JP2007167233A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can suppress the putting-out rate of game balls while softening the dissatisfied feeling of a game player. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is equipped with a main CPU 66 which controls a lottery for whether the game is shifted to a special game for which a round game keeping a big winning port 39 opened for a long period of time or not, and at the same time, controls the execution of the special game with the sensing of the game balls entering special winning ports 25 and 44 by a start winning ball sensor 116 as a trigger. A putting-out/launching control circuit 126 performs a control for reducing the putting-out number of special prize balls which are put out with the sensing of the game balls entering the special winning ports 25 and 44 by the start winning ball sensor 116 as a trigger when the main CPU 66 is controlling the execution of the special game. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

  In the conventional pachinko machines, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out when the game balls rolling on the game board enter the prize opening, and a big hit lottery is performed when entering the start opening (special prize opening) When winning the jackpot lottery, the game shifts to a special game, where the big prize opening is repeatedly opened several times, and a lot of prize balls are paid out. Since the jackpot lottery is won with a predetermined probability, there is a possibility that the winner will be won more or less. For this reason, it is very difficult for the management side of the gaming machine to manage the pitch rate.

Therefore, in order to solve this, a game in which the number of payouts can be changed when the starting rate exceeds a predetermined upper limit value or lower limit value, and the starting rate can be prevented from protruding to either one. A machine has been proposed. (See Patent Document 1).
JP 2003-299854 A

  However, for a player who plays a game, when the ball-out rate exceeds the upper limit value, it is in a very satisfactory state that a lot of prize balls are paid out. It is easy to see that the number is less favorable and unfair than before, and it is easy to feel dissatisfied with this. Under such circumstances, it is desired to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the rate at which the player has played while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a pitching rate while reducing a player's dissatisfaction.

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

  (1) A game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls, a game board having a special prize entrance and a prize entrance including a special prize entrance for entering the game ball in the game area, and entering the prize entrance Entry detection means for detecting a game ball, and a payout control means for performing a control for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls, triggered by the detection of the game sphere entered the winning opening by the entry detection means; Controls the lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game in which a round game is opened for a long period of time when the winning detection means detects the game ball that has entered the special winning opening. And a control means for controlling the execution of the special game, the payout control means, when the control means is controlling the execution of the special game, the game ball that has entered the special winning opening Special prize balls to be paid out when triggered by the entrance detection means Gaming machine and performing control to reduce the number of out.

  According to the invention of (1), by detecting the game ball that has entered the winning entrance by the entrance detecting means, the control means detects the game ball that has entered the special winning entrance among the winning openings. In response to the detection by the means, it is possible to control the lottery of whether or not to shift to a special game in which a round game is opened for a long time, and to control the execution of the special game. At the time of execution of the special game, many game balls enter the big prize opening, so that the payout control means controls to pay out many prize balls. When the control means controls the execution of the special game, the payout control means can control to reduce the number of payout of special prize balls that are prize balls for entering the special prize opening. Become. As a result, when a lot of prize balls are paid out for entering the big prize opening by special game, the number of special prize balls paid out is reduced, so the player notices that the number of prize balls paid out can be reduced. It becomes difficult to be. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the number of prize balls paid out while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

  (2) Game ball number storage means for storing the number of rolling game balls that have rolled in the game area and the number of payout of the prize balls that have been paid out by the payout control means, respectively, and the rolling game balls Calculating means for calculating a payout rate, which is a ratio of the number of prize balls paid out to the number, and correspondence storage means for storing a predetermined correspondence between the payout percentage and the number of payouts of the special prize balls. The payout control means controls the payout of the special prize balls of the payout number based on the predetermined correspondence stored in the correspondence relation storage means in accordance with the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. The gaming machine according to (1), wherein the gaming machine is performed.

  According to the invention of (2), the game ball number storage means stores the number of rolling game balls that have rolled in the game area, and the number of award balls that have been paid out by the payout control means. Thus, it is possible to calculate the pitch rate, which is the number of prize balls paid out with respect to the number of rolling game balls. The correspondence relationship storage means stores a predetermined correspondence relationship between the number of balls to be paid and the number of special prize balls to be paid out, so that the correspondence relationship is determined by the payout control means according to the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. It is possible to perform control for paying out special prize balls based on a predetermined correspondence stored in the storage means. As a result, during a special game in which it is difficult for the player to notice the number of prize balls to be paid out, it is possible to pay out the number of special prize balls to be paid according to the percentage of the ball to be played. It is possible to set the daily turnout rate to a value desired by the manager. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a player's dissatisfaction and can suppress a pitching rate that is difficult for an administrator to manage.

  (3) The gaming machine according to (1) or (2), wherein the payout control unit performs control to reduce the number of payouts of the special prize ball to 0.

  According to the invention of (3), the payout control means can control the number of payout of special prize balls to be zero. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the special prize balls during the special game where it is difficult for the player to reduce the number of prize balls to be paid out. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can further reduce the ball-out rate while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

  According to the present invention, when the control means controls the execution of the special game by the payout control means, the number of payouts of the special prize balls, which are prize balls for the entrance into the special prize opening out of the prize winning openings, is reduced. Therefore, when a large number of prize balls are paid out by entering special winning games, the number of special prize balls paid out is reduced and the number of prize balls paid out is reduced. It is possible to make it difficult for the player to notice the reduction. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the number of prize balls paid out while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

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

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

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

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

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

  A liquid crystal display device 32, which is an example of display means for displaying an effect image, is provided behind the game board 14 with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the transparent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap the whole or a part of the game board 14 from the back side with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as a production effect image and a decoration image for decoration are displayed. Thus, the game board 14 functions as an example of a game board at least part of which is made of a permeable region. In addition, the liquid crystal display device 32 functions as an example of display means provided behind the transmissive region in the game board.

  Further, in the present embodiment, by providing display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the transparent gaming board 14, for example, an area where game members such as an obstacle nail planting area, an accessory, and a decorative member are provided. And the degree of freedom in layout can be further increased.

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

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

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

  As shown in FIG. 3, the special symbol display device 33 accommodated in the display device case 37 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs 41. The 7-segment LED 41 is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. When the 7-segment LED 41 is turned on / off, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols (also referred to as identification information).

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

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

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

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

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

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid 27 (see FIG. 5), which is a drive device, is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid 27 according to the turning angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is The game board 14 is sequentially fired to advance the game.

  The means for launching a game ball on the game board 14 and the means for detecting the launched game ball will be described later with reference to the drawings.

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

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

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

  In this way, whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, in other words, a game for determining whether or not to execute a special game described later is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Such a game is called a “variable display game”. In addition, when the combination of the identification information for presentation displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 becomes a specific display mode, a character image or the like is further displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. The

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

  As shown in FIG. 4, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), obstacles 55 and 57, passing gates 54a and 54b, a second warp path 49, an obstacle 58, and an example of a special prize opening that forms a predetermined area. Games such as the start opening 25, the start opening 44 as an example of a special winning opening provided with the blade member 48, the shutter 40, the large winning opening 39, the round number display 51, the general winning openings 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d, etc. A member is provided. In addition, in the upper part of the game board 14, the electrical decoration units 53 such as the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are visible.

  An obstacle 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and an obstacle 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14. A starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area is provided below the obstacle 57. An obstacle 58 is also provided on the right side of the center of the game board 14.

  The two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b that is disposed inside the outer rail 30a. . The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14, moves to the upper part of the game area 15, passes through the electric decoration unit 53, and the plurality of obstacle nails 13 ( 2), due to the collision with the obstacles 55, 57, 58, etc. provided on the game board 14, the downward flow of the game board 14 is made while changing its traveling direction. In other words, the game area 15 functions as an example of a game area where the game ball rolls.

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

  When a game ball wins at the start opening 25 described above (which is one of the start of the predetermined special symbol variation display), the special symbol display by the special symbol display 33 is started. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 during the special symbol variation display, the special symbol variation based on the game ball winning at the start opening 25 is stopped until the special symbol being displayed is stopped. Display execution (start) is put on hold. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. It should be noted that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variation display is suspended, that is, the number of retained balls, for example, the special symbol variation display is suspended up to four times (pieces).

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

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

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

  In the present embodiment, the winning of a game ball at the start opening 25 is set as a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition or a predetermined presentation identification information variable display start condition. Alternatively, another embodiment may be used.

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gates 54a and 54b are provided with passing ball sensors 114 and 115 (see FIG. 6), which will be described later. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b. When the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect the passing of the game ball, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 35, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. . As described above, this normal symbol is a symbol such as “◯” or “x”.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) 23 provided on both the left and right sides of the start port 25 are changed from the closed state to the open state, It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start opening 25. Further, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 23 is opened, the blade member 23 is closed to make it difficult for a game ball to enter the start port 25. As described above, a game in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member 23 differs depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

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

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). This shutter 40 has a special symbol display 33 with a special numerical symbol stopped and displayed as a special symbol, and the game state is advantageous for the player. When the game state is shifted to the game state (15R big hit game state), the game ball is driven so as to be in an open state in which a game ball can be easily received. As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 includes a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 6) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 6). There are general areas (not shown) having a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls, or the shutter 40 is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. Driven. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state (second state) in which it is difficult to accept a game ball.

  It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Therefore, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds, such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 that is driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again operated on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V-count sensor 102. Driven to the open state. In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed the V · count sensor 102. A game from the first round game until the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game. In this special game, as will be described later, a predetermined number of game balls are placed in the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 (see FIG. 1) when the game balls are received in the big prize opening 39 that performs the opening operation. Since it is paid out, the game is advantageous to the player.

  In other words, the game board 14 functions as an example of a game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls and having a prize opening including a special prize opening and a big prize opening in which the game ball enters the game area. .

  During execution of the special game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continuous rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued is 15 rounds.

  Note that the maximum number of continuous rounds during execution of the special game is not limited to 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is selected from “1” round to “15” round by lottery by a round number lottery means (a main control circuit 60 (see FIG. 6) including a main CPU 66 described later), etc. Any number of rounds may be used.

  Further, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start opening 25, the general winning openings 56a to 56d and the large winning opening 39, and the starting opening 44, a payout device 128 (see FIG. 6) described later is used. A predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 (see FIG. 1) or the lower plate 22 according to the type of each winning opening. Further, the payout device 128 is provided with a payout ball detection sensor 113 (see FIG. 6) for detecting a game ball to be paid out, as will be described later.

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

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

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

  Next, means for launching a game ball on the game board 14 and means for detecting the launched game ball will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing means for launching a game ball on the game board 14 and means for detecting the game ball that has been launched.

  At the lower end of the guide rail 30, a launch solenoid 27 is provided as a means for launching a game ball on the game board 14, and when the launch solenoid 27 is operated, the game ball is launched on the game board 14. Can do. The guide rail 30 in the vicinity of the launch solenoid 27 is provided with a launch ball passage detection sensor 117 as a means for detecting the launched game ball. The launch ball passage detection sensor 117 may be any sensor that detects a launched game ball, such as a transmissive or reflective optical sensor or proximity sensor that detects the passage of the game ball with light. Is possible. It is also possible to employ a mechanical launch ball passage detection switch as means for detecting the launched game ball.

  In the middle of the guide rail 30, there is a discharge port for discharging a game ball that returns backward along the guide rail 30 due to insufficient launch force of the launch solenoid 27 or when the launch solenoid 27 has launched two game balls. 28 is provided, and a return ball detection switch 119 for detecting a game ball discharged from the discharge port 28 is further provided. By detecting the game ball by the return ball detection switch 119, the number of game balls actually launched can be counted reliably. As a means for detecting the game ball discharged from the discharge port 28, not only a return ball detection switch that mechanically detects the game ball, but also transmission light or reflection type light that detects passage of the game ball with light. Any sensor such as a sensor or a proximity sensor that can detect a game ball to be discharged can be used.

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

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the main control circuit 60 as the game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

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

  A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table to be referred to at the time, a special winning ball payout number selection table storing a predetermined correspondence between the payout rate and the special winning ball payout number, and other tables are also stored. ing. In other words, the main ROM 68 functions as an example of a correspondence storage unit that stores a predetermined correspondence between the payout rate and the number of special prize balls to be paid out.

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

  In the main RAM 70, a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a loss symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, a grand prize opening number counter, a grand prize Mouth winning counter, special symbol game number counter, round number display counter, round number display effect start counter, waiting time timer, special winning opening time timer, data indicating number of reserved balls for special symbol, holding for normal symbol Data indicating the number of balls, data for supplying a command to a sub-control circuit 200, which will be described later, a starting memory number counter, a rolling game ball number counter, variables, and the like are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area.

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

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

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened (so-called round number) in the big hit gaming state. Also, the grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big prize winning opening (see FIG. 4) during one round and passed the V · count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the special symbol (so-called start memory number counter) holds the start of the special symbol game when the game ball is won at the starting port 25 but the variation display of the special symbol cannot be executed. However, it shows the number of times the special symbol game is held. That is, the data indicating the number of reserved balls regarding the special symbol indicates the number of stored start memory information (start memory information will be described later). Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the normal symbol holds the start of the normal symbol game when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed. Indicates the number of hold times of normal symbol games. The round number display counter indicates the number of rounds displayed on the round number display 51.

  In the main RAM 70, a special symbol storage area and a normal symbol storage area are positioned, and various information is stored.

  Further, the main RAM 70 stores a big prize mouth ball counter, a general prize mouth prize ball counter, and a start mouth prize ball counter. The large winning opening prize ball counter, the general winning opening prize ball counter, and the starting opening prize ball counter are for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the payout device 128. Further, the main RAM 70 stores a prize ball payout ball counter and a rolling game ball counter. The value of the winning ball payout ball counter indicates the number of game balls detected by a payout ball detection sensor 113 described later, and the value of the rolling game ball number counter is calculated from the number of game balls detected by the launch ball passage detection sensor 117. The number when the return ball detection switch 119 is detected is subtracted.

  In other words, the main RAM 70 for storing the prize ball payout ball counter and the rolling game ball number counter is the number of rolling game balls that have rolled in the game area and the number of prize balls that have been paid out by the payout control means. It functions as an example of a game ball number storage means for storing the above.

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

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensors 104 and 105, and the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are used. , Passing ball sensors 114, 115, starting winning ball sensor 116, ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, large winning port solenoid 120, seesaw solenoid 122, backup clear switch 124, payout ball detection sensor 113, launch ball passage detection sensor 117, return A ball detection switch 119 is connected.

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

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

  A count sensor 105, which is an example of a detection unit, is provided at the start port 44. The count sensor 105 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through the start port 44.

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

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

  A start winning ball sensor 116 which is a game ball detecting means is provided at the start port 25. The start winning ball sensor 116 detects that a game ball has won (passed) the start opening 25 and supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60.

  In other words, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensors 104 and 105, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 and the starting winning ball sensor 116 are used for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning opening. It serves as an example.

  The payout ball detection sensor 113 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball to be paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 (see FIG. 2) is detected.

  The firing ball passage detection sensor 117 is provided on the guide rail 30 and supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball launched by the firing solenoid 27 is detected.

  The return ball detection switch 119 is provided in the vicinity of the discharge port 28, and supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball discharged from the discharge port 28 is detected.

  The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and opens the blade member 48 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. In addition, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 closes the blade member 48 in accordance with the drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66.

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

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

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

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

  The payout / firing control circuit 126 is used to determine whether the game ball has passed through the V / count sensor 102, the count sensors 104, 105, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the starting winning ball sensor 116. Is received from the main CPU 66 when the main control circuit 60 receives the game signal, that is, when a game ball enters the start opening 25 or 44, the big winning opening 39, or the general winning opening 56a to 56d. When the ball control command is received, the payout device 128 is controlled to pay out the game ball.

  That is, when a game ball enters the start opening 25, 44, the big winning opening 39, the general winning opening 56a to 56d, the payout / launch control circuit 126 uses the payout device 128 to select the type of each winning opening. In accordance with the control, a predetermined number of game balls are controlled to be paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22 (see FIG. 2).

  In other words, the payout / launch control circuit 126 functions as an example of a payout control unit that performs control for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls when the ball detection means detects a game ball that has entered the winning opening. To do.

  Further, when the payout / firing control circuit 126 receives a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, the payout / firing control circuit 126 performs a control of firing a game ball by supplying a firing signal to the launching device 130.

  In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid 27 (see FIG. 5) and a touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid 27 according to the turning angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is The fire solenoid 27 sequentially fires the game board 14.

  Further, a lamp control circuit 76 for controlling the lamp 74 is connected to the main control circuit 60, and the lamp 74 is connected to the lamp control circuit 76. The lamp control circuit 76 supplies a lamp (LED) control signal to the lamp 74. The lamp 74 includes incandescent bulbs, LEDs, and the like. Specifically, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, the special symbol display device 33 (7-segment LED 41), and the normal symbol display device 35. (Display lamp), round number display 51 (7-segment LED 52) and the like are included.

  On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub-control circuit 200 controls display on the liquid crystal display device 32, control on sound generated from the speaker 46, control on lamps such as the decoration lamps 133a and 133b, etc. in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. To do.

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

  The sub control circuit 200 is generated from a variable display control means, a sub CPU 206 as sound generation control means, a program ROM 208 as storage means, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and a speaker 46. The sound control circuit 230 performs control related to the sound to be generated, and the lamp control circuit 240 controls the board surface effect lamps 36a and 36b and the decoration lamps 133a and 133b. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

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

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. A specific program will be described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display that is executed in association with the change display of the special symbol. The program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of special games. The effect pattern during execution of the special game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the round game in the special game. The program ROM 208 stores a reach time table that defines a display period of reach effects.

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

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

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

  A display control circuit 250 functioning as display control means for controlling display of effect images in the display means, an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, and image data as image signals. And a D / A converter 218 for conversion as follows, and an initial reset circuit 220 for generating a reset signal when the power is turned on.

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

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

  In the image data ROM 216, various types of image data such as effect identification information image data, background image data, and effect image data indicating the effect identification information are stored separately. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

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

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

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

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored. The lamp control circuit 240 is directly controlled by the sub CPU 206 described above. That is, the sub CPU 206 controls various lamps such as the decoration lamps 133a and 133b in accordance with the program stored in the program ROM 208.

  The sub CPU 206 reads one type of lamp decoration pattern from a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns stored in the decoration data ROM 244, and supplies a predetermined light emission signal to the drive circuit 242 based on the lamp decoration pattern. The drive circuit 242 turns on, blinks, and turns off the decoration lamps 133a, 133b and the like based on the received predetermined light emission signal.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown below in FIGS. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 9) performed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 7, RAM access permission, backup recovery processing, initialization of the work area, and initial setting processing such as a start memory number counter are executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 9, a special symbol control process related to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol on the special symbol display 33, and the identification information for presentation displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed ( Step S15). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the process in step S15 is repeatedly executed.

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

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 updates the random numbers so that the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, the round number display effect start counter, etc. are incremented by “1”. Processing is executed (step S42). And the input detection process which detects winning or passing of game balls, such as the starting port 25, is performed (step S43). Then, a waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, and the opening time of the special winning opening 39 that is opened when a special game (for example, 15R big hit) is executed is measured. Various timer update processes such as a big prize opening time timer for the purpose are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

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

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126.

  The payout / firing control circuit 126 causes the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball based on the prize ball control command. Specifically, “15” gaming balls are paid out from the payout device 128 as winning balls by winning in the big winning opening 39 for every big winning opening prize ball counter “1”. In addition, for each general winning opening prize ball counter “1”, “10” gaming balls are paid out from the payout device 128 as winning balls by winning the general winning openings 56a to 56d. In addition, during the execution of the game in the normal gaming state, “4” game balls are paid out from the payout device 128 as prize balls by winning the start opening 25 every time the start opening prize ball counter is “1”. Further, during the execution of the game in the special game state, the start opening prize ball counter is set to a special prize ball payout number selection table (see FIG. 17) to be described later based on the special prize ball control command every “1”. Pay out the number of game balls based on the number.

  When the game ball from the payout device 128 is paid out as a prize ball by the payout process in step S49, the payout game ball is detected by the payout ball detection sensor 113 (see FIG. 6). Then, a prize ball payout number measurement process (see FIG. 15) is executed based on the detected result, whereby a prize ball payout number B is obtained, and the obtained B and rolling game ball measurement process (see FIG. 15). 14) is executed, the starting rate is calculated from the calculated number A of rolling game balls (see the starting rate calculating process in step S2106 in FIG. 16).

  Further, in the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 sends a prize ball control command for performing a predetermined number of prize ball payouts to the payout / firing control circuit 126 by winning game balls in various prize openings. Supply. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 9, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S81 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 9, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  In steps S72 to S81, which will be described later, as will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

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

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

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

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main winning prize port 39 read from the main ROM 68 is obtained. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S46 in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 reads data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal for opening the big prize opening 39 to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from an open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts a game ball to a closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts a gaming ball) is provided a plurality of times. A special game that may be repeated is executed.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. In addition, when the advantageous gaming state is a special game, the main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big winning opening opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”, etc.) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 starts measuring the execution time of the special game using the special game execution time timer in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

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

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

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

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

  In step S79, the remaining sphere monitoring process in the accessory is executed. In this process, when the advantageous game is a special game, the main CPU 66 determines that the control state flag is a value (05) indicating monitoring of the remaining ball in the accessory, and if the remaining ball in the accessory monitoring time has elapsed, The condition that the game ball has not passed through the specific area in the winning opening 39, the large winning opening opening number counter is “15” (when the specific number symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display 33 is “7”) It is determined whether or not any of the above conditions is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S80 is executed.

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

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

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

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the case where the big hit gaming state is not set. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Furthermore, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The processes of step S79 and step S77 are executed at a predetermined timing, and a special game is executed. If the special game (big hit game state) end condition (special game end condition, big hit game end condition) is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, “08” should be set in order. Thus, the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. 9 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the special game is ended. In the present embodiment, the game ball has not passed through the specific area (puncture) until a predetermined time has elapsed, and the maximum number of continuous rounds (in this embodiment, “2” rounds or “15 The end of the “round” round game may also be a special game end condition.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, in step S101, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol memory check, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol memory check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

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

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

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

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects a jackpot determination value stored in the jackpot determination table. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. In other words, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to shift to a special game in which a round game is opened for a long period of time when the winning prize opening is opened for a long time when the entry detecting means detects a gaming ball that has entered the special winning opening. It functions as an example of a control means for controlling the lottery and controlling the execution of the special game.

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

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

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

  In step S109, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining the variation pattern of the effect display based on the special symbol determined in step S107 and step S108, that is, based on the lottery result by the processing in step S105. . Here, the variation pattern of the effect display means a variation display pattern of the identification information for the effect, a variation display pattern of the effect image, etc., and based on the variation pattern of the effect display, the variation display of the identification information for the effect and A game in which stop display is repeatedly performed is controlled, and display of the effect image is controlled. Then, the main CPU 66 determines an effect display variation pattern based on the effect condition selection random number extracted from the effect condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To do. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a control unit that controls the progress of a game (variable display game) in which variation display and stop display of identification information (for production) are repeatedly performed.

  In step S109, the data indicating the variation pattern of the effect display stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is transferred from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a fluctuation pattern designation command. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, stores the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and based on the stored effect pattern, Data for displaying the effect pattern is transmitted to the display control circuit 250. The display control circuit 250 controls the effect display on the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the data for displaying the reach effect pattern.

  Further, in step S109, the main CPU 66 has a function as a control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the special symbol which is the identification information is repeatedly displayed and stopped.

  That is, in step S109, based on the data indicating the special symbol stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the processing of step S107 and step S108, the main CPU 66 uses a plurality of types of LED lighting patterns stored in the main ROM 68. One LED lighting pattern is selected from the above, and the selected LED lighting pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

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

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

[Input detection processing]
The subroutine executed in step S43 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 executes prize ball related switch check processing (step S231). In this processing, the main CPU 66, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 13, is a V / count sensor 102, count sensors 104 and 105, general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112, which are switches related to winning balls, and a start winning prize. It is detected whether a predetermined detection signal is supplied from various sensors such as the ball sensor 116. Then, the main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined detection signals determines the number of prize balls according to the sensor that has supplied the detection signals, and stores it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S232.

  In step S232, special symbol related switch input processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects whether a predetermined detection signal is supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the count sensors 104 and 105, and the start winning ball sensor 116 related to the identification information as a special symbol. The main CPU 66 that has performed detection processing of these predetermined detection signals executes processing such as starting and storing special symbols. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S233.

  In step S233, normal symbol related switch input processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a predetermined detection signal is supplied from the passing ball sensors 114 and 115, and if it is determined that a predetermined detection signal is supplied, the normal CPU starts. Processing such as storage is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Prize ball related switch check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S231 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether there is a count switch input (step S261). In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a count switch input in response to a predetermined detection signal supplied from the count sensor 104, the main CPU 66 stores the grand prize winning prize counter to be incremented by "1". Processing for detecting the count switch to be updated is executed (step S262). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S263. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a count switch input, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S263.

  In step S263, it is determined whether there is a V / count switch input. In this processing, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a V / count switch input in accordance with a predetermined detection signal supplied from the V / count sensor 102, the main winning prize prize counter is incremented by "1". The process at the time of detecting the V / count switch is executed to update the storage so as to be performed (step S264). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S268. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a V / count switch input, it moves the process to step S268.

  In step S268, it is determined whether or not there is a start port switch input. In this process, the main CPU 66 receives a predetermined detection signal supplied from a starting winning ball sensor 116 which is an example of a entering detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning opening, whereby the start opening switch input is performed. It will be determined whether or not there is. That is, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered a start opening 25 which is an example of a special prize opening provided on the game board 14. If the main CPU 66 determines that there is a start port switch input, it moves the process to step S269, and if it does not determine that there is a start port switch input, it moves the process to step S270. The main CPU 66 and the start winning ball sensor 116 that execute the process of step S265 are examples of game ball detecting means. Further, the main CPU 66 functions as a start opening winning determination means for determining whether or not a gaming ball has entered a special winning opening provided on the game board 14.

  In step S269, the process at the time of starting port detection is performed, and when this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S270. In this process, the main CPU 66 updates the memory so that the starting opening prize ball counter is incremented by “1”.

  In step S270, it is determined whether or not there is a general winning ball switch input. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that there is a general winning ball switch input in accordance with a predetermined detection signal supplied from the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, which is an example of a detection unit. Then, a process for detecting a general winning ball switch is executed to store and update the general winning ball prize ball counter so as to increase it by “1” (step S271). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 does not determine that there is a general winning ball switch input, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine.

[Rolling game ball measurement processing]

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed to measure the number of game balls launched on the game board. This subroutine is called and executed when the firing ball passage detection sensor 117 detects a game ball from a program for controlling the game of the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is executed in advance.

  In step S1900, the main CPU 66 receives a detection signal of a game ball launched by the firing solenoid 27 (see FIG. 5) from the firing ball passage detection sensor 117 (see FIG. 6). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1902.

  In step S1902, it is determined whether the launched game ball is detected by the return ball detection switch 119 (see FIG. 6) (step S1902). That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether a detection signal from the return ball detection switch 119 has been received. If it is determined that a game ball is detected by the return ball detection switch 119, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S1903, when it is determined that the game ball is not detected by the return ball detection switch 119, 1 is added (incremented) to the number of rolling game balls stored in the work RAM 210, and the main RAM 70 is set as A + 1. The rolling game ball number A is cumulatively stored (step S1905), and this subroutine is terminated.

  When a subroutine for measuring the number of game balls launched on the game board is being executed, the firing ball passage detection sensor 117, the return ball detection switch 119, and the launch ball passage detection sensor 117 are returned. The main CPU 66 that receives a detection signal from the ball detection switch 119 functions as a hitting game ball measuring means for obtaining the number of hit game balls.

[Prize ball game ball measurement processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a subroutine executed to measure the number of paid-out game balls. It is called and executed when the payout ball detection sensor 113 detects a game ball from a program for controlling the game of the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is executed in advance.

  In step S2000, the main CPU 66 receives a detection signal from the payout ball detection sensor 113 (see FIG. 6). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2003.

  In step S2003, the main CPU 66 adds (increments) 1 to the prize ball payout number B stored in the main RAM 70, and stores the prize ball payout number B cumulatively in the main RAM 70 as B + 1 (step S2005). This subroutine is finished.

[Payout process]
Next, the payout process in step S49 (see FIG. 8) will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S2101, it is determined whether a detection signal has been received from start winning ball sensor 116 (see FIG. 6). The main CPU 66 determines whether or not a predetermined detection signal is received from the start winning ball sensor 116 in the process of step S43 (see FIG. 8). If it is determined that a predetermined detection signal has been received from the starting winning ball sensor 116, the process proceeds to step S2105. If it is not determined that a predetermined detection signal has been received from the starting winning ball sensor 116, the process proceeds to step S2108. Move processing.

  In step S2105, it is determined whether or not a special game is being executed. The main CPU 66 determines whether or not a special game is being executed from the value of the control state flag stored in the main RAM 70. When determining that the special game is being executed, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S2106, and when not determining that the special game is being executed, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S2108.

  In step S2106, a ball exit rate calculation process is performed. The main CPU 66 calculates the pitch rate by dividing the prize ball payout number B stored in the main RAM 70 and stored in step S2005 by the rolling game ball number A stored in step S1905. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2107.

  In other words, the main CPU 66 functions as an example of a calculation unit that calculates a ball exit rate that is a ratio of the number of prize balls paid out to the number of rolling game balls.

  In step S2107, a special ball payout control process is performed. The main CPU 66 transmits a special prize ball control command to the payout / firing control circuit 126. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  When the payout / firing control circuit 126 receives a special prize ball control command, the special prize ball that stores a predetermined correspondence relationship between a payout rate and a payout number of special prize balls, which will be described later, stored in the main ROM 68. A number of game balls are paid out by the payout device 128 based on the payout number selection table (see FIG. 17).

  In other words, the main ROM 68 that stores the special winning ball payout number selection table functions as an example of a corresponding relationship storage unit that stores a predetermined corresponding relationship between the payout rate and the special winning ball payout number. Also, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs payout control for paying out the special prize balls of the payout number based on a predetermined correspondence stored in the correspondence storage means in accordance with the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. It functions as an example of control means.

  As described above, the calculation means stores the number of rolling game balls that has rolled in the game area and the number of award balls that have been subjected to payout control by the payout control means by the game ball number storage means. Thus, it is possible to calculate a pitch rate which is the number of prize balls paid out with respect to the number of rolling game balls. The correspondence relationship storage means stores a predetermined correspondence relationship between the number of balls to be paid and the number of special prize balls to be paid out, so that the correspondence relationship is determined by the payout control means according to the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. It is possible to perform control for paying out special prize balls based on a predetermined correspondence stored in the storage means. As a result, during a special game in which it is difficult for the player to notice the number of prize balls to be paid out, it is possible to pay out the number of special prize balls to be paid according to the percentage of the ball to be played. It is possible to set the daily turnout rate to a value desired by the manager. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a player's dissatisfaction and can suppress a pitching rate that is difficult for an administrator to manage.

  In step S2108, a predetermined ball payout control process is performed. The main CPU 66 transmits a prize ball control command to the payout / firing control circuit 126. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  When receiving the prize ball control command, the payout / firing control circuit 126 pays out a predetermined number of game balls stored in the main ROM 68 according to the big prize opening 39, the general prize winning openings 56a to 56d, and the start opening 25. Dispensed by device 128.

[Special prize ball payout number selection table]
FIG. 17 is stored in the main ROM, and when the payout / firing control circuit 126 receives a special prize ball control command, the special prize ball payout number to be referred to when the payout device 128 performs payout control. The selection table will be described.

  In the special prize ball payout number selection table, the main CPU 66, which is an example of a calculation means, calculates the winning rate, which is a value obtained by dividing the prize ball payout number B by the rolling game ball number A calculated by the process of step S2106. The correspondence relationship with the number of special prize balls paid out, which is the number of prize balls to be paid out when entering the start openings 25 and 44 during execution of the special game, is defined.

  Specifically, the number of special prize balls to be paid out when the ball-out rate is less than 0.5 is four. The number of special prize balls to be paid out when the pitching rate is 0.5 to 1.5 is one. The number of special prize balls to be paid out in the case where the ball-out rate exceeds 1.5 is zero. In other words, as the pitching rate increases, the number of special prize balls paid out is reduced.

  In other words, the payout / firing control circuit 126 that performs control for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls based on the special prize ball payout number selection table is used when the control means controls the execution of the special game. It functions as an example of a payout control means for performing control to reduce the payout number of special prize balls to be paid out when the incoming game detection means detects a game ball that has entered.

  In this way, by detecting the gaming ball that has entered the winning opening by the winning detection means, the detecting means has detected the gaming ball that has entered the special winning opening among the winning openings. As a result, it is possible to control the lottery whether or not to shift to the special game in which the round winning game is opened for a long time and to control the execution of the special game. At the time of execution of the special game, many game balls enter the big prize opening, so that the payout control means controls to pay out many prize balls. When the control means controls the execution of the special game, the payout control means can control to reduce the number of payout of special prize balls that are prize balls for entering the special prize opening. Become. As a result, when a lot of prize balls are paid out for entering the big prize opening by special game, the number of special prize balls paid out is reduced, so the player notices that the number of prize balls paid out can be reduced. It becomes difficult to be. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the number of prize balls paid out while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

  In other words, the main ROM that stores the special winning ball payout number selection table functions as an example of a corresponding relationship storage unit that stores a predetermined corresponding relationship between the payout rate and the special winning ball payout number. In addition, the payout / launch control circuit 126 that controls the payout device 128 to pay out the number of prize balls based on the special prize ball payout number selection table is stored in the correspondence relation memory according to the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. It functions as an example of a payout control means for performing a control for paying out a special prize ball of a payout number based on a predetermined correspondence stored in the means.

  As described above, the calculation means stores the number of rolling game balls that has rolled in the game area and the number of award balls that have been subjected to payout control by the payout control means by the game ball number storage means. Thus, it is possible to calculate a pitch rate which is the number of prize balls paid out with respect to the number of rolling game balls. The correspondence relationship storage means stores a predetermined correspondence relationship between the number of balls to be paid and the number of special prize balls to be paid out, so that the correspondence relationship is determined by the payout control means according to the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. It is possible to perform control for paying out special prize balls based on a predetermined correspondence stored in the storage means. As a result, during a special game in which it is difficult for the player to notice the number of prize balls to be paid out, it is possible to pay out the number of special prize balls to be paid according to the percentage of the ball to be played. It is possible to set the daily turnout rate to a value desired by the manager. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a player's dissatisfaction and can suppress a pitching rate that is difficult for an administrator to manage.

  Furthermore, in other words, the payout / firing control circuit 126 that performs payout control for setting the number of payout of prize balls to 0 based on the special prize ball payout number selection table performs payout for performing control for setting the number of payout of special prize balls to 0. It functions as an example of control means.

  In this manner, the payout control means can perform control to reduce the number of special prize balls to be paid out to zero. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the special prize balls during the special game where it is difficult for the player to reduce the number of prize balls to be paid out. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can further reduce the ball-out rate while reducing the dissatisfaction of the player.

  It should be noted that the payout rate and the special prize ball payout number associated with the special prize ball payout number selection table in the present embodiment can be any number. Further, in the present embodiment, a game ball number storage means for storing the number of rolling game balls and the number of prize balls paid out is provided, a calculation means for calculating the ball exit rate is provided, and the ball exit rate and the special prize ball However, the present invention is not limited to this, and there is no provision of game ball number storage means, calculation means, or correspondence relation storage means. The number of special prize balls paid out can be reduced.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine is given as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be a three-type pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine itself such as a pachinko gaming machine, but may be applied to a pachislot gaming machine, a game machine, or the like.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the 7-segment LED is used as a portion for displaying the round number display 51. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a liquid crystal display panel, CRT (Cathode Ray) (Tubes) including CRT, dot LEDs, EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, and the like.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, it has only illustrated the specific example and does not specifically limit this invention. That is, the present invention mainly has a game area in which a game ball rolls, and a game board provided with a prize opening including a special prize opening and a big prize opening in which the game ball enters the game area, Entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning opening, and control for paying out a predetermined number of award balls when the entry detecting means has detected the gaming ball that has entered the winning opening Whether or not to shift to a special game for performing a round game in which the large winning opening is opened for a long period of time, triggered by detection of the payout control means to be performed and the game detecting ball detecting the game ball having entered the special winning opening And control means for controlling the execution of the special game, the payout control means to the special prize opening when the control means is controlling the execution of the special game Triggered by the entrance detection means detecting the entrance game ball The game machine is characterized in that it controls to reduce the number of special prize balls to be paid out, but the specific configuration of the game board, the ball detection means, the payout control means, the control means, etc., is appropriately changed in design Is possible.

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

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the launch ball detection and the return ball detection in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the special prize ball payout number selection table in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 11 Door 12 Main body frame 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 15 Game area 16 Game area outer area 19 Protection board 20 Upper plate 22 Lower plate 24 Prize opening 25 Start-up port 26 Launch handle 30 Guide rail 31 Spacer 32 Liquid crystal display device 32a Display area 33 Special symbol display 35 Normal symbol display 37 Display case 39 Large winning opening 40 Shutter 44 Start opening 46 Speaker 47 First warp path 48 Blade member 49 Second warp path 51 Round number display 53 Illumination unit 55 Obstacle 57 Obstacle 58 Obstacle 60 Main control circuit 62 Reset clock pulse generation circuit 64 Initial reset circuit 68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
74 Lamp 76 Lamp control circuit 102 V / count sensor 104 Count sensor 105 Count sensor 113 Discharged ball detection sensor 117 Launched ball passage detection sensor 118 Normal electric accessory solenoid 119 Return ball detection switch 120 Grand prize opening solenoid 122 Seesaw solenoid 124 Backup clear Switch 126 Dispensing / firing control circuit 128 Discharging device 130 Firing device 133 Decoration lamp 150 Card unit 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
218 D / A converter 220 Initial reset circuit 230 Audio control circuit 236 Amplifier 240 Lamp control circuit 250 Display control circuit

Claims (3)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls, and having a prize opening including a special prize opening and a big prize opening in which the game ball enters the game area;
Entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning opening;
A payout control means for performing a control for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls, triggered by the fact that the ball detection means has detected a game ball that has entered the winning opening;
Controls the lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game in which a round game is opened for a long period of time when the winning detection means detects the game ball that has entered the special winning opening. And a control means for controlling execution of the special game,
The payout control means, when the control means is controlling execution of the special game, the special prize to be paid out when the entrance detection means detects a game ball that has entered the special prize opening. A gaming machine that performs control to reduce the number of balls dispensed. Game ball number storage means for storing the number of rolling game balls that have rolled in the game area and the number of payout of the prize balls that have been paid out by the payout control means,
A calculating means for calculating a pitching rate which is a ratio of the number of paid-out prize balls to the number of rolling game balls;
Correspondence relationship storage means for storing a predetermined correspondence relationship between the pitch rate and the payout number of the special prize balls;
The payout control means performs control for paying out the special prize balls in the number of payouts based on the predetermined correspondence stored in the correspondence relationship storage means, in accordance with the pitch rate calculated by the calculation means. The gaming machine according to claim 1. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the payout control unit performs control to reduce the number of payouts of the special prize balls to zero.

Images