, one of a plurality of special gaming states having different values is generated, and the fanfare operation During the winning notification by the setting means, it is notified which of the plurality of types of special game states is the special game state, so that even if a sufficient fanfare time is secured, the player does not feel uncomfortable.

  In a fourth invention, the control means includes special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball in the special winning port is detected, and the special game state generating means is the remaining game Since a special gaming state does not occur by winning a prize at the special prize opening while the ball error judging means judges that there is a remaining ball error, it is possible to separate the winnings for each starting prize, Sexuality can be secured.

  In the fifth invention, the fanfare operation setting means sets the winning notification time based on the progress status of the remaining ball error determination time, so that the game can proceed smoothly by varying the fanfare time. it can.

  In a sixth aspect of the invention, the control means generates a preliminary game state when a winning of a game ball at the start winning port is detected, and activates the winning of the game ball at the special winning port. A preliminary game state based on a winning of another game ball to the start winning port until a predetermined time elapses after detection of the winning of the game ball to the starting winning port Since the occurrence of the game is invalidated, it is possible to separate the winnings for each start winning prize, and to ensure the fairness of the gaming machine.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming board 1 of a gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) according to the present embodiment.

  On the surface of the game board 1, a center prize 3 is located approximately at the center of the game area surrounded by the guide rails 2, and general winning holes 4 are provided on the left and right and below the left and right sides of the center prize 3. The starting port 5 is provided with a normal symbol starting gate 6 on the left side of the starting port and a lower prize-winning port 10 below the starting port.

  The center accessory 3 has an upper prize winning port 31 in the center. An opening / closing blade 32 driven by an upper prize winning solenoid 31A (see FIG. 2) is provided at the entrance of the upper prize winning opening 31. When the opening / closing wing 32 is driven to open and close, the state changes between a state where the game ball is difficult to win (disadvantageous to the player) and a state where the game ball is easy to win (advantageous to the player). To do.

  A rotating body 34 for distributing game balls won in the upper prize winning port 31 is provided in the center of the center accessory 3. The rotating body 34 is rotationally driven by a motor 34A (see FIG. 2). A part of the game ball dropped from the rotating body 34 wins a V prize opening provided in the center accessory 3.

  The center accessory 3 has an upper university winning port count switch 55 (see FIG. 2) for detecting a game ball won in the upper university winning port 31, and a V count switch 57 (FIG. 2) for detecting a game ball won in the V winning port. And a remaining ball count switch 56 (see FIG. 2) for detecting a game ball that has not won the V winning opening.

  A round indicator 33 is provided on the upper part of the center accessory 3.

  A game ball won in the two general winning holes 4 on the left side of the gaming area is detected by a winning hole sensor L53 (see FIG. 2). A game ball that has won the two general winning ports 4 on the right side of the gaming area is detected by a winning port sensor R54 (see FIG. 2).

  The start port 5 is provided with a normal variation winning device driven by a normal electric accessory solenoid 5A (see FIG. 2) at the entrance. The normal variation winning device is configured such that a game piece is difficult to win (disadvantageous to the player) and a game ball is easy to win (advantageous to the player) by driving the movable piece to open and close. Convert. The game ball that has won the start opening 5 is detected by the start opening switch 51 (see FIG. 2).

  The normal symbol start gate 6 includes a gate switch 52 (see FIG. 2), and detects the passage of a game ball.

  A decoration gate 7 having the same shape as the normal symbol start gate 6 is provided on the right side of the start port 5. Since the decoration gate 7 does not have a count switch for detecting a game ball, the game ball passing through the decoration gate 7 is not detected. Instead of the decoration gate 7, a normal symbol start gate 6 may be provided.

  The lower university winning opening 10 includes an opening / closing door that is driven by a lower university winning opening solenoid 10A (see FIG. 2). The opening / closing door is opened / closed to prevent the game ball from winning (disadvantageous to the player). The state changes between the state and a state in which the game ball is easy to win (advantageous to the player). A game ball that has won the lower major prize opening 10 is detected by the lower count switch 58 (see FIG. 2).

  A normal symbol display 12 and a normal symbol storage state indicator 13 are provided on the left side of the lower prize winning opening 10. The normal symbol display 12 is composed of, for example, two LEDs, and performs display related to a variable display game using normal symbols. The normal symbol memory state indicator 13 is composed of, for example, four LEDs, and displays the start memory (ordinary symbol winning memory) number of the variable display game based on the normal symbols.

  A gaming state display unit 11 is provided on the right side of the lower university winning opening 10. The gaming status display unit 11 is provided with a gaming status indicator 11A and a round indicator 11B. The gaming status indicator 11A is composed of, for example, a three-digit 7-segment LED and displays the current gaming status. The round indicator 11B is composed of, for example, a one-digit 7-segment LED, and displays the determined number of conversions (number of rounds) of the lower prize winning opening 10 to the open state.

  A plurality of direction changing members (not shown) such as windmills are rotatably disposed at appropriate positions in the game area. Further, an out port 9 for collecting out balls is provided at the lower center of the game area.

  Under the game board 1, a pachinko ball supply tray, a receiving tray, and an operation unit of a ball hitting device are arranged, and the ball shot by the ball hitting device is guided by the guide rail 2 and enters the game area. Furthermore, a decorative lamp is provided at an appropriate position in the game area. These lamps blink, for example, when the upper prize winning opening 31 and the lower prize winning opening 10 are opened, and also blink so as to excite the player's willingness to play during a fanfare described later.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a game is played by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) from a hit ball launching device (not shown) toward the game area, and the launched game balls are placed in various places in the game area. The game area flows down while changing the rolling direction by a direction changing member such as a windmill arranged at the top and wins the upper prize opening 31, the general prize opening 4, the start opening 5 or the lower university prize opening 10, or the game area It is discharged from the out port 9 provided at the lowermost part.

  When a game ball wins in the upper prize opening 31, the general prize opening 4, the start opening 5, and the lower university prize opening 10, the number of prize balls corresponding to the type of the winning prize winning hole is given from the payout unit (discharge device). It is discharged to a supply tray provided below the panel 1.

  The passage of the game ball to the normal symbol start gate 6 is detected by the gate switch 52. A normal symbol random number counter value is extracted at the passing timing of the game ball. The extracted normal symbol random number counter value is stored in a predetermined storage area (ordinary symbol winning storage area) in the game control device 100 as a normal symbol winning memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four consecutive times). Is done. The number stored in the normal symbol winning memory is displayed on the normal symbol storage state display 13.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol start gate 6, the normal symbol display unit 12 starts to display the variation of the normal symbol. The game control device 100 performs a lottery on the normal symbols based on the normal symbol winning memory. That is, when the passage detection to the normal symbol start gate 6 is performed at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the normal symbol random number counter value at the time of passage detection is a winning value), the normal symbol hit state is obtained. The symbol hits and stops at the symbol. At this time, the normal variation winning device provided at the start port 5 is configured such that the entrance to the start port 5 is expanded for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) by energizing the normal electric accessory solenoid 5A. This increases the possibility of winning the game ball at the start opening 5.

  The winning of the game ball to the start port 16 is detected by the start port switch 51. When a game ball wins the starting opening 16, the center accessory 3 is converted so that the open / close wing 32 expands for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) by energizing the upper large winning opening solenoid 31A. The possibility of winning a game ball at the top prize opening 5 is increased.

  A game ball won in the upper prize winning port 31 is detected by the upper prize winning port count switch 55. Thereafter, the game balls that have won the upper prize opening 31 rotate on the rotating body 34, and a part thereof is distributed so as to win the V prize opening.

  The game balls that have won the V winning opening are detected by the V count switch 57, and the game balls that have not won the V winning opening are detected by the remaining ball count switch 56. In other words, the game ball flowing into the center combination 3 is detected by the upper prize winning port count switch 55, and the game ball discharged from the center combination 3 is detected by the remaining ball count switch 56 or the V count switch 57. Therefore, the number of game balls remaining in the center accessory 3 can be known from the detection results of these switches.

  When a game ball wins the V winning opening, the energization of the lower large winning opening solenoid 10A energizes the lower winning opening for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) and does not accept the gaming ball (disadvantageous to the player). State) is converted to an open state (a state advantageous to the player) in which a game ball can be easily received. That is, since the lower prize winning opening 10 is greatly opened for a predetermined time, a game value is given that the player can acquire many game balls during this period.

  A random number value for round distribution is extracted at the winning timing of the game ball to the V winning opening. The number of rounds converted to the open state of the lower prize winning opening 10 is determined by the extracted random number for round distribution. The determined number of rounds is displayed on the round indicators 11B and 33.

  Note that the timing for extracting the random numbers for round distribution is not limited to the timing of winning the game ball to the V winning opening, but the winning timing to the upper winning opening (in the variable winning device in the preliminary game by the winning detection means) It may be the timing at which the last winning is detected), the start winning timing (start winning timing at which the preliminary game is caused), or the like.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a part of a control system centering on the game control device 100 of the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  The game control device 100 is a main control device that controls the game in an integrated manner, a CPU that controls game control, a ROM that stores invariant information for game control, and a RAM that is used as a work area during game control Is composed of a gaming microcomputer 111, an input interface 112, an output interface 113, and the like.

  An external communication terminal 114 is connected to the gaming microcomputer 111, and an identification number uniquely set in the gaming microcomputer 111 can be output from the external communication terminal 114. By connecting an inspection device or a management computer (so-called hall control) to the terminal 114, the management computer can identify the gaming machine.

  The gaming microcomputer 111 includes various detection devices (start port switch 51, gate switch 52, winning port sensor L53, winning port sensor R54, upper prize port counting switch 55, remaining ball counting switch 56 via the input interface 112. In response to the detection signals from the V count switch 57 and the lower prize winning port count switch 58), various processes are performed. Further, via the output interface 113, each subordinate control device (production control device 150, discharge control device 400), ordinary electric accessory solenoid 5A, upper large prize opening solenoid 31A, lower large prize opening solenoid 10A, motor 34A, etc. A command signal is transmitted to control the game centrally.

  The gaming microcomputer 111 outputs display data for displaying the current gaming state to the gaming state indicator 11A. In addition, display data of the number of times the lower large winning opening 10 is opened (number of rounds) is output to the round indicator 11B.

  The discharge control device 400 controls the operation of the payout unit based on the prize ball command signal from the game control apparatus 100 and discharges the prize ball. Note that, based on a ball rental request signal from the card ball rental unit, the operation of the payout unit may be controlled to discharge the ball rental.

  A demo display command, a fanfare command, an error command, and the like are transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 150 as display control command signals. Further, a command signal for changing the display mode depending on the gaming state is also transmitted.

  The effect control device 150 includes an effect control CPU 151, ROM 152, RAM 153, and the like. The ROM 152 stores programs and data used by the CPU 151 and image data. The RAM 153 is provided with a work area during operation of the CPU 151 and a buffer for temporarily storing displayed image data.

  CPU151 executes the program memorize | stored in ROM152 and displays the information regarding a gaming state on the display apparatus 200 (for example, round display 33) based on the signal from the game control apparatus 100. FIG. In addition, a decoration according to the game state is displayed on a lamp or the like provided in the gaming machine.

  The communication interface 154 that connects the effect control device 150 to the game control device 100 is provided with a buffer that is a signal transmission direction restricting means, and communication between the game control device 100 and the effect control device 150 is a game control. Only signal input from the device 100 to the effect control device 150 is allowed, and signal output from the effect control device 150 to the game control device 100 is prohibited. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an illegal signal from being input from the effect control device 150 to the game control device 100. When bidirectional communication is performed between the game control device 100 and the effect control device 150, a bidirectional buffer can be used for the buffer circuit.

  Further, the display device 200 and the sound control device 300 are connected to the output interface 155.

  The effect control device 150 is provided with an output interface 155. The display device 200 and the sound control device 250 are connected to the output interface 155, and a signal is output to the display device 200 via the output interface 158.

  The sound control device 300 controls the sound effect output from the speaker based on the sound control command signal from the effect control device 150.

  A power supply device (not shown) of the gaming machine includes a backup power supply unit and a power failure monitoring circuit in addition to the power supply circuit. When the power failure monitoring circuit detects a voltage drop of the power supply device, the power failure monitoring circuit sequentially outputs a power failure detection signal and a reset signal to the game control device 100 and the like. When the game control device 100 receives a power failure detection signal, the game control device 100 performs a predetermined power failure process, and when it receives a reset signal, stops the operation of the CPU. The backup power supply unit backs up game data (game information, game control information) and the like by supplying backup power to the RAM of the game control device 100 or the like.

  In the embodiment described above, the effect control device 150 is configured integrally with the decoration display control function that controls the decoration display of the LED and the lamp and the sound control function that controls the sound, but the effect control device 150, A display control device or the like may be provided separately and connected by communication.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the main process of game control according to the present embodiment, which is executed by the game control apparatus 100.

  When the gaming machine is turned on, the gaming microcomputer 111 executes an initialization process for setting initial values for various control parameters (S101), and sets the gaming machine to an initial state. Subsequently, random number update processing 1 (S102) is performed. Thereafter, the random number update process 1 is repeated.

  This random number update process 1 (S102) is a process for updating an initial value of a random number update process 2 described later. This process will be described. Among the processes executed by the game control apparatus 100, when a game ball wins the general figure starting port 14 or the special figure starting port 6, the result of the corresponding game is derived. Some random number processing is performed to perform a lottery or to give a randomness to an effect or decoration when a variable display game is advanced based on the lottery result. As an example of these random number processes, there is a process in which the counter value is incremented by 1 in a predetermined time period, for example, 1 millisecond period between 0 and 316, and returned to 0 when the value exceeds 316. . This random value update process corresponds to the random number update process 2 (S115 in FIG. 4).

  This counter value is extracted when the game control device 100 recognizes the above-described event such as winning of a game ball, and becomes a random value at that time. However, even if it is a random number, if the above-described processing is repeated, the random value extracted in a cycle of 317 milliseconds becomes the same value, and the randomness is deteriorated. Therefore, randomness is further imparted by disturbing the counter value in the random number update process 1.

  Instead of starting the change of the counter value in the above-described example from 0 every time, the value obtained in the random number update process 1 is changed as the initial value of the counter value. In other words, the new value obtained by the random number update process 1 is set as the initial value of the next counter at the time when the fluctuation of one rotation is finished.

  In addition, a process for changing the counter value for one rotation is performed, and the initial value at the time of the counter value change is successively updated. Since the random number update cycle in the random number update processing 1 is considerably shorter than the random number update cycle in the random number update processing 2, the randomness of the counter described above can be increased.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the game control timer interrupt process according to the first embodiment of this invention, which is executed by the game control apparatus 100.

  After power is turned on to the gaming machine, the game control main process (FIG. 3) is executed, and when a timer interrupt occurs for a predetermined time period (for example, every 1 millisecond), the timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed. Is done. The processes in S110 to S121 are not necessarily performed every time an interrupt occurs. For example, the input process S112 monitors the input signal every time, but the output process S113 may be executed every other interrupt occurrence. That is, instead of completing all the processes in one interrupt process, the interrupt process may be repeatedly executed a plurality of times to complete a series of game control processes.

  First, prohibition of interrupt is set and the register is saved (S111).

  Thereafter, processing such as chattering removal is performed on signals from various sensors and switches input via the input interface 102, and input processing for determining input information is performed (S112).

  Thereafter, data relating to game control is output to a predetermined output destination (general power solenoid 9A, special prize opening solenoid 10A, board external information 41, etc.) via the output interface 103 (S113).

  Thereafter, a command transmission process for outputting a control command signal to the effect control device 150 or outputting a prize ball command signal to the discharge control device 200 is performed (S114).

  Thereafter, each random number counter for determining whether or not the variable display game is won, and each random number for imparting randomness to effects or decorations (variable display pattern, stop pattern, etc.) when the variable display game is advanced A random number update process 2 for incrementing the counter value by one is performed (S115).

  After that, an error monitoring process is performed to monitor the ball jam of the gaming machine, abnormality of various switches, sensors, etc. (S116).

  Although this switch monitoring process will be described in detail later, a start port switch 51, a gate switch 52, a winning port sensor L53, a winning port sensor R54, a top large winning port count switch 55, a remaining ball count switch 56, a V count switch 57, and the like. Is detected, and a switch monitoring process is performed to update the normal symbol winning memory, the winning count number to the big winning opening, and the like according to the result (S117).

  Thereafter, the main game process (S118) for controlling the progress of the main game executed using the center character 3 and the special winning opening 10, the normal symbol start gate 6, the normal symbol display 12 and the normal symbol storage display 13 are provided. The usual game process (S119) is performed.

  In the main game process (S118), based on the winning of the game ball to the starting port 5 detected by the starting port switch 51, the upper large winning port solenoid 31A is driven to open the upper large winning port 31. Then, based on the winning of the game ball at the V winning opening detected by the V count switch 57, the lower large winning opening solenoid 10A is driven to open the lower large winning opening 10 for the predetermined number of rounds, and the game ball Is in an open state (a state advantageous to the player).

  In the normal game process (S119), the normal symbol random number counter value extracted based on the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol start gate 6 detected by the gate switch 52 is determined, and the normal symbol display unit 12 displays the fluctuation. Process for. If the normal symbol random number counter value is a winning value, the normal variation winning device 9 is opened.

  Thereafter, the gaming machine is connected to a management computer (a so-called hall computer installed in the game hall for centrally managing the state of each gaming machine installed in the game hall) connected via the board external information terminal 41. The external information editing process for editing the external information for the board for outputting the state is performed (S120). The board external information includes information related to the progress of the game.

  Thereafter, the temporarily saved register is restored, a process for permitting the interrupt that has been prohibited is performed (S121), the timer interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main process (FIG. 3). The random number update process 1 (S102 in FIG. 3) is repeated until the next timer interrupt occurs.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the remaining sphere update process of the present embodiment. This remaining ball update process is performed by the game control device 100. It is executed in the main game process (S118 in FIG. 4).

  In the remaining ball update process, first, it is determined whether or not there is a game ball winning in the upper large winning opening 31 based on the output from the upper large winning opening count switch 55 (S131).

  As a result, when a winning ball is detected, the number of remaining balls in the center accessory 3 is increased by 1, so that the remaining ball number counter is incremented by 1 (S132). Then, a remaining sphere error determination time is set (S133), and the process proceeds to step S134. The remaining ball error determination time is set to 30 seconds, for example, and is used to determine a remaining ball error if the winning ball is not discharged from the center accessory 3 within this time.

  Since this remaining ball update process is executed every time a game ball winning in the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected, the remaining ball error determination time is also detected each time a winning ball in the upper winning prize opening 31 is detected. Set to

  On the other hand, if no winning ball is detected, the process proceeds to step S134 without updating the remaining ball counter (S132) or setting the remaining ball error determination time (S133).

  In step S134, it is determined whether or not the game ball is discharged from the center accessory 3 based on the outputs from the remaining ball count switch 56 and the V count switch 57 (S134).

  As a result, when a discharge ball is detected, the remaining ball in the center accessory 3 has decreased by one, so the remaining ball number counter is decremented by 1 (S135), and the process proceeds to step S136. On the other hand, if the discharged ball is not detected, the remaining ball counter is not updated and the process proceeds to step S136.

  In step 136, it is determined whether there is a remaining sphere in the center accessory 3 based on whether the remaining sphere counter value is a positive value (S136). As a result, if the remaining sphere counter value is positive, there is a remaining sphere, and the remaining sphere flag is set to ON (S137). On the other hand, if the remaining sphere counter value is not positive (that is, 0), there is no remaining sphere, so the remaining sphere flag is cleared to OFF state (S138), and the remaining sphere error flag is canceled (S139). The remaining sphere error flag is set in a remaining sphere error determination process (FIG. 6) described later.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the remaining sphere error determination process according to the present embodiment. This remaining ball error determination process is executed by the game control device 100 in the main game process (S118 in FIG. 4).

  In the remaining ball error determination process, it is first determined whether or not a game ball remains in the center accessory 3 based on the remaining ball flag (S141). As a result, if the remaining ball flag is set to ON, it is determined whether or not the remaining ball error determination time has elapsed since the game ball remains in the center accessory 3 (S142). As a result, if the remaining sphere error determination time has elapsed, a remaining sphere error flag is set (S143).

  In other words, if a game ball that has won a prize at the upper prize opening 31 remains in the center accessory 3 even after a predetermined remaining ball error determination time has elapsed, it is determined that there is a remaining ball error, and the remaining ball Set the error flag.

  Next, based on the timing chart, the operation of the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described.

  First, referring to FIG. 7, the operation when the game ball has won the start opening 5 and does not win the upper university winning opening 31 will be described.

  When a game ball wins at the start port 5, the start port switch 51 is disabled so that even if a game ball wins the start port 5 continuously, it is not detected (start port invalid time 1). Thereafter, the upper prize winning opening 31 is opened, the center accessory 3 (rotating body 34) starts operating, and the V distributing operation is performed. The opening of the upper prize winning port 31 ends the start port invalid time 1 and the start port invalid time 2 starts.

  While the upper prize winning opening 31 is open, no detection is made even if a game ball wins the start opening 5 (start opening invalid time 2). In addition, when the upper university winning opening 31 is closed, the start opening invalid time 2 is ended, and the starting opening invalid time 3 is started. Even if a game ball wins in 5, it is not detected.

  Further, during the operation of the center accessory 3, even if the upper prize winning port 31 is closed, the specific area valid time for validating the signal from the V count switch 57 is reached. When the operation of the center accessory 3 is finished, the start port invalid time 3 and the specific area valid time are finished.

  The start port invalid times 1 to 3 occur continuously, and any invalid time is a control problem, and there is no difference in the detection of game balls.

  Next, according to FIG. 8, the operation when the game ball is won at the upper prize winning port 31 after winning at the start opening 5 and the game ball is discharged without winning V, but no error occurs will be described.

  When a game ball wins at the start port 5, the start port switch 51 is disabled so that even if a game ball wins the start port 5 continuously, it is not detected (start port invalid time 1). Thereafter, the upper university winning opening 31 is opened. Along with this, the center accessory 3 (rotating body 34) starts operating, and performs the V sorting operation. The opening of the upper prize winning port 31 ends the start port invalid time 1 and the start port invalid time 2 starts. Also, the specific area valid time (valid time 1) for validating the signal from the V count switch 57 starts.

  Further, when the upper prize winning port 31 is closed, the start port invalid time 2 ends, and the start port invalid time 3 starts. As a result, even after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed, no detection is made even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5 while the center accessory 3 is in operation.

  When a game ball wins while the upper prize winning opening 31 is open, the winning ball is detected by the upper prize winning count switch 55. In the present embodiment including this figure, a winning ball is detected after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed. This is because the upper prize winning count switch 55 is located deeper than the upper prize winning opening 31. This is because the winning ball is detected later than the inflow to the upper prize winning opening. Therefore, a winning ball may be detected while the upper large winning opening 31 is opened.

  When a winning ball to the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected, a remaining ball flag is set (becomes ON state). While the remaining ball flag is set, the start port invalid time is extended (the start port invalid state due to the remaining ball), and the specific area valid time 2 starts. In addition, the operation time of the center accessory 3 is extended. Furthermore, the remaining sphere error determination time starts.

  When the remaining ball count switch 56 detects the discharge of the game ball from the center accessory 3 during the specific area effective time (during the remaining ball error determination time), the remaining ball becomes 0. Is cleared (becomes OFF state). Then, the invalid state of the starting port ends, and a winning ball to the starting port 5 can be detected, and the next preliminary game state can be generated. Further, the specific area valid time ends.

  Since the remaining sphere flag is cleared during the remaining sphere error determination time, the process ends without causing a remaining sphere error.

  Note that the specific area effective times 1 to 2 are continuously generated, and which effective time is a control problem, and there is no difference in detection of the game ball.

  Next, the operation in the case where an error occurs due to a game ball that has been won in the upper prize winning port 31 after being won in the start opening 5 and not V won will be described with reference to FIG.

  When a game ball wins at the start port 5, the start port switch 51 is disabled so that even if a game ball wins the start port 5 continuously, it is not detected (start port invalid time 1). Thereafter, the upper university winning opening 31 is opened. Along with this, the center accessory 3 (rotating body 34) starts operating, and performs the V sorting operation. The opening of the upper prize winning port 31 ends the start port invalid time 1 and the start port invalid time 2 starts. Also, the specific area valid time (valid time 1) for validating the signal from the V count switch 57 starts.

  Further, when the upper prize winning port 31 is closed, the start port invalid time 2 ends, and the start port invalid time 3 starts. As a result, even after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed, no detection is made even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5 while the center accessory 3 is in operation.

  When a game ball wins while the upper prize winning opening 31 is open, the winning ball is detected by the upper prize winning count switch 55. In the present embodiment including this figure, a winning ball is detected after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed. This is because the upper prize winning count switch 55 is located deeper than the upper prize winning opening 31. This is because the winning ball is detected later than the inflow to the upper prize winning opening. Therefore, a winning ball may be detected while the upper large winning opening 31 is opened.

  When a winning ball to the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected, a remaining ball flag is set (becomes ON state). While the remaining ball flag is set, the start port invalid time is extended (the start port invalid state due to the remaining ball), and the specific area valid time 2 starts. In addition, the operation time of the center accessory 3 is extended. Furthermore, the remaining sphere error determination time starts.

  During this time, even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5, since the start opening due to the remaining ball is in a disabled state, the winning at the start opening becomes invalid.

  Thereafter, even if the remaining ball error determination time has elapsed, if the remaining ball flag is set to the ON state, a predetermined monitoring time (residual ball error determination time) after the game ball flows into the upper prize winning port 31 Since the game ball is not discharged from the upper prize winning port 31 even after elapses, the remaining ball error state is set, the remaining ball error flag is set, and the error is notified. This error notification, for example, displays on the round display 31 that there is an error. Further, a lamp provided on the game board 1 may be blinked. Then, when the remaining ball error state is entered, the specific area valid time ends, and thereafter the occurrence of a special game state (bonus) based on the detection of the game ball by the V count switch 57 becomes invalid.

  After that, when the discharged balls from the center accessory 3 are detected by the remaining ball count switch 56, the remaining balls become 0, so the remaining ball flag is cleared (becomes OFF state). Then, the invalid state of the starting port ends, and a winning ball to the starting port 5 can be detected, and the next preliminary game state can be generated. Further, the error notification ends.

  It should be noted that since the detection of game ball discharge by the V count switch 57 is effective, the remaining ball error state is also canceled by this detection.

  Next, referring to FIG. 10, the operation in the case where a game ball won in the upper prize opening 31 after winning a game ball in the start opening 5 won V but no error occurs will be described.

  When a game ball wins at the start port 5, the start port switch 51 is disabled so that even if a game ball wins the start port 5 continuously, it is not detected (start port invalid time 1). Thereafter, the upper university winning opening 31 is opened. Along with this, the center accessory 3 (rotating body 34) starts operating, and performs the V sorting operation. The opening of the upper prize winning port 31 ends the start port invalid time 1 and the start port invalid time 2 starts. Also, the specific area valid time (valid time 1) for validating the signal from the V count switch 57 starts.

  Further, when the upper prize winning port 31 is closed, the start port invalid time 2 ends, and the start port invalid time 3 starts. As a result, even after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed, no detection is made even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5 while the center accessory 3 is in operation.

  When a game ball wins while the upper prize winning opening 31 is open, the upper prize winning count switch 55 detects the game ball. In the present embodiment including this figure, a winning ball is detected after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed. This is because the upper prize winning count switch 55 is located deeper than the upper prize winning opening 31. This is because the winning ball is detected later than the inflow to the upper prize winning opening. Therefore, a winning ball may be detected while the upper large winning opening 31 is opened.

  When a winning ball to the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected, a remaining ball flag is set (becomes ON state). While the remaining ball flag is set, the start port invalid time is extended (the start port invalid state due to the remaining ball), and the specific area valid time 2 starts. In addition, the operation time of the center accessory 3 is extended. Furthermore, the remaining sphere error determination time starts.

  During this time, even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5, since the start opening due to the remaining ball is in a disabled state, the winning at the start opening becomes invalid.

  After that, if the game ball discharged from the center accessory 3 is detected by the V count switch 57 before the remaining ball error determination time elapses, a big hit state is established, and the lower big prize opening is set for the predetermined number of rounds. The solenoid 10A is driven to open the lower prize-winning port 10, and an open state (a state advantageous to the player) is made easy to receive the game ball. Further, the operation of the center accessory 3 is stopped.

  Then, since the remaining sphere becomes 0 by the detection of the discharged sphere, the remaining sphere flag is cleared (becomes OFF state). In addition, the start port invalid state due to the remaining sphere ends, and the start port invalid time due to jackpot starts.

  After that, when the operation of the lower prize winning hole 10 is finished for a predetermined number of rounds and the jackpot is finished, the invalid state of the starting opening is ended, and the winning ball to the starting opening 5 can be detected, and the next preliminary game state is generated. Ready to do.

  Next, the operation in the case where an error occurs due to a game ball having won a V prize after the game ball has won the upper prize slot 31 after winning the start hole 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When a game ball wins at the start port 5, the start port switch 51 is disabled so that even if a game ball wins the start port 5 continuously, it is not detected (start port invalid time 1). Thereafter, the upper university winning opening 31 is opened. Along with this, the center accessory 3 (rotating body 34) starts operating, and performs the V sorting operation. The opening of the upper prize winning port 31 ends the start port invalid time 1 and the start port invalid time 2 starts. Also, the specific area valid time (valid time 1) for validating the signal from the V count switch 57 starts.

  Further, when the upper prize winning port 31 is closed, the start port invalid time 2 ends, and the start port invalid time 3 starts. As a result, even after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed, no detection is made even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5 while the center accessory 3 is in operation.

  When a game ball wins while the upper prize winning opening 31 is open, the upper prize winning count switch 55 detects the game ball. In the present embodiment including this figure, a winning ball is detected after the upper prize winning opening 31 is closed. This is because the upper prize winning count switch 55 is located deeper than the upper prize winning opening 31. This is because the winning ball is detected later than the inflow to the upper prize winning opening. Therefore, a winning ball may be detected while the upper large winning opening 31 is opened.

  When a winning ball to the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected, a remaining ball flag is set (becomes ON state). While the remaining ball flag is set, the start port invalid time is extended (the start port invalid state due to the remaining ball), and the specific area valid time 2 starts. In addition, the operation time of the center accessory 3 is extended. Furthermore, the remaining sphere error determination time starts.

  During this time, even if a game ball wins at the start opening 5, since the start opening due to the remaining ball is in a disabled state, the winning at the start opening becomes invalid.

  Thereafter, even if the remaining ball error determination time has elapsed, if the remaining ball flag is set to the ON state, a predetermined monitoring time (residual ball error determination time) after the game ball flows into the upper prize winning port 31 Since the game ball is not discharged from the upper prize winning port 31 even after elapses, the remaining ball error state is set, the remaining ball error flag is set, and the error is notified. This error notification, for example, displays on the round display 31 that there is an error. Further, a lamp provided on the game board 1 may be blinked. When the remaining ball error state occurs, the specific area valid time ends, and then the detection of the game ball by the V count switch 57 becomes invalid.

  After that, even if the discharge ball from the center accessory 3 is detected by the V count switch 57, it will not be a big hit because it is outside the specific area effective time. Then, since the remaining sphere becomes 0 by the detection of the discharged sphere, the remaining sphere flag is cleared (becomes OFF state). Then, the invalid state of the starting port ends, and a winning ball to the starting port 5 can be detected, and the next preliminary game state can be generated. Further, the error notification ends.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the fanfare time determination process according to this embodiment. This fanfare time determination process is executed in the main game process (S118 in FIG. 4) when a valid V prize is detected by the game control apparatus 100.

  In the fanfare time determination process, first, it is determined whether or not the remaining sphere flag is set (S151).

  As a result, if the remaining ball flag is not set (if it is in the OFF state), no gaming ball remains in the center accessory 3 and the process proceeds to step S153. On the other hand, if the remaining ball flag is set to the ON state, the game ball remains in the center accessory 3 and the process proceeds to step S152.

  In step S152, the current remaining ball error determination time is compared with the fanfare minimum time. This fanfare time is the time from when the game ball wins V until the lower major winning opening 10 is converted to the open state, and during this time, the expectation leading to the notification of the round lottery result (for example, 1R (round) and , 7R and 15R are displayed). The minimum fanfare time is set to 15 seconds, for example.

  As a result, if the fanfare minimum time is longer than the current remaining ball error determination time, it is not necessary to extend the fanfare time, so the fanfare minimum time is set as the fanfare time (S153). On the other hand, if the minimum fanfare time is less than or equal to the current remaining ball error determination time, the remaining ball error determination time is insufficient with the minimum fanfare time, so the remaining ball error determination time is set as the fanfare time (S154).

  Then, based on the set fanfare time, the round lottery variation time is selected from the variation pattern table (see FIG. 13) (S155). That is, a round lottery variation time suitable for the set fanfare time is selected, and the effect of the round lottery is determined.

  Thereafter, a time for displaying the symbol determined by the round lottery is set (S156).

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the variable display pattern table of the present embodiment.

  The variation display pattern table stores the correspondence between the variation pattern and the variation time. Note that the shortest fluctuation time stored in the fluctuation display pattern table is the fanfare minimum time.

  In the selection of the round lottery variation time (S155), the variation display time is determined by selecting the variation display pattern from the variation display pattern table.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a symbol determination display time table according to the present embodiment.

  The symbol fixed display time table stores a symbol fixed display time. In this figure, one symbol fixed time is changed by the variable α. However, a plurality of symbol fixed display times may be included in the symbol fixed display time table, and a fixed time may be selected from them. .

  In the round lottery symbol fixed display time setting process (S156), the symbol fixed display time is determined by determining the variable α in the symbol fixed display time table.

  That is, in the above-described variation display pattern selection, a variation pattern of time corresponding to the time obtained by subtracting 6 seconds from the remaining sphere error determination time and rounding off fractions of 1 second or less is selected. Further, a fraction of 1 second or less of the remaining sphere error determination time is set to α of the symbol fixed display time.

  Thus, by setting the round lottery variation time and the round lottery symbol fixed display time, the sum of the round lottery variation time and the round lottery symbol fixed display time becomes equal to the remaining ball error determination time.

  Therefore, even if the determination time of the remaining ball error is indefinite, the player is not aware of the waiting time for determining the remaining ball error by adjusting the fanfare time.

  Further, since the fanfare time can be adjusted, when the remaining ball error determination time is not large, it is possible to quickly shift to the big hit operation.

  FIG. 15 is a timing diagram of processing in which a big hit is generated by detection of a V winning.

  When the discharged balls from the center accessory 3 are effectively detected by the V count switch 57, the round lottery variation time and the round lottery symbol fixed display time are determined (S155, S156), and the fanfare operation starts. When the fanfare operation starts, first, the round display 33 starts the effect of drawing the number of rounds (variation display). When the round number lottery is completed, the determined number of rounds is displayed. In this figure, the variable display time is 15 seconds (fanfare minimum time), the final display time is 6 seconds, and the fanfare time is 21 seconds.

As described above, this fanfare time of 21 seconds is compared with the remaining ball error determination time,
This is selected when the fanfare minimum time ≧ residual ball error determination time.

When the remaining sphere error judgment time is 27.5 seconds,
Since the fanfare minimum time is less than the remaining ball error determination time, 27.5 seconds is set as the fanfare time. At this time, the variation time is 21 seconds and the confirmation time is 6.5 seconds.

When the fanfare operation is completed, the lower prize winning opening 10 is opened and accepts a game ball. Then, as the lower prize winning opening 10 is opened, the lower prize winning operation signal changes to the “open state”.
The lower prize winning opening 10 accepts a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) or is open for a predetermined time (for example, 25 seconds). Then, it returns to the closed state, and the one-round jackpot operation ends.

  When one round of jackpot operation is completed, the lower prize winning opening 10 is closed and the game ball is not accepted. After the lower prize winning port 10 is converted to the closed state, the signal for lower prize winning operation is changed to the “closed state” after a predetermined time has elapsed. Further, the interval ends after a predetermined time elapses, and the special winning opening 10 is again opened. And if it repeats opening and closing for the predetermined number of rounds, the jackpot game is finished.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, an operation when a plurality of game balls have won the upper major winning opening 31 will be described.

  FIG. 16 is a timing chart in the case where two game balls that have won a prize at the upper major winning opening 31 are detected in the order of the remaining ball count switch 56 and the V count switch 57.

  The game ball that has won the upper prize winning port 31 is detected by the upper prize winning port count switch 55 and then detected by the remaining ball count switch 56 and the V count switch 57.

  In the state shown in FIG. 16, first, one of the two game balls won in the upper prize winning port 31 is detected by the remaining ball count switch 56. In this state, there are still remaining spheres, so the remaining sphere flag remains on.

  Since the remaining ball error determination time is set every time a game ball wins the upper grand prize opening 31, in the state shown in FIG. 17, there are two remaining ball error determination times set by the first winning detection. It is reset by detecting the winning of the eye. That is, the remaining ball error determination time is extended by detecting the second winning ball.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the remaining ball error determination time is set every time a winning ball is detected. The game balls that have won a prize at the upper university winning opening 31 are usually discharged after a delay. On the other hand, if the remaining ball error determination time is set to a fixed value in advance, a long-term remaining ball error determination time is set for a winning ball that does not know whether to win late. Therefore, the remaining sphere error determination time can be shortened by resetting the remaining sphere error determination time every time a winning is made.

  Thereafter, when one of the two game balls won in the upper prize winning opening 31 is detected by the V count switch 57, a big hit state is reached and the fanfare operation starts.

  FIG. 17 is a timing diagram in the case where two game balls that have won in the upper grand prize opening 31 are detected in the order of the V count switch 57 and the remaining ball count switch 56.

  In the state shown in FIG. 17, first, when one of the two game balls won in the top prize winning port 31 is detected by the V count switch 57 remaining ball count switch 56, a big hit state occurs and the fanfare operation starts. In this state, there are still remaining spheres, so the remaining sphere flag remains on.

  Since the remaining ball error determination time is set every time a game ball wins the upper university winning opening 31, in the state shown in FIG. 16, two remaining ball error determination times set by the first winning detection are set. It is reset by detecting the winning of the eye. That is, the remaining ball error determination time is extended by detecting the second winning ball.

  Even during the remaining ball error determination time, the fanfare is started without waiting for this determination result. As a result, if the remaining balls become zero before the end of the fanfare, the game proceeds without any delay, so that the game can proceed at a good tempo. Therefore, the operation of the gaming machine in the game hall can be improved.

  If the remaining sphere is not discharged before the end of the fanfare, the remaining sphere error state is entered. At this time, since an error state occurs after a series of fanfare operations are completed, the production is not interrupted in the middle due to the occurrence of an error. This is an effect caused by determining the fanfare time in relation to the remaining sphere error determination time.

  Then, by detecting the remaining sphere, the error is canceled and the jackpot operation starts.

  Thereafter, when one of the two game balls won in the upper prize winning port 31 is detected by the remaining ball count switch 56, the remaining balls in the center accessory 3 disappear, so the remaining ball flag is turned off.

  As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the remaining ball error determination time is set every time a winning of a game ball to the center accessory 3 is detected, and the game balls remaining in the center accessory 3 are set. When the remaining sphere error determination time elapses before the number becomes zero, the remaining sphere error is determined. On the other hand, when a V winning is detected by the V count switch 57 during the remaining ball error determination time, a fanfare operation is started. As a result, the fanfare operation can be performed even while the remaining ball is being monitored, and the player will not feel uncomfortable when a big hit occurs, and the winnings for each start winning prize can be separated while smoothly progressing the game. And the fairness of the gaming machine can be secured.

  In addition, since the fanfare operation time is set according to the remaining time of the remaining ball error determination time, the game can smoothly proceed by changing the fanfare time.

  Further, since a variable display game using random numbers is performed during the fanfare operation, even if the fanfare time is long, the player does not feel uncomfortable.

  The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description of the invention described above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a front view of the game board 1 of the gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine) of the present embodiment. It is a block diagram of a control system centering on the game control device 100 of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is a flowchart of the main process of the game control of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of game control of this embodiment. It is a flowchart of the remaining sphere update process of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the remaining sphere error determination process of this Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining the operation when the game ball of the present embodiment does not win the upper grand prize opening 31; FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining an operation in a case where an error does not occur due to a game ball that has been won without winning a V prize when the game ball of the present embodiment has won a prize at the upper prize winning opening 31; FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining an operation in the case where an error occurs due to a game ball that has been won without winning a V prize when the game ball of the present embodiment has won a prize at the upper prize winning opening 31; FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining an operation in the case where the game ball of the present embodiment wins the upper grand prize opening 31 and no error occurs due to the V game win. FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining an operation in the case where an error occurs due to a game ball that has won a game ball of V winning and the game ball of the present embodiment has won a prize at the upper prize winning opening 31; It is a flowchart of the fanfare time determination process of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the fluctuation | variation display pattern table of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the symbol fixed display time table of this Embodiment. It is a timing diagram of a process in which a big hit is generated by the detection of the V winning of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a timing chart for explaining an operation when a plurality of game balls of the present embodiment win a prize at the upper prize winning opening 31; FIG. 6 is a timing chart for explaining an operation when a plurality of game balls of the present embodiment win a prize at the upper prize winning opening 31;

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game board 3 Center object 10 Lower large prize opening 31 Upper large prize opening 32 Opening and closing wing 33 Round indicator 34 Rotating body 55 Upper large prize opening count switch 56 Remaining ball count switch 57 V count switch 100 Game control apparatus 150 Effect control apparatus

Claims (6)

A variable winning device having a movable member and a special winning opening, which can be converted into a first state unfavorable for the player and a second state advantageous for the player by operating the movable member, and based on the winning of the game ball The game area includes a start winning opening that gives a condition for causing a preliminary gaming state to convert the variable winning device to the second state,
Based on the winning of the game ball at the starting winning opening, control is performed so as to cause a preliminary gaming state by the variable winning device, and the game ball that has flowed into the variable winning device in the preliminary gaming state wins the special winning port. In a gaming machine comprising control means for controlling to cause a special gaming state that gives a player a gaming value based on
The variable winning device is:
A winning detection means provided in a game ball passage region between the movable member and the special winning opening, and detecting a winning of the game ball in the variable winning device;
A discharge detecting means for detecting the discharge of the game ball from the variable winning device,
The control means includes
A remaining ball determining means for determining the presence or absence of a game ball remaining in the variable winning device in the preliminary gaming state based on the detection result of the game ball by the winning detection means and the discharge detecting means;
Residual ball error determination time setting means for setting a residual ball error determination time when a winning of a game ball is detected by the winning detection means;
A remaining ball error determination means for determining a remaining ball error when the remaining ball error determination time has elapsed before the number of game balls remaining in the variable winning device becomes zero;
Fanfare operation setting means for setting a fanfare operation for notifying the winning without waiting for the remaining ball error determination by the remaining ball error determination means when a winning of a game ball to the special winning opening is detected. A gaming machine characterized by that.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the remaining ball error determination time setting unit sets a remaining ball error determination time each time a winning of a game ball is detected by the winning detection unit. The control means includes
Special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball in the special winning port is detected,
The special gaming state generating means is:
A predetermined random number is acquired in the process of detecting the winning of a game ball in the special winning opening,
Based on the determination result of the random number, one of a plurality of special gaming states having different values is generated,
3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein during the winning notification by the fanfare operation setting unit, the special gaming state is notified of which of the plurality of types of special gaming states. The control means includes
Special game state generating means for generating a special game state when a winning of a game ball in the special winning port is detected,
The special gaming state generating means does not cause a special gaming state by winning a prize at the special winning opening while the remaining ball error determining means determines that there is a remaining ball error. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 3.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fanfare operation setting means sets a winning notification time based on a progress status of the remaining ball error determination time. The control means includes
When a winning of a game ball to the start winning opening is detected, a preliminary gaming state is generated, and a preliminary gaming state generating means for enabling winning of the gaming ball to the special winning opening is provided,
The preliminary game state occurrence means invalidates the occurrence of the preliminary game state based on the winning of the other game balls at the start winning opening until a predetermined time has elapsed since the detection of the winning of the game ball at the starting winning opening. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that:

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