JP2009072449A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables players to enjoy their jackpot games at ease. <P>SOLUTION: A pachinko game machine 10 has a game board 14 having a playing area where game balls roll, the main control circuit which determines whether the shift should be made to a jackpot game state advantageous for the players upon the passage of game balls through the starter slot 25 provided in the playing area, a shutter 40 which opens the major prize winning slot 39 as to make game balls enter it under the jackpot game state and a guide member 500 for guiding the game balls passing through a prescribed area in the upper part of the major prize winning slot 39 to the major prize winning slot 39. The guide member 500 comprises a member transparent enough to make the game balls visually recognizable and makes the game balls pass through a spiral path longer than the distance to the major prize winning slot 39 from the prescribed area in the upper part of the major prize winning slot 39 and are so guided as to enter the major prize winning slot 39 opened under the jackpot game state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a pachinko gaming machine.

  In a conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball enters the passing area of the game board, a big hit lottery is performed, and after three pieces of identification information consisting of a plurality of symbols fluctuate, the combination stops according to the result of the big win lottery On the other hand, an effect display using a character image or the like is performed in accordance with the variation of the identification information. Then, when winning a lottery lottery, for example, after all three pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed so as to have the same symbol, the player is operated by repeatedly operating the big winning device and opening the special winning opening repeatedly for a predetermined number of times. To provide many balls.

The big prize device is provided below a region where the game ball rolls on the game board, and is provided with an opening / closing member for opening / closing the big prize opening, a driving device for driving the opening / closing member, and the like. Conventionally, a closing lid is used as an opening and closing member, and a large winning opening is closed with the closing lid, and the upper winning opening is opened by the upper end portion of the closing lid falling down on the front side (Patent Documents 1 and 2). Alternatively, there is a type (Patent Documents 3, 4, and 5) in which petals close and open in a role imitating a tulip.
JP 2003-299803 A JP 2007-14591 A JP 2002-306713 A JP-A-2005-312502 JP 2006-280755 A

  By the way, the jackpot game is a blissful time for the player, and the game can be advanced in a relaxed manner. However, depending on the nail adjustment in the vicinity of the big prize opening, the game ball may not win the big prize opening. In such a case, since it is anxious whether or not the game ball will win the big winning opening, the player will focus on the vicinity of the big winning opening, and there is a possibility that there is no room for enjoying the jackpot effect. .

  On the other hand, in order to produce an effect for each round during the big hit, it is necessary to have time for performing the effect display. In this case, it is possible to secure the performance time if the game ball is relatively difficult to enter the special winning opening. However, when it is relatively difficult for a game ball to enter the special winning opening, as described above, the player pays attention to the vicinity of the special winning opening. On the other hand, if it is easy to enter the game ball into the big prize opening, there is a possibility that the production time cannot be secured. For example, if the production of 15 rounds has a series of story characteristics, if the time of each round is shortened, the production may be cut off in the middle and shift to the production of the next round. May be damaged. In this way, the jackpot gaming state, which was originally a blissful time, could not be enjoyed purely.

  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 allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  (1) A game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls, and a game for determining whether or not to shift to a jackpot game state advantageous to the player when the game ball passes through a specific area provided in the game area State determining means, a big winning device that allows a game ball to be opened in the big hit gaming state, and a guiding means for guiding the gaming ball that has passed a predetermined area above the big winning device to the big winning device; And the guide means is made of a member having transparency that allows a game ball to be visually recognized, and passes through a predetermined path longer than the distance from the predetermined area to the big winning device, and is opened in the jackpot gaming state. A gaming machine that guides the player to enter the big winning device.

  According to the invention of (1), by passing the game ball through the predetermined area, the game ball is guided to the big winning device through the guiding means. Here, the game ball guided by the guide means passes through a predetermined route longer than the distance from the predetermined area to the big winning device, so it takes time to reach the big winning device. The ball will surely enter the grand prize opening. For this reason, by passing a number of winning balls (for example, 10) that will be the end condition of one round game through a predetermined area, it is worried whether or not the gaming balls will enter the big winning opening thereafter. In addition, the player can watch the jackpot performance with peace of mind. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  (2) In the gaming machine according to (1), the guide means is disposed behind the game board, the game board has a transmissive area, and the game ball guided by the guide means is A gaming machine characterized by being visible to a player through a gaming board.

  According to the invention of (2), in addition to the invention of (1), since the progress of the game ball passing through the guiding means can be visually confirmed, it is possible to give a sense of security that the game ball surely wins the big winning opening. It becomes possible. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  (3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2), the guide means has a spiral guide route, and guides the game ball to the big winning device through the guide route. To play.

  According to the invention of (3), in addition to the invention of (1) or (2), since the game ball moves spirally, it becomes possible to increase the distance from the predetermined area to the big winning device, It takes time to reach the big winning device, so that it is possible to secure the production time, and it is possible to give a sense of security that the game ball surely wins the big winning opening. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  (4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3), a game ball that rolls without passing through the predetermined area is placed on the game board in a big winning device that is opened in the jackpot gaming state. A game machine characterized in that another route is provided.

  According to the invention of (4), in addition to the inventions of (1) to (3), even a game ball that does not pass through the predetermined area can win a big prize opening. For this reason, since the game ball that does not pass through the predetermined area does not pass through the guide means by not letting it pass through the predetermined area during the big hit, there is a high possibility that it will be able to win the big winning opening early. For this reason, for example, when the closing of a game hall is near, it is possible to digest the jackpot game as soon as possible, and it is possible to secure even a little time to enjoy the subsequent game. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  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.

[First Embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[Composition of gaming machine]
First, an overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an overview of the game board 14 in the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, 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. 2, 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. Further, a speaker 46 is provided on the upper portion of the door 11.

  Inside the opening 12a of the main body frame 12, a liquid crystal display device 32, 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 entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) having permeability. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 4 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. A plurality of game nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 on the game board 14. The inside of the guide member 500 is disposed on the back side of the game board 14. As described above, the game board 14 is an example of a game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls.

  The liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14. 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 all or part of the game board 14 from the back side. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as an effect image for effect and an ornament image for decoration are displayed in the display area 32a. In particular, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, after transitioning to the jackpot game state (specific game state), an effect image for effect is displayed during the execution of the jackpot game.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by providing a display device such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14, for example, a game nail planting area, a game object such as an accessory, or a decoration member can be enlarged. In addition, the degree of freedom in layout can be further increased.

  The spacer 31 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14, and forms a space serving as a flow path for game balls in front of (on the front side of) the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a permeable material. In the present embodiment, the spacer 31 is made of a permeable material, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a part of the spacer 31 may be made of a permeable material. Moreover, you may form with the material which does not have permeability | transmittance.

  A protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the door 11. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds. A launching device 130 (see FIG. 5) including the firing handle 26, a firing solenoid (not shown), a touch sensor (not shown), and the like is installed on the lower right side with respect to the game board 14.

  As shown in FIG. 3, on the lower left side of the game board 14, a special symbol display 35, a normal symbol display 33, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d, and a round number display 51a. -51d are provided.

  The special symbol display 35 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs. The 7-segment LED is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol change display start condition, that is, a condition that the game ball passes through the start port 25 is satisfied. By turning on / off the 7-segment LED, the symbol is variably displayed as a special symbol (also referred to as first identification information). Although details will be described later, when the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 5) of the main control circuit 60 detects the passage of the game ball to the start port 25, the normal game state is shifted to the jackpot gaming state which is advantageous to the player. It is determined whether or not to perform, and the determination result is notified to the player by a special symbol. For example, when a specific symbol (for example, a numerical symbol such as “64”, “21”, “50”) is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, the gaming state shifts to a jackpot gaming state (specific gaming state). . When the big hit game state is reached, the shutter 40 (see FIG. 3) is controlled to the open state, and the game ball can be received in the big prize opening 39 (see FIG. 3). On the other hand, when a symbol (for example, “-”) other than a specific symbol 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”. Thus, the big winning opening 39 and the shutter 40 are an example of a big winning device that allows a game ball to be opened in the big hit gaming state.

  Below the special symbol indicator 35, a normal symbol indicator 33 is provided. The normal symbol display 33 is composed of two display lamps, and these display lamps are alternately lit and extinguished so as to be variably displayed as normal symbols.

  Below the normal symbol display 33, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d indicate the number of executions of the special symbol variable display held by turning on or off (so-called “start memory”, “number of held balls”, “number of held balls related to special symbols”). indicate. For example, when the execution of the special symbol variation display is held once, the special symbol hold display LED 34a is turned on.

  Below the normal symbol display 33, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d are provided. The normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d display the number of executions of 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”). Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol hold display LED 50a is turned on.

  On the left side of the special symbol display 35, round number displays 51a to 51d are provided. The round number displays 51a to 51d display the number of rounds during the execution of the jackpot game. The round number indicators 51a to 51d are composed of four LEDs, and there are two patterns of lighting and extinguishing for each LED, so at least 16 patterns can be displayed (2 4th power pattern). ). The round number display 51 may be composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs, a liquid crystal display unit, a transmissive liquid crystal display unit, and the like.

  In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind the game board 14 (back side), an effect image related to the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 35 is displayed.

  For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 35, an identification symbol consisting of numbers, symbols, etc. in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 (also identification information for production. For example, “ 7 ”is changed and stopped. In addition, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 35 is stopped and displayed, and the identification information for presentation is also stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  In addition, when a specific numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35 under the control of the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 5), an effect image that allows the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device. It is displayed in 32 display areas 32a. Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35, 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 the same symbols are gathered is displayed in a stopped state, and a character image such as “big hit!” Is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 together with a character image such as “Big hit!”. .

  As shown in FIG. 3, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), stages 55 and 57 passing gates 54a and 54b, a plurality of game nails 13, an ordinary electric accessory 48 forming a start port 25, a shutter 40, a large Game members such as a winning opening 39 and general winning openings 56 a, 56 b, 56 c, 56 d are provided on 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 disposed inside the outer rail 30a. . The launched game balls are guided by guide rails 30 provided on the game board 14 and moved to the upper part of the game board 14, and the plurality of game nails 13 and the stage 55 provided on the game board 14 are described above. , 57, etc., it flows down toward the lower side of the game board 14 while changing its traveling direction.

  A stage 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and a stage 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14.

  The guide rail 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 includes an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b disposed inside the outer rail 30a. The launched game balls are guided by guide rails 30 provided on the game board 14 and moved to the upper part of the game board 14, and the plurality of game nails 13 and the stage 55 provided on the game board 14 are described above. , 57, etc., it flows down toward the lower side of the game board 14 while changing its traveling direction.

  The stage 55 is a substantially J-shaped member, and is arranged on the right side of the game board 14 so that the interval between the stage 55 and the outer rail 30a is small. For this reason, when the game ball is fired strongly, for example, when the launch handle 26 is rotated to the right (the so-called right-handed), the game ball moves to the right side of the game board 14. When the game ball is launched aiming near the top of the game board 14, the game ball abuts on the stage 55 and is guided to the left side of the game board 14 by the guide of the stage 55.

  A warp port 24 is formed at the left end of the stage 55. When a game ball enters the warp port 24, the game ball is guided behind the stage 57 via the first warp path 47 behind the game board 14. The game ball guided behind the stage 57 is discharged to the front side of the game board 14 from a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the stage 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

  Directly below the outlet (not shown) for discharging from the stage 57 to the front side of the game board 14, an ordinary electric accessory 48 that forms the starting port 25 is provided. The ordinary electric accessory 48 includes a pair of blade members provided on both the left and right sides, and the start port 25 is formed by the pair of blade members. In addition, the pair of blade members can be switched to a closed state (a state that is difficult to pass) or an open state (a state that is easy to pass) by the start opening solenoid 118 (see FIG. 5). It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start opening 25. In addition, when it is in a closed state, it becomes difficult for the game ball to enter the start opening 25 directly.

  The start opening 25 is provided with a start winning opening switch 116 (see FIG. 5) for detecting the winning of a game ball. When a game medium such as a game ball is detected by the start winning port switch 116, it is determined that the game ball has won. When the game ball wins, the special symbol display by the special symbol display 35 is started. Also, when a game ball wins during the special symbol variation display, the special symbol variation display based on the winning of the game ball to the start opening 25 is executed until the special symbol during the variation display is stopped and displayed ( 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. Note that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. For example, the special symbol variable display is suspended up to four times.

  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.

  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 passage gates 54a and 54b are provided with passage gate switches 114 and 115 (see FIG. 5). Pass gate switches 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the pass gates 54a and 54b. When the passing of the game ball is detected by the passing gate switches 114 and 115, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 33, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. . In the normal symbol display 33, when the normal symbol display lamp changes from the blinking state to the lighting state, the ordinary electric accessory 48 shifts from the closed state to the open state.

  In the present embodiment, when the ordinary electric accessory 48 is in the closed state, it becomes difficult for a game ball other than the game ball from the upper side to enter the start port 25, and in the open state, the ordinary electric accessory 48. It becomes easy for game balls from right above and right and left sides to enter the start opening 25. As described above, a game in which a normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

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

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). The shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state in which a game ball can be easily received when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35 and the gaming state is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, the special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 has an area (not shown) having a count switch 104 (see FIG. 5). The shutter 40 is driven to the open state until it passes or a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls at the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball (second state). It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Accordingly, 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 driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again in the open state on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed the count switch 104. Driven by. 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 count switch 104. Note that a game from the first round game to the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a specific game or a jackpot game.

  During execution of the jackpot game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continued rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued differs depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in the present embodiment, when the symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is “64”, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is 15 and the special winning opening 39 is opened. When the symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is “50”, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is two and the special winning opening 39 is opened. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of continuous rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by a round number lottery means (main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 5)). Also good.

  Further, when a game ball wins or passes through the above-described general winning openings 56a to 56d and the large winning opening 39, a number set in advance according to the type of each winning opening (for example, in the case of winning in the general winning opening) 10 or 15 in the case of winning in the big winning opening) are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22.

  Further, when it is determined that a winning is made at the start opening 25 described above, a preset number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22.

  A hole 500a through which a game ball can pass is formed near the right side of the stage 55 in the game board 14. Further, a hole 500b through which a game ball can pass is formed in the vicinity of the upper portion of the special winning opening 39. Furthermore, the hole part 500a and the hole part 500b are connected by the guide member 500 which consists of a cylindrical body. One end of the guide member 500 is connected to the hole 500 a and extends to the back side of the game board 14. The other end of the guide member 500 is connected to the hole 500 b and extends to the back side of the game board 14. Further, the central portion of the guide member 500 is formed in a spiral shape and is disposed at the rear portion of the game board 14. A restriction piece 510 that restricts the downward movement of the game ball and guides the game ball to the hole 500a is disposed directly below the hole 500a. Here, when a game ball is driven into the right side of the game board 14, all the game balls driven into the right side are guided to the hole 500a. In addition, the guide member 500 is configured by a member having permeability similar to the base of the game board 14 and the stages 55 and 57. As described above, the guide member 500 is an example of a guide unit that guides the game ball that has passed through the predetermined area (the upper part of the game board 14) above the big winning device (the big winning port 39 and the shutter 40) to the big winning device. It is. Further, the guide member 500 is made of a member having transparency that allows the game ball to be visually recognized, and is longer than a predetermined distance (upper part of the game board 14) to the big winning device (the big winning port 39 and the shutter 40). This is an example of the guiding means that guides the player to enter the big winning device (the big winning opening 39 and the shutter 40) that is opened in the big hit gaming state by passing the route. The guide member 500 is an example of a guide unit that has a spiral guide path and guides a game ball to the big winning device (the big winning port 39 and the shutter 40) via the guide path.

  With such a configuration, the launching handle 26 is operated to launch the game ball strongly and hit the right side into the hole 500a, and is sent to the rear part of the game board 14 in a spiral shape. It passes through the formed guide member 500 and is returned to the board surface of the game board 14 from the hole 500b. The game ball discharged from the hole 500b passes through an area in the game board 14 where the special winning opening 39 is provided. Further, since the guide member 500, the game board 14, and the stages 55 and 57 are configured by members having transparency, it is possible for the player to visually recognize how the game ball moves through the guide member 500. As described above, the guide member 500 is an example of guide means disposed behind the game board (game board 14). In addition, the game board 14 is an example of a game board having a transmissive region, and a game ball guided by the guide means (guide member 500) is visible to the player via the game board (game board 14). is there.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device is described as an example of the display unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display means may be a plasma display, a rear projection display, a CRT display, a lamp, or the like.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the main control circuit 60 as game control means includes a main CPU 66 as a control means, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as an example of storage means, and a command. An output port 72 is provided. 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.

  In the main ROM 68, a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored, and in addition, various tables referred to when making a big hit determination by random number lottery are also stored. .

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

  The main RAM 70 has a control status flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a reach pattern selection random number counter, a presentation condition selection random number counter, a big prize opening number counter, a big prize opening prize counter, a wait Positioned are a time timer, a special winning opening time timer, data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to special symbols, data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to normal symbols, data for supplying commands to the sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like. .

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game or the normal symbol game. In the following description, when the control state flag is simply referred to, it indicates the control state of the special symbol game, and when it is referred to as the normal control state flag, it indicates the control state of the normal symbol game.

  The jackpot determining random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determination random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The reach pattern selection random number counter is for determining whether or not to perform reach. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. 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 this 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-of-times counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened (so-called round number) in the big hit gaming state. The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that won the big winning prize during one round and passed the count switch 104. Further, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is that when the game ball is won at the starting port 25, but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed, the special symbol game is suspended. This indicates the number of times the symbol game is held. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol is that when the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b, but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed, the normal symbol game start is reserved, but the It shows the number of times the normal symbol game is held.

  The main control circuit 60 includes an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a system reset signal when the power is turned on, and a command output port 72 for supplying a command to a sub control circuit 200 described later. The initial reset circuit 64 is connected to the main CPU 66. The I / O port 71 serves as a window for transmitting input signals from various devices to the main CPU 66 and output signals from the main CPU 66 to various devices. The command output port 72 serves as a window for transmitting a command from the main CPU 66 to the sub control circuit 200 or the payout / launch control circuit 126.

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the count switch 104, the general winning opening switches 106, 108, 110, 112, the pass gate switches 114, 115, A start winning opening switch 116, a starting opening solenoid 118, a large winning opening solenoid 120, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

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

  The general winning opening switches 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning openings 56a to 56d, respectively. The general winning opening switches 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 openings 56 a to 56 d.

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

  The start port solenoid 118 is connected to a blade member of the ordinary electric accessory 48 provided in the start port 25 via a link member (not shown), and the blade member is responsive to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. Is in an open state or a closed state.

  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 39 open or closed.

  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 interruption 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. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150 that reads information stored in the card.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130.

  In addition, the launching device 130 is provided with devices for launching a game ball such as the launching handle 26, launching solenoid (not shown), and touch sensor (not shown). When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned clockwise, power is supplied to a firing solenoid (not shown) based on the firing strength adjusted by the amount of rotation of the firing handle 26. The game balls stored in the upper plate 20 are sequentially fired onto the game board 14 by a firing solenoid (not shown). Even when the launch handle 26 is rotated, if a launch stop button (not shown) is pressed, power supply to the launch solenoid (not shown) is stopped, and the game ball Launch is stopped.

  Furthermore, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d, special symbol display 35 (7-segment LED), normal symbol display 33 (display lamp), and the like are connected to the main control circuit 60. ing.

  On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 is connected to the command output port 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp 132, and the like according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Note that the lamp 132 specifically includes a decorative lamp (not shown) that brightly and darkly displays the game board 14.

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

  The sub control circuit 200 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 as display control means for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and a sound control circuit 230 that performs control related to sound generated from the speaker 46. And a drive circuit 240 for performing control related to the lamp 132. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game based on 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. The sub CPU 206 functions as various means described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effects of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display that is executed in association with the change display of the special symbol. In addition, the program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of jackpot games. The effect pattern during execution of the jackpot game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in connection with the round game in the jackpot game.

  In the present 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, etc., but the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM and a DVD-ROM, and a ROM cartridge, a program, a table, and the like are recorded. May be. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as an alternative to the program ROM 208. Even if these programs are not recorded in advance, they may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60, the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200, and the like. . 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 stop display mode determining random number counter for determining the stop display mode of identification information, a timer variable for controlling reach effect time, and an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern Etc. are positioned.

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

  The drive circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 and a decoration data ROM 244 and is connected to the sub CPU 206. The drive circuit 240 controls the light emission of the lamp 132 via the drive circuit 242.

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

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

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

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

  The VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 in response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, and generates image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores it in the buffer, and supplies it to a D / A converter (not shown) at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter (not shown) converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32 so that the liquid crystal display device 32 displays an image.

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

  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.

[Main control main processing]
The main control main process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S9, initialization setting processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads a startup program from the main ROM 68 in response to power-on, initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 70, or performs a process of returning to a state before power-off. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S10.

  In step S10, initial value random number update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of updating the initial value random number counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S11.

  In step S11, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the system timer monitoring timer value is 3. In this process, the main CPU 66 refers to the system timer monitoring timer value stored in the main RAM 70. If the system timer monitoring timer value is 3, the process moves to step S12, and the system timer monitoring timer value is 3. If not, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S12, a system timer monitoring timer reset process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of resetting the system timer monitoring timer stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S13.

  In step S13, timer update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 is a waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, and a big prize for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs. Executes processing to update various timers such as mouth open timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S14.

  In step S14, a special symbol control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a special symbol control process. The special symbol control process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S15.

  In step S15, normal symbol control processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random number value in accordance with the detection signals from the pass gate switches 114 and 115, refers to the normal symbol winning table stored in the main ROM 68, and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won. And processing for storing the result of the determination in the main RAM 70 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S16.

  In step S16, a symbol display device control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines the special symbol display 35 and the normal symbol display 33 according to the result of the special symbol control process stored in the main RAM 70 in step S14 and step S15 and the result of the normal symbol control process. And a process of storing a control signal for driving the round number display 51 in the main RAM 70. The main CPU 66 transmits a control signal to the special symbol display 35 in step S19 described later. The special symbol display 35 displays the special symbol in a variable manner and a stop manner based on the received control signal. Based on the received control signal, the normal symbol display 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner and stops. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S17.

  In step S17, game information data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of generating a game state command related to game information data to be transmitted to a stand computer or a hall computer (not shown) and storing it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S18.

  In step S18, symbol reserved number data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects detection signals from the start winning port switch 116 and the pass gate switches 114 and 115 detected in the switch input detection process (FIG. 16, step S46) in the system timer interrupt process described later, The special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d and the normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d are driven based on the update result of the reserved number data stored in the main RAM 70 that is updated in accordance with the execution of the special symbol and normal symbol variation display. The control signal for storing is stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S19.

  In step S19, port output processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of outputting a control signal stored in the main RAM 70 to each port in the above steps. Specifically, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d (see FIG. 4), normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d (see FIG. 5), special symbol display 35 (7-segment LED, see FIG. 5), normal symbol display LED power (common signal) for turning on the LED and solenoid power for driving the solenoid are supplied to 33 (display LED, see FIG. 4). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S20.

  In step S20, a storage / game state command control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines that a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set. Processing for generating a command and transmitting it to the sub-control circuit 200 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S21.

  In step S21, an effect control command output control process is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs output control processing of the effect control command to the sub control circuit 200. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S22.

  In step S22, a payout process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 checks whether or not a game ball has won a prize winning port 39, a starting port 25, and general winning ports 56a to 56d, and if there is a winning, a payout request command corresponding to each. Is transmitted to the dispensing / launching control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S10.

[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 main CPU 66 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds), and executes the following system timer interrupt process in response to this. The system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S41, processing for saving each register is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for saving values used in the program being executed stored in each register (storage area) of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S42.

  In step S42, the system timer monitoring timer value is incremented by one. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of incrementing the value of the system timer monitoring timer stored in the main RAM 70 by one. The system timer monitoring timer is a monitoring timer for executing a predetermined process (such as a special symbol control process) on the condition that the timer interrupt process is started a predetermined number of times (three times). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S43.

  In step S43, random number update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of updating a random number value such as a jackpot determination random number counter stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S44.

  In step S44, an input port reading process is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for reading detection signals from the respective ports. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S46.

  In step S46, a switch input detection process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects a detection signal from each switch such as the count switch 104, the general winning opening switches 106 and 108, the passing gate switches 114 and 115, the start winning opening switch 116, and the like in each predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Process to store data. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, processing for restoring each register is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process for restoring the value saved in step S42 to each register. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

In step S49, an interrupt permission process is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, and the address before the interruption is restored.
Ends this subroutine.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S14 in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S81 indicate 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. 8, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  Note that in steps S72 to S81, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer 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. When the main CPU 66 is a jackpot, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the jackpot start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) 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 jackpot start interval management process is executed. In this processing, 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 displayed. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S19 in FIG. 6, the main CPU 66 reads the 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 the open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts the game ball to the closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts the game ball) is provided a plurality of times. A jackpot game that may be repeated is executed. Further, the game advantageous to the player may be that a variable winning device that can be opened and closed such as the big winning opening 39 is opened.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the control state flag, and sets an upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening open timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (05) indicating the waiting time management before the big prize opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. Then, it is determined whether or not a condition that the special winning opening opening number counter is equal to or greater than the maximum winning opening opening number (the final round) is satisfied. When this condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) 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. That is, after the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval elapses, the setting of step S80 is performed. On the other hand, when this condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating the waiting time management before reopening the big winning opening to the control state flag. 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 S77 is performed. 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 (07) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (06) 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. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a probability change flag in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 when the probability change state is entered. Further, when the main CPU 66 enters the time reduction state, the main CPU 66 sets a time reduction state flag in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 and sets 100 as the number of time reductions. 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 (07) 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.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the jackpot determination result is out of order when it is not the jackpot gaming state. By setting “07” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 8 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. 8 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “04” and “05” when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, thereby performing the processing of steps S78 and S77 shown in FIG. Is executed at a predetermined timing, and the jackpot game is executed. If the jackpot game end condition is satisfied, “04”, “06”, and “07” are set in this order to execute the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. 8 at a predetermined timing. The jackpot game will end.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 9, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101). If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol 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. By transmitting this demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in the effect control command output control process of step S21 of FIG. 8, the sub-control circuit 200 displays the demo screen. 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 random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S106. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a game state determination unit that determines whether or not the game ball is shifted to the jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the game ball passes through the specific area (starting port 25) provided in the game area. It is.

  In the present embodiment, after the jackpot game ends, a large number of jackpot determination values are set in a low probability state in which a predetermined number of jackpot determination values are set for a certain range of random number values, and in a low probability state. The game state is shifted to any one of the high probability states.

  In step S106, a symbol determination process is executed. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot is determined in step S105, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol determining random value extracted at the time of starting winning, and displays the special symbol display based on the jackpot symbol determining random value. A special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the device 35 is determined, and 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. If the jackpot is not determined to be a big win (missing), the main RAM 70 stores data indicating the special symbol determined to be the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35.

  Note that the symbol designation command stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the process of step S106 is stopped 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 S21 of FIG. Supplied as As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a display result determining unit that determines whether or not the variable display result of the identification information is set to the specific display mode.

  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 special symbol variation pattern command from the variation pattern selection table stored in the main ROM 68 based on the special symbol determined in step S106. Specifically, a special symbol variation pattern command corresponding to the special symbol determined in step S106 is selected and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The special symbol variation pattern command for effect stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S21 in FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

  In step S110, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern 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. Then, a process of clearing the storage area in which the jackpot determination random number value used for the current variation display is stored is executed (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Sub control main processing]
The sub control main process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1510, initialization processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 reads the activation program from the program ROM 208 and initializes and sets a flag stored in the work RAM 210 in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1520.

  In step S1520, random number update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of updating the random number stored in the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1530.

  In step S1530, command analysis control processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for analyzing commands received from the main control circuit 60 and stored in the reception buffer of the work RAM 210. Specifically, when receiving a reception command from the main control circuit 60, the command data stored in the reception buffer of the work RAM 210 is read, and the contents of various effects are determined based on the contents designated by the command data. Do. If this process ends, the process moves to step S1540.

  In step S1540, display control processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 updates data to be transmitted to the display control circuit 250 in order to perform display on the liquid crystal display device 32. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 receives various image data such as background image data, effect image data, and fluctuating speed setting image data based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206. And are superimposed on each other and displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to step S1550.

  In step S1550, a sound control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for outputting sound to the sound control circuit 230. The sound control circuit 230 reads various sound data such as music data, sound effect data, and voice data from the sound data ROM 234 based on the data for outputting the sound from the sub CPU 206, superimposes the sound, and uses the AMP 236. Amplified and output from the speaker 46. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1560.

  In step S1560, lamp control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for lighting the lamp to the drive circuit 240 in this process. The drive circuit 240 reads various lighting pattern data from the decoration data ROM 244 based on the data for lighting the lamp from the sub CPU 206 and lights the lamp 132. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1520.

[Game Ball Movement]
FIG. 11 is an explanatory view showing the rolling state of the game ball. During the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 11, the big prize opening 39 is opened and the jackpot effect effect image 95 is displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 32. During the jackpot game, the launching handle 26 is operated to launch the game ball strongly and hit the right side, that is, the so-called right-handed game ball comes into contact with the restriction piece 510, and the hole is guided by the restriction piece 510. The ball enters 500a, passes through the spiral guide member 500, and is returned to the board surface of the game board 14 from the hole 500b. Here, when the shutter 40 is open, the game ball discharged from the hole 500b surely wins the big winning opening 39. On the other hand, since the game ball that has passed through the hole 500a is sent to the back side of the game board 14, there is no opportunity to win the start opening 25 or the general winning openings 56a to 56d. In addition, the game ball that has been fired so as to flow down the left side of the game board 14 by operating the launch handle 26 may pass through the start opening 25, the general winning openings 56 a to 56 d, and the big winning opening 39.

For this reason, in a normal game, it is easy to hit the game ball to move to the left side of the game board 14 that may win the start opening 25 or the general winning openings 56a to 56d. It is difficult to strike (right strike) such as firing a game ball aiming at 500a. On the other hand, in the big hit gaming state, it takes a long time to win the big prize opening 39 as long as the game ball passes through the hole 500a so that the game ball passes through the hole 500a. Since the ball will be awarded at the big winning opening 39, it is one of the effective ways to hit. Here, in the present embodiment, even in the big hit game state, even if a launch operation is performed so that the game ball moves to the left side of the game board 14, it is possible to win the big prize opening 39. In this case, since the winning path to the big winning opening 39 is shorter than the case where the gaming ball is put into the hole 500a, the time until the gaming ball reaches the big winning opening 39 is shortened. For this reason, launching the game ball so that the game ball moves to the left side of the game board 14 is effective when it is desired to end the jackpot game quickly.
As described above, when the game ball flows down to the left side of the game board 14 and enters the grand prize winning port 39, the game board 14 has a game ball that rolls without passing through the predetermined area (hole 500a). This is an example in which another route is provided for allowing a player to enter a big winning device that is opened in the jackpot gaming state.

  For example, in this embodiment, music is provided to the player during the jackpot game. In this case, it is possible to secure a time enough to hear the full chorus by making a right hit in the big hit game. In addition, by making a right strike, it is possible to give a sense of security that the game ball will surely win the big prize opening 39, so that music and performance images can be enjoyed with peace of mind.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The second embodiment is different from the guide member 500 in the first embodiment. That is, the guide member 500 of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 is formed in a spiral shape, but according to another example shown in FIGS. 12 and 1, a plurality of inclined guide paths 610 are arranged in parallel vertically. An arranged guide member 600 is provided.

  In FIG. 13, the game ball that has passed through the hole 500a is sent to the upstream end of the inclined surface of the uppermost guide path 610, falls from the upstream side to the downstream side, reaches the downstream end, and the game ball is guided directly below. It is received by the upstream end of the path 610 and falls downstream. This operation is alternately repeated to finally discharge the hole 500b. Thereby, it is possible to secure the time until the game ball wins the big winning opening 39.

  Note that the guide member of the present invention is not limited to the above-described ones. In short, winning of the number of game balls (for example, 10) that is a round game end condition is a round game end condition. The configuration of the guide route is not questioned as long as the configuration is surely completed when a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) close to the opening time (for example, 30 seconds) is reached.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the third embodiment, the restriction piece 510 is configured to protrude and retract with respect to the board surface of the game board 14. In another embodiment, the same members or members having the same functions as those in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, in another embodiment, the control piece solenoid 700 that drives the restriction piece 510 with respect to the control circuit shown in FIG. 5 is provided in the vicinity of the hole 500a, and the game ball that has passed through the hole 500a is A guide member inlet switch 710 for detection is provided.

  The guide member entrance switch 710 outputs a detection signal to the main CPU 66 when it detects the game ball that has passed through the hole 500a.

  The restriction piece solenoid 700 is connected to the restriction piece 510, and by driving the restriction piece solenoid 700, the restriction piece 510 can be switched between a protruding state and a retracted state with respect to the board surface of the game board 14. . Here, the restriction piece solenoid 700 is driven and controlled by the main CPU 66.

  Based on the detection signals from the count switch 104 and the guide member entrance switch 710, the main CPU 66 performs a process of counting the number of winning balls to the big winning opening 39 and the number of game balls passing through the hole 500a. Then, the main CPU 66 makes a game when the game balls have passed through the hole 500a by the number of winnings (for example, 10) in the round game end condition after the grand prize opening 39 is opened, or when the game enters the big prize opening 39. The restriction piece 510 is processed to be in a protruding state until one of the cases where the ball has passed the number of winnings (for example, 10) in the round game end condition is satisfied. Note that the number of winning prizes to the big winning opening 39 and the number of game balls passing through the hole 500a are reset before starting the next round game.

[Movement of regulating piece]
When the restricting piece 510 is in a projecting state with respect to the board surface of the game board 14, the game ball in contact with the restricting piece 510 is guided to the hole portion 500a. When the restriction piece 510 is in a retracted state with respect to the board surface of the game board 14, the game ball flows down on the board surface of the game board 14 without entering the hole portion 500a.

  In a normal game, as shown in FIG. 15B, the restriction piece 510 is in a retracted state with respect to the board surface of the game board 14, so that a right-handed game ball does not enter the hole 500a. . Then, when the game shifts to the jackpot game and the round game is started, as shown in FIG. 15A, the big winning opening 39 is opened and the regulation piece 510 is in a protruding state, and the game ball that has been hit right is the hole 500a. To enter the ball. When the game ball passes through the hole 500a by the number of winnings (for example, 10) in the round game end condition, the restriction piece 510 is switched to the retracted state as shown in FIG.

  Therefore, after 10 game balls have passed through the hole 500a and until 10 game balls that have passed through the hole 500a have won the big prize opening 39, the game ball is still in the hole. Do not enter the 500a. This makes it possible to prevent the game balls from remaining in the guide member 500 before the start of the next round game, and the game balls remaining in the guide member 500 win a prize at the start of the next round game. Can be prevented.

  According to the present embodiment described above, the game ball is fed into the guide member 500 by hitting the game ball to the right, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the hole 500a may be provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and the game ball flowing down to the left by the stage 55 may be guided to the hole 500a. In this case, it is not necessary to operate the firing handle to make a right stroke.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the game ball is passed through the predetermined area, so that the game ball can be won through the guiding means (guide member 500) (the big winning port 39, the shutter 40, etc.). Will be led to. Here, the game ball guided by the guide means passes through a predetermined route longer than the distance from the predetermined area to the big winning device, so it takes time to reach the big winning device. The ball will surely enter the big winning opening (large winning opening 39). For this reason, by passing a number of winning balls (for example, 10) that will be the end condition of one round game through a predetermined area, it is worried whether or not the gaming balls will enter the big winning opening thereafter. In addition, the player can watch the jackpot performance with peace of mind. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the progress of the game ball passing through the guide means (guide member 500) can be visually confirmed, it is possible to give a sense of security that the game ball will surely win the big winning opening (large winning opening 39). Is possible. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, since the game ball moves spirally, it is possible to increase the distance from the predetermined area to the big winning device (large winning port 39, shutter 40, etc.), and to the big winning device. Since it takes time to reach, it becomes possible to secure the production time, and it is possible to give a sense of security that the game ball will surely win the big prize opening (large prize opening 39). . In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, even a game ball that does not pass through the predetermined area can win a big winning opening (large winning opening 39). For this reason, the game ball that does not pass through the predetermined area does not pass through the guide means (guide member 500) by not letting it pass through the predetermined area during the big hit. Get higher. For this reason, for example, when the closing of a game hall is near, it is possible to digest the jackpot game as soon as possible, and it is possible to secure even a little time to enjoy the subsequent game. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to enjoy a jackpot game with peace of mind.

  In the above-described embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine called a seven machine or a digipachi has been taken as an example. It may be a pachinko gaming machine provided with both of the pachinko gaming machines referred to as “other”.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the present invention mainly relates to a game board having a game area where a game ball rolls, and whether the game ball transitions to a jackpot game state that is advantageous to the player when the game ball passes through a specific area provided in the game area. A game state determination means for determining whether or not, a big winning device that allows a game ball to be opened in the jackpot gaming state, and a game ball that has passed through a predetermined area above the big winning device, The guide means is made of a transparent member that allows the game ball to be visually recognized, and passes through a predetermined route longer than the distance from the predetermined area to the big prize device, The game machine is characterized in that the game machine is characterized in that it guides the player to enter the big winning device that is opened in the jackpot gaming state. , It can be designed and changed as required.

  It should be noted that the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list 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 a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a game board in a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present 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 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the game ball of the pachinko gaming machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general appearance of the pachinko game machine of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view of the pachinko game machine of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and subcontrol circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the game ball of the pachinko game machine of 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machine 14 Game board 25 Start port 26 Launch handle 32 Liquid crystal display device 33 Normal symbol display 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d Special symbol hold display LED
35 Special symbol display 39 Big prize opening 40 Shutter 48 Ordinary electric accessory 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
94 Identification symbol 104 Count switch 106, 108, 110, 112 General winning opening switch 116 Starting winning opening switch 118 Starting opening solenoid 120 Large winning opening solenoid 126 Dispensing / launching control circuit 130 Launching apparatus 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
240 drive control circuit 250 display control circuit 500 guide member 500a, 500b hole 510 regulating piece

Claims (4)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls;
Game state determining means for determining whether or not to shift to a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player when the game ball passes through a specific area provided in the gaming area;
A grand prize winning device that allows a game ball to be opened in the jackpot gaming state;
A guide means for guiding the game ball that has passed through a predetermined area on the upper portion of the big winning device to the big winning device;
The guide means is made of a member having transparency that allows the game ball to be visually recognized, and passes through a predetermined path longer than the distance from the predetermined area to the big prize device, and is opened in the big hit game state. A gaming machine characterized by guiding to enter a winning device. The guide means is disposed behind the game board,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming board has a permeable region, and a game ball guided by the guiding means is visible to a player through the gaming board.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the guide means has a spiral guide route, and guides a game ball to the big winning device through the guide route.   2. The game board is provided with another path for allowing a game ball that rolls without passing through the predetermined area to enter a big winning device that is opened in the jackpot game state. A gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 3.

Images